Neighbors of the Kennebunks March 2018

An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise, Wells, Biddeford Pool, Kennebunk and Arundel.

One Piece at a Time, These Volunteers Get

the Job Done!

March 2018, Photo by Michael D. Wilson

From the Publisher's Desk

Volunteering is

Good for the Soul

It is no wonder the folks at Habitat for Humanity York County ReStore in Kennebunk love their jobs. Although most of them do not earn any money for their time, these volunteers take great pride in helping others find new uses for discarded furniture, light fixtures, bathroom sinks and appliances. The money they raise helps ease homelessness.

Volunteerism and philanthropy have always been synonymous with the Kennebunks since the region was first settled in the 1600s. Anyone who has ever donated their time to volunteer usually comes away feeling good about what they did to help others in need.

Just recently, my wife Mary and I had an opportunity to volunteer at a warming shelter that was set up at the New Hampshire National Guard Armory in Rochester. It was during the brutal cold snap we had in early January, and public health officials were very concerned about the scores of homeless people and families throughout the Seacoast.

We worked at the shelter for a few hours and helped check people in and get them settled. We also helped unload deliveries of food items, water and donated coats and clothing. We also had some time to talk to some of the people at the warming shelter, including one family from Hampton who had run out of options after losing their apartment right after Christmas. This family was later interviewed by WMUR, a television news station, and met with New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu after he visited the warming shelter and learned about their plight.

Our son Patrick also got into the act when we learned the warming shelter needed toys, games, puzzles and DVDs for the kids to watch.

With our help, Patrick donated several Thomas the Tank EngineTM and Sesame Street® DVDs and a few games he no longer plays. It was good lesson for him to see the importance of giving back.

Expert Contributors

When I volunteer to help others, the saying, “There but for the grace of God go I,” often pops up in my head. It was also inspiring to see how many people responded to the needs of these people and came forward to volunteer during the one of the coldest weeks in recent memory.

The Kennebunks are truly blessed to have so many people who volunteer their time each year. Thanks to volunteers, nonprofit organizations like the United Way of York County, area churches, schools and groups like the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, the Kennebunk Land Trust, Special Surfers and Fishing for Freedom are able to find the people they need to accomplish great things. Collectively, the folks who volunteer also generate a very positive vibe that makes our communities that much stronger and more vibrant.

Businesses that encourage their employees to volunteer during events like the United Way’s Day of Caring also send a strong message that they are vested in the communities that they serve. As long as there are people in our communities who are willing to step up when needed to help others, many positive dividends follow.

Publication Team Publisher: Robert Cook Designer: Kari Hinrichs Content Coordinator: Jennifer Saunders Contributing Photographer: Michael D. Wilson Advertising Contact: Robert Cook Email: robert.cook@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 603-970-1751 Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: swigglesworth@bestversionmedia.com.

The bottom line is that volunteering in any shape or form makes us realize that we can all make a difference in improving the lives of others. As we look forward to spring, let’s set aside some time to give back. We can do this!

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March Feature Volunteers are ReStore’s lifeblood, he adds, tackling everything from customer service to maintenance to transporting donations back to the store.

“What I’d like people to know is that it’s an amazing effort that goes on there. The volunteerism: I can’t even begin to tell you, from when they go to pick the donations up to making the products saleable to marketing the products,” he says. “I’d like everybody to know the extraordinary efforts.

We’re a family, and it is so unique. We really take care of each other. I don’t know of any other experience I have had in life that comes close to that.”

Margaret Doane is part of that family. She has volunteered at ReStore two days each week since it opened five years ago in June and is now its head cashier, dealing directly with the customers and training new volunteers.

“I volunteer there because I believe in Habitat, and I am very pleased with what we are doing,” she says. Those efforts have paid off, with two houses built in the area and one currently under construction.

She praised the community for its generosity. “We get really good things because we’re in a great area for donations,” she says. “They donate very freely for us.”

Her advice to local residents? “If you haven’t been there, by all means come in! It’s fun to work there because you make new friends not only among the people who volunteer but also the customers. It’s a very, very good place to volunteer.”

Jennifer Kirin, who volunteers at ReStore with her teenage daughter and son, echoed those sentiments, describing “how warm and welcoming the Habitat for Humanity store is” and joining her fellow volunteers in praising Haskell and McCloud for their leadership.

“There’s quite a bit that I’ve learned being there also, and my kids have done everything from cleaning the store to putting tables together to sorting nails to helping customers. It’s just been a fabulous opportunity, and all of the adults involved in the whole program have been greatly

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VOLUNTEERS AT KENNEBUNK'S HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE OFFER GREAT BARGAINS AND CHEERFUL SMILES

BY JENNIFER SAUNDERS | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL D. WILSON | We would like to thank Cross Insurance for sponsoring this month’s cover story.

Imagine a place where you could find all your home improvement needs in one space and know that each purchase you made would be helping to end homelessness in York County. That place exists.

Habitat for Humanity York County ReStore in Kennebunk has turned that vision into a reality, thanks to a small-but-dedicated staff, an army of 50 core volunteers and a supportive community.

Bob Haskell, the store’s general manager and salvage manager coordinator, who first got involved as a Habitat for Humanity volunteer when a friend asked if he could help out by driving a truck to pick up donations, can’t speak highly enough about his store manager, Spencer McCloud, and the dedicated volunteers who come each week to make the store a success.

What can you find at Habitat ReStore? The easier question to answer might be what can’t you find there. On any given day, shoppers can choose from appliances, furnishing, cabinets, lighting fixtures and even building materials – all at as much as 70-percent off their retail price – with every sale helping support Habitat for Humanity York County.

“It’s pretty unique,” Haskell says, noting the merchandise varies week to week thanks to the generous donations from local businesses, contractors and residents.

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Habitat for Humanity York County ReStore’s mission sums it all up: “to provide the public with new and reusable, quality building materials and supplies at discounted prices for their home-improvement needs.

The ReStore supports the basic Habitat mission by raising additional funding for our affordable housing mission. The Habitat ReStore recycles and promotes sustainable building practices throughout York County by helping to divert construction and building materials from local landfills.”

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Since the ReStore has opened, Haskell notes, “We have built two homes, with one more in progress and sights set on another.”

The York County affiliate has built 27 homes since it was established in 1985, he adds, while its weatherization program has, within a four-year period, serviced 132 homes to create safe housing for area residents.

“Our volunteer drivers pick up antique furniture and other items from homes all over York County, and people can score some awesome deals,” Haskell says. “It’s constantly like Christmas. You never know what you’re going to get. We have had some phenomenal donations from furniture to a functional juke box that we pulled out of salvage. I’ve got antique dealers in there all the time coming to look for stuff. It’s absolutely amazing what comes in that door. There’s something there for everybody.

And we’re sticklers for keeping the store clean and customer-friendly.”

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March Feature

Chamber Column

supportive … It’s really a system where what blesses one blesses all.”

Job Fair Offers Hope and New Opportunities in 2018!

Sharon Eckert, one of ReStore’s newer volunteers, agrees.

Eckert retired about a year and a half ago, and happened to stop by the shop last summer. “I walked in just to see what it was all about,” she recalls, adding she immediately felt welcome. “I just felt this is a loving, caring, supportive place, and I’d love to be a part of it.”

Eckert applied to volunteer, and has been loving working at ReStore ever since.

“It’s just such a joy to be part of this effort. Everyone has different background, different skills, and it’s amazing how we all kind of put it all together. It is a real family. It’s a privilege to be a part of it,” she says, adding the community support and friendliness of the staff, volunteers, and customers adds to that joy. “I’m receiving so much from volunteering there. It is just a real pearl in my life.”

BY LAURA SNYDER SMITH

Creating opportunities and connecting community — those are the goals of our Fourth Annual Job Fair. We hope everyone walking into Kennebunk Town Hall looking for a job walks back out with new hope, if not a new job!

“Your volunteers are the people you need to take care of – and there are just so many friendships and so much community come together,” Haskell says. “It’s been extraordinary because of the relationships that have been developed there. I’m enriched in my life by knowing all these people.”

More than 40 local businesses have registered for the job fair on Monday, March 12, some with full-time jobs, others with seasonal and part-time jobs, and these past three years we’ve seen an interesting mix of ages and experiences out looking for jobs. Our seasonal shops are looking for summer help. Other places are looking for year-round office and managerial assistance, while some are looking for just the right personalities to fill their roles.

Want to learn more about Habitat for Humanity or ReStore Kennebunk? Check out ReStore’s website at http://www.habitatyorkcounty.org/restore_shop.html, like their Facebook page or stop in and talk with the staff and volunteers. Habitat ReStore is located at 4 Industrial Drive in Kennebunk and is open Wednesday-Saturday from 10am to 5pm during the winter and 9am to 5pm in the summer. Call the store at (207) 502-7021 for details about items currently being accepted for donation.

Whether you’re looking for a job or just want to see what’s out there out of curiosity, all are invited. The Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce and the town of Kennebunk will host the event from 2 to 5pm, and admission is free for job-seekers.

Jennifer Saunders is content coordinator of Neighbors of the Kennebunks Magazine. She can be reached at jsaunders@bestversionmedia.com.

We especially welcome our community’s retirees, who still have so much to contribute to the workforce. Many of our seasonal businesses rely on their experience and availability, and older workers say they enjoy staying active in the community, earning additional income and contributing to a cause. And if we can help match jobs with seniors who may not

Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at jsaunders@bestversionmedia.com.

know exactly what they might want to do, or where they might fit in, please come see us at the registration table so we can help make that connection!

Laura Snyder Smith is the marketing and events manager at the Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce. She may be reached at events@gokennebunks.com.

Prior to the event, Bonnie Bushnell, RSU 21 co-op, apprenticeship and senior projects coordinator, will present a preparation workshop on Thursday, March 8, at Kennebunk High School from 9:10 to 9:30am in the new auditorium to go over basics on how to dress for the job fair or a job interview, what to bring with you, how to greet, the importance of body language and following up, among other tips.

On our website, GoKennebunks.com, you’ll find a list of participating employers. We hope you check us out in person and walk away with new hope! The fair is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.gokennebunks.com or call the chamber at 967-0857.

In other chamber news, please mark your calendar for our March After Hours on Wednesday, March 21, at Hancock Lumber. We try to make our monthly networking events fun with socializing, food, cocktails and always a great crowd, especially during the winter doldrums of March! Please join us!

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Your Neighbor

KCT Feature

KENNEBUNK’S LISA EATON’S BOW TIES ARE A

H ollywood Favo rite

BY KATELYN MICHAUD LISA EATON

Sitting in her Kennebunk studio, Lisa Eaton chats enthusiastically about how she turned her love of sewing into a profitable business.

While you might not see many men in Maine walking down the streets wearing a bow tie, bow ties are still very much in fashion. Just ask one of Eaton’s many customers around the world.

Eaton moved to Maine in the early 1990s and worked as a home economics teacher at Noble High School for many years. It was there that her business was born. For special occasions, she’d make her husband, who was a physics teacher, a necktie. On bowling ball pendulum day, he wore a bowling bowl necktie. On holidays, he wore a festive tie. Eaton was getting a lot of compliments and started making more neckties for her friends and family. Soon she expanded to local craft fairs. At the 1994 On the Green Craft Fair, she made $1,200 in a single day.

As Eaton’s business started to grow, she added bow ties, suspenders, cummerbunds and pocket squares to her product line. For years, Eaton sold her products through craft fairs and mail orders. With the encouragement of her middle school aged stepson in

the mid-90s, she purchased the URL bowtie.com.

Soon she switched to selling her products on her website and her Etsy shop “KennebunkLisa.”

Last year, Eaton was contacted by a costume designer to create some special bowties for an unnamed movie. She assumed it was for a low-budget or student film, but the designer told her she’d have to see how it looked “on Jack” first. Eaton joked with her husband, “Do you think it’s Nicholson or Black?”

Come to find out, it was in fact Jack Black, who sported the peacock striped bow tie as Professor Shelly Oberon in the new “Jumanji” movie. The now-famous peacock striped bow tie is part of Eaton’s Virale by Dr. B. Bow Ties line and can be purchased on her website.

In 2014, Blake Perry, director of research at the University of Arkansas College of Medicine, asked if Eaton could make him some bow ties using his own fabric. Since then, Eaton and Perry have teamed up on the Virale bow tie line.

Perry designs the fabric; Eaton makes the bow tie. Both were thrilled when Eaton received the order for 24 peacock striped bow ties that had to be made exactly the same. Eaton said, “the pattern needed to be in the exact same place on all 24 bowties.”

If peacock stripes aren’t your style, Eaton has plenty of other traditional and fun patterns.

She makes four different styles and sizes of bow ties in both cotton and silk. She prefers the colors and patterns of the Liberty of London

fabric, which is fine cotton, but feels like silk.

Her CoordinateCoordinates product line has been featured several times in the Down East Magazine and Maine Magazine Wedding Guide.

As Eaton says, “Every location tells a story.”

Eaton can take your special location, whether it’s where you fell in love, got married or just your hometown, and print it on a bow tie, neck tie or other item using organic cotton and environmentally friendly ink. The CoordinateCoordinates line is very popular with wedding parties.

If customers can’t find a fabric they like, she’s happy to make custom orders using a customer’s fabric. While she does have some “heavy-hitting” customers, she treats all her customers the same.

“I stand behind what I make,” Eaton says. She believes in quality service and products and pays attention to the little details. It’s what sets Eaton apart from the other million people selling bow ties online.

For more information on Eaton’s bow ties and other accessories, email her at lisa@bowtie. com or call 207-985-6724 Katelyn Michaud is a freelance writer based in Portland, Maine. She recently visited more than 38 countries and returned home to Maine. You can read about all of her adventures around Maine and the world at diariesofawanderinglobster.com.

The Gift of a L ife time:

KCT ANNOUNCES T WO GENEROUS BEQUESTS FOR COMMUNIT Y

BY LISA LINEHAN

The combination on our post office box has been opened so many times over the years we can pretty much do it without looking.

But what is inside the box has a veil of mystery each day.

Some days there is no thrill, only flyers that we recycle. Other days there are bills. On happier days, there are membership donation envelopes. And on the most exciting days, there is the unmatched thrill that comes with an unexpected gift.

Last year, the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust (KCT) received two of these surprise deliveries in the form of generous estate bequests. Without our knowledge, two couples thought enough of what KCT does for the community that they named us in their wills with a forever gift. To the KCT, this is the highest form of flattery, that someone would believe in the work of KCT so much that they would trust us to use their inheritance wisely.

Let me tell you the story of Richard and Joan Welch of Arundel and Stephen and Grete Palermo of Kennebunkport.

Recently, we received notification that both couples had left a large portion of their estates to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.

The gratitude and excitement that came with this news is hard to put into words. We are beyond thrilled, for we know that their thoughtful generosity will help secure the future of the trust.

However, in both cases, there is also some regret, for we were never able to thank them in person for their kindness. We were never able to tell them before they passed how they would be honored into the future. We never take such gifts lightly. We want their story to become a part of ours and live on.

From Richard M. Welch we received his home and land at 227 River Road in Arundel. A sixacre piece of his land bordering the Kennebunk River will stay in conservation forever.

It will be managed by the new Arundel Conservation Trust, and a trail leading down to the river will be named in honor of Richard and Joan Welch. This gift will provide public river access for our communities. The house and its three acres has been sold to provide funds for future land acquisitions.

The trust received a bequest of 40 percent of the estate of Stephen and Grete Palermo,

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

who lived at Lands End in Kennebunkport. The couple donated the remaining 60 percent to The Nature Conservancy, a wonderful tribute to the environment. The couple also gave the trust Stephen’s collection of modern art paintings and sculptures, he having once studied at the University of the Sorbonne in Paris. KCT envisions using some of these pieces in a future art trail, while other pieces will be sold to support our work in the community.

The trust is extremely grateful for this tremendous generosity. These are gifts that will be enjoyed by all those who love the Kennebunks, today and for all generations that will follow.

Our intention is to perpetually honor those who help advance our forever goals with the Trust’s Legacy Society. The Legacy Society is ensuring that KCT will always be an important part of this community.

We invite you to join our Legacy Society and become a forever member. A legacy gift from your estate can be designated to whatever you are most passionate about, whether it be land preservation, education, the lighthouse or the overall health of the organization.

As we plan for KCT’s future, it is helpful to know about your planned giving intentions with the trust. This allows us the opportunity to talk with you about your wishes for the donation and to ensure that it is properly acknowledged.

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You can contact us at (207) 967-3465 or info@kctoffice.org for help with planning your legacy. We are grateful not just for a moment but forever.

Lisa Linehan is the associate director of the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.

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1 Richard and Joan Welch recently donated their home and six acres of land located at 227 River Road in Arundel to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust. KCT/Courtesy Photo 2. The land recently donated by Richard and Joan Welch at their home in Arundel includes a great deal of frontage on the Kennebunk River. KCT/ Courtesy Photo 3 Here is a piece of artwork that Steve Palermo donated to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.

KCT/Courtesy Photo 4 Steve Palermo stands with some of his artwork at the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust. KCT/ Courtesy Photo

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MARCH 2018

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Culinary Corner

Chicken Cordon Bleu Is the Perfect Comfort Food

BY DEBBIE MEIER

a n d It’s So Ea sy!

As we start to turn the corner of a brutal winter in our beautiful state of Maine, comfort food is always a pick-me-upper! One of my favorite go-to meals is Chicken Cordon Bleu. Another recipe that sounds intimidating but is actually pretty easy-peasy.

It is also another recipe that you can throw together before you leave for work in the morning and cook when you get home. This recipe can go from fancy to casual depending on the sides you serve with it. It is a favorite at my home, but then again, who doesn't like succulent chicken oozing with fabulous cheeses and tasty ham? So let's get started on this awesome recipe.

INGREDIENTS: 4 large chicken breasts 4 slices of Black Forest ham 4 slices of Swiss cheese 1 package of prosciutto ¼ cup of mayonnaise

2 heaping tablespoons of Dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste Olive oil for coating the pan

You are then going to place the chicken breasts in a greased casserole dish and bake them low and slow in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for approximately 45-50 minutes.

I serve mine with broccoli and mashed potatoes, but in all honesty, any side will do with this fabulous recipe. Enjoy and stay – warm we're almost to spring!

METHOD: First you're going to pound the chicken breasts as thin as you can get by placing them between two pieces of plastic wrap and pounding away from you. Set aside.

Take your mayonnaise and your Dijon mustard and some salt and pepper to taste, and mix them together.

When you are done, you’re going to lay your chicken breast out and slather on your mayonnaise and mustard mix. Then you are going to layer your ham and your cheese onto each breast. You then slowly grab one side of the chicken breast and start to roll it – not too tight, as you don't want the goodness to ooze out.

Bake in the oven on 400° for the first 15 minutes and then turn down to 375° for the remaining 30 minutes. As soon as you take the bread out of the oven, rub some butter on the top of the loaves and allow to cool before bagging.

DEB’S TIPS: 1.

When pounding out your chicken breast, if you do not have a meat tenderizer, a rolling pin or potato masher works just as well.

2.

When following a recipe that has more than one step, you should always salt and pepper at every stage. This ensures perfect seasoning throughout the whole recipe.

3.

Never keep your onions and potatoes in the same storage area. They actually make each other spoil more quickly when stored together.

4.

When you purchase chicken in bulk and are going to freeze some, it's always a good idea to pound them out before freezing. Not only does it take less space, but it also tenderizes them when you pound them out this way. Then when you take them out of the freezer, you've already tenderize them.

Once each breast has been prepared with the ham and the cheese, you are then going to wrap it up tight with prosciutto. Some people like to use toothpicks to hold the goodness in. I like to wrap and hold the goodness in with this salty, flavorful Italian meat. Bacon works as well.

Debbie Meier grew up in Canada and has always had a passion for culinary arts, cooking and sharing the delicious foods she prepares with others. She is well known in the Kennebunks for her delectable meals. Her focus is on simple and easy tips that save time and money in the kitchen. Look for her monthly feature “Deb’s Culinary Tip of the Month” right here in Neighbors of the Kennebunks magazine.

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NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

MARCH 2018

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Where Are They Now?

Kennebunk DJ Has Carved Amazing Career Behind the Mic

she was able to work with and to take inspiration from the legendary likes of Barbara Quill and Kim Block at WGME in Portland, where she interned while trying to determine if she liked being on the mic or on camera.

… I will also offer my feedback to the … stations I currently work for if I have an idea or suggestion about something going on.”

“They encouraged me to pursue my radio career,” Robbins says, “and we remained friends for years.”

These days, she uses those skills on the board of Amesbury Community TV in her current hometown of Amesbury, MA. Robbins said she has also carried on her family tradition of being politically active.

Since those early days, Robbins has gone on the mic at such far-flung stations as WZLX in Boston, 98.7 The Bay in Dover, NH, which, Robbins assures, is heard “loud and clear” in southern Maine, and at Rewind 107.9 in Savannah, GA, where she still hosts remotely from her home-based studio.

“I actually did run for city council in Amesbury about 10 years ago. I narrowly lost and then the person who won fought a recall and almost lost the recall to me about a year later. Crazy local politics, but it does show how I’m carrying on the family tradition,” Robbins explains.

BY MATT ROBINSON

“It takes me at least an hour each day to prep for each show,” Robbins explains, “since both stations are in different markets and have different formats. Savannah is ‘70s and ‘80s and The Bay is adult contemporary.”

Lindsey Robbins always loved music when she was growing up in Kennebunk, but she never dreamed how far that love would take her.

She explained that technology allows her to have audiences far and wide without ever leaving the comfort of her home studio. “I use a system called Wide Orbit and actually have the same view and capabilities as someone actually sitting in the studio. I just log on with a unique VPN to each station and go from there.”

When not creating promotional packages for colleagues and community members or preparing questions and comments for her shows, Robbins can be found at her potter’s wheel, throwing clay and creating in more visual and tangible ways.

She scored her first gig as a DJ on WJBQ in Portland when she was a junior at the University of Maine in Orono and has manned a radio microphone ever since. Today, Robbins continues to be one of the most popular radio personalities in New England and across the country.

A Kennebunk resident since age seven, the eldest of three sisters grew up with her friends and neighbors in the Kennebunk public schools.

“Throughout school, I was always involved with art and music,” she explains, noting that this was difficult for her engineer father to understand, even though he was the one who gave her the piano she still plays today.

Another gift Robbins received from her father — and the rest of her family — was her political sense.

“My family was very politically active,” she says, noting that her father held several local positions and worked for both former Maine political giants George Mitchell and Ed Muskie, who was also a neighbor.

When asked about other pursuits, Robbins replies that she “didn't play any organized sports in high school but was on the ski team” and adds that, as with the piano, she continues to ski today.

Like many other college students, she admits that she did not have all that much of an idea about what she wanted to study during her time at Orono. Fortunately, she eventually tuned in to her true calling.

“I met some people who worked for the campus radio station,” Robbins recalls, explaining that the Orono station was headquarters for Maine Public Broadcasting at that time. “I discovered that I loved radio and got great feedback from my on-air presence.”

Robbins has also worked the mic in Pittsburgh, PA, and Hartford, CT, among other major markets. Along the way, she has interviewed and introduced her listeners to such stars as Brian Setzer, Julian Lennon and Carly Simon.

During her junior year, Robbins was hired at WJBQ in Portland. Sure of her path, she left Orono and entered the wild world of professional broadcasting.

While most people may know Robbins by her voice, she has also done a great deal behind the scenes at her various stations.

“I worked for a few years full time in Portland,” Robbins explains, “and then switched to a part time radio job so I could finish my college degree.”

“Many of those artists also played on my show,” Robbins smiles.

“I do pottery for myself,” she maintains, noting that she has also taught pottery and helped promote pottery shows at Purple Sage Pottery in Merrimac, MA, “and don't focus on making money with it, as it's my passion and not my job.”

When not creating, Robbins also enjoys the outdoors in her native Maine and elsewhere and can often be found skiing, kayaking and hiking.

“They all feed my soul,” she says, “and sometimes give me experiences to share with my listeners.”

If you want to catch Lindsey Robbins’ shows, visit www.rewind107.com and www.987thebay.com.

S t e v e Br y a n t & S o n Tr e e a n d Br u s h

“I was always the promotions director at the stations I worked at,” she explains, noting her “knack for putting together promotions and events

While at WJBQ, Robbins met Wally Brine, who would eventually become part of the dynamic duo of Loren and Wally at WROR in Boston.

“It was so much fun to work with him,” Robbins says, noting that they worked together when she came to announce at WMJX, which shares studio space with WROR.

N o Tr e e Scares Us!

While she recalls her time with Brine fondly and names many other friends in the business, Robbins is keen to note the lack of women in the radio, at least when she got her own start. Fortunately,

Matt Robinson is a freelance writer who lives in Needham, MA.

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MARCH 2018

13

Travel Feature

Travel Company Helps You Get Away, See the World and Broaden Your Horizons

BY MATT ROBINSON

At this time of year, it can be tempting to get out from under Downeast. Fortunately, there are neighbors who are more than willing to help design the trip of a lifetime and even through a bit of education, should the muses demand.

Having started his career as a ramp agent who then went on to work in airport customer service and then as the travel coordinator for college choral groups, Peter Lombard knows the travel industry from every level.

“I have the best job in the world,” Lombard says, “and I have a passport full of stamps to prove it!”

As the founder of Freeport-based Insouciance Abroad, Lombard brings his years of travel experience to support others who wish to get away, see the world, and learn new things.

“We have a genuine curiosity about the world at large and love travel first and foremost,”Lombard says of his company. “We see true connections forged within organizations through group experiences that go beyond the everyday world.”

When asked what first gave him the travel bug, Lombard recalls the major international flight that launched a trip with his grandparents to Norway when he was 10. “I remember every little detail of that trip: what airplanes I flew, the late sunsets, trying to communicate in a new language, all kinds of new and exciting foods. I was hooked!”

As head of Insouciance, Lombard brings that attention to detail to help others plan and execute memorable excursions as well. And as the name implies — “insouciance” refers to a casual lack of concern — Lombard is sure to

sweat every detail so his customers do not have to. “The name is a bit of play on words from Mark Twain’s ‘Innocents Abroad,’” Lombard explains.

“From globally known companies to local business coaches,” he says, “we bring to life trips for groups around the world!”

Lombard is so enamored of travel, in fact, that he admits to choosing his college based upon no other information than that they had an orchestra in residence that traveled the world: In four years with the New England Youth Ensemble at Columbia Union College,” he says of the small school outside of Washington DC, “I had visited nearly 40 countries performing in places many only dream of.”

In addition to working with a wide range of clients, Insouciance also works with a diverse range of international partners who can help bring such special parts to an excursion as educational or musical elements or help craft the perfect corporate retreat.

Though he has travelled the world with family, colleagues, and clients, Lombard is a dedicated Mainer.

“We know that travel is never one-size-fits-all,” he observes. “That’s why we create unique experiences customized to the needs of your audience and tailored to what you want to create.”

As he had worked previously with many religious-based groups, Lombard explains that many early Insouciance clients came from this same sector, However, he is keen to point out, his repertoire of trips and travelers has expanded greatly in recent years, thanks in great part to the addition of the event management organization Eventos Management to his corporate quiver.

not be the least expensive, he assures that they will be the most like the vision described by the travelers.

“What makes us different is that we get to know our clients,” Lombard says. “We listen to their expectations and craft a trip around what they want.” So, while he admits that his trips may

Matthew Robinson is a freelance writer who lives in Needham, MA.

“If you want to change people’s lives,” Lombard suggests, “you need to change their experience.

Life is too short to sit in your ordinary.”

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When asked about his clients, Lombard maintains a strict discretion but explains that most Insouciance fans are groups who are looking for customized trips.

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MARCH 2018

15

Behind the Lens

Behind the Lens:

BY ROBERT COOK

Say Hello to Michael D. Wilson

We are thrilled to welcome aboard Kennebunk-based Photographer Michael D. Wilson to our team!

The variety of unique personalities are as varied as the vastness of gorgeous landscapes here in Maine.

Michael shot his first cover story for us in the February edition of Neighbors of the Kennebunks Magazine, and as you can see, his work is truly stellar.

Throughout the life of any magazine, there will always be new people who will contribute our stories and photos. Each new person brings their talents and skills to the table and makes wonderful contributions.

Michael's photography career started in New York City, where as a photo assistant to famed photographer Martin Schoeller, he learned all he could absorb about photography.

I first met Michael at a Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event at Weirs-Buick GMC in March 2016. Our paths would cross every now and then and we ended up using one of his photos of the Wentworth family at Frinklepod Farm for our October cover.

Besides this month’s cover story, Michael has also shared some additional photos from his portfolio along with a summary of how this Chicago native found his way to Maine.

As a professional photographer Michael D. Wilson was drawn to Maine not for its endless forest and rocky coastlines but rather for the people.

Now Michael's work appears regularly inside and on the covers of Down East and Yankee magazines and a variety of publications featuring the people, places and food of Maine and New England.

Michael also works with businesses of all sizes creating images that help tell their stories and highlight their products and services. A selection of his photography can be found at mdwphotographic.com.

He is very excited to meet new people in the community and create some fabulous portraits for Neighbors of the Kennebunks Magazine.

Robert Cook, publisher, Neighbors of the Kennebunks Magazine

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MARCH 2018

17

March 2018

three fiancées, each a beautiful airline hostess. Ages 18 and up. The bus will leave and return to the Quest Fitness parking lot. Transportation and show admission included. Registration is required.

Time: 4:15-10:30pm Cost: $15 https://kennebunkme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29168

SPECIAL EVENTS

TUES., FEBRUARY 27 TO APRIL 3

ALL ABOUT BALANCE

@ Old Orchard Beach High School Tune up your balance and improve your confidence on your feet with Jason Adour, PT, DPT, owner of the Maine Strong Balance Center in Scarborough.

There are 17 evidence-based items that contribute to difficulty with balance and fall risk, and this course will tackle the top six factors. Each week will include a discussion of the balance system being worked on followed by exercises to address this system. Participants will receive handouts with tips to further tune up these contributing systems Time: 5:30-6:30pm Cost: $19 for six-week course https://oobsaco.coursestorm.com/course/all-about-balance

ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 28

PAINT THE TOWN RED

@Multiple Locations Kennebunkport is painting the town red for romance this February to make its claim as “New England’s Most Romantic Town.” All businesses in Dock Square in downtown Kennebunkport will be decked out in red twinkly lights, and the restaurants, hotels, galleries and shops will welcome romantically inclined visitors with everything from “Red Plate” dining specials to “Red Tag” sales from retailers. http://destinationkennebunkport.com/events/event/paint-town-red/

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SAT., MARCH 24 AND SUN., MARCH 25

town of Kennebunk are hosting their third annual Job Fair. Both employers and those seeking jobs are invited to attend. Seasonal, year-round, full-time and part-time positions will be featured.

Time: 2-5pm Cost: Free for job-seekers; $25 for member businesses and $50 for nonmembers http://gokennebunks.com/pages/events/job-fair

MAINE MAPLE SUGAR SUNDAY

@Chase Farms in Wells On the fourth Sunday of the month, the Maine Maple Sugar Producers Association holds the annual Maine Maple Sugar Sunday across the state.

Locally, one of the best places to enjoy fresh maple syrup, farm animals, maple sap boiling demonstrations and food is the Chase Farms in Wells.

Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free http://mainemapleproducers.com/about-maine-maple-sunday/

THURS., MARCH 15

BOSTON FLOWER AND GARDEN SHOW

@Quest Parking Join Kennebunk Recreation for this daytrip event. Expect new life-sized gardens, instructional demonstrations and lectures, detailed floral arrangements and designs as well as the ultimate horticultural, gardening shopping experience and upward of 160 vendors. Whether for curb appeal, backyard, kitchen, rooftop or community garden, this is where New England's green lovers and families go to discover ideas while having fun. Please wear your walking shoes! Ages 21 and up. Registration is required.

The bus will leave and return to the Quest Fitness parking lot. Transportation and show admission included.

Time: 9:15am-5pm Cost: $27 https://kennebunkme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29170

SAT., MARCH 31

MERRILL AUDITORIUM PRESENTS

@Quest Parking See “Kinky Boots” in Portland with Kennebunk Recreation. The bus will leave and return to the Quest Fitness parking lot. Transportation and show admission included. Registration is required.

Time: 11am-5pm Cost: $54 https://kennebunkme.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29731

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A curated selection of natural & organic skincare, makeup, bath & body products available. Gift Certificates available for holiday gift-giving!

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TUES., MARCH 21

THURS., MARCH 1 TO MARCH 29

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

FURRY TALES STORY AND ADVENTURE HOUR

@Hancock Lumber Join the chamber at the March Business After Hours event for networking, light refreshments and door prizes!

Time: 5-7pm Cost: $5 for chamber members and $10 for nonmembers http://gokennebunks.com/pages/events/business-after-hours

MON., MARCH 13

PORTLAND PLAYERS DRESS REHEARSAL NIGHTS AND DINNER

@ Animal Welfare Society Join the AWS on Thursdays when school is in session in the Humane Education Room, where preschoolers are invited to discover the exciting world of animals with stories, playtime, crafts, songs, movement and animal time.

Time: 10-11am Cost: Fee, but donations are gratefully accepted.

THURS., MARCH 22

THIRD ANNUAL JOB FAIR

@Kennebunk Town Hall Auditorium The Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce and the

18

@Quest Parking Join Kennebunk Recreation for “Boeing, Boeing,” a farce about Bernard and his

NEIGHBORS OF THE KENNEBUNKS

MARCH 2018

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