Ogunquit Beach Inn, & other adventures....

Ode to Marginal Way

2012-01-29T17:27:00.022-05:00

It's been a mild winter in Ogunquit Maine this year. Occasional light snow, and mild above freezing temperatures are the norm for this January.
Ogunquit and its grand coast line has always inspired artists, photographers and writers. The following poem is by local wordsmith legend Richard Perkins. Photos were taken by Ogunquit resident Rick Barber.

Ode to

Marginal Way

*******

This beautiful path is a one mile rove

Ending up at Perkins Cove!

The swirling tide pools and crashing surf

A breathtaking stroll on this good earth!

******

The outcropping bayberry and bittersweet

30 dedicated benches beckoning you to seat!

To ponder the beauty of the Marginal Way

Your temptation to return day after day!

******

The bold Atlantic with waves pounding

Around each curve more beauty abounding!

Lobster boats and buoys adding to the scene

When the tide becomes low another theme!

******

The Marginal Way is over 100 years old

Gracing our coast strong and bold!

Ogunquit is blessed with this beautiful gem

At the end of your stroll you will say “Amen!”

******

The land bequeathed by Josiah Chase in 1923

To Ogunquit “Beautiful Place By The Sea!”

******

By Richard Perkins

My First Tupperware Party

2012-01-24T16:24:00.004-05:00

Not Your Grandmothers Tupperware Party

-NBC Today Show

This past Saturday night, I went to my first Tupperware Party. It was a rather unique event hosted by Tupperware lady, Dixie Longate.

Dixie Longate, is the Queen of Tupperware. She is an international performer that fills theatres and other venues with her unique mid-century charm hosting Tupperware parties. She performs and demonstrates the wonders of Tupperware. I never knew that I needed a beverage pitcher that fits inside my fridge door, so there would be more room in the fridge for cans of beer!

The is a real Tupperware Party complete with demonstrations and catalogs. Dixie is reminiscent of mid-century suburban housewives that wore mini skirts, and had big flowing hair and marveled at the solutions that Tupperware provided. Her sharp tongue and trailer park wisdom are hilarious and entertaining, and she really is a Tupperware Lady!

Dixie was well received with 400 attendees and that donated $35 to $75 for the show. Dixie donated her time and talent for The Hammerhead Aquatics swim team. The Hammerheads are based in Fort Lauderdale, and are a masters swim team that I belong to. The team hosts swim meets, travels internationally for swim meets and holds 14 practices per week.

Coach John Grzeszczak heads up the organization, and coaches most of the swim practices. The event was a success and showcased not only Dixie's Tupperware talents but also the benefits of Hammerhead Aquatic swimming...

Ogunquit, Maine

2012-01-20T09:41:00.005-05:00

This video really captures the essence of Ogunquit.

Prison Dancer: The Interactive Web Musical - Teaser Trailer

2012-01-05T13:10:00.006-05:00

This video is funny and creative. There is a romantic notion that Filipino prisoners dance and perform Glee-like theatrical dance sequences, since the Thriller video came out in 2009. The video featured over a 1,000 prisoners dancing from a prison in Cebu, and received over 49 million viewers.

On my last trip to the Philippines I saw prisoners shackled together. Life is harsher for many people in the Philippines, and I am sure it's even harder in jail. Years ago I worked at a county jail in Maine, and there sure wasn't any dancing there.

Intra Crusing

2012-01-03T18:38:00.004-05:00

Fort Lauderdale is known at the Venice of America with over 300 miles intracoastal canals, rivers and waterways that meander through the everglades into the Atlantic. Surrounding the waterways are a labyrinth of islands, peninsulas and swaths of land that make-up the greater Fort Lauderdale area.

Our friend Don Wunder from Ogunquit & Fort Lauderdale invited us to a birthday party. Donny charted a 66 foot Hatteras yacht for a birthday bash for his partner Jim. The vessel came with a two man crew, bartender and a caterer.

It's a different view seeing Fort Lauderdale from a boat. It's quite an architectural tour to see mid-century homes next to behemoth mansions that line the intricate waterways. Highrises and cute 1950's Jeston apartment buildings are juxtaposed various building styles stretching the last 100 years.

Jim Invited 25 of his friends to a festive 5 hour cruise complete with open bar, and nice dinner catered by a local company. Weather was perfect, and the sites were amazing! Happy Birthday Jim!!!

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-01T17:37:00.006-05:00

Good Health has no holidays

-unknown

I do not know where I heard this quote, but it is so true. It may be a holiday, and many revelers may be sleeping-in or convalescing, but I will continue my exercise regiment this New Years Day morning.
Coach John Grzeszczak of Hammerhead Aquatics outlined the swim practice for us today.....

Warm-up: 400 yards swim, 200 kick

50 yards x 16 times.

Main Set:

25 yard drill

125 yards fast

25 yard drill

75 yards fast

25 yard drill

25 Fast with and overkick

This last set, is in 7 minutes and repeated 4 times.
50 cool down...

Michael and I spent New Years Eve at a wonderful house party with friends from Maine and New England. Perfect weather, great food and an entertaining fireworks completed the calendar year for 2011.

Instead of making "resolutions" and broken promises to myself, I decided I will continue to treat my body well. Continue to exercise and exercise my mind. Take time for rest and relaxation. Take time to "smell the roses" and enjoy the little gifts that life gives us on a daily basis. Because good health, is good wealth.

There is so much beauty everyday to explore and enjoy; so get out and SMELL some roses!

Childhood Christmas Memories

2011-12-25T10:32:00.008-05:00

Christmas means so many things to so many people. My Christmas memories are warm and idyllic, and I thank my parents for that.

My father really enjoyed the season. Papa Testa made the holiday special and meaningful to me as a child. I remember we lived in the city of Somerville, Massachusetts, and we did not have a fireplace. Every year my father would assemble the faux fireplace. My father insisted that Santa would be able to visit us with this makeshift fireplace. My mother would assist me in writing a letter to Santa Claus letting him know that I was "a good boy", and in the letter there would be a short list of Christmas wishes....

(Somerville, MA mid 1960's)

Every Christmas eve my mother would bake sugar cookies, The shapes were always the same: Christmas tree, bell and star. The frosting was white and there was always sprinkles of red and green. The cookies were always left out the coffee table near the Christmas tree with a glass of milk AND, a carrot for Rudolph.

Every Christmas morning my father would be first to awake and he would always say "Good bye Santa Claus, Good bye Santa" We would rush down the stairs, amazed that we missed him. Upon coming down the stairs, I was always in awe to see how the living room was transformed into a magical world of toys and presents. Christmas morning was spent opening presents, as my parents sipped their coffee and watched the smiles on their children grow wide.

(Christmas Card from 1963)

As I got older, I realized that Christmas is not about presents, or what you have or what you don't have, but rather its a feeling. A feeling of happiness and joy. When I sit back now and think of my parents, I think of the joy my father had in shopping for presents. His joy in decorating the Christmas tree with the family while "The Chipmunks" Christmas album played on the hifi. And the joy he would get "waving" bye to Santa Claus, knowing his children would wake up, thinking they had just missed the jolly man in the red suit...

My father was what you call a "good guy". He was good father, husband and person. During the holidays these traits truly shined. My father worked for the Boston Globe Newspaper. One of the Globe's charities was Globe Santa, which provided toys to needy children in New England. My dad was involved in this charity. He believed in the magic of Christmas and the joy that spread from this magic. I truly miss my father during this time of year and I am happy he gave me the gift of joy. That is the gift I carry with me everyday. This gift will never go out of style and is non-returnable. Thank you, Papa!

(me, in my new velour shirt, which was the rage in the Italian-Americans in the 1960's. My father, and I at my Aunt Santa's house-Yes, that is correct, I had an aunt named: Santa....).

'Twas la nochebuena...

2011-12-24T09:59:00.004-05:00

Esta la Nochebuena all through the house,
not a creature was stirring not even los perros.
The stockings were hung by the palms with care,
in hopes that Papa Noel would soon be there.

I was nestled in my chaise by the pool, and ready for a swim,
as visions of helado danced in my head.
When all of sudden I sprang from my chair;
to the sight of eight tiny geckos dancing mid-air.

I rubbed my eyes and thought it was a tropical dream,
to see Papa Noel appear in a palm tree.
He was dressed for surfing from head to toe
and carried a big sack that really glowed.

His face was happy and his beard was nicely trimmed;
his body a little round, which made me look extra thin.
He glanced at me and nodded his cabeza,
as he danced around the patio y la piscina.

Without warning, he lifted his hand into the sack,
and filled the stockings with dulces y regalos rather fast!

And then he snapped his fingers and said:
Happy Christmas and Feliz Navidad to all, and to all a good night, ciao!

The Common Good

2011-12-09T13:08:00.004-05:00

Unless we work for the Common Good, there won't be any...

-annoymous

Public beaches, parks, libraries and public pools are some of the simple things that I enjoy. In my lifetime these attractions have always been part of "my community". I have always taken advantage of these public "institutions" and never have taken them for granted. These places provide recreation, entertainment and enjoyment for the public good.

During these times of cutbacks, and "slash and burn" tax anger, we need to re-think the rolls that these places provide for the common good of the community.

As a child my parents instilled in me the importance of taking advantage of these attractions. Virtually everyday I am on the beach, Marginal Way, in a library or at a public pool. I can not imagine life without these great American treasures.

Many of these public treasures are in "plain view" and many do not see them every day. Many communities have public tennis courts, baseball fields, and other recreation venues. As a public we need to see beyond the grind of our daily lives and realize the importance that these places provide for the common good.

So many people are angry with Wall Street and the one percent. Instead of occupying Wall Street, lets "occupy" beaches, parks, pools and libraries. Lets use these institutions before we loose them. Taking advantage of public beaches, parks is for the Common Good.

El Ateneo

2011-11-25T07:14:00.004-05:00

I have always imagined Paradise will be a kind of library

-Jorge Luis Borges

I have always loved browsing through bookstores. However, its not that easy anymore in this digital age. Here in the USA, bookstores are becoming a thing of the past. While visiting Argentina, this is not the case. Bookstores are quite common and plentiful. Virtually every neighborhood in Buenos Aires has a couple of bookstores.

The Grande Dame, of bookstores in Buenos Aires is the gilded El Ateneo. This once opulent theatre sits on busy Avenida Santa Fe. El Ateno Gran Splendid has an illustrious history. Live performances and radio broadcasts featuring Carlos Gardel were produced from this building in Barrio Norte. This grand opera house was built in 1919 during wave of European immigration and features a Vatican-esque dome ceiling mural painted by noted Italian artist Nazareno Orlandi.

The stage in the theatre is now a cafe where you can get a macchiato and a light lunch. The cushion theatre boxes are now places where you can sit and read a book. El Ateneo is an amazing bookstore and rated as one of the top 10 bookstores in the world. If you are visiting Buenos Aires, this is one attraction that is worth visiting.

Most books are in Spanish, but there is a wide variety of books in English and other languages. There is also a large selection of music CD's and DVD's. This bookstore is well worth a visit!

The Details:

El Ateneo Bookstorre

1860-1865 Ave Santa Fe, Barrio Norte/Recoleta neighborhood

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Hours: Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm

Sunday 10am to 5pm

Phone/Contact Info

+54 11 4811 6104
http://www.tematika.com/

Bookstores are quite common in Buenos Aires, this Bookstore, Clasica y Moderna features a restaurant and jazz club with live entertainment....

Cafe San Juan - Restaurant Review

2011-11-17T11:03:00.004-05:00

While channel surfing in Argentina, I came across reality show about a restaurant called Cafe San Juan on Fox Life TV in Buenos Aires. The show is about a small boutique restaurant in San Telmo district of Buenos Aires. I am not a fan of reality TV, and really don't watch those types of programs ( e.g., I have never seen Survivor, Big Brother etc). I find these types of programs boring and over dramatic. However, this show caught my attention. The series presents itself as a "docu-reality", which I think is more accurate than, just a reality show. The situations and characters are real, not contrived.

Cafe San Juan is a small boutique restaurant located on Calle San Juan in the San Telmo District. San Telmo is known for the legendary San Telmo fairs on Sunday. San Telmo is also an antique and art destination. The district is: edgy, young, gritty, immigrant and up & coming. Think NY city's Chelsea or Lower East side in the 1970's. Celebrity Chef/Owner/skateboarder, Leonardo Cristobal is young and edgy. He looks like a younger version of Spanish rock star Manu Chau.

Cristobal is a passionate man. He is passionate about his restaurant, food, presentation of food and skateboarding. He buys all is vegetables locally and uses products that are in season. There are no processed food that is delivered. What really piqued my interest while watching the television program is how well the staff got along. Everyone, sliced, diced and prepared the food for dining clients. This was true when we dined. The staff operated like a well tuned orchestra.

(San Telmo is gritty, artsy and full of passion, like these street performers)

The restaurant is small, with tables outside and maybe 10 to 12 tables inside. The kitchen is open, and diners can observe celebrity chef Cristobal prepare the evenings meals. Like San Telmo, the food is edgy, eclectic and entertaining. Jazz and ambient music flow through the small restaurant. There is no set menu; the waiters truck a chalkboard from table to table with the day's specialties. Tonight's specials were, Squid, Rabbit and Salmon.

I decided on the salmon. It's spring in Argentina and the wild salmon are in season. The portion was a good size and was accompanied by eggplant, onions, and covered in greens. The meal was delicious, and the presentation was perfect. The salmon was probably the best I've ever had.

I must admit, part of my attraction to this restaurant was it's style and sexiness. Dining in Argentina is a process. It is not rushed. Like the saying, "life is too short for cheap wine", this is how Porteños dine, leisurely, relaxed and luxuriate at a table for hours. There is no, "eat and run" in Argentina. Dining is an art form. Food is celebrated. Argentines have adopted the Spanish culture's way of eating late, the Italians love for food, and the Frenchman's passion for the Cafe Society.

For dessert we split a chocolate mousse with almonds and topped by eatable chocolate gold thread-Need I say more! Like most restaurants in Buenos Aires, desserts are homemade!

I found the staff helpful, and efficient. The restaurant opens in the evening at 8pm ( reservations are highly recommended). This was my best meal in Buenos Aires this year, and Buenos Aires is known as a foodies paradise. Prices are a bit higher than most restaurants in Buenos Aires, but still much cheaper than stateside restaurants. Cafe San Juan only accepts cash, and not credit cards.

The Details:

Cafe San Juan

450 Calle San Juan

San Telmo ( Buenos Aires)

Telephone: 4300 1112

CASH ONLY Dollars accepted.

Reservations are highly recommended.

Watch the Video
Episode One of Cafe San Juan

Farmers market in San Telmo

Pizza in Buenos Aires

2011-11-14T06:34:00.006-05:00

Ideas are like pizza dough, made to be tossed around
-Anna Quindlen

Italians invented it, Americans perfected it, and Argentines celebrate it!

Every where you go in Argentina there are pizzeria's. But these are not like American pizza Parlors.

A big part of Argentina's population is of Italian origin, Some statistics indicate that over 50 percent of Argentina's population is Italian descent. So it's no surprise that Pizzeria's, pasta shops, and other Italian eateries dot the Argentine landscape.

Names like Fugazzo, Roquerot and Faina ( a garbanzo/chick pea bean based pizza that originated in Genova, brought over by the immigrant Italians ) are on almost every menu along with muzzarella and Jamon.

Pizzerias also carry empanadas. An Empanada is basically a hot pockets with minced meat, or chicken.

Pizzeria's are also big hang-outs to watch football ( Soccer) matches. The authentic pizza joints also have soda water with the syphon cartridges. I have not seen these types of bar accoutrement since the 1960's......

The best party about travelling with my friend Jay, is that he is always up for Pizza. My favorite Pizza place is La Americana Pizzeria. This place is been around for generations. There is table service, or you can get take-away slices and eat standing at the counter. Argentine Pizza places are lively and entertaining.

Jay enjoys Fugazza pizza and anchovy pizza....Fugazza pizza is a white pizza LOADED with savory onions! Brought over by the northern Italians in the late 1800's

Like New Yorkers, Portenos walk a lot which helps burning off these carbo calories. I do not feel to bad about eating so much here, I am able to run virtually everyday in Recoleta and Palermo.

The Details:

La Americana Pizzeria

Avenida Callao, 83

Buenos Aires

Telefono: 4.371.0202

http://www.pizzerialaamericana.com.ar/

This is one of my favorite pizza parlours in Buenos Aires. Place is busy, entertaining and lively. Prices are quite reasonable.

Colonial town of Colonia Uruguay

2011-11-12T10:18:00.003-05:00

The charming town of Colonia de Sacramento sits 50 kilometers across the Rio de la Plata and a world away from Buenos Aires. I am really enamored by this little colonial town. The pace in this historical town is much slower, than cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. I have always been attracted to places that sit on the water.

The side streets are tree lined with cobble stones. Much of the architecture is Spanish & Portuguese colonial. The United Nations declared this town a UNESCO world heritage site.

Colonia is the oldest town in Uruguay. The town was founded by the Portuguese in 1680, for its strategic importance. The Portuguese built a walled fort, churches and a trade port. The Spanish acquired the town in 1771.

Uruguay has an abundance of lighthouses. Some of the islands surrounding Colonia in the Rio de la Plata are dotted with lighthouses. In Colonia, the Colonia Lighthouse is famous and administered by the Uruguayan Navy. There are 119 steps to the top if this lighthouse. The admission is 15 Uruguayan Pesos ( .75 USD). The Lighthouse was rebuilt in 1857, and sits on the ruins of the San Francisco convent.

Climbing to the top of the lighthouse is an experience, the stairs are narrow, and the doorways are low. I got a bit dizzy climbing the stairs to the top, but the site was well worth it! The views are incredible.
You can also see the faint skyline of Buenos Aires, islands, and other lighthouses.

There a lot of cute restaurants to have lunch or dinner. Like Argentina, lunches are GRANDE!

Time sits still in this town....

Recoleta Cemetery

2011-11-10T18:35:00.032-05:00

This year I am staying in the Recoleta section of Buenos Aires. Recoleta is known for its chic shops, well heeled gentry, tree lined streets and French architecture. Recoleta is also home to the Recoleta Cemetery.

Named for the Recollect priests, this walled city of the dead houses some of Buenos Aires most famous people in history: Presidents, writers, generals and industrialists.

The necropolis was built in 1822, and was original resting place for common folk, but quickly became the place to be interned...

The crypts are actually mini houses with doors, windows, and sub-terrain levels. The coffins are displayed with artifacts, pictures, relics and sometimes other family members.

The mini-city is 13 acres and houses over 6,500 people. It's also a major tourist attraction.

Its best to go in the morning during the week, when the cemetery is quiet. Feral cats wander amongst the mausoleums and tree lined passages of this walled city.

The architecture and art alone is worth the visit, with Roman, Greek, French, Victorian, Modern, Art Deco well represented.

One of the most famous residents of the Recoleta cemetery is Evita Peron. Her family tomb is simple: black marble mid-century modern with her family name Duarte. Visitors from near and far visit her tomb and pay respect with flowers.

The Details:

Recoleta Cemetery

Calle Junin

Hours: 7am to 6pm

Admission is free

Carlos Gardel Museum

2011-11-09T07:26:00.004-05:00

Buenos Aires is a city full of museums. Art, architecture, design and culture are showcased in this beautiful city. Over the past six years I have visited most of the art museums.

However, where ever you go in this city you see images of Evita and Carlos Gardel. These cultural icons run deep in the Argentine soul.

Carlos Gardel is the famous tango singer, actor and composer. There is a museum is dedicate to him in the Abasto neighborhood. The museum is his former home, that he shared with his mother in the 1920's & 1930's

Like many icons and entertainers, his life was cut short by a tragedy, and he is remembered being forever young. The memory of Carlos Gardel on the psyche of Argentine soul is similar to Elivs' legacy to Americans. Where ever you go in the city you see his image, photograph and hear his music. Even today there are new remastered, remixed recordings of his work.

His former home sits on a modest side street. Entrance fee is $1.00 peso ( about .20 cents US). The museum features his piano, office, artifacts, furniture, sheet music, and ephemera.

The house exhibits daily life for a Porteno in the 1920's. Many of Gardel's artifacts and furniture are displayed. The original bathroom is intact, as well as the kitchen. The concept of the museum is to preserve, showcase and safeguard the work of Carlos Gardel, on which the city of Buenos Aires is solidly grounded.

The Details

Museo Casa Carlos Gardel

Calle Jean Jaures, 735

Buenos Aires

Open everyday except Tuesdays

Admission $1 AR peso

www.museocasacarlosgardel.buenosaires.gob.ar

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dStp5hq294

Side trip to Buenos Aires.....

2011-11-07T18:59:00.013-05:00

One cannot accomplish anything without fanaticism.

-Evita Peron

Drive 1565 miles to Florida, unpack, sleep two nights at my house, repack and jump on a plane for a 9+ hour flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Why? Why not!

My good buddy Jay, is spending the austral summer in south America, so I thought it may be a good chance to catch-up with my good friend. It will be fun to hang out at some familiar haunts, and just enjoy the start of the south American summer.

I have always enjoyed this beautiful city. It's only been a couple of days, since we closed the inn for the winter, and trekked down to Florida. My head is spinning, but what the heck!!

I enjoy Buenos Aires this time of year: the Jacaranda's are in full bloom, and the city is alive with people sitting at outside cafes for endless hours. This is my fourth trip to this beautiful city, it will be like visiting an old friend.

So here I am at Jay's place in Recoleta, time for some summer adventure!

That time of year~ the winter journey begins!

2011-11-07T00:34:00.004-05:00

Yes, its that time of year. It's when we say goodbye to our last guest. It's that time when we put the B&B to rest and "set sail" for our winter retreat.

We pack the Subaru along with the spaniels for the arduous 1565 mile trek to Wilton Manors, Florida.

We usually pack a couple of heathy meals to eat on the road as we tailgate in trucker parking lots. It's quite a challenge to eat healthy on the road. For most of the year, we live in the "bubble" that is Ogunquit Maine. Ogunquit is unique because there are no "formula restaurants" of franchise fast food ( McDonalds, KFC etc).

As we stopped on the Garden State Parkway to get gas and grab a cup of caffeine at the Burger King, I noticed how large the patrons are. It's no big surprise that American's are over weight, but it was quite a sight to notice how large the patrons are as they were ordering bags of take-out fast food for their journey.

We needed to fill up again in Virginia at the Flying J Truck Stop. These truck stops are amazing: large parking lots for your rig, clean bathrooms, restaurants and a store that features a wide array of items for your truck, camper or NASCAR event. I wanted a small cup of coffee, however the only small they had was 16 ounces. Yes thats right 16 ounces, almost a half litre. I didn't bother to see what a large or extra large looked like ( maybe a Big Gulp?). But if this is small, we Americans have a problem with portion control.

It is a challenge to eat in the road, a challenge with lots of distractions and easy-way-out fast food joints. So its best to plan ahead, and think carefully about what you eat.

Arrival to Wilton Manors, and the start of our winter adventures!

All Hallow's Eve or New Years Eve?

2011-10-30T19:58:00.006-04:00

When snow falls, nature listens.

-Antoinette van Fleeff

OK, we arrived home to Ogunquit from our winter holiday on April 1st only to be greeted by a nor'easter that punched us with snow. Today is October 29th, and we are ending our 15th season to another snowy nor'easter. Autumn is not even at the half way mark and we are dealing with wet, heavy snow. Less than three weeks ago we were basking in the warm summer glow of 86 degrees and swimming in the Atlantic.

It is Halloween weekend in Ogunquit which is a festive time. Many guests wait all year to display their creative talents of disguise. Nightclubs like MaineStreet host a mega Halloween party, that is always well attended. However, with the weather the way it is, it looked more like Santa Claus was coming as opposed to the "Pan Am Flight attendants"

It's hard to believe that this past weekend I went from mowing the lawn, to shoveling the driveway, and firing up the pellet stove! It's apropos that we start our season with snow and end our season with snow!

We did not get too much of the icy wintry mix; maybe three inches. However, other parts of New England received snow measured in feet. I was still able to run at low tide on the beach!

Burial Hill, Plymouth MA

2011-10-28T16:31:00.004-04:00

My sister lives in Plymouth, MA. Once or twice a year I like to go down to "America's Hometown" and visit my sister's family. Plymouth is south of Boston and right before Cape Cod starts.

Where ever I go, I tend to run in the morning. So, I decided to run along Plymouth's waterfront, and through Burial Hill on this late October day.

Running through Plymouth, you really get an understanding why the Pilgrims settled here. There is a harbor, a fresh water brook, and a commanding hill where one can see for miles.
Running in a historic town gives you a different perspective. It is nice to take in tourist attractions, like the working harbor, the Mayflower, museums and historic homes. As I run through the waterfront and up the first street in New England ( Leyden Street), and up to Burial Hill, I get a surreal feeling of history.

The burial grounds are a bit macabre with ancient trees and slate gravestones of all different shapes and sizes. Its interesting to note that many of the early settlers lived long lives, and yet some had very short lives. Many of the stones had illustrations of urns, weeping willow trees, cherubs and skulls. I noticed that there was not one headstone with a cross on it. The early settlers of Plymouth were pious, but did not celebrate many religious holidays, or used many religious symbols like crosses.

It was great to see my family, enjoy a waterfront meal, and just be a tourist in "America's Home Town".

Ogunquit High Heel Dash, Super Heroes for Frannie Peabody Center

2011-10-22T23:23:00.006-04:00

What makes a super hero a super hero?

As children we remember stories of characters who do heroic acts: help people, fight bad guys, fight for justice etc.

Everyday, countless people are super heroes. They do kind and generous acts to help others and not themselves.They do good, for the sake of doing good.

(Jimmy measures Superman's heels)

The The Frannie Peabody Center is comprehensive AIDS agency located in Ogunquit that helps people with AIDS/HIV or at risk of HIV. The Frannie Peabody Center relies on contributions and fundraising to meet it's objective. The Frannie Peabody has helped countless people in Maine that struggle with HIV and AIDS on a daily basis.

Today, as part of OgunquitFEST celebration, the Third Annual High Heel Dash to benefit the Frannie Peabody Center took place in Perkins Cove. The dash is sponsored by the Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce and organized by Ogunquit's Jimmy Lucibello and Frances Reed.

Jimmy and Frances are my super heroes. Both Jimmy and Frances tirelessly work on countless projects that benefit others and not themselves. Toy Drive for needy children and Animal rescue are some of the other projects that these two super individuals work on.

Well over $1,000 was raised at this event. A thousand dollars doesn't sound like a lot, but to people suffering from HIV or AIDS, this money will go far.

The High Heel Dash is short course race around Perkins Cove. The key ingredient to the race is that contestants must wear 2" inch heels (5cm) or higher. Contestants are urged to wear costumes, and there is a category for the most outrageous., fastest, and highest heel.

Lance runs to the finish line; and Joanna of Maine Street Cabaret Night Club entertains... Bryan has the highest heels and Rick Barber of Moon Over Maine has the brightest costume....

While, dasher's and dancers may prance in Perkins Cove, and entertainers like Ogunquit's Joanna ( "girl" with a gazillion voices), may hold court; fishermen return to the "cove" in their "punts" after a day of deep sea fishing. Just another day in the little town of Ogunquit Maine where there are many super heroes......

Mt Agamenticus in October

2011-10-17T19:59:00.001-04:00

Over every mountain there is a path, although it may not be seen from the valley.

-Theodore Roethke

October is a nice month to visit Mt Agamenticus. The "Mount" is a mere 7 miles from downtown Ogunquit and a world away. The former ski lodge is a treasure in southern Maine. The treausure being the natual bio diversity and thousands of acres of protected forest land with trails for hiking and recreation.

On top of former ski lodge you can see, Mt Washington in NH, the Presidnetail range, ocean, and an amzing amount of foliage. There are a viewing stands along the summit of the mountain, and ontop of the lodge.

Autumn foliage peaks around mid to late October. The vistas are a collage of yellow, red and green.

There is an abundance of moss and low lying vegitation on the mountain. The coastal mountain forest is unique because it is where the nothern and southern species meet.

Remnants of the former ski lodge from the 1960's remain on the mountain, as time capsule to the past.

The Details:

From Ogunquit Beach Inn, go to Route One south 3.3 mils to Mountain Road (across from Flo's Hot Dogs), Mountain Road for 4 miles, follow the signs.

Open every day from Dawn to Dusk

http://www.agamenticus.org

Happy Columbus Day 2011

2011-10-09T14:29:00.042-04:00

Monday, October 10th is Columbus Day. This creates a three day weekend in much of the US and Canada (where it is Thanksgiving holiday). Many schools, business and government buildings are closed for the Monday Holiday.

This autumnal holiday is usually celebrated with apple picking, hiking and leaf peeping. However, this year is different. Thanks to global warming, we are enjoying the amazing warm summer like weather.
Columbus Day weekend temps are the 80's ( 25c). The weekend in Ogunquit is full of revelry with beach goers, theatre patrons and others enjoying the last breath of what summer has to offer....it is actually hotter this weekend than much of August....

The holiday was always nostalgic for me; an early autumn break from School, and a parade celebrating Columbus in the Italian neighborhood of East Boston (after all the Irish have St Patrick's day and a parade..). Growing up in the Boston area, the Italian neighborhoods always made a big deal of Columbus Day. The Italian-Americans are quite boastful in claiming the Genovese navigator that sailed for Spanish crown as their own. Known in Italy as Cristoforo Colombo, and Cristobal Colon in Spanish speaking countries, his legacy is widely celebrated and criticized. After 500 years, historians still debate the ramifications of his "discovery".

Instead of "leaf peeping and apple picking, I am hitting the beach, like others in Ogunquit maine....

Ogunquit Tides

2011-10-04T21:16:00.003-04:00

majestic tides sweep the shore 'round the clock every twenty-four
waves so high, they break against the sky,
as birds and marine prey look for daily delights,

the sunrise flows above the waves,
and shines beneath the clouds, cycling yet another day.
slowly, the waves inch on shore, and sift the sand slightly more.

shifting tides into the day, brings a new surprise,
as the northwest wind roars on by,
with beachcombers, fishermen and castaways look for a prize.

Banana Bread Recipe, Ogunquit Beach Inn style....

2011-09-23T22:04:00.009-04:00

I am going bananas!

-Madonna

With a busy B&B we always have plenty of bananas. Bananas are perfect breakfast food. I have one every morning with my cereal; it's also a good recovery food after a run. Bananas are an excellent source of vitamin B6, potassium and vitamin C. Banana's also contain tryptophan, Tryptophan is a natural mood enhancer, which can help reduce feelings associated with Seasonal Affected Disorder (SAD).

The question is what to do with ripe bananas? Solution: Banana Bread! So every other day, we make Banana bread at Ogunquit Beach Inn. My recipe is different than Mike's. Innkeeper Mike won't share his recipe. However, I will share MY recipe.

These are NOT ripe bananas, but rather bananas from our yard in Wilton Manors, Florida.

The key to making good banana bread is to use ripe bananas. When bananas ripen more sugar is released, and this changes the chemical composition of the starchy fruit. Green bananas are actually tart and not good for you.

Banana bread is the perfect breakfast food, or snack. It also goes well with coffee!

Greg's Ogunquit Beach Inn Best Banana Bread Recipe

Five or six mashed ripened bananas ( mash with fork)
3/4 cup of sugar
1 1/2 cups of flour
1 teaspoon of baking Soda
1 teaspoon of sea salt
1 teaspoon of vanilla
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon melted
1 large egg
1/4 cup of melted butter ( half of a stick or 4 tablespoons).
1/2 cup of chocolate chip morsels (not optional)
1/4 cup of Ocean Spray "Craisins" (dried cranberries). Optional

Cream butter and sugar, add bananas, eggs and vanilla.
Combine flour, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon into batter. Add chocolate chips and craisins. Bake in greased loaf pan for 60 minutes at 350 degrees.
Let cool on bakers rack. Cut and serve. Delicious. Wrap in aluminium foil.

One of my favorite all time snacks is the Filipino Merienda snack maruya. This tasty banana fritter is dipped in batter...mmm

Innkeeper, Greg enjoys Maruya in Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines.....

Lobster Dash 2011

2011-09-17T20:42:00.006-04:00

One of my favorite things is to run on Ogunquit beach at low tide. The dramatic tides and hard packed sand make Ogunquit beach unique and perfect for running.

Today was a perfect day for the 11th annual Lobster Dash. The Lobster Dash is in memory of Greg Gumbinner. One of Gumbinner's favorite sayings was "It can't be a bad day if you can run on Ogunquit beach", and THIS Greg agrees with him! It's always a good day if you can run on Ogunquit beach!

This year there were 231 entrants on a cool blustery sunny morning (temps were in the low 40's, 6c). The course starts at the "point" on Ogunquit beach, and goes 2.5 miles north, to the end of the beach in neighboring Wells Maine, and return back. There are small tide pools and gullies that you have to maneuver through. The day was extremely sunny with a slight wind.

Upon completing the race, contestants receive a medal, a cotton t-shirt, breakfast foods, and a Lobster Roll. Yes, the Lobster Dash is a unique race! Well worth the entrance fee of $22...(and that includes beach parking 'til 11am).

Out of 214 entrants I placed 15th overall and 1st in my age category. My time is 34.08 at 6.50 minutes per mile. I actually did better this year than last year. last years time was 35.30. Most people run slower on sand, than asphalt or a track, so I was happy with my time.

Approaching the finish line. I do have the "home team" advantage, and there is a lobster roll waiting for me!

Race Director, Charlie Farrington of Ogunquit, led the award ceremonies....Charlie is a marathon reacer with over 52 marathons under his belt.

Lobsters in Ogunquit. It's a way of life....

2011-09-16T09:43:00.002-04:00

People from all over the world come to Maine and Ogunquit for Lobster! Lobsters are a way of life in Ogunquit Maine. From the lobstermen that go out every morning to haul their catch, to all the restaurants and purveyors that serve the delicious crustacean.

Many visitors also like to take lobster home with them. Live lobsters can live up to 48 hours after they've been purchased, provided that they are in a container with moist seaweed or newspaper.

One such place is Beach Plum Lobster Farm on US Route One. This purveyor not only sells fresh lobsters, clams and oysters, and packs them live for transport; but also steams the shellfish to perfection. Patrons can dine outside in the rough on picnic tables or take the steamed lobsters home and enjoy!

I was invited to Bobby Winn's house for lobster. Like many local people, Bobby pre-ordered several dozen lobsters from David at Beach Plum Lobster Farm in Ogunquit. David steamed them to perfection! We enjoyed a lobster feast, with all the necessary Maine ingredients. Bobby's fiance, Diane, made traditional chowder, corn and pies for the special late summer feast.

This is how we do it in Maine.....

Our friend Mark went to Ft Lauderdale today, and I had him carry on some lobsters to give to a mutual friend who is desiring Maine lobsters. David, of Beach Plum Lobster Farm packed the lobsters in a carry-on cooler with ice packs. The item was the perfect size to stow in the overhead compartment in the airplane.

The Details:

Beach Plum Lobster Farm

615 Main Street , US Route One

Ogunquit, ME 03907

207.646.7277

Fresh lobster, clams, oysters and other seafood. Dine-outside. Live lobsters to go.

Capriccio 2011

2011-09-13T18:33:00.001-04:00

Ca-pric-ci-o, Noun

A lively piece of music. Short and free in form. A painting or other work of art representing a fantasy or a mixture of real and imaginary features.

The weeks following Labor Day are known as Capriccio. Capriccio is a town-wide festival of art, music, poetry, ballet, live theater, concerts, gallery tours and architectural tours. It's a time to pause from the manic summer and enjoy the arts.

Ogunquit has long been known as an artists' haven since Charles Woodbury established the art colony over 100 years ago. Woodbury's legacy endures, with two museums, bustling galleries and other arts that were attracted to the tiny hamlet of Ogunquit.

Artists are often attracted to Ogunquit because of the wild beauty of the crashing waves, brilliant sun against the soft sand, and the rocky coastline. Both Edward Hopper and Georgia O'Keefe, painted on The Marginal Way and Perkins Cove.

This year's Capriccio there is an added bonus with spectacular weather, and minimal crowds........!

Hurricane Hype....

2011-08-29T20:09:00.002-04:00

Living in Maine, we are accustomed to having foul weather: blizzards, snow storms, nor'easters, and yes the occasional tropical storm/hurricane.

(before and after pictures from Sunday afternoon and Monday afternoon.)

Since last Wednesday, newsmen, weathermen and commentators have been busy clogging the airwaves hypothesizing Irene's path and potential danger. Irene did strike western New England as a tropical storm. There was damage in western New England with flooding and fallen trees.

Here in Ogunquit, we prepared for the worse. Stores, business, and beach were closed. All lawn furniture and signs were removed. The town looked more like December with warmer weather.

I went for a run on the beach on Sunday morning. There was no rain, and the wind was moderate. The most peculiar thing I noticed is that there were MANY birds on the beach. Florida natives will tell you that birds are a good sign. If birds flee, that is a good indication that you may get hit by a fierce storm of hurricane. I realized after my run, that this was hurricane hype that the media was feeding us. This post Katrina hype was also selling a lot of ad space on weather.com I still prepared for the worse, and battened the hatches!

The good thing about bad weather in Maine, is that it doesn't last too long.

Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

2011-08-27T21:34:00.004-04:00

A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand!

-Unknown

For the past four years every Saturday I have been baking cookies. I have gone through countless church cookbooks, recipes and Internet recipes to find the best cookie.

I have tried them all: Chocolate chip with oatmeal; chocolate chip with peanut butter; chocolate chip with Nutella etc...

Finally I have come up with the best recipe, that my guests at Ogunquit Beach Inn enjoy! It is the right consistency of chewiness and crispness.

Ingredients:
3/4 cup of white sugar
1 Cup of brown sugar
2 sticks of butter at room temp ( unsalted is best)
1 heaping tablespoon of vanilla
2 large eggs beaten
3 cups of all-purpose flour
3/4 baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
1 teaspoon of cinnamon
3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Blend sugars and butter together in a large bowl.
Add vanilla and eggs and mix.
Combine flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and gradually add to batter.
Place cookie batter in little balls on non-stick cookie sheets, about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 9 to 11 minutes.
Let cool on metal rack and enjoy!

Blogger/Innkeeper Gregorio, enjoys Chocolate chip cookies as part of a balanced diet!

Where the Buoys are!

2011-08-19T17:32:00.046-04:00

Buoys, quintessentially Maine, They dot the Maine landscape on houses, fences, and lobster traps. They are decorative and yet utilitarian. We take them for granted. they are seen, but seldom heard from.....they are just there. These are the buoys of Summer.

Buoys are flotation devices that lobstermen use to identify location of lobster traps.

According to Maine State Law, Title 12, Section 6434, It is unlawful for anyone except the licensed owner, or a Marine Patrol Officer to raise, lift, transfer, possess, or in any manner molest any lobster trap, warp, buoy, or lobster car. This includes all gear that has washed ashore and is seemingly abandoned.

Early lobster buoys were made from empty glass bottles. However, it became hard to tell which buoys belonged to which lobsterman. The bottle/glass buoys were not sturdy for the rough north Atlantic waters. During the 1800's lobstermen would carve buoys out of wood logs and painted them to identify the lobster traps. This evolved into a New England folk art which is still popular today.

Buoys are so popular and beloved in Maine, that people play a game of buoy baseball on Ogunquit beach. Buoy bats are made from authentic lobster buoys and hardwood handles. These products are produced in the neighboring town of South Berwick, and sold locally and on-line. http://www.buoysports.com/. No two Buoy Bats are alike because lobster buoys are made for fishing. There are blemishes and unique markings on these foam buoys, which truly makes this a unique sport product!

Ogunquit Lobster Pound, Review

2011-08-12T20:26:00.005-04:00

The World is my Lobster

-Henry J. Tillman

When family comes to town, Mike and I usually like to get out of the B&B and enjoy one of the many fine restaurants that Ogunquit has to offer.

One particular restaurant is nestled in tall pines up on US Route One, just north of the village centre, with plenty of parking, is the Ogunquit Lobster Pound. The Ogunquit Lobster Pound serves some of the best lobsters, steamers and seafood along the Maine coast for 80 years.

Owned and operated by the Hancock family for 65 years, the Pound prepares lobster the traditional way: they use use seawater to steam the clams and lobsters. The estuary seawater is pumped directly into the lobster tanks. The salt water in the tanks keeps the lobsters healthy, and in their natural environment. Patron's pick their lobster from the outside seawater tank, then the live lobster is boiled in the outside vats. Preparers then cut, score and crack the lobsters, which makes it easier for dinning patrons to enjoy ( and less messy).

The food at the Ogunquit Lobster Pound is delicious, but its also the dining experience that truly makes the meal memorable. Clams are placed in nets and dropped into the steam vats. I have always enjoyed steamers, but I am truly impressed with these clams. The steam clams were perfect size, fresh and free of sand. I have personally gone clamming in the Ogunquit river estuary, and it is not easy, so I really do appreciate good steamed clams! Harvesting shellfish is an arduous task. But harvesting shellfish that is free of sand and debris, that is truly a miracle!

The best thing to do at the Ogunquit Lobster Pound is to get some Steamers, to share as an appetizer, then get different meals that you can share....I had a yearning for fried seafood, so I got the Pound Combo which is basically a two different types of seafood with french fries or onion rings. My platter came with big bellied clams and huge scallops! My sister, got the boiled lobster of course!

The Pound is a large restaurant with lots of character and different types of seating arrangements. You can dine outside amongst the pines or inside. Locals like myself prefer to sit in the lounge side of the restaurant. Its a bit quieter, and there are television screens with sports tuned in......

The Details:

Ogunquit Lobster Pound

504 Main Street

Ogunquit, ME 03907

207 646 2056

http://www.ogunquitlobsterpound.com

Located .7 miles north of the village centre ( 1.2 km) on US Route One ( Main Street). There is plenty of parking and reservations are accepted. Menu is varied with array of local fresh seafood, steaks, seasonal vegetables and even a Gluten Free menu! Full bar. Servers are attentive and knowledgeable , many return year after year. Open every day during the season at 4:30pm.

Many locals, and well heeled tourists choose to sit in the lounge side. There are comfortable booths as wells as "captain's chairs" in the lounge side.

Sunrise on Ogunquit Beach, August

2011-08-10T19:50:00.005-04:00

“We can only appreciate the miracle of a sunrise if we have waited in the darkness”

-Unknown

The sun officially rose at 5:43 am this morning. There is something special about the beach in the morning. The sounds of waves, and nautical birds fills the air. The people who are on the beach at sunrise are purists: these are the people who make the effort to greet the sun and start the day, in a quiet manner.

The activities are varied: Fishermen, runners, walkers, yoga enthusiasts and others who share the three mile long barrier peninsula. There is a quiet camaraderie; everyone is in their zone, yet there is a gentle acknowledgement of each other. Runners zip through tidal pools as fishermen cast their lines. Beachcombers look for morning treasures as yoga posers meditate to the morning sun.

There is peace and harmony, and yet it is short lived. Many locals and some visitors realize that this indeed, is the best part of the day, and not to be missed.

A dawn chorus of fowl forages the shore, as waves crash bring forth more bounty to feast. The absence of humans allows nature to take its course on the dramatic seacoast.......

Ogunquit through the lens of Photographer Dan Perez

2011-08-06T12:47:00.002-04:00

Dan is a frequent visitor to Ogunquit Maine. He enjoys the beach, nightlife and all Ogunquit has to offer. Dan is also an accomplished photographer. The spectrum of Dan's subjects range from: still life imagery, underbelly figurative subjects to burlesque stars from a bygone era.

Much of Dan's photographs captures a story or a moment in every day life. Simple pleasures by the beach or street scenes are some of his themes.

Dan sees things that are "overlooked" by the average "eye".

Darker light and strong textures are a constant theme in Dan's work. Both in his figurative imagery and in his "tourist" scenic imagery.

Dan grew up in the Boston's Italian North End. Dan draws much of his inspiration from his childhood in the North End. In the North End, nautical themes are juxtaposed to tightly woven streets with characters lurking at every corner. This is also true about Ogunquit!

The tides play an important role in Ogunquit. The dramatic high tide brings in the cool north Atlantic water, and the low tide slips back into the ocean, along with the fog.

Light and texture paint the sky.

Ogunquit Beach Inn at night captured by Dan.

Dan Perez Relaxes in Ogunquit Maine with Burlesque Starlette, April March. Dan current project is documenting, and writing a book about burlesque stars of the 1950's & 1960's Dan's work cab be found on Facebook and https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dan-Perez-Photography/83266068589

Dan's work is also on http://www.redbubble.com/people/danperez

Ogunquit's Richard Perkins

2011-07-29T15:53:00.003-04:00

Restaurateur, writer, and Ogunquit native Richard Perkins is truly an Ogunquit institution. He single handily brought fine dining to Oguquit over 50 years ago mixing local fare with Continental flare....

His restaurant, Poor Richards Tavern was a mainstay for locals and visitors alike. His restaurant inspired many other fine dining establishments in Ogunquit.

Richard was not only a foodie, but he was also a keen observer of life in Ogunquit. He wrote many stories, poems and odes about the fabled little town of Ogunquit.

Here is one ode that I particularly like:

Ode To Dear Old Ogunquit

******

If I had a preference for an avocation

I’d select Ogunquit for a perpetual vacation

It isn’t very big but offers an awful lot

I’m inclined below to offer some bon-mots!

******

Our beautiful beach with its soft white sand

Probably the finest in the land

The Marginal Way will take your breath away

When you stroll it at any time of day

******

Certainly most unique is Perkins Cove

A charming place for one to rove

Shops and restaurants and lobster boats

With an eye catching footbridge that seems to float

******

The Ogunquit Museum of American art

Its breathtaking view will give you a start!

A fabulous and diversified art collection

Truly an Ogunquit perfection!

*****

The Winn House Museum on Obeds Lane

A restored old house of Ogunquit fame

Featuring the towns history on display

Once your inside you’ll want to stay

******

The beautiful Ogunquit Playhouse of renown

The first thing you see when coming to town

Stars on the stage and in the audience too

When in Ogunquit it is the thing to do!

******

Traditional Maine Baked Stuffed Haddock Recipe

2011-07-17T20:50:00.003-04:00

Living on the ocean in Maine, there is always plenty of fish. Everyone knows that fish is good for you and has a lot protein and vitamins. In the summer Haddock is plentiful and reasonably priced. Many fine restaurants use Haddock for: Classic Fish & Chips, Chowder, and Baked Stuffed Haddock.

Haddock is found on both sides of the cool north Atlantic waters. This clean white fish is popular in Scotland, Scandanavia, New England and the Canadian Maritimes. Young, fresh Haddock and Cod fillets are often known as Scrod (or Schrod). SCROD is a Maine acronym for "Seamans Catch Received on Deck". Which is whatever white fish was caught that day!

The recipe for Baked Stuffed Haddock is easy. We use the the traditional Maine recipe and start with a pound fresh Haddock fillets off the dock!

Ingredients:
One Pound (.5 kilo ) of fresh haddock fillets
One "stack" of Ritz Crackers, crushed finely
half pound of baby shrimp
half stick of melted butter
6 large garlic cloves
Lemon
1/4 cup White Wine
Salt & Pepper
Pre-heat oven at 350 degrees
In baking dish add 1/4 cup of white wine, garlic and a "little" bit of butter. Place haddock on top of mixture. Salt and Pepper to season. Squeeze lemon for taste.

Mix Ritz Crackers, salt & pepper, melted butter and baby shrimp together and add the stuffing on top of the haddock. Squeeze lemon and bake for 350 degrees for @ 20 minutes 'til fish is flaky and bread crumbs are brown. Serve with Rice Pilaf and vegetable.

Ogunquit viewed through a different lens

2011-07-09T13:23:00.004-04:00

It's fun to see how people from "away" view Ogunquit. Yes, they take pictures of the beach, Marginal Way, and other sites throughout this bustling village. However, people from away often see things different, or see things in plain view that local people in Ogunquit do not take notice.

One frequent visitor is Dean. Dean hails from upstate New York. Dean travels to Ogunquit at least 4 times a year, catching each season, and enjoying all it has to offer. Dean is very much a keen observer to Ogunquit's beauty.

The welcoming sun shines over School Street and another day in the village begins. Often when Dean stays in Ogunquit, I will join him for an early morning 6 mile run.

As local people know, and seasoned visitors like Dean know, this is best part of the day. The beach is crisp, there is an absence of people and vistas are amazing. The early morning sun glistens on the wet untouched sand on the beach. This is the making of fine photography!

Photography is being at the right place at the right time, and playing with light. Dean wanders through town and catches a parachuter enjoying the July 4th festivities.....

One location features Lions,

Otters,

And Bears,.........oh my!

Not all Bears are found in the village centre's watering holes, bars and disco's. Some are found at the Ogunquit Museum of Art in the sculpture gardens. The museum is well worth the visit. The views are amazing, the sculpture gardens entertaining, and the building is a piece of mid-century architecture.

All photographs taken by Dean Rogers using an Apple iPhone.

Ogunquit Fire Company Museum

2011-07-01T18:37:00.001-04:00

Ogunquit is known for the Ogunquit Museum of American Art and the Ogunquit Heritage Museum,
but there is one museum that is in plain view that people often overlook.....

The Ogunquit Fire Company Museum is located on the corner of Shore Road and Cottage Street next to the Fire Station. This miniature museum houses an antique fire engine and other accoutrement from a bygone era.

The engine is a horse drawn steam boiler from 1883 called Little Lulu. Little Lulu was manufactured by the Button Fire Engine Company of Waterford New York. The Engine was made for the Reading Massachusetts Fire Dept. In 1966, the steam engine was given to the Ogunquit Fire Company by retired Reading Fire Chief Hugh Ames. Ames retired in Ogunquit and became a member of the Fire Company.

The engine was coal fired, and three horses were needed to pull the steamer. Lulu could pump 500 gallons per minute with the piston pump. The original cost of the steam engine was $500 in 1883. The estimated value is now @ $1,000,000.

Also housed at this micro museum, is a collection of firemen's hats from days gone by; a collection of trophies from fire musters that Ogunquit Fire Company has participated in, and other fire related apparatus. The museum is located in Firemen's Park next to the Fire Station.

Today's firefighters in Ogunquit are trained professionals that serve a four square mile town with up to 50,000 visitors a day. The Fire Department and Company respond to medical, rescue and fire calls. The Company also sells unique Ogunquit Fire Company Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirts for $15.

Ogunquit Square in flames.

Christian's Lifeguard Dash

2011-06-18T21:03:00.005-04:00

I've done many races here in Maine, Florida and abroad. Often times the races are for a charity, and in someones memory. Today I did Christian's Lifeguard Dash. I knew Christian Lumenello. This was the first race that I participated in and actually knew the person.

Christian Lumenello was a lifeguard, surfer, athlete and student. He lived in Ogunquit Maine along with his brothers and mother. I saw Christian grow up from a little boy in his mother's ice cream shop to a full fledged lifeguard on Ogunquit Beach. His mother, Laura Rose, owns a popular cafe and ice cream shop, and the family lives up above the shop. On the night of September 11, 2010, Christian was tragically involved in a motor vehicle crash, and passed away at 16.

Today in his memory, his mother, father and many friends sponsored this 5k race in his name. Proceeds from the race will go towards scholarships to certify Ogunquit lifeguards. Christian was credited in many ocean rescues from distressed swimmers. The 5 kilometer race was held on Ogunquit beach at low tide. Christian's mother, Laura Rose started the race with yoga poses and stretches.

There were over 253 runners, walkers and many more spectators gathered on Ogunquit beach for this certified 5 kilometer race. At the first mile marker my pace was 6.38 minutes. On the way back there was a slight head wind. The sand was a bit soft, and there were smaller tidal pools to run through.

I clocked in at 21.02. Not my best race, but not bad nonetheless. I really wanted sub 21 minute. I was 13th out of 253 registered runners. I also came in first in my age bracket. There was a young woman that was ahead of me. She clocked in at one second earlier. She was clearly a good runner. After finishing the race, I later learned that she has a stress fracture, and went back to her crutches!

Elite runner, Bobby Winn, races for the finish line with one of his past students, Igore. Igore is a student at Wells High School. Bobby Winn is also a selectman for the town of Ogunquit and helped set the course.

Two of my guests at Ogunquit Beach Inn also participated in the 5k race. Jodi won a medal for top female in her age category!

Blogger, Innkeeper, and Ogunquit enthusiast GreGorio customarily collapses after crossing the finish line....

Photos courtesy of Matty B.

Timing on Coolrunning.

Endless Sea, Endless Sea

2011-06-17T18:04:00.004-04:00

endless sea, endless sea, how you stretch before me.

your waves grasp me and pull me forward,

as your intoxicating scent awakens my breath and cleanses my soul.

endless sea, endless sea how you entice me!

the rhythm of your beat is melodic and hypnotic,

as primal waves break along the coast.

your sounds are both haunting and comforting, as you ebb and flow.

The oceans journey is continuous and without end

from the beginning time, and to the end,

yet, I stand before thee with awe and mystery,

as I watch the endless sea.....

MC Perkins Cove Restaurant Review

2011-06-13T19:46:00.002-04:00

There are so many fine restaurants in Ogunquit, its hard to pick my favorite. However one restaurant consistently pleases all my senses.

MC Perkins Cove is just that restaurant. Located in Perkins Cove, USA Today states the this is one of "the Top Ten places in the world with a view".
MC Perkins is owned by Mark Gaier and Clark Frasier, who also own the award winning Arrows Restaurant in Ogunquit.

(the view from our table)
The restaurant is casual yet sophisticated. You will not find a children's menu or highchairs. What you will find is many local favorites with a unique twist.

Chefs Gaier and Frasier are also recipients of the James Beard Foundation for best chefs in the Northeast. Celebrity chefs Gaier and Frasier have appeared numerous time on the Today Show, CBS' Early Morning Show and other programs.

We started with an order of Fried Calamari with cherry peppers with gremolta dipping sauce. Our salad choice was the Caesar's Salad. The salad had imported anchovies that were mouthwatering and not salty.

Mike tried the steak special of the day, which was topped with caramelized onions and was accompanied by a side of Chick Pea fries. The fries had an interesting taste, and I would definitely try them again.

My meal was actually something from the raw bar. I got the famed The Grand Shellfish Tower. This eye popping piece de resistance is a collection of oysters, little neck clans, jumbo shrimp, mussels and Maine lobster with onion Tabasco sauce and a lime vinaigrette sauce. Usually people will share this grand delight, but I chose to eat it by myself!

There are so many reasons to visit MC Perkins Cove: the sights, the sounds of the crashing waves, the smell of the intoxicating food and the unique flavors that delight my taste buds. The service is impeccable. One unique thing about MC Perkins is that the staff is really committed in providing great SERVICE and is very knowledgeable about food, preparation and menu. Staff is not interested in flipping tables like tourists restaurants that dot the coastline, but they are more in-focus providing a great experience. We where there for over two hours and enjoyed every minute!

The Details:

MC Perkins Cove

111 Perkins Cove Road

Ogunquit, ME

Phone: 207 646 6263

http://www.mcperkins.com

Reservations are HIGHLY suggested, especially in summer and weekends. All major credit cards are accepted. Located deep in Perkins Cove near the boat yard. Paid parking available, and there is free parking in the boat yard. Food and Service is five star.

There are two bars, where you can also eat and enjoy a smart cocktail!

Innkeepers Greg & Mike enjoy MC Perkins Cove and recommend this bistro to their guests at Ogunquit Beach Inn

Today is My Birthday

2011-06-10T22:54:00.000-04:00

It takes a long time to grow young.

-Pablo Picasso

June 1961

June 2011

Today is my birthday. It is bittersweet to say the least. Many of the people that were on this earth, the day I was born are no longer here. My grandparents, parents, favorite aunt and uncle etc. But, I do believe you have to celebrate life, and enjoy the people that are in your life!

As a child, I learned to celebrate my birthday. We celebrated with a party with ice cream and cake; and sometimes an occasional trip to an amusement park or beach. I really didn't like amusement rides back then, and don't like rides now. So now I treat my self to the beach and a nice massage.

Like many of my birthdays in the past 50 years, I will spend it on the beach, enjoying a nice meal, and then a small party with loved ones!

Blogger/Innkeeper/swimmer/runner Gorio enjoys his birthday on Ogunquit beach on this June 10th morning

Maine Law Enforcement Torch Run

2011-06-08T17:52:00.002-04:00

Special Olympics athletes are spokespersons for freedom itself – they ask for the freedom to live, the freedom to belong, the freedom to contribute, the freedom to have a chance. And, of all the values that unite and inspire us to seek a better world, no value holds a higher place than the value of freedom.”

-Eunice Kennedy Shriver

For over 25 years Ogunquit Police department has participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Ogunquit Police department has not only participated, but lead the way.....

Ogunquit Police Officers 1985 First Torch Run, tube socks and short shorts!
(photo courtesy of retired OPD officer Bob Jones)

Year after year, residents, business owners and others have generously donated to this outstanding cause. Ogunquit has the distinction of being a small town with the biggest donations.

I ran my first "Torch Run" in 2002. In 2003 I met and was inspired by Lisa Bird, director of Development for Maine Special Olympics. Through out the years Lisa has inspired and motivated me, and many law enforcement agencies in the state Maine. Each year nearly 700 members of Maine law enforcement run approximately 900 miles through the state carrying our Flame of Hope.

Because Ogunquit is a small town, with a small police force, we always invite the community to run with us.

The course in Ogunquit may be short, but support is quite large! To donate to the Maine Special Olympics:

Maine Special Olympics

C/O Ogunquit Police Dept

Officer Greg Testa

POB 666

Ogunquit, ME 03907

Summer Starts Today! June 1st! 2011

2011-06-01T18:29:00.004-04:00

Meteorological summer starts today, June 1st.

Meteorologists consider summer to be the months of June, July and August, which are the warmest months of the year. Astrologically speaking, Summer starts on June 21st, But I think I like the meteorological definition better!

The summer beach roses are starting to bloom in the dunes, and air is fragrant with salt!

To celebrate the start in the "summer season" I bathed my self in the cool Atlantic waters on Ogunquit beach. Yes, its a baptising of sorts, a welcome to summer and good things to come!

Innkeeper/blogger Greg enjoys the warm sands of Ogunquit beach on this summer day!

Thinking of a summer vacation? Visit us at Ogunquit Beach Inn, Located in the village, walk to beach, dining, Marginal Way and nightlife!

Alan Ilagan's spring visit to Ogunquit 2011

2011-05-31T18:51:00.002-04:00

It sends its scent forward first, and before it even comes into view the ocean has heralded its presence. It sends its sounds next – the vaguely thunderous pattern of waves, the cries of seagulls, the rolling wind. Only after this introductory preamble does it come into view, revealing itself with its sparkling crests glinting in the sun, the white-capped waves lapping at the beach, the vast immensity of the Atlantic occupying all that lies ahead. It is the deep blue horizon, and when you face it – really face it, head on, and take it all in – everything behind you suddenly ceases to matter.
-Alan Ilagan
(photo couretsy of Alan Ilagan)

Artists, writers, photographer have been attracted to Ogunquit, since Charles Woodbury established an art school the end of the 19th century. Artists are attracted to the brilliant summer light that reflects upon the sea as they paint, draw and photograph the nautical wonderment of Ogunquit.

(photo couretsy of Alan Ilagan)

One such modern day artist/writer is Alan Ilagan. Alan is a keen observer of Ogunquit's beauty. Alan's favorite medium is photography. His photos captures Ogunquit's casual natural beauty. The early morning light over the Marginal way; a busy restaurant at night, and wild flowers are some of his subject matter. Alan is truly renaissance man. Alan Ilagan's Blog is popular on the blogesphere. His projects range from pop culture to the provocative. Ben Cohen, Madonna, the Art Scene and Ogunquit Maine are some of his many favorite blog topics.

(photo couretsy of Alan Ilagan)

Alan and his partner Andy have been guests at Ogunquit beach inn for over 11 years, and it is always a pleasure to see them. Andy, is not an artist, but a true admirer if the arts and Alan's projects.

(photo couretsy of Alan Ilagan)

Here are some of Alan's blog entries about his visit to Ogunquit:
Alan Ilagan's Favorite Things in Ogunquit
Alan Ilagan's Favorite Things: Dining in Ogunquit

Alan on his visit to Ogunquit Beach Inn, Spring 2011.
AlanIlagan.com

Home on the Range.....

2011-05-26T15:48:00.003-04:00

Its that time of year; time for spring pistol qualifications at the "range". Ogunquit does not have a public gun range. However, one local resident allows the police department to use his "personal" range. Yes, I said personal range. Leonard, of Berwick Road owns a wide swath of land in Ogunquit, that was once home to the town "transfer station". Leonard allowed the town to lease the land years ago as a transfer station. The town now has its own modern transfer station, but the relics and ghosts still occupy the former transfer station on Berwick Road.

Over the years, Leonard has joined us while we qualified. Leonard is a gun enthusiast and avid collector of older weapons. One time as I was taking my daily rubbish to the "transfer station", I noticed that Leonard had a cannon on the back of his pick-up truck. This is why Leonard has his own range.

The gun range is nestled between relics of days gone by. Old vehicles are juxtaposed farm equipment from the 1800's. Radiators are piled, next to stacks of shutters and there are collections of all kinds of things. Its virtually a "pickers paradise": think History channel 's American Pickers. Leonard's partner, Norman who is a celebrated artist, worked at the transfer station, and would salvage old items and utilized them in some of his artistic installations. Leonard and Norman would also collect old parts, pipes, doors and other materials that people would discard.

With perfect late spring weather for shooting it was a great day to be "home on the range".

Ogunquit artist, John Neill

2011-05-22T09:28:00.001-04:00

One of the most beautiful spots on the Maine coast is Perkins Cove in Ogunquit. Known as an artists haven for well over 100 years, the Cove has always attracted many artists since Charles Woodbury started his school there. During the 1960's and 1970's there was one artist by the name of John Neill, who also painted in the Cove.

I like John Neill's art, because its a prime example of Maine naive art. Neill painted what he saw. He used hard strokes and captured the rugged landscape of Maine, Marginal Way, and the wild north Atlantic waters. John Neill painted tourist art. He painted en plein aire in Perkins Cove, next to his blue boxy van, that was always parked next to Jackie's Restaurant.

John was a true artist, and came from a celebrated art background. His father Harmon Neill, was a listed artist and his mother, Angela Ward was a ballerina who performed at Carnegie Hall. Neill's Great Grandmother was a Romanov, and cousin to Czar Nichols. She was also a ballerina in her native Russia.

(courtesy of John Cavaretta)

Like many artists, there were tough times. In 1985 he painted this interpretation of the Village Food Market in exchange for food. John Neill was injured in hit and run vehicle accident, and had metal plate in his head and suffered from seizures.

(collection from Ogunquit Beach Inn)

John Neill had a Van Gogh quality with his art. He used hard strokes and painted nature they way he saw it. He did several paintings of the Marginal Way. One of his favorite subjects was to paint the drawbridge at Perkins Cove which had to be raised to allow sailing vessels underneath.

(Courtesy of the Ogunquit Heritage Museum)

Dogs in Ogunquit!

2011-05-20T06:13:00.011-04:00

life would be different if dogs ran the world: All motorists must drive with head out window.
-David Letterman

In the summer season, dogs are not allowed on Ogunquit beach or Marginal Way. However, Ogunquit now has a Dog Park. This park is located on Berwick Road about one mile (1.5 kms) north from Ogunquit Square.
I am often asked if we take dogs at Ogunquit Beach Inn, unfortunately, we are unable to. However, we do recommend our friend and neighbor, Tobias, who has a nice pet-friendly pied-a-terre on Cottage Street. Like many Mainers, Tobias calls his home: Sweet Pea Cottage.

The "Sweet Pea", is one bedroom, self-catering unit. This cute unit has everything you need for a wonderful dog-friendly vacation: washer/dryer, patio, full bath, fully equipped kitchen, bed room with queen sized bed. The unit is also equipped with cable TV & wifi. Walk to beach, nightlife and Marginal Way.

The Sweet Pea is rented from Saturday-to-Saturday from June to September.

To find out more information or availability, phone Tobias at 617.233.0403 or email Torfe@hds.harvard.edu

The Details:

The Sweet Pea pied-a-terre

80 Cottage Street

Ogunquit, ME 03907

Owner: Tobias Orfe

Phone: 617.233.0403

Sleeps two plus one well behaved pet.

Marginal Way in May

2011-05-13T15:22:00.003-04:00

I never get tired of this view....

-Gorio

The Marginal Way is something that I never get tired of looking at. Endless north Atlantic views; crashing waves and the smell of the salt water.

The Marginal Way has inspired writers, poets, artists and lovers. There are negative ions that are produced from the crashing waves in the ocean air. Negative ions are made up of sodium, magnesium, chloride and sulphate found in the ocean water. Once the waves crash into the rocks, the water is in the air, negative ions are produced. Its widely believed that these odorless colorless ions can make you feel good, increasing the serotonin levels.

Runners have long known about "runners high", but a fast run on the Marginal Way is a double whammy!

Remember, you don't have to run the Marginal Way. Its best to enjoy the trail on a leisurely pace, and take in all the sights. There are plenty of benches for relaxing, and small beaches for combing.

Blogger/Innkeeper Greg explores the ever changing rocky coastline of the Marginal Way........

The Details:

The Marginal Way (off of Shore Road).

From Ogunquit Beach Inn walk to Shore Road take a right.

The Path is 1 1/4 mile each way.

Walk at your own risk.

Benches for resting.

Wear comfortable shoes.

Ends at Perkins Cove.

Bring a camera!

Always free...

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!

2011-05-08T10:02:00.000-04:00

No one can love you like your mother

-Helen Chinal

These are the words that my aunt Helen said to me moments after my mother passed away almost six years ago. How true these words are....

Mothers are with us all throughout much of life ( if we are lucky). They give us life, they feed us, take care of us, and as adults they are usually the first people we call when we have important news.
Often times, they are present at major events in our lives: first day of school, graduations, birthdays, proms, Cub Scout banquets, music lessons, sporting events etc...

My mother was unselfish, caring and endearing. She tirelessly cleaned, cooked and chauffeured her four children, and never asked for anything in return. Every year I would ask her "what do you want for Mother's Day, Mom" her reply was always the same: "I want well behaved kids".

As I get older in life, I find that I inherited more qualities than my Celtic good looks and fair skin from my mother. I inherited her love for all things of the sea and beach. I also inherited her love of travelling and exploring new places. My mother gave me the confidence to "think outside the box" and see the world. She gave me the confidence to be who I am today, for that I say Happy Mother's day!

Frannie Peabody 5k Beach Race Ogunquit 2011

2011-05-07T21:35:00.016-04:00

Race against AIDS....

(photo courtesy of Anthony Defeo)

Its hard to believe that it has been 30 years since the AIDS pandemic reached our cultural radar screen. AIDS has also affected the little hamlet of Ogunquit, as it has it many communities.

The Frannie Peabody Center is dedicated to providing comprehensive services to people with HIV/AIDS. This organization does amazing things for many people in the Ogunquit area.

Today marks the 3rd Annual Frannie Peabody Beach to Bay 5km Race for AIDS and 5k Walk. The race is administered by Ogunquit's Jimmy Lucibello.

Over the past 8 years I have done a variety of races for all kinds of causes. However, the Ogunquit race is a bit different. For a small town race, it's actually quite festive. The whole weekend is devoted to AIDS awareness with functions and events taking place throughout the town. The AIDS race featured: a barbecue, food, massage therapists, deejay, yoga, goodie bags with t-shirt, and a giant piñata shaped as an AIDS ribbon. And of course there were drag queens to entertain and enlighten the masses. The AIDS memorial quilt was also on display at the Dunaway Center.

The race course was a bit different this year. It was a combination of beach, street, sand and wooden footbridge race.

The Ogunquit Police Department gave the runners and walkers an escort through town. Ogunquit selectman Bobby Winn, measured and set the race course. Winn is not only town selectman, he is also an elite runner, placing first at today's event.

I came in 4th overall with a time of 20.36. Not bad for a mixed course of sand, beach, and road. I averaged 6.38 minutes a mile. There was a modest headwind for the last mile on the beach.

The day was perfect: bright morning sun, great run on the beach with friends, food, entertainment and a lot of monetary support for the Frannie Peabody Center.....

See the results here....

For more information: http://www.peabodycenter.org/

To contact or find out about men's support group Click Here

Hidden Ogunquit: Breaking New Grounds Coffee Shop

2011-05-02T18:49:00.005-04:00

After spending a couple of decades in Ogunquit, I have found some spots that I like to visit or hang out at. These "spots" are not cluttered with crowds. I call them "Hidden Ogunquit".

Breaking New Grounds Coffee Shop is literally located at the end of Perkins Cove, in the "boat yard". Some days there are thousands of people wandering around Perkins Cove, but this shop is a quiet sanctuary. A sanctuary with a million dollar view, all for the price of a cup of coffee.

Owner, Ed Govoni and family have been serving coffee, tea and lite fare at this location for over 5 years. Breaking New Grounds also roasts their own coffee.

The location has a great view of the rocky shore, and has a "lands end" feel. There are bistro tables on the deck and Adirondack chairs on the rocky shore....

Make sure you try the pastries too!

The Details:
Breaking New Grounds Coffee
3 Harbor Lane (lands end of Perkins Cove)
Ogunquit, ME 03907
Telephone: 207 641 0634

Modest prices, with a million dollar view.

Beach Plum Farm of Ogunquit, a nature preserve....

2011-04-27T17:32:00.001-04:00

You're just beyond the dune

A glint in the Ocean's glimmer

In the cry of seagulls

Veiled from the eye, sensed by the soul.

-on a bench at Beach Plum Farm

Less than a mile from Ogunquit village centre is a 22 acre reserve that hosts community gardens, walking trails, and is also a public park with a mini museum. The park is managed by the Great Works Regional Land Trust and is called Beach Plumb Farm.

The reserve has sweeping ocean views, and is the last remaining salt water farm in Ogunquit. It is also the only place where you can see the dunes and estuaries from US Route One.

Beach Plum Farm was once the farm of Roby Littlefield. Littlefield farmed the land and sold vegetables since the 1920's. Roby Littlefield established a tradition of community garden plots, which still exist today. The Great Works Regional Land Trust hosts more than 50 community garden plots that people use.

The museum located at Barn #3. This building holds memorabilia and artifacts from Roby Littlefield. Books, tools, photographs are on display. Mr Littlefield served in World War I, and the Maine Senate. Littlefield also spearheaded the preservation of Ogunquit beach for public use. Much of the southern Maine coast was developed, but not Ogunquit beach.

There are walking trails which circles the gardens and loops around the property. The habitat is home to birds, ducks and a variety of Maine wildlife. The conservation area is dotted with benches, perfect for relaxing and admiring the abundant nature preserve.

The Details:
Beach Plumb Farm/Great Works Regional Land Trust
610 Main Street
Ogunquit, ME 03907
Open from 7am to Dusk
Admission is free
Drive 9/10 of a mile from Ogunquit village centre, on your right going north, before Distant Sands B&B

http://www.gwrlt.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=184:beach-plum-farm-ogunquit-&catid=52:our-public-places&Itemid=71

Mount Agamenticus, Spring Time!

2011-04-24T18:40:00.008-04:00

Vantage Point: a position or place that allows one a wide or favourable overall view of a scene or situation.
-World English Dictionary

I'm on Ogunquit beach at least once a day. I enjoy running, and wandering along the wide open sand stretches. However, sometimes I do like to see the world from a different vantage point. So today I went up to Mount Agamenticus.

Mt Agamenticus is located in the nearby town of York. It's an easy 10 minute drive, or a great bicycle trip from the B&B. This "mountain" is small compared to other Mountains, but is a jewel on the southern Maine coast. The former Ski lodge is now an enviornmental reserve with over 10,000 acres of land which is one of the largest undeveloped coastal forests in New England.

There are over 40 miles of trails for hiking, mt biking, bird watching, and exploring. The views are amazing. Today was clear and we could see the New Hampshire's White mountains, Boon Island Lighthouse, and other mountains in the distance.

The mount is know for its shallow bedrock, and steep drops on the north side.

Unique rock formations are abundant throughout the area. A perfect place to relax!

The Details:
Mountain Road
York, ME
From Ogunquit Beach Inn, go south on Route One for for 3.4 miles Take a right on to Mountain Road and proceed for 4 miles. The entrance is on your right. Access road is paved and weaves up the mountain.
Admission is free. Open from sunrise to dusk. Use at your own risk. Great place to picnic and hike. There is an old ski lodge which is now an educational center. Great views from the deck of the lodge.
http://www.agamenticus.org/
Helpful Tips:
Carry in/carry out. Where good footwear, rocks are slippery and there is a lot of moss. Mt A is a great place for bird watching, and many hawkes are seen at the summit. There are viewing stations, and picnic tables at the summit.

Ephemera in the Digital Age

2011-04-20T18:02:00.003-04:00

Ephemera: items designed to be useful or important for only a short time, especially pamphlets, notices etc -Dictionary.com

In this digital age, it seems that photos, news and information are spread rapidly with the help of digital cameras, and the Internet. So many things can be found online: books, music, museum collections etc. However, not everything is digitized.....

My neighbor, Tobias, of the Sweet Pea Cottage, found an old copy of the "Ogunquit Village Directory" from 1960. This pocket sized directory listed everyone's house address, phone number ( if they had a phone). Not only addresses in Ogunquit; winter addresses were also included (Palm Beach, NYC and Montreal were quite common ). Listings of businesses, small advertisements, helpful hints, and other other useful information are found in this handy guide. The pamphlet also featured a useful map. Ironically, the map is still accurate. In over 50 years, most of the roads and many houses are still standing. However, street numbers have changed due to Enhanced 911 in the 1990's.

Many of the phone numbers are still accurate too. Family homes, some businesses still have the same telephone number after 50 years. In 1960 Ogunquit switched to the prefix of MI6 (646) for the first three digits to dial. People outside of town had to dial the 7 numbers. Those in-town could dial the last five. In 1960 Maine had one area code. As of today, Maine still has one area code: 207.

The back cover of the guide features a schedule for the Ogunquit Playhouse. West Side Story played in July and Bette Davis starred in The World of Carl Sandburg in September.

In 1960, the "See and Do"section listed things like, "Cool rides in the Pines" and "Movies Theatres-Latest Pictures" as some of the midcentury pasttimes. Remember in 1960, there was virtually no airconditioning in Ogunquit Maine, so a cool ride in the pines was a nice way to cool off.

The guide listed places for free parking. One place was behinds "Firemen's Hall" on School street. However free parking behind Firemen's Hall is no longer available.

Ogunquit Beach Inn at 67 School Street, phone (207) MI6-1112

Laudholm 5km off Road Race, & EcoDay at Wells Reserve

2011-04-16T17:05:00.004-04:00

Be Active, Be Fit, Go Green....

It's patriots day weekend in Maine. Patriots' Day commemorates the first battles of the Revolutionary War, and the famous "Midnight Ride" of Paul Revere. It's also Marathon weekend in Boston. However, there was another race on this long holiday weekend: Laudholm 5km off Road Race at the Wells National Estuarine Reserve.

The Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a National Estuarine Research Reserve listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The sprawling 2250 acres (9.1 km2) of protected land, estuaries, beaches, trails and fields. The Wells Reserve is open to the public and also conducts research with NOAA.

Today was a bit chilly for mid-April, but overall a great day for a nice off road race. We started with Yoga Stretches from Yoga guru Kristina Hupp of Sacred Movement Yoga. The race was officiated by Ogunquit Selectman and elite Runner, Bobby Winn.

The course is off road, through fields, wooded trails, crumbling country roads and small hilly areas at the Wells Reserve.

My pace was 6.49 minutes for the first mile-not bad for trail running. I came in 6th overall with a time of 21.50 minutes, and placed 2nd in my age category, and 5th in the men's division. The weather was a bit blustery, with a northeast head wind. Cool enough that I had to wear gloves.

Crossing the finish line!

EcoDay also featured a Green Expo, volleyball tourney, natures walks, yoga demonstrations, kite flying and other nature/green events. It wasn't the Boston Marathon, but, I am quite happy with this little trail race. Funds raised help preserve the National Estuarine.

The 5km race was only $18 to pre-register, and that included yet another T-shirt to my collection, a live band, good food, entertainment and free admission to the National Estuarine. Overall pretty good schwag for 18 bucks!

The Details:
Wells National Estuarine at Laudholm Farm
342 Laudholm Farm Road
Wells, ME 04090
Telephone: 207.646.1555
http://www.wellsreserve.org/

Admission is free, but donations are graciously accepted.

There is over 2200 acres of trails, woods, vernal pools, forest, estuaries, and beaches. There is a beach and parking is available. Membership is $25, which includes beach parking. This is truly a nature preserve, and a gem on the southern Maine coast, just a couple of miles north of Ogunquit village.

Directions: From Ogunquit Beach Inn drive north on US Route One 7 miles (11.5 kilometers) to Laudholm Farm Road. Take a right and follow signs.

Tony relaxes after a good finish. Post race food: bagels from Dunkin Donuts, fruit and other snacks!

After the finish line......

T-shirts on vacation....

2011-04-12T18:38:00.007-04:00

Every song, every T-shirt, is absolutely a pure expression of what we want to do. And it connects
-Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine.

Its an American phenomenon: to buy a T-shirt while you are on vacation. It's utilitarian, it's a souvenir, it's a statement. Some people buy postcards, I buy a t-shirt. Ever since I was a child, my parents would purchase a souvenir shirt while we were on vacation.

A young Gregory displays his "Smithsonian Astronaut USA" T-shirt, sometime in the mid 1960's.

I have countless T-shirts. Shirts from high school, college, and vacations from over a dozen countries. T-shirts from races, concerts, and causes cram my closets.

Some people make statements with tattoos. They say its a road map of their life. To me, T-shirts are a way to express myself and its also a timeline of my life: a visit to the Smithsonian in Washington DC; the Matisse exhibit at MOMA in 93; Spring Weekend at college in 1982; a high school shirt from 1978; and an 8 kilometer race in Buenos Aires in 2009. Destinations, events and good times!

All of these "events" have harvested me a hefty pile of T-shirts. Most I wear. Some I discard, and yet some I can not part with. This creates a challenge. What do you do with old T-shirts? Some shirts are like old friends: comfortable, casual and familiar.

While running in the race circuits, I noticed that many runners made quilts out of there old race day T-shirts. This was an "aha moment" for me. What a solution! Something useful, and yet a way to display the collections of t-shirts collected over a lifetime! I had a local friend make the quilt. He took many of my T-shirts, and pieced them together with backing. The quilt is a timeline, road map, and holds a lot of sentimental value.

Needless to say, there are plenty of places in Ogunquit to buy a T-shirt. One favorite place is Spoiled Rotten. This gift boutique, located on Beach Street in Ogunquit, carries fine gifts and their famous Spoil Me Ogunquit T-shirts. Many guests collect them year after year. Well worth the visit and visit on line!
http://www.spoiledrottenogt.com/

1992 Hollywood Blvd, and yet another T-shirt.......

Bread & Roses Bakery opens for the season

2011-04-09T17:08:00.011-04:00

As we come marching, marching, in the beauty of the day,

A million darkened kitchens, a thousand mill-lofts gray

Are touched with all the radiance that a sudden sun discloses,

For the people hear us singing, "Bread and Roses, Bread and Roses."

-James Oppenheim

It's a sure sign of spring when locals and visitors march over to Bread & Roses Bakery for their morning fix of coffee and pastry. Newly renovated and expanded, Bread & Roses opened for their 23rd season today. Mary Breen and company were busy all winter expanding, renovating and remodelling this busy bakery/cafe.

The kitchen has a new layout....

The mouthwatering desserts, pastries and cakes are legendary! Artisan breads, cheesecake cupcakes and Maine whoopie pies where quite popular this morning. Other than incredible desserts, Bread & Roses Bakery is also known for Carpe Diem Coffee. This locally roasted coffee satisfies caffeine needs of hundreds of locals and visitors daily! Carpe Diem is locally owned, and operates in southern Maine.

Every small town has a good bakery, but how many small towns have a GREAT bakery? What makes Bread & Roses great? For one thing, the customers come from all over. Many people plan their visits to Ogunquit to coincide with the season opening of Bread & Roses. Mary Breen and staff are passionate about baking and their passion shows in their quality.

Bread & Roses is also passionate about the enviornment too. Mary and staff commute to work on bicycles. Bread & Roses also makes deliveries via bike. Its quite common in the summer time to see festive green Bread & Roses bike making deliveries. Delicous food, great coffee, giving back the community, and a keen awareness for the enviornment are the things that make this an Ogunquit Mainstay for 23 years!

The Details:

Bread and Roses Bakery

246 Main Street

Ogunquit, ME

Telephone 207.646.4227

Open daily at 7am

http://www.breadandrosesbakery.com/

If you want a taste of Ogunquit, mail order is NOW available

http://www.breadandrosesbakery.com/made-order

Interesting sidenote:

Whoopie pies are a classic New England treat made with devils food cake and a sweet creamy filling made with marshmallow Fluff. Bread & Roses' whoopie pies are so popular they sell out every day!

Quahogs on the shore...

2011-04-02T21:12:00.002-04:00

Nor'easter storm stirs ocean floor

as quahogs land and

seagulls feast and explore

-Gorio

It's funny how one day can make a difference! Yesterdays April fools storm is long gone, but some remnants remain. The nor'easter stirred the ocean floor and delivered fresh bounty of large quahogs on Ogunquit beach. The 2011 winter also stirred the ever changing parabolic barrier dunes.

The barrier island that is Ogunquit beach is unique to Maine. Maine has 3500 miles of coastline, and only a handful of pristine sandy white beaches like Ogunquit. The winter storms have caused erosion to these fragile dunes.

The iconic dune landbridge empties to a dramitically lower beach. The 2011 winter stoms sliced the fragile dunes....

Yesterday's wild ocean stirred the quahogs and exposed them during today's afternoon low tide.

April Fools??

2011-04-01T15:53:00.004-04:00

Winter is on my head, but eternal spring is in my heart.
- Victor Hugo

Mother Nature; she can be one mean mother. It's no joke, and it did snow, with several inches accumulating. The April Fool's nor'easter went through the gulf of Maine today and dumped a mix of slushy/heavy spring snow. Its quite a difference from last years weather in early April. While snow in April is not common, it is possible....We are scheduled to open up Ogunquit Beach Inn, this month for our 15th season.

Perkins Cove draw bridge, a bit less travelled...

No jumping off of the bridge on this wintery like day....

Daunting waves belt the Marginal Way, yet there is quiet beauty in Mother Nature's spring surprise! Maine it's always an adventure! I think I will relax and enjoy the novelty of snow in April!

Goodbye Fort Lauderdale, Hello Ogunquit

2011-03-29T03:11:00.002-04:00

I dont know why you say goodbye, I say hello....

-Sir Paul McCartney

Goodbye Cafecito Cubano
Hello Carpe Diem Coffee
Goodbye Palm Trees
Hello Pine Trees

Goodbye swimming fins
Hello flannel shirts
Goodbye warm Gulf Stream
Hello Gulf of Maine
Goodbye warm pools
Hello vernal pools

Its time to follow the migratory birds and get back to our nest.....
as we say adieu to our adventure in Florida and bienvenue to Maine. The homeward bound journey begins!

Blogger/Innkeeper Greg wears flannel in Maine and fins in Florida!

Fort Lauderdale at Night...

2011-03-26T18:12:00.008-04:00

I like Fort Lauderdale during the day. The abundant sunshine and palm trees swaying always makes this place a tropical playground. But at night the city moves to a different vibe. Things seem different, the air is fresher and the music is faster. I've taken some pictures on my Sprint LG Android Phone. It's a simple camera phone with no flash...Here are some of night views from this week in Fort Lauderdale...

Fort Lauderdale's centennial celebration is this month!

Early evening along the sea wall. The wall is styled after a wave. The ever changing neon colors adorn the wave wall, as runners, pedestrians meander along this scenic path. The wave wall starts at Sunrise Boulevard and ends at South Beach Park. Trendy Las Olas Boulevard (Spanish for The Waves) starts at the beach and ends at downtown Fort Lauderdale...

As runners run along the wave wall at night, Swimmers swim in the well lit pool at The Hall of Fame Swimming.

Mannequin's show-off styles, on well heeled Las Olas Boulevard...

There are many 24 hour diners in Fort Lauderdale. It's always fun to see the night people enjoying a meal during the late night or early morning. The Floridian Diner actually has great food day and night. This diner on Las Olas is a Lauderdale institution......

There is a vibe at Vibe on Las Olas in downtown Ft Lauderdale. Red velvet ropes corral young ladies wearing Baby Doll dresses, as men with dark suits keep watch. This uber cool club is at the end of Las Olas.

Some diners are not open 24 hours...

Larry Flynt's empire stretches to the shores of Fort Lauderdale. This department store, is part novelty store, part exotic clothing, part video, and part marital aid emporium.....The Neon has a deco quality along Sunrise Boulevard...however the name Hustler, is not too deco....

The Iconic Gateway Cinema has been pleasing crowds for 60 years as of today!

There seems to be a Publix Grocery store in every corner...in Fort Lauderdale.

Yet, some vestiges of mid-century Fort Lauderdale shopping still exist This Jetsons-esqe drive-thru convenience store offers ice, beer, cigarettes and other items for people who do not want to get out of their vehicles....

Neon is everywhere! I wonder if I should join this club??

Catfish Deweys Seafood Restaurant Review

2011-03-23T14:12:00.002-04:00

Our time in South Florida is waning, so its time to try to hit some of our favorite restaurants before we head north to Maine. We decided to visit one of our perennial favorites: Catfish Deweys Seafood Restaurant.

As a New Englander, always living close to the ocean, I really do enjoy a good seafood platter every once in a while....
Catfish Deweys located on Andrews Avenue on Oakland Park has been serving tons of farm raised catfish, gulf shrimp, stone crabs and scallops for over 27 years. Our friend, Gail is a server there, so Mike, Jay and I decided that all-you-can-eat Shrimp Tuesday would be a good day to visit this uniquely American haunt (actually any day is a good day to visit Catfish Deweys).

There is always a line at Catfish Deweys, so it best to go a bit early. The restaurant lacks the charming curb appeal some of the newer eateries entice you with. However their enticement lies in the comfort southern style seafood. The dining room is large and well lit. If you are looking for a quiet romantic place to woo a date, this may not be the place. This is a place with red and white checkered table clothes, ice-tea and mounds of comfort food.

My buddy, Jay and I got the "all you can eat" shrimp/catfish/clam strips. Whats unique about Catfish Deweys is that the shrimp are lightly battered with beer, and not overcooked. A side of rice, and salad accompanied the heaping plate....I am not a fan of catfish, but surprsingly the catfish is tasty here. The shrimp are perfect a nice medley of peel and fried shrimp accompanied the mounds of clamstrips and catfish.
Catfish Deweys serves a large volume of people nightly, so you know that the seafood is fresh, and the frying oil is changed often....

The Details:
Catfish Deweys
4003 North Andrews Avenue
Oakland Park, FL 33309
Telephone: 954 566 5333
Prices $12.95 to $19.95 ( all you can eat shrimp $16.95)
http://catfishdeweys.com/
On line Menu
Parking available, there is also satellite parking at neighboring business. Very casual atmosphere. Crowd tends to be a south Florida mix of locals, visitors and French Canadians. Lively bar, with sports/music and news. Busy lunch crowd, and an early bird menu us available too. Website is pretty good, with specials, and there was a free appetiser coupon. Service is great. Much of the staff has been there for many years.

Zuckerello's Restaurant Review, a St Joseph's day Feast!

2011-03-20T20:14:00.005-04:00

This time of year is full of celebrations: St Patrick's Day, rites of spring, mega moons, etc. However, one holiday is somewhat overlooked, St Joseph's day. Yes, good ol' St Joe! Patron saint of tasty kids aspirins! (actually patron saint of carpenters and pastry chefs).

St Joseph's day is celebrated on March 19th and is a minor holiday celebrated by Italians. I sometimes think its an Italian-American response to the garish St Patty's day festivities that happen in large urban areas. In honor of St Joe, we skipped the corned beef and beer crowd; and decided to visit one of our favorite Italian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, Zuckerello's.

Zuckerello's opened in Fort Lauderdale in 1989. The Italian inspired restaurant is located in a traditional south Florida strip plaza near other restaurants and business. The decor is a mix of warm Mediterranean paintings and contempo jazz photography. A mix of dining tables and comfortable booth banquettes offers a nice choice of seating. There is also a lively bar with March madness basketball on the flat screen.

Zucckerello's offers early bird specials and nightly specials. There is also a happy hour at the bar only. The restaurant showcases its specials upon walking into the restaurant with a description and price, which is entertaining for the hungry eye to see!

Our server was polite and very attentive letting us know what specials were available. The maître d' was also very accommodating and informed me that the pepper seared tuna with wasabi potatoes and mango salsa was a chefs favorite.

I decided to give the tuna a try and I was not disappointed. I usually do not like potatoes with my fish (especially tuna), but I did like how the wasabi mashed potatoes complimented the tuna. The sushi grade tuna was nicely seared and sliced in a tower on top of the the mashed potatoes. Sides of fresh ginger and broccoli accompanied the tuna and mango salsa.

Mike got the veal Parmesan with angel hair pasta. The meal had the right combination of pasta and veal, with a tangy marinara sauce. Our buddy Mark decided on the Chicken Sorrento with the eggplant tower with angel hair pasta. The eggplant was delicious combined with the chicken Sorrento.

Saint Joseph (San Giuseppe in Italy), is revered in Sicily, where legend has it that the island experienced a severe drought during the middle ages. The Sicilians prayed to San Giuseppe and rain followed. After their crops where saved, the Sicilians honored the saint with a large feast. Therefore, its fitting that we go out and honor St Joseph with our own feast! I have fond memories of my Italo-American father honoring St Joseph during the St Patty's day weekend. St Joseph's day is also fathers day in Spain and Italy. Happy Father's day Papa!

The Details:
Zuckerellos
3017 E. Commercial Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-776-4282
http://www.zuckerellos.com/
Menu for Zuckerello's

Prices are moderate to high. Great early bird menu from 4 to 6, seven days a week, with most items under $20. Serving Italian and seafood favorites in a relaxed atmosphere. Clientele is a mix of snowbirds, senior citizens, locals, and Wilton Manors boys....Service is good and attentive. Atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Blogger/Innkeeper Greg enjoys a St Joseph feast at Zuckerellos in Fort Lauderdale!

Idyllic March

2011-03-14T17:55:00.003-04:00

Beware of the Ides of March...

-William Shakespeare

The Ides of March may be tomorrow, but the month of March in south Floida is quite Idyllic and nothing to be afraid of....

My winter routine is quite basic: run, swim, rest, repeat. The weather has been so nice this year, that my morning runs are usually without a shirt; just shorts and my running shoes. Today's post run is spent fueling up on breakfast, and getting ready to swim with Hammerhead Aquatics with Coach John.

Today's noon swim workout was at Sunrise School:
Swim 400 yards

Kick 200 yards

Kick 25 yards, swim 25 yards x 8 at 1.10 minutes.

Swim pool mile with pool buoy:

11 lengths 275 yards 20 second rest

10 lengths 250 yards 20 second rest

09 lenghts 225 yards 20 second rest

08 lengths 200 yards 20 second rest

07 lengths 175 yards 20 second rest

06 lengths 150 yards 20 second rest

05 lenghts 125 yards 20 second rest

04 lengths 100 yards 15 second rest

03 lenghts 75 yards 10 second rest

02 lenghts 50 yards 10 second rest

1 length 25 yards -hit the showers!

-------------------------------------

Total: 1650 yards or one pool mile + 1000 yards grand total 2650 yards....

Equipment: Speedo bathing suit, goggles, pool buoy, kick board, 15 sunblock!

Now, its time to rest.........

My time is winding down in this idyllic place, and soon we will be heading back to idyllic Maine for yet another season.

Blogger/Innkeeper/runner Gorio prepares for another run along route A1A, and Fort Lauderdale Beach......