I have answered to worse

Thanks to everyone for the positive feedback on my column. I must admit it’s been interesting hearing reactions of people who recognize my picture on the heading, having only known me in my alter-ego as a bartender at the Black Horse Tavern.

My favorite so far is finding out I have a nickname that I never knew about. A lovely couple I know from the tavern was reading the paper last week when the wife saw my headshot and said to her husband, “Look, it’s Vegas!” We’d met just before I left for a big trip to Sin City and apparently they’ve been calling me that ever since. Well, I’ve answered to worse.

Pride, falls, etc.

I was also reminded this week of a humiliating incident that took place in Bridgton last fall, involving yours truly. Let this stand as a testament to the pitfalls of vanity:

One sunny October day I was strolling down Main Street, having just lunched at Chao Thai. As I walked out onto the sidewalk in front of the Bridgton Pharmacy, someone cat-called me from the Chapter 11 parking lot. Well, no sooner had I spun my head around to see who it was than I walked right into the cast iron lamppost in front of me!

And to make matters worse, it was no Prince Charming, just my “friends” Lynne and Heather, who to this day delight in reminding me of the utter hilarity of the scenario. So if you see me walking through town and honk, wave or especially whistle at me, please don’t be offended if I continue looking straight ahead. You’ll know that I’ve learned my lesson the hard way.

Loon Echo Hike ‘n’ Bike Trek

Judging from the reaction of cyclists, hikers and event organizers, last Saturday’s fundraiser at Shawnee Peak was the best out of the seven years it has been held. Connie Cross, the land trust’s president, said “It was awesome, and a perfect day for cycling. Our volunteer staff from Gorham Bike and Ski, who ride support on the 100-mile tour, said conditions up in the mountains were better than any of the past years. It was cool, clear, and just slightly breezy. We couldn’t have asked for a better day.”

The highlight of the day for me was meeting 13 year old Corrie VanHaasteren of Raymond, who rode the 25-mile route on his unicycle! Unlike the two-wheeled variety, the rider of a unicycle doesn’t get to coast at all, so he was pedaling constantly, even downhill. That’s some serious commitment to conservation. Great effort Corrie, and everyone else who helped raise money for Loon Echo.

Local Hero

He’s done it again. Congratulations to Kevin Hancock on being awarded for his individual and corporate efforts by Habitat For Humanity. Not only has Hancock Lumber supplied the nonprofit home building project with construction supplies over the years, but Kevin has personally given his time to build houses with the group, even traveling to Mississippi to help with the massive rebuilding efforts going on in the Gulf Coast. The Greater Portland chapter of Habitat has chosen him as this year’s recipient of their Charlie & Leisa Crane Spirit of Humanity Award, honoring his outstanding commitment and leadership in furthering the mission of Habitat for Humanity. Thanks to Kevin for helping make a difference with such a great organization.

Brew-ha-ha

The place to be this weekend is the fourth annual Lakes Brew Fest at Point Sebago. This daylong party has become an autumn tradition for serious quaffers and scenesters alike, and for good reason. Live blues, tasty brews, and food from the area’s finest restaurants make it a destination event.

This year’s festivities will coincide with the resort’s Oktoberfest kickoff celebration, which includes the Point Sebago Artisan’s Craft Show. With musical accompaniment from The Disclaimers, Blue Steel Express and the Blue Willow Band, you’ll be wined and dined to your heart’s content. The Brew Fest has grown quickly from a humble event to a premier tasting, with 24 brewers pouring every imaginable variety of ales, lagers and seasonals. Mike Bray and his Brew Masters will be representing the home team, with Shipyard, Geary’s, Allagash and other classic Maine microbrewers offering their creations as well.

I’ll be there with “Team Black Horse” serving bowls of our spicy New Orleans-style chicken and sausage gumbo, which goes great with a crispy pale ale. Stop by and say hi if you recognize me from my picture, and if you have a nickname for me, it better be nice. See you there!

Corrie VanHaasteren, 13, of Raymond, crosses the finish line after riding 25 miles on his unicycle during the Lonn Echo Trust Hike N’ Bike.