As Fresh As It Gets

by Vera Thornton

Florence Lowell, the owner of The Naked Oyster restaurant in Hyannis, has found a way to get the freshest oysters in town – grow your own! This past April the Town of Barnstable's Shellfish Committee unanimously approved the transfer of a grant for an oyster bed in Barnstable harbor to Florence, and after a public hearing was held with no dissension, she was granted the license. Now she is happily planting, growing, and harvesting the tasty little mollusks to use in the raw bar of The Naked Oyster. With her trusty skiff and the help of her son Julien Swanson, oysters are cleaned, sorted, and harvested daily. Like land farming, it takes alot of maintenence to develop the heathiest crop. The bed will provide up to 20,000 oysters for this season, and there are 250,000 seeds planted for the future. As Florence says, her oysters are harvested in the morning and eaten in the evening!

In addition to the benefits of consuming the freshest and tastiest possible shellfish, the green effect of growing oysters and clams, called aquaculture, is amazing. It is believed that shellfish can potentially improve water quality by consuming the phytoplankton whose unchecked growth releases nitrates into our water. As they feed, the oysters and clams actually clean the water, each one filtering about 15 gallons of water per day. That's a lot of filtering for a three-inch creature.

Many thanks to my friend Donna at lovely Brewster by the Sea, who tipped me off about Florence's new venture. Always looking for the insider information to share!

Photo Credit:
Photo #1 - Courtesy of Florence Lowell
Photo #2 & #3 - Courtesy of The Cape Cod Cooperative Extension

Wellfleet Shellfish Promotion and Tasting Awards Scholarship

by Vera Thornton

The Wellfleet Shellfish Promotion and Tasting (SPAT) has announced its 2008 Student Scholarship Winner! It is Nauset Regional High School senior Henry Valdez, who has been accepted to Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, where he plans to study culinary arts in the fall. He will receive $2,500 each year for four years. Congratulations Henry!

SPAT is a non-profit organization that supports local businesses and
non-profit organization that supports local businesses and helps area residents. This annual scholarship is awarded to a Nauset Regional High School student interested in pursuing higher education.

Mark your calendars now for the Eighth Annual OysterFest on October 18 – 19 in Wellfleet! And scroll down to see my blog about it on April 3 of this year.

Photo credit:
Photo #1 & #2 Courtesy of Nancy Civetta at Civetta Comunicazioni

The Barnstable County Fair

by Vera Thornton

When: July 18 – 26

Friday, July 18 – Sunday, July 20: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Monday, July 21 – Thursday, July 24: 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Friday, July 25 & Saturday, July 26 – 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
The Midway area is open until 11:30 p.m. daily

Where: County Fairgrounds, 1220 Nathan Ellis Highway (Route 151), East Falmouth

The Barnstable County Fair is one of the highlights of a Cape Cod summer, a tradition that has been going on for 164 years. People of all ages enjoy the old fashioned fun of this true county fair, with its prize-winning livestock, blue-ribbon pies and vegetables, 4-H demonstrations, petting zoos, arts & crafts, Midway rides and games - the Sizzler, the bumper cars, the Ferris wheel! Pop the balloon with a dart and win a giant stuffed animal! And of course, lots of fun fair food: peanuts, popcorn, curly fries! Cotton candy, corn dogs, lemonade! Entertainment of all kinds awaits you: championship bull-riding, the demolition derby, plenty of live music (the Village People at 7:30 p.m. on July 25th), and lots of animal shows with champion dogs, sheep, goats, and cows. I love the horse pull, where a team of two magnificent draft horses has been known to pull up to two tons of stone weight. This is a wholesome slice of Americana that ranks right up there with parades and fireworks, and the yearly attendance is a testament to the Fair’s popularity: over 85,000 people last year, with 90,000 expected in 2008. My only complaint about the Fair is that nobody gets to eat all those prize-winning pies; they just sit there being admired all week! Oh, for a scoop of ice cream and a fork.

As tickets for the rides can become expensive, parents take note of the following “Wristband Days” special, when you can ride all day for $15.

Friday, July 18, 2008 - 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Monday, July 21, 2008 - 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Friday, July 25, 2008 - 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

The Fair is produced annually by the non-profit Barnstable County Agricultural Society. It uses a portion of the proceeds to award $35,000 in scholarships to county-based students who pursue careers in agriculture, marine biology and home economics. Remaining proceeds are re-invested in the fairgrounds and donated to community groups.


Tickets for Admission: $10/adult, $8/Seniors, Children under 12/free with Paid Adult.
For information about advance tickets and special discount packages, please call (508) 563-3200, or visit: The Barnstable County Fair website ticket page.

For comfortable family-friendly lodging in the area, please visit the Seacrest Resort and the Shoreway Acres Inn.

Photo Credit:
Photos #1, #2, #3, and #5 courtesy of The Barnstable County Fair website.
Photo #4 courtesy of horsepullresults.com

Fathers' Day Weekend on Cape Cod

by Vera Thornton

Cape Cod Life Boat & Recreation Expo
When: June 14 & 15, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Hyannis Harbor 
& Waterfront

Cape Cod Life Publications will celebrate Cape Codders’ love affair with the water at the inaugural Boat & Recreation Expo on the Hyannis Harbor and waterfront.
The two-day expo will showcase a vast selection of vessels ranging from wooden skiffs to luxury cabin cruisers. Vendors from all facets of the boating and outdoor recreation world will be on hand to answer questions and exhibit the latest in water toys, gear, equipment and outdoor living accessories. The event will also include land and water demonstrations, workshops with marine professionals, contests, giveaways, children’s activities and book signings. The Cape Cod Life Boat & Recreation Expo is free and open to all ages.

For more information call: (508) 775-9800 ext. 35
or visit: www.capecodlife.com/boatshow2008
Held by Cape Cod Life Publications

Photo credit: Photo courtesy of www. iboats.com



14th Annual Main Street Fathers' Day Car Show
When: Sunday, June 15 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Where: Main Street, Hyannis



Held in conjunction with the Cape Cod Life Boat & Recreation Expo, this is one of the region’s best classic car displays. What a great weekend for Dads – boat and cars! Main Street in Hyannis is closed for the morning, while more than 350 classic cars will line the street and the Village Green. Food vendors, activities for the whole family, and dashboard give-aways are featured. Enjoy the shops, restaurants and galleries while browsing some of the most spectacular classic cars in New England.

For more information call: (508) 775-7778
http://www.hyannis.com/fathers-day-car-show
Sponsored by the Hyannis Chamber of Commerce

Photo credit: Photo courtesy of http://www.hyannis.com/fathers-day-car-show

Celebrate Spring On Cape Cod

by Vera Thornton

BREWSTER IN BLOOM
When: May 2nd, 3rd & 4th, 2008
Where: Brewster, MA

The picturesque sea captain's town of Brewster is celebrating its 22nd annual Brewster In Bloom festival this year. Over 100,000 daffodils bloom at this time each year providing a colorful backdrop to a weekend of fun. The event includes something for everyone . . . food, golf, history, a 5K run, an evening of swing dancing, and a parade, too! The weekend celebration is a heart-warming example of the strong sense of community to be found on Cape Cod, as many events benefit the elderly. Many thanks to Michael Divito, the event organizer, for all the information he so graciously forwarded to me.

Friday, May 2
Throughout the day there will be open houses and receptions throughout the town as homeowners and businesses alike open their doors to the public. Check out the following retail shops for special goings-on:

Blue Jacket Gallery and Studios
The Handcraft House
Struna Galleries



8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The Captain’s Golf Course, 1000 Freeman’s Way, will hold Closest to the Pin Contests on each day. Every player on the green will receive a golf ball prize or a restaurant gift certificate! For more information call Stoughton Ellsworth at (508) 896-6058

2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Ice Cream Social at the Council on Aging, 1673 Main Street

4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Chowder Fest at EPOCH Assisted Living at Brewster Place, 855 Harwich Road. Free Chowder Dinner (chowder, beverage, and dessert) and music.


7:00 p.m.
The Brewster Band will perform at Brewster Baptist Church, 1848 Main Street.



Saturday, May 3

8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
An Antique and Collectibles show happens at Drummer Boy Park, 773 Main Street.

8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Closest to the Pin Contest, Captain’s Golf Course.

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The KidFest at the Laurel School features Arts & Crafts, Bloom-O-Lympics, and bake, plant, and book sales. Access is only via the shuttle buses from The Ocean Edge Resort parking lot at 2907 Main Street.

10:00 a.m.
A road race starts the day for fitness buffs: the 5K Bloom Run begins at the Brewster Inn and Chowder House, and loops through town, with the finish line at the Woodshed, 1993 Main Street.

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
A juried Craft Fair with 85 exhibitors is held at the Cape Cod Sea Camps, 3057 Main Street.



1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
A Chowder Tasting takes place in the afternoon at JT’s restaurant at 2689 Main Street . What better way to get a little “taste” of the Cape?

7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Ocean Edge Resort, Bay Pines Pavilion, 2907 Main Street
‘Swing into Spring’ Big Band Dance, featuring the Moonlighters, a 16-piece swing band. Hors d'oeuvres and cash bar. It is always a sell-out, so purchase tickets in advance. Tickets: $20.00
Available in advance at the Visitor Center, 2198 Main Street (508) 896-3500 and at the door the night of the event.

Sunday, May 4

3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
The popular Historic Inn Tour takes place on Sunday, where you will have the opportunity to visit these five charming lodging spots, several of which were formally sea captain's homes. A $10 admission fee provides entrance to all inns.

The Candleberry Inn - 1882 Main Street
The Captain Freeman Inn - 15 Breakwater Road
The Old Manse Inn - 1861 Main Street
The Isaiah Clark House - 1187 Main Street
Brewster By The Sea - 716 Main Street



1:00 p.m.
The Brewster In Bloom Parade, described by the festival organizers as “the brightest flower of the week-end” starts at Underpass Road and travels west along Main Street. This year’s theme is “Brewster History Comes Alive”, says Julie Deloye, one of the parade coordinators, and will have up to 75 units, including music and beautiful floats. “It’s all about community,” says Julie, “and lots of people have been putting on their thinking caps for this one”. Bigger, better, and more surprises - and the lovely Daffodil Queen will be waving to the crowds!

8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Closest to the Pin Contest, Captain’s Golf Course.


Brewster In Bloom is organized by the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trade, and The Brewster in Bloom Committee.

For more information, please call (508) 896-3500.

Photo credit: Mary Sidlevicz

Whale Watching on Cape Cod

by Vera Thornton


Imagine being within feet of some of the most graceful, rare mammals in the world, in their natural habitat. A whale excursion gives you the chance to experience sights that are exciting, impressive, and educational. Designed to enhance awareness of whales, other marine life and the marine habitat that surrounds us, these excursions will show you sights that you will truly never forget. The trips, between 3 and 4 hours long, offer passage to the eastern edge of Cape Cod Bay, one of the primary feeding grounds for Humpback Whales, Dolphins, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, and Harbor Porpoises.

Make sure to bring a sweater or windbreaker, even on a warm day. Those ocean breezes can be chilly! Comfortable, rubber soled shoes are best on a boat, and you’ll want to be sure to have your camera.

Whale sightings are guaranteed on all of the following cruises. In the unlikely event that you do not see whales, a raincheck will be issued.


Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises
When: May 12 through October 31, 2008
Where: Ticket office and Boat Dock are at 269 Millway Street, Barnstable, MA
Rates: $40/adults, $35/seniors (62+); $23/children from 4 – 12, and children 3 and under are free

One daily trip, now through June, between 11 and 1:30, depending on tides. Number of scheduled trips is increased in high season. Reservations are suggested but not required. First come, first serve basis in season.

For more information call: 1 (888) WHALE WATCH

The Dolphin Fleet of Provincetown
When: April 12 through May 3, daily trips at 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Where: Tickets and information at The Dolphin Fleet Information Center, 132 Bradford Street, Provincetown, MA; boat leaves from MacMillan Pier, Provincetown, MA
Rates: $35/adult, $27/children under 12, and children under 5 are free.

Number of scheduled trips is increased beginning May 4. 8 daily trips in high season, running through October 26
Well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome.

For more information call: (800) 826-9300 or (508) 240-3636.

Portugese Princess Excursions
When: Daily 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Where:Ticket booth at Main Office on Shank Painter Road; boat leaves from MacMillan Wharf, Provincetown, MA and also from Fisherman’s Wharf, Provincetown, MA, in high season.
Rates: $35/adults, children from 5 – 12/$27, children under 5/free
Reservations strongly encouraged.

For more information call: (800) 442-3188

Photo credit: Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises

Cape Cod Food & Wine Festivals

by Vera Thornton


There is certainly no lack of culinary events happening on Cape Cod. If good food, fun, and drink appeal to you, check out all of the Cape Cod food and wine festivals that are taking place from spring through fall, while you experience the unique Cape Cod lifestyle. These Cape Cod food and wine festivals showcase the areas finest chefs, brewers, local as well as international winemakers, and the local bounty of farm and sea. Here are some wonderful opportunities to socialize, meet people, and enjoy the rich variety of Cape Cod wining and dining.

Micro Brew Tasting & Pairing
When: April 17, 2008 - 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Trowbridge Tavern, Bourne (near Bourne Rotary)

This fun event will pair over 15 microbrews with the perfect complimentary appetizer. It’s held at the Trowbridge Tavern in Bourne and features raffles, a beer trivia contest, and give-aways. It benefits high school scholarships and community programs, and the cost is $25 per person. Does everyone know what a microbrew is? A beer produced by a brewery which makes less than 15,000 barrels a year – now there’s a bit of trivia for you!

For tickets and information call (508) 477-0792.

Taste of Cape Cod Spring-Summer Restaurant & Food Festival
When: May 26, 2008 - 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: The Grand Ballroom of the Resort & Conference Center at 35 Scudder Avenue, Hyannis

I talked to radio and TV food show host John Rega, who does a food talk show on WXTK on Sunday mornings and is the producer and driving force behind this event. This year’s festival will focus on ethnic foods on the Cape and showcases chef-owned restaurants, specialty foods and beverage producers, and gourmet food shop owners. Stroll and listen to a Jazz Guitarist, enjoy Cooking Demonstrations, Tastings, Chefs’ Book Signings, dance to a Swing Band, win a “foodie” door prize, and take home menus and recipes. Meet the chefs and sample their spring/summer menus of ethnic recipes, from appetizers to desserts. A food lovers dream come true! There will also be two Fashion Shows (one is swimsuit), for the divas among us. All in a beautifully conceived and decorated garden atmosphere with flowers, arrangements, plants, and water fountains.
And remember: Those cooking demonstrations are a sure way to learn some new kitchen techniques. Seeing it done live makes it easier to follow at home later!

Tickets: $25.
Available in advance at Puritan Clothing Stores in Chatham, Hyannis, Mashpee and Falmouth at a $5 discount.
Benefits, in part, the Family Food Pantry of Cape Cod.
For tickets and information: 1 – 866 – 88TASTE
http://www.capecoddine.com/TASTEOFCAPECOD2.htm


Cape Cod Life Food & Wine Festival
When: June 1 – 4, 2008 – 9:00 to 6:30 p.m.

Grand Opening Tasting
When: June 1 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Rectrix Aerodrome, Hyannis

This event is the first annual and promises to be a hit! The Opening Tasting will celebrate the fine food on the Cape, international wines, and the arts, visual and performing. It has all the markings of a gala night and a place to see and be seen! Cape Cod Life’s Amy Duquette shared with me that six guest chefs will be participating in competitions to show off their culinary talents. And witness a champagne sabering – in which the neck of the bottle is cleanly sliced off with a saber. Don’t try this at home!

Cultural Happy Hours
When: June 2 – 4 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Wellfleet, Falmouth, Brewster, and Cotuit

Following the Opening Tasting will be a series of daily Cultural Happy Hours. These will be held in a different location each night: on Monday, June 2, at Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theatre in Wellfleet; on Tuesday, June 3, at the Historic Highfield Hall in Falmouth. On Wednesday, June 4, you’ll have a choice of two different locations: the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster or the Cotuit Center for the Arts in Cotuit. These Happy Hours will capture the richness of Cape art, history, and environment in each of the noteworthy settings.

For Tickets and information:
Grand Opening Tasting - $50.
Cultural Happy Hour - $15.
Available at the box office of Cape Cod Community College
(508) 375-4044
Tickets may also be purchased on line at http://www.festival.capecodlife.com/

Wine Dinners
When: June 2 – 4 from 6:30 p.m.
Where: At over 40 Cape Cod restaurants

Each night the Happy Hour will be followed by a Wine Dinner, in one of over 40 participating Cape restaurants from Falmouth to Providence. Prices vary according to restaurant. Make reservations early at the individual restaurants directly – events of this kind are always popular! A complete list of participating restaurants will be available in the May issue of Cape Cod Life, out at your newsstands on April 22nd. In the meantime, you can check out the list now at the festival’s website: http://www.festival.capecodlife.com/

Wellfleet Oysterfest

Where: Main Street in Wellfleet
When: October 18 & 19, 2008 – 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

We all know that Wellfleet has some of the best oysters in the world, in high demand and offered at the finest restaurants. This two-day festival celebrates the town’s famous oysters and its long shellfishing tradition. Can you imagine that over 100,000 oysters were served at the festival in 2006? And 10,000 littleneck clams? Chowders, lobster rolls, stuffed clams, local beer and ales, music, art, games, and FUN! The popular shucking contest attracts the biggest crowd, and some of the local amateur shuckers have been fast enough to go on to national competition.

Free entry; food and retail items priced individually.

Proceeds support SPAT’s (Shellfish Promotion and Tasting) educational programs and a Nauset Regional High School scholarship for graduating seniors interested in pursuing college studies related to the shellfish industry.

http://www.wellfleetoysterfest.org/


Photo Credits:
Photo #1 and #2: Courtesy of Cape Cod Life www.capecodlife.com
Photo #3: Colleen Oteri www.civettacom.com