There’s no finer time in a magazine office than the launch of a new issue. Our issue #2 for 2008 has arrived from our printer, and we think it embodies the spirit of Maine in the flush of summer.

Perhaps the story that was the most fun to work on took us on a cruise around Penobscot Bay to enjoy the delicious food that comes out of the galleys of Maine’s historic windjammers.

We also went on a culinary tour of Isle au Haut to gather a collection of great recipes from some of the island’s best-known cooks, from appetizers to dessert.

Back on the mainland, we enjoyed a lobster luncheon with watercolor
artist Barbara Ernst Prey who is preparing for her annual summer
exhibit at her Port Clyde gallery. Then, a shopping excursion with Chef
Lee Skawinski for a summer menu he prepared for us at Cinque Terre
restaurant in Portland. A visit with the chef of Bangor’s new Italian
restaurant, Massimo’s. And lots of recipes made with fresh, seasonal
ingredients.

Merrill Williams is the publisher of Maine Food & Lifestyle magazine.