In 2014, we had the good fortune to interview many intriguing individuals who clearly have a passion for the state in which we live. We were inspired by the love of Scott Wentzell for his son Scottie, the cutting edge work being done by cardiologist Dr. Dervilla McCann, the drive and dedication of Olympian Julia Clukey and the story of American’s orphan trains as written by Christina Baker Kline. Each of our guests represents why we do the work we do with Love Maine Radio. Thank you so much for listening, and being part of our Love Maine community in 2014.
Guests
Julia Clukey
Olympian Julia Clukey was born on April 29, 1985 in Augusta, Maine. Growing up in Maine provided her plenty of opportunities to find a passion for the outdoors and winter sports. As a child, Julia played a variety of sports including basketball and soccer. It wasn’t until the age of 12 that she first tried the sport of luge. One Saturday afternoon, Julia and a friend were looking for something to do on a summer day and found an advertisement for a U.S.A. Luge recruiting tour event on Spring Street in Portland, Maine. As part of the event, U.S.A. Luge provided kids the opportunity to get on a luge sled (with wheels) and slide down Spring Street, one of Portland’s steepest streets. Captivated by the speed, adrenaline and challenges of the sport, Julia was hooked. A year later, Julia was competing at the junior level in international competitions. By age 17, she had captured many individual Junior World Cup medals and was on her way to success.
Scott Wentzell
Scott and Lisa Wentzell have a child named Scotty, who was born with a rare disorder called Dubowitz syndrome. Scott Wentzell currently works as the marketing manager at Thos. Moser Cabinetmakers in Auburn, and he is proud of his status as a Mainer. A Colby College graduate, Scott and his wife have been living and working in Falmouth. In November of 2000, they were blessed with a little boy, named Scotty. Scotty is non-verbal, but he is “without a doubt the happiest kid,” says his dad.
Dervilla McCann, MD
Dr. Dervilla McCann is a cardiologist at Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute. She was formerly a cardiologist and partner with Androscoggin Cardiology Associates and Maine Research Associates in Auburn, and also the director of the cardiology division at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center.
Christina Baker Kline
Christina Baker Kline is a novelist, nonfiction writer and editor. She wrote the #1 New York Times bestseller, Orphan Train, as well as Bird in Hand, The Way Life Should Be, Desire Lines, and Sweet Water. Christina lives with her family in Montclair, New Jersey, and spends summers on Mount Desert Island.