$6.9M s u m m e r g u i d e 2 0 1 7 9 3 william reveis cades, I knew that while the challenges were obviously numerous, there was reason to be excited here. W hen we first went into the lodge, it was reminiscent of the 1960s lobster or crab shacks familiar along Maine waterfronts.The historical significance was not quite ob- vious until we understood this was the Ellis Island of the North in its day. The realization of the island’s former use was beyond amaz- ing, especially when we found a “Quarantine: Keep Out” sign in the old intake station [now remodeled as Cappy’s Lodge]. We sensed it further when we walked to the grassy knoll going up to the old doctor’s house on top of the hill (which is now Chris- tina’s World, named for my former wife and the famous 1948 paint- ing by Andrew Wyeth). BecauseHouseIslandishiddeninplainsightinCascoBay,it’slikelyonlyafewlobsterboat crewswouldhaveheardthehammersringingwhileyouweremakingrepairs.Hasword gottenoutabouttheimprovements? It was an unbelievable experience with fantastic results. I hate even to put it on the market, but I realize I’m a contractor. I did my part. The new owner has got to be a hospitality expert with experience in events for corporate and families as well as continuing [to develop and host] our very upscale weddings. Our first high-end wedding included a massive fireworks display and fabulously catered meals. Our first high-end corporate event was for Mercedes-Benz Inter- national last September, showcasing the new models. There’ssomefastcompany.Howdidyoupullthatoff? We were approached by a top New York City marketing firm want- ing to rent our island for ‘an international high-end auto manufac-