The Center awarded a grant to a popular restaurant and hostel in Monson, Maine, so it could improve energy efficiency, worker productivity, and customer comfort. The $13,000-grant came through the Center’s Tourism Investment program, which helps tourism providers in Piscataquis County, Maine, implement innovations that will strengthen their businesses, expand job opportunities and attract visitors to the Maine Woods.

The Lakeshore House restaurant, pub and hostel, located on the shores of Lake Hebron in downtown Monson, is a popular gathering place for residents and seasonal visitors – and a source of jobs for more than a dozen people in one of Maine’s poorest counties.

Proprietor Rebekah Anderson has grown her business through pro-active management and hands-on involvement, for years working at least two shifts a day, 6 days a week as a waitress, cook, housekeeper or shuttle driver for the first 13 years while also caring for two young children. After 15 years in business, Rebekah — a former social worker — employs 10 people year-round with the number growing to 15 or 16 during the busy summer season.

“The personal lives of the staff matter a great deal to me,” said Rebekah, adding that she believes this leads to employees staying on longer than they might at other employers. She said she has “a soft spot for young women and giving them employment opportunities when others may not.”