As part of our campaign, #keepourspiritsupmaine we’re turning the interview process inside out and asking our freelance staff of Maine Brew & Bev Guide and Activities Guide of Maine what keeps them upbeat and resilient during the economic downturn caused by COVID-19 –and what they’re doing to stay happy, connected, and forward-thinking this fall.

Q: What is your freelance specialty and what do you do for Activities Guide / Maine Brew & Bev Guide?

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to write a number of articles on Maine breweries and beers, as well as pieces on homebrewing. I’ve interviewed dozens of innovative Maine brewers who work tirelessly to push this industry forward and make this state a premier destination for craft beer. And I’ve drunk a lot (a lot!) of delicious beer along the way.

I’ve also written about Maine’s ski and fishing industries for Activity Maine. As we all know, perhaps only Maine’s natural landscape can rival the beer industry. This magazine has given me the opportunity to make hard turns on Maine ski mountains and search for trout in storied rivers to bring the experiences to life for readers.

Q: What is your favorite local Maine Craft Beverage?  

This is an evil question! But if it must be answered, I’m obsessed with Bunker Brewing’s Machine Czech Pilz. It’s a perfect homage to the Bohemian Pilsner.

Q: Personally, has COVID-19 experience changed your freelance work, and if so, in what way?

Like most freelance writers, work has dried up almost entirely for all the publications I write for. It has forced me to pivot away from freelance writing, which has been heartbreaking. While I can work on other writing and creative projects to keep my sanity, the freelance opportunities are scant in this current landscape.

Q: What do you do to keep your spirits up and stay resilient?

I’m a writer. So even when the work isn’t there for freelance beer or outdoor writing, I continue to write. As a novelist, I always have some story problem to dive into. And I’m obsessed with the craft of writing, so I keep my head down–I write. But I do pine for the days when I can get out into the Maine landscape and drink an inspiring ale or cast for pristine fish only to tell readers about it in our cherished magazines. 

Dave Patterson is a novelist, beer enthusiast, and lover of all things Maine. His debut novel, Soon the Light Will be Perfect, was released in 2019.