| The West End NEWSCC |
Bragdon to Run
for Mayor
East End taxi driver Charles Bragdon
is the first announced candidate for
the elected mayor position that was
approved by Portland voters on
November 2nd. Bragdon was a
candidate for an at-large seat on the
Portland City Council in the recent
election. Incumbent City Councilors
John Anton and Jill Duson retained
their seats in that race.
Bragdon has previously been a
candidate for the District 1 City
Council seat (Munjoy Hill, East End,
Bayside, Downtown). He was
defeated in that race by City
Councilor Kevin Donoghue. Bragdon
also lost a Green Independent Party
primary race to Anna Trevorrow last
spring for the Green Party
nomination to run for the District
120 seat in the Maine State
Legislature . Trevorrow was recently
defeated by the incumbent
Democrat, Representative Diane
Russell.
Bragdon is the owner of the A-Plus
Family Taxi in Portland. He is a
Portland native and lives in Munjoy
South with his wife and two
children. The mayoral election will be
held in November, 2011.
for Mayor
East End taxi driver Charles Bragdon
is the first announced candidate for
the elected mayor position that was
approved by Portland voters on
November 2nd. Bragdon was a
candidate for an at-large seat on the
Portland City Council in the recent
election. Incumbent City Councilors
John Anton and Jill Duson retained
their seats in that race.
Bragdon has previously been a
candidate for the District 1 City
Council seat (Munjoy Hill, East End,
Bayside, Downtown). He was
defeated in that race by City
Councilor Kevin Donoghue. Bragdon
also lost a Green Independent Party
primary race to Anna Trevorrow last
spring for the Green Party
nomination to run for the District
120 seat in the Maine State
Legislature . Trevorrow was recently
defeated by the incumbent
Democrat, Representative Diane
Russell.
Bragdon is the owner of the A-Plus
Family Taxi in Portland. He is a
Portland native and lives in Munjoy
South with his wife and two
children. The mayoral election will be
held in November, 2011.
Police Recover Stolen School
Computers; Discover Pot
Growing Operation
Portland Police detectives executed a search warrant at a residence on
Irving Street on Friday night, November 5th, and recovered 61 of the 78
computers that were reported stolen from the Ocean Avenue School on
November 4. There are 17 Apple IMAC and Apple Mac Book computers
still missing. Detectives also discovered a small marijuana grow in the
residence and recovered 12 marijuana plants. No arrests were made and
the case remains under investigation. The location is near the school.
The investigation has revealed that the computers were stolen from the
school over a period of several days. The 17 missing computers have
most likely been sold, say police, some of them even before they were
reported stolen. Police originally said that the 78 computers were stolen
from the Ocean Avenue School between the hours of midnight and 2AM
on November 4th. By prying open a window, thieves forced their way
into the school, which is still under construction, and scheduled to open
in January.
Contractors arriving to work at the site at at 150 Ocean Avenue
discovered the burglary. There were 33 Apple iMac computers and 45
Apple MacBook computers stolen. The machines were new and were
still in boxes. Police say their value is approximately $60,000.
After entry was gained to the building, an inside door was forced open,
and this was where the computers were stored. Smaller construction-
type tools were also stolen.
Police expect to make an arrest and are hopeful that they can recover the
remaining computers. Police are asking that anyone who has recently
purchased a new Apple IMAC or Apple MAC Book at a reduced price or
through a private seller to contact them. Anyone with information about
this case is asked to call Portland Police at 874-8533.
To provide information anonymously community members may contact
police by text, internet, or phone. To "Text a Tip", mobile phone users
should text the keyword “GOTCHA” plus their message to 274637
(CRIMES). Community members may also submit tips by going to the
Portland Police Department website: www.portland-police.com, and
clicking "Submit an Anonymous Crime Tip.” Finally, community
members can leave anonymous phone tips on the Department’s Crime
Tip line: 874-8584.
-Marge Niblock
Computers; Discover Pot
Growing Operation
Portland Police detectives executed a search warrant at a residence on
Irving Street on Friday night, November 5th, and recovered 61 of the 78
computers that were reported stolen from the Ocean Avenue School on
November 4. There are 17 Apple IMAC and Apple Mac Book computers
still missing. Detectives also discovered a small marijuana grow in the
residence and recovered 12 marijuana plants. No arrests were made and
the case remains under investigation. The location is near the school.
The investigation has revealed that the computers were stolen from the
school over a period of several days. The 17 missing computers have
most likely been sold, say police, some of them even before they were
reported stolen. Police originally said that the 78 computers were stolen
from the Ocean Avenue School between the hours of midnight and 2AM
on November 4th. By prying open a window, thieves forced their way
into the school, which is still under construction, and scheduled to open
in January.
Contractors arriving to work at the site at at 150 Ocean Avenue
discovered the burglary. There were 33 Apple iMac computers and 45
Apple MacBook computers stolen. The machines were new and were
still in boxes. Police say their value is approximately $60,000.
After entry was gained to the building, an inside door was forced open,
and this was where the computers were stored. Smaller construction-
type tools were also stolen.
Police expect to make an arrest and are hopeful that they can recover the
remaining computers. Police are asking that anyone who has recently
purchased a new Apple IMAC or Apple MAC Book at a reduced price or
through a private seller to contact them. Anyone with information about
this case is asked to call Portland Police at 874-8533.
To provide information anonymously community members may contact
police by text, internet, or phone. To "Text a Tip", mobile phone users
should text the keyword “GOTCHA” plus their message to 274637
(CRIMES). Community members may also submit tips by going to the
Portland Police Department website: www.portland-police.com, and
clicking "Submit an Anonymous Crime Tip.” Finally, community
members can leave anonymous phone tips on the Department’s Crime
Tip line: 874-8584.
-Marge Niblock
LEEMAN TO
SERVE AS CITY'S
LAST NON-
ELECTED MAYOR
Longtime Portland City Councilor
Cheryl Leeman will serve the next year
as the last Portland mayor to be chosen
by her fellow councilors. Beginning
next year, the mayor will be elected by
voters.
Leeman has served on the Portland
City Council for 26 years, or nine
three-year terms. She has served as
mayor twice before, in 1988-89 and
2000-20001.
Leeman has the support of the four
Democrats on the officially
non-partisan council - Mayor
Mavodones, and Councilors Duson,
Waxman, and Coyne.
SERVE AS CITY'S
LAST NON-
ELECTED MAYOR
Longtime Portland City Councilor
Cheryl Leeman will serve the next year
as the last Portland mayor to be chosen
by her fellow councilors. Beginning
next year, the mayor will be elected by
voters.
Leeman has served on the Portland
City Council for 26 years, or nine
three-year terms. She has served as
mayor twice before, in 1988-89 and
2000-20001.
Leeman has the support of the four
Democrats on the officially
non-partisan council - Mayor
Mavodones, and Councilors Duson,
Waxman, and Coyne.
Man’s
Pants Stolen
in Robbery
Portland police reported that a
man’s pants were taken in a
strong-arm robbery at 6:30 PM on
November 18th. Along with the
pants, a cell phone and a wallet
were stolen.
Police say that two out-of-town
men, ages 23 and 24, went to visit
a friend at 255 Oxford Street, and
were jumped by two others when
they entered the building’s
hallway. One of the victims was
punched and threatened with a
knife.
A third suspect, a female, got the
keys to the vehicle of one of the
victims, and removed his
backpack, containing cash and a
laptop.
Police speculated that the victim's
wallet may have been attached to
his pants, and it may have been
easier for the robbers to take both
items, rather than to try to
separate them.
-Marge Niblock
Pants Stolen
in Robbery
Portland police reported that a
man’s pants were taken in a
strong-arm robbery at 6:30 PM on
November 18th. Along with the
pants, a cell phone and a wallet
were stolen.
Police say that two out-of-town
men, ages 23 and 24, went to visit
a friend at 255 Oxford Street, and
were jumped by two others when
they entered the building’s
hallway. One of the victims was
punched and threatened with a
knife.
A third suspect, a female, got the
keys to the vehicle of one of the
victims, and removed his
backpack, containing cash and a
laptop.
Police speculated that the victim's
wallet may have been attached to
his pants, and it may have been
easier for the robbers to take both
items, rather than to try to
separate them.
-Marge Niblock
lfkportland.com
"In Plain English!"
Volume 1 Number 7 Portland, Maine
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Volume 1 Number 7 Portland, Maine
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
West End NEWS
to Continue
Online
Publication
The West End NEWS will continue
publication of its online edition until a
buyer is found for the print edition of
the local newspaper.
The sale of the newspaper was initially
announced in September. Several
individuals have expressed interest in
the paper, but no offers have been
made.
The asking price is $20,000. Interested
parties may call Ed at 207-776-3841.
to Continue
Online
Publication
The West End NEWS will continue
publication of its online edition until a
buyer is found for the print edition of
the local newspaper.
The sale of the newspaper was initially
announced in September. Several
individuals have expressed interest in
the paper, but no offers have been
made.
The asking price is $20,000. Interested
parties may call Ed at 207-776-3841.
| Jillian Hilton owner of new local organic home delivery company Casco Bay Organics...Pleasant Street housewarming could be the social event of the year...Chet's got chicken on the grill outside Fresh Approach...Local artist Dennis Fournier to be featured in New York Times article...Malory and Michael Shaughnessy have Maine's only Redwood tree in their backyard in the Woodfords neighborhood...Parksider Deb Cook opening a yoga teaching studio in Monument Square...Gia Collins graduates from Chaplaincy Institute of Maine after interning at Cumberland County Jail...Over 500 graduates in USM Class of 2013...Tavia Gilbert headed to the Big Apple...Cartoonist Lincoln Peirce (Big Nate) to speak and offer a demonstration to students at St. Brigid's... Dr. Flood has sold Brackett Street Vet but is still doing housecalls in Portland and on the islands...Bunch of Congress Street establishments getting facelifts... Island Times has stopped publishing the Peaks Island monthly newspaper... WENA cancels WestFest talent show due to lack of talent... |
| THE DAILY DUMPSTER WHERE WE THROW ALL THE STUFF WE DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH |
| Get LOCAL news every day at thewestendnews.com |
WORD OF THE DAY
panoply -a magnificent
or impressive array or
display.
panoply -a magnificent
or impressive array or
display.
Public Forums Will
Address Elementary
School Improvements
The Portland Public Schools will hold
neighborhood forums later this month
to share concept designs for
improving five elementary school
buildings: Hall, Longfellow, Lyseth,
Presumpscot and Reiche.
At each forum, the public will have an
opportunity to review two or
three concept designs, ask questions
and give input to Oak Point
Associates, the consulting firm hired
by the district to develop plans
for the building projects.
The forums will be about 90 minutes
long and will take place on
these dates:
● March 13, 6:30 p.m., Lyseth
Elementary School, 175 Auburn
Street.
● March 18, 6:30 p.m., Longfellow
Elementary School, 432 Stevens
Avenue.
● March 21, 6 p.m., Reiche
Community School, 166 Brackett
Street.
● March 28, 6:30 p.m., Hall
Elementary School, 23 Orono Road.
● April 1, 6:30 p.m., Presumpscot
Elementary School, 69
Presumpscot Street.
For more information, please visit
http://www2.portlandschools.
org/buildings-our-future.
Residents, business owners and other
members of the community are
invited to attend the forums.
Participants will be asked which of the
design alternatives most successfully
addresses the building issues and
concerns shared at neighborhood
charettes held in January. Oak Point
Associates will use that information to
refine the design of a single
concept for each school.
Last fall, the district launched
Buildings for Our Future to plan the
next generation of Portland’s
elementary school buildings. Oak Point
Associates will draw on public input
when creating preliminary building
and site plans, construction schedules
and estimated costs for replacing
Hall and improving Presumpscot,
Lyseth, Reiche and Longfellow. As
part of the Buildings for Our Future
project, the firm also will evaluate
opportunities to balance student
numbers across the district in order to
address chronic overcrowding at
several schools based on their current
designs.
The Portland City Council provided
$700,000 for initial planning of the
elementary building improvements as
part of this year’s Capital
Improvement Plan. A tentative
schedule calls for the initial design
work to be completed by June 2013.
The Portland Board of Public
Education and the Portland City
Council will decide on a final list of
elementary construction projects that
could total about $46 million.
Funding for the projects is planned to
go before voters in a November
2013 city referendum.
Study Looks to Untangle and Reconnect
Libbytown
City to host public meeting with area
businesses to discuss ways to improve
neighborhood
WHAT: Later this month, as part of a City of
Portland transportation study for Libbytown,
city staff along with the Portland Area
Comprehensive Transit System (PACTS)
will host a meeting for business owners in
the neighborhood to gather feedback on
proposed changes designed to improve the
livability and traffic flow within the area.
Originally settled by Irish Catholic
immigrants, the neighborhood changed
dramatically following the 1961 destruction
of Union Station on St. John Street and the
construction of I-295, which bisects
Libbytown. The neighborhood earned its
moniker after the Libby family, who
immigrated to Maine from Ireland in the
mid-nineteenth century and set up three
businesses between Park Avenue and outer
Congress Street.
Libbytown is an important entryway to the
City of Portland and an integral link
between the downtown and the Portland
Transportation Center. However, multiple
highway ramps and one-way streets can
confuse travelers, be difficult to navigate,
and are viewed as unfriendly toward bicycle
and pedestrian traffic. Beyond current
challenges, Libbytown is a neighborhood in
transition, with planned development in the
area. To address these and other issues,
including safety, the city initiated a study in
November designed to improve the
neighborhood’s livability, attractiveness and
traffic flow across all modes of
transportation: commuters, in-town drivers,
transit, bicyclists and pedestrians. The study
is examining potential changes to traffic
flow on Congress and Park Streets as well as
the possibility of adjusting ramps from the I-
295 interchange. Any proposed changes
will be designed to support business
operations in the area as well as improve
pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle mobility.
March’s meeting will give business owners
the opportunity to examine the potential
future of their neighborhood and weigh in
on their particular needs. Feedback from
the owners will provide guidance for the
transportation study. A light breakfast will be
provided.
Funded by the Federal Highway
Administration, the study is the work of the
city, PACTS, and a team of consultants
headed by DuBois and King, Inc. with
representatives from Smart Mobility,
Terrence J. DeWan and Associates,
Ransome Consulting Engineers and
Scientists and Morris Communications, and
is expected to be complete this June. For
more information about the study, visit the
city’s website, http://www.portlandmaine.
gov/libbytowntrafficcirculation.htm.
When: Friday, March 22, 2013
8:15 AM – 9:15 AM
Where: PelotonLabs
795 Congress Street, Portland
Libbytown
City to host public meeting with area
businesses to discuss ways to improve
neighborhood
WHAT: Later this month, as part of a City of
Portland transportation study for Libbytown,
city staff along with the Portland Area
Comprehensive Transit System (PACTS)
will host a meeting for business owners in
the neighborhood to gather feedback on
proposed changes designed to improve the
livability and traffic flow within the area.
Originally settled by Irish Catholic
immigrants, the neighborhood changed
dramatically following the 1961 destruction
of Union Station on St. John Street and the
construction of I-295, which bisects
Libbytown. The neighborhood earned its
moniker after the Libby family, who
immigrated to Maine from Ireland in the
mid-nineteenth century and set up three
businesses between Park Avenue and outer
Congress Street.
Libbytown is an important entryway to the
City of Portland and an integral link
between the downtown and the Portland
Transportation Center. However, multiple
highway ramps and one-way streets can
confuse travelers, be difficult to navigate,
and are viewed as unfriendly toward bicycle
and pedestrian traffic. Beyond current
challenges, Libbytown is a neighborhood in
transition, with planned development in the
area. To address these and other issues,
including safety, the city initiated a study in
November designed to improve the
neighborhood’s livability, attractiveness and
traffic flow across all modes of
transportation: commuters, in-town drivers,
transit, bicyclists and pedestrians. The study
is examining potential changes to traffic
flow on Congress and Park Streets as well as
the possibility of adjusting ramps from the I-
295 interchange. Any proposed changes
will be designed to support business
operations in the area as well as improve
pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle mobility.
March’s meeting will give business owners
the opportunity to examine the potential
future of their neighborhood and weigh in
on their particular needs. Feedback from
the owners will provide guidance for the
transportation study. A light breakfast will be
provided.
Funded by the Federal Highway
Administration, the study is the work of the
city, PACTS, and a team of consultants
headed by DuBois and King, Inc. with
representatives from Smart Mobility,
Terrence J. DeWan and Associates,
Ransome Consulting Engineers and
Scientists and Morris Communications, and
is expected to be complete this June. For
more information about the study, visit the
city’s website, http://www.portlandmaine.
gov/libbytowntrafficcirculation.htm.
When: Friday, March 22, 2013
8:15 AM – 9:15 AM
Where: PelotonLabs
795 Congress Street, Portland
Would-Be
Robber Strikes
Out at Baseball
Card Shop
Portland police are looking for a
man involved in what appeared to
be an attempted robbery at Don’s
Baseball Card Center on Brighton
Avenue at about 10:45 AM on April
8th. The owner of the store told
officers that the suspect entered the
business and threatened him. The
victim struggled with the suspect -
believing he was being robbed - and
was struck on the head several
times before the suspect fled
without taking anything. The victim
sustained several non-life-
threatening lacerations to his head.
The suspect fled the area in an older-
model, gray Subaru Legacy station
wagon with a roof rack, bearing
partial Maine registration 774 Y. A
white female with dirty blonde hair
tied in a ponytail was driving the
car, which was last seen traveling
inbound on Brighton Avenue.
The suspect is described as a white
male in his 30s, approximately 5’
10”, 150 to 180 pounds, with
brown hair, and wearing a light
colored shirt and jeans.
Anyone with information regarding
this incident is asked to contact the
Portland Police at 207-874-8533.
Robber Strikes
Out at Baseball
Card Shop
Portland police are looking for a
man involved in what appeared to
be an attempted robbery at Don’s
Baseball Card Center on Brighton
Avenue at about 10:45 AM on April
8th. The owner of the store told
officers that the suspect entered the
business and threatened him. The
victim struggled with the suspect -
believing he was being robbed - and
was struck on the head several
times before the suspect fled
without taking anything. The victim
sustained several non-life-
threatening lacerations to his head.
The suspect fled the area in an older-
model, gray Subaru Legacy station
wagon with a roof rack, bearing
partial Maine registration 774 Y. A
white female with dirty blonde hair
tied in a ponytail was driving the
car, which was last seen traveling
inbound on Brighton Avenue.
The suspect is described as a white
male in his 30s, approximately 5’
10”, 150 to 180 pounds, with
brown hair, and wearing a light
colored shirt and jeans.
Anyone with information regarding
this incident is asked to contact the
Portland Police at 207-874-8533.
Carbon Monoxide
Causes Evacuation
of Parkside Building
Just before 5:00 PM on April 6th, a
911 call reported smoke coming
from the roof of 29 Grant Street
which prompted a “desk-box”
response consisting of seven fire
companies, one MEDCU and the
Deputy Fire Chief. A malfunctioning
furnace was the cause, releasing
dangerous carbon monoxide levels
into the building, and requiring
evacuation of the 3-story, multi-
family residence. Fire Department
units operated for nearly an hour to
evacuate the residents, secure the
malfunctioning furnace, and
ventilate the building. Once air
monitoring of the building
confirmed safe levels, the
occupants were allowed to
reoccupy.
Causes Evacuation
of Parkside Building
Just before 5:00 PM on April 6th, a
911 call reported smoke coming
from the roof of 29 Grant Street
which prompted a “desk-box”
response consisting of seven fire
companies, one MEDCU and the
Deputy Fire Chief. A malfunctioning
furnace was the cause, releasing
dangerous carbon monoxide levels
into the building, and requiring
evacuation of the 3-story, multi-
family residence. Fire Department
units operated for nearly an hour to
evacuate the residents, secure the
malfunctioning furnace, and
ventilate the building. Once air
monitoring of the building
confirmed safe levels, the
occupants were allowed to
reoccupy.
New
Bookmobile
Coming to
Reiche
On Wednesday, April 17th, the
new Portland Public Library
Bookmobile will be at the Reiche
School from 3:15 to 4PM in the
bus turnout. The Friends of the
Portland Public Library will also
have the Book Nook open
upstairs in the Community Room
and will be offering kids and
adults the chance to color, cut,
fold and tape a model
bookmobile. Staff members will
be collecting finished models to
make a Bookmobile Mobile to
hang in the Reiche Community
Room to publicize the
Bookmobile and the Book Nook.
Bookmobile
Coming to
Reiche
On Wednesday, April 17th, the
new Portland Public Library
Bookmobile will be at the Reiche
School from 3:15 to 4PM in the
bus turnout. The Friends of the
Portland Public Library will also
have the Book Nook open
upstairs in the Community Room
and will be offering kids and
adults the chance to color, cut,
fold and tape a model
bookmobile. Staff members will
be collecting finished models to
make a Bookmobile Mobile to
hang in the Reiche Community
Room to publicize the
Bookmobile and the Book Nook.
Local Contractor
Banned from Home
Repair Business
Self-professed Portland
“handyman” Daniel B. Tucci has
been found guilty of numerous
violations of Maine’s Unfair Trade
Practices Act. Cumberland Superior
Court ordered Tucci to provide
$236,500 to 14 victims. Tucci,
whose business address was listed
as an apartment on Monument
Street on Munjoy Hill, is
permanently barred from operating
a handyman or home repair
business in the future.
Tucci targeted elderly people in
particular, and did business under a
number of different names in York
and Cumberland Counties: “Dan the
Handyman,” “Tripol Handyman
Services,” “The TrixiePolly Co.,”
“TriDan,” “Tripol Construction,”
and “T.P.D.F., LLC.”
The Superior Court found that
Tucci falsely advertised his services
and qualifications, that he took
advance payments and then failed to
complete the work, that he provided
shoddy and incomplete work, and
that he refused to correct the work
he did or to refund the money paid.
The Court also found that he
threatened and intimidated
customers.
The most egregious example of
Tucci’s business dealings was that
he took $80,000 in upfront
payments from an elderly couple for
a basement renovation; nearly all of
the necessary work was left either
incomplete or undone. After ending
their relationship with Tucci, the
couple was able to have the work
corrected for just $14,000 by
another contractor.
The Court found that Tucci falsely
advertised himself as a licensed
home repair person and handyman.
From 2004 to 2012 he advertised
his services in York and
Cumberland counties, implying that
he was competent and licensed in
several trades including electrical,
masonry, plumbing and oil burner
services. In fact, Tucci holds no
professional licenses, according to
the Attorney General.
When confronted about his shoddy,
unworkmanlike or incomplete work,
Tucci refused to give refunds and
even threatened his customers. He
bullied his customers, constantly
telling them, “I know where you
live. I will find you. No one does
this to me.”
Maine Consumers who believe they
may be the victim of an unfair trade
practice can call the Maine Attorney
General’s Office with questions at 1-
800-436-2131.
Banned from Home
Repair Business
Self-professed Portland
“handyman” Daniel B. Tucci has
been found guilty of numerous
violations of Maine’s Unfair Trade
Practices Act. Cumberland Superior
Court ordered Tucci to provide
$236,500 to 14 victims. Tucci,
whose business address was listed
as an apartment on Monument
Street on Munjoy Hill, is
permanently barred from operating
a handyman or home repair
business in the future.
Tucci targeted elderly people in
particular, and did business under a
number of different names in York
and Cumberland Counties: “Dan the
Handyman,” “Tripol Handyman
Services,” “The TrixiePolly Co.,”
“TriDan,” “Tripol Construction,”
and “T.P.D.F., LLC.”
The Superior Court found that
Tucci falsely advertised his services
and qualifications, that he took
advance payments and then failed to
complete the work, that he provided
shoddy and incomplete work, and
that he refused to correct the work
he did or to refund the money paid.
The Court also found that he
threatened and intimidated
customers.
The most egregious example of
Tucci’s business dealings was that
he took $80,000 in upfront
payments from an elderly couple for
a basement renovation; nearly all of
the necessary work was left either
incomplete or undone. After ending
their relationship with Tucci, the
couple was able to have the work
corrected for just $14,000 by
another contractor.
The Court found that Tucci falsely
advertised himself as a licensed
home repair person and handyman.
From 2004 to 2012 he advertised
his services in York and
Cumberland counties, implying that
he was competent and licensed in
several trades including electrical,
masonry, plumbing and oil burner
services. In fact, Tucci holds no
professional licenses, according to
the Attorney General.
When confronted about his shoddy,
unworkmanlike or incomplete work,
Tucci refused to give refunds and
even threatened his customers. He
bullied his customers, constantly
telling them, “I know where you
live. I will find you. No one does
this to me.”
Maine Consumers who believe they
may be the victim of an unfair trade
practice can call the Maine Attorney
General’s Office with questions at 1-
800-436-2131.
Congress
Square Plaza
Talks to Resume
RockBridge Capital is revising its
proposal to purchase a portion of
Congress Square Plaza for
development of an event facility,
according to Alex Jaegerman, the
City’s Planning Division Director.
The group's initial proposal was the
subject of two meetings and
discussions that took place in
August, 2012. There has been no
further action or progress until very
recently.
The revised proposal was scheduled
for presentation at a Housing and
Community Development
Workshop on April 24, 2013, at 5:
30 in City Council Chambers. The
HCDC presentation will be followed
over the course of the next several
weeks by meetings between the
Eastland-Westin team and any
interested organization or board. A
Congress Square Redesign Study
Group meeting, and a follow-up
HCDC meeting on May 29th which
will include a public hearing.
The complete schedule for these
events is presented below:
April 24, 2013, 5:30 PM HCDC
workshop, City Council Chambers.
Meeting to receive Rockbridge
Capital’s presentation/proposal and
for HCDC discussion.
From May 2nd to May 28th
Eastland at Westin at Harbors Edge
representatives will be available to
meet with various organizations and
associations upon request who are
interested in engaging directly with
them.
May 22, 2013, 5:30 to 7:30 PM
Congress Square Redesign Study
Group, City Council Chambers.
This will be an opportunity for the
CSRSG to review the revised
proposal and send its comments and
recommendations to the HCDC and
City Council.
May 29, 2013 HCDC 5:30 PM
public meeting. The Committee will
receive public input on the Eastland
at Westin at Harbors Edge
presentation/proposal.
Upon consideration by the HCDC,
the matter will be referred to the full
City Council.
Square Plaza
Talks to Resume
RockBridge Capital is revising its
proposal to purchase a portion of
Congress Square Plaza for
development of an event facility,
according to Alex Jaegerman, the
City’s Planning Division Director.
The group's initial proposal was the
subject of two meetings and
discussions that took place in
August, 2012. There has been no
further action or progress until very
recently.
The revised proposal was scheduled
for presentation at a Housing and
Community Development
Workshop on April 24, 2013, at 5:
30 in City Council Chambers. The
HCDC presentation will be followed
over the course of the next several
weeks by meetings between the
Eastland-Westin team and any
interested organization or board. A
Congress Square Redesign Study
Group meeting, and a follow-up
HCDC meeting on May 29th which
will include a public hearing.
The complete schedule for these
events is presented below:
April 24, 2013, 5:30 PM HCDC
workshop, City Council Chambers.
Meeting to receive Rockbridge
Capital’s presentation/proposal and
for HCDC discussion.
From May 2nd to May 28th
Eastland at Westin at Harbors Edge
representatives will be available to
meet with various organizations and
associations upon request who are
interested in engaging directly with
them.
May 22, 2013, 5:30 to 7:30 PM
Congress Square Redesign Study
Group, City Council Chambers.
This will be an opportunity for the
CSRSG to review the revised
proposal and send its comments and
recommendations to the HCDC and
City Council.
May 29, 2013 HCDC 5:30 PM
public meeting. The Committee will
receive public input on the Eastland
at Westin at Harbors Edge
presentation/proposal.
Upon consideration by the HCDC,
the matter will be referred to the full
City Council.
Portland City
Councilor’s
Brush With
Death in Russia
Portland City Councilor Ed Suslovic
revealed recently that he had a
nearly fatal exposure to carbon
monoxide during a trip to Russia in
the spring of 2012.
In an exclusive interview with the
West End NEWS, Suslovic said that
he and his host, Russian legislator
Stanislav Vitori were overcome by
the odorless fumes while they were
in the host’s bath house. They were
discovered-unconscious-by the host’
s wife, Lenna, who summoned
emergency medical assistance.
Suslovic says that the last thing he
remembers was feeling dizzy before
losing consciousness and having an
out-of-body experience in which he
saw a group of people gathered
around his body trying to revive
him. Suslovic regained
consciousness before being taken
by ambulance to a local hospital and
put in a hyperbaric chamber to have
the carbon monoxide flushed from
his system. He was discharged
from the hospital the next day.
Suslovic was visiting Russia on a
US State Department Fellowship to
discuss sustainability issues such as
recycling and wastewater
management with Russian
legislators. He says he suffered no
long-term effects from the incident,
and praised the medical personnel
who saved him and his Russian
colleague. Vitori, who also made a
full recovery from the incident, is
the Majority Leader in the State
Duma, the Russian legislature.
Councilor’s
Brush With
Death in Russia
Portland City Councilor Ed Suslovic
revealed recently that he had a
nearly fatal exposure to carbon
monoxide during a trip to Russia in
the spring of 2012.
In an exclusive interview with the
West End NEWS, Suslovic said that
he and his host, Russian legislator
Stanislav Vitori were overcome by
the odorless fumes while they were
in the host’s bath house. They were
discovered-unconscious-by the host’
s wife, Lenna, who summoned
emergency medical assistance.
Suslovic says that the last thing he
remembers was feeling dizzy before
losing consciousness and having an
out-of-body experience in which he
saw a group of people gathered
around his body trying to revive
him. Suslovic regained
consciousness before being taken
by ambulance to a local hospital and
put in a hyperbaric chamber to have
the carbon monoxide flushed from
his system. He was discharged
from the hospital the next day.
Suslovic was visiting Russia on a
US State Department Fellowship to
discuss sustainability issues such as
recycling and wastewater
management with Russian
legislators. He says he suffered no
long-term effects from the incident,
and praised the medical personnel
who saved him and his Russian
colleague. Vitori, who also made a
full recovery from the incident, is
the Majority Leader in the State
Duma, the Russian legislature.
300 Attend Rally for
Immigration Reform
More than 300 people attended a
march and rally in support of
immigration reform on Wednesday,
May 1st. The march began at
Lincoln Park on Congress Street at
4PM, and ended with a rally will
begin at Monument Square
featuring guest speakers, live music
and dancing.
Immigration Reform
More than 300 people attended a
march and rally in support of
immigration reform on Wednesday,
May 1st. The march began at
Lincoln Park on Congress Street at
4PM, and ended with a rally will
begin at Monument Square
featuring guest speakers, live music
and dancing.
Police Standoff
Ends Peacefully
in Bayside
Kyle Upton, 28, surrendered
peacefully to Portland police on
Monday evening, April 29th, ending
a four-hour standoff at a residence
at 41 Alder Street in the Bayside
neighborhood. Upton was being
sought in connection with a
domestic violence incident that
occurred earlier in the day. He was
charged with domestic violence,
criminal threatening, domestic
violence terrorizing and creating a
standoff.
Police SWAT team members
responded to a domestic violence
call at around 3PM, and Upton, who
police believe was armed,
barricaded himself inside the
residence. He came out of the
building and surrendered shortly
after 7 PM.
Ends Peacefully
in Bayside
Kyle Upton, 28, surrendered
peacefully to Portland police on
Monday evening, April 29th, ending
a four-hour standoff at a residence
at 41 Alder Street in the Bayside
neighborhood. Upton was being
sought in connection with a
domestic violence incident that
occurred earlier in the day. He was
charged with domestic violence,
criminal threatening, domestic
violence terrorizing and creating a
standoff.
Police SWAT team members
responded to a domestic violence
call at around 3PM, and Upton, who
police believe was armed,
barricaded himself inside the
residence. He came out of the
building and surrendered shortly
after 7 PM.
Russell Bill Would Dock
Guv, Legislators
The Maine legislature’s Legislative
Council has approved after deadline
a bill submitted by Munjoy Hill
legislator Diane Russel. The bill
provides that if the Legislature or
Governor ever failed to pass a
budget, lawmakers and the
Governor would be docked pay in
an equitable amount to what civil
servants would be if a shutdown
prevented them from working.
“In Maine, we don't make much (at
all) as lawmakers, but I still believe
we should be willing to share the
sacrifice if our inability to pass a
budget causes people to be out of
work,” said Russell.
Guv, Legislators
The Maine legislature’s Legislative
Council has approved after deadline
a bill submitted by Munjoy Hill
legislator Diane Russel. The bill
provides that if the Legislature or
Governor ever failed to pass a
budget, lawmakers and the
Governor would be docked pay in
an equitable amount to what civil
servants would be if a shutdown
prevented them from working.
“In Maine, we don't make much (at
all) as lawmakers, but I still believe
we should be willing to share the
sacrifice if our inability to pass a
budget causes people to be out of
work,” said Russell.
Cabbie Helps Rescue
Man from Casco Bay
Portland police and firefighters,
with an assist from a local cab
driver, rescued a man who had
fallen into Casco Bay at
approximately 11:30 PM on April
30th.
A 911 call reported an individual
calling for help from near the Ocean
Gateway terminal. The man had
fallen into the water near the Ocean
Gateway parking lot, and police
officers and a local taxi driver
worked to help get the individual to
the rocks below the sea wall.
Utilizing a stokes basket, extension
ladders and ropes, firefighters were
able to secure the individual in the
basket and hoist him above the
stone wall. The man had been in
several feet of water for up to
forty-five minutes. He was
transported to a local hospital for
treatment from exposure.
Man from Casco Bay
Portland police and firefighters,
with an assist from a local cab
driver, rescued a man who had
fallen into Casco Bay at
approximately 11:30 PM on April
30th.
A 911 call reported an individual
calling for help from near the Ocean
Gateway terminal. The man had
fallen into the water near the Ocean
Gateway parking lot, and police
officers and a local taxi driver
worked to help get the individual to
the rocks below the sea wall.
Utilizing a stokes basket, extension
ladders and ropes, firefighters were
able to secure the individual in the
basket and hoist him above the
stone wall. The man had been in
several feet of water for up to
forty-five minutes. He was
transported to a local hospital for
treatment from exposure.
Rash of Drug
Overdoses Hit City
City officials are reporting a
continued increase in heroin
overdoses, including four people in
Portland who received life-saving
emergency medical treatment from
the Portland Fire Department for
overdoses of heroin on May 2nd. A
fifth person was found dead in an
East End apartment and his death is
being investigated as a possible drug
overdose.
Recently, heroin use in Portland has
increased dramatically. It is believed
that addicts are seeking heroin as a
replacement for Oxycontin. Testing
of recent seizures of the heroin does
not indicate a higher than average
potency, suggesting the problem is
related to increased use.
In the past month, Portland Police
and Fire Departments have
responded to fourteen reports of
overdoses where the patient
survived after receiving emergency
medical treatment. Three people
died over the same period from
what is believed to be accidental
drug overdoses. Most of these
individuals were using heroin. The
Fire Department has had to increase
its supply of Naloxone, a narcotic
antagonist which can reverse the
respiratory depression associated
with narcotic overdose. From
January to March of this year,
Portland firefighters administered
Naloxone eleven times - and
fourteen times in April.
Overdoses Hit City
City officials are reporting a
continued increase in heroin
overdoses, including four people in
Portland who received life-saving
emergency medical treatment from
the Portland Fire Department for
overdoses of heroin on May 2nd. A
fifth person was found dead in an
East End apartment and his death is
being investigated as a possible drug
overdose.
Recently, heroin use in Portland has
increased dramatically. It is believed
that addicts are seeking heroin as a
replacement for Oxycontin. Testing
of recent seizures of the heroin does
not indicate a higher than average
potency, suggesting the problem is
related to increased use.
In the past month, Portland Police
and Fire Departments have
responded to fourteen reports of
overdoses where the patient
survived after receiving emergency
medical treatment. Three people
died over the same period from
what is believed to be accidental
drug overdoses. Most of these
individuals were using heroin. The
Fire Department has had to increase
its supply of Naloxone, a narcotic
antagonist which can reverse the
respiratory depression associated
with narcotic overdose. From
January to March of this year,
Portland firefighters administered
Naloxone eleven times - and
fourteen times in April.
Photo by Tonee Harbert
Eugene Knox, the winner of the chalk drawing
contest at WestFest2013, posing with his
winning chalk drawing.
Eugene Knox, the winner of the chalk drawing
contest at WestFest2013, posing with his
winning chalk drawing.
Ghostbuster, Storm-
trooper Assaulted on
Congress Street
Portland police arrested Adam
Barnes, 31, of Westbrook on May
4th after he allegedly assaulted two
people dressed as comic book
characters on Congress Street at
about 2PM. The two people, along
with a number of other costumed
participants, were promoting Free
Comic Book Day in front of Coast
City Comics at 634 Congress Street
at Park Street.
A witness said that Barnes, who
police say was intoxicated, crossed
Congress Street to carry out the
assault. He was arrested near
Longfellow Square, about a block
from the alleged attack, where
police had to use a Taser to bring
him under control. He was charged
with two counts of assault,
disorderly conduct and five counts
of criminal threatening.
trooper Assaulted on
Congress Street
Portland police arrested Adam
Barnes, 31, of Westbrook on May
4th after he allegedly assaulted two
people dressed as comic book
characters on Congress Street at
about 2PM. The two people, along
with a number of other costumed
participants, were promoting Free
Comic Book Day in front of Coast
City Comics at 634 Congress Street
at Park Street.
A witness said that Barnes, who
police say was intoxicated, crossed
Congress Street to carry out the
assault. He was arrested near
Longfellow Square, about a block
from the alleged attack, where
police had to use a Taser to bring
him under control. He was charged
with two counts of assault,
disorderly conduct and five counts
of criminal threatening.
Father, Sons Held
in India Street
Attack
Brunswick police arrested a
father and his two sons on May
5th after being alerted by
Portland police about an assault
on India Street in the East End of
Portland. Arrested were Justin
Haycock, 29, Joshua Haycock,
31, and Walter Haycock, 62, all
of Brunswick. They were
charged with elevated aggravated
assault, and held at the
Cumberland County Jail.
Police say the men were let into
an apartment at 98 India Street at
7:45PM and allegedly attacked a
50-year-old man with a metal
pipe. The man, who knew his
attackers, suffered serious head
and face injuries.
in India Street
Attack
Brunswick police arrested a
father and his two sons on May
5th after being alerted by
Portland police about an assault
on India Street in the East End of
Portland. Arrested were Justin
Haycock, 29, Joshua Haycock,
31, and Walter Haycock, 62, all
of Brunswick. They were
charged with elevated aggravated
assault, and held at the
Cumberland County Jail.
Police say the men were let into
an apartment at 98 India Street at
7:45PM and allegedly attacked a
50-year-old man with a metal
pipe. The man, who knew his
attackers, suffered serious head
and face injuries.
City Hosts First
Bikeshare Forum
The City of Portland hosted a
Bikeshare Public Forum at City Hall
on May 8th in the State of Maine
Room, 389 Congress Street. The
public participated in the
conversation about establishing a
Bikeshare program in the city.
The Environmental Protection
Agency selected the City of
Portland as one of five communities
nationwide to receive technical
assistance to explore the potential of
establishing a Bikeshare program.
Bikeshare is a program in which
bicycles are made available for
shared use. The program is
designed to provide affordable
access to bicycles for short-
distance trips in an urban area as an
alternative to motorized public
transit or private vehicles. Bikeshare
programs help reduce congestion,
noise and air pollution and support
sustainable growth that encourages
local economic development while
safeguarding health and the
environment.
The City will seek to develop a
business model for how such a
program might be developed,
managed and made financially
sustainable.
Bikeshare Forum
The City of Portland hosted a
Bikeshare Public Forum at City Hall
on May 8th in the State of Maine
Room, 389 Congress Street. The
public participated in the
conversation about establishing a
Bikeshare program in the city.
The Environmental Protection
Agency selected the City of
Portland as one of five communities
nationwide to receive technical
assistance to explore the potential of
establishing a Bikeshare program.
Bikeshare is a program in which
bicycles are made available for
shared use. The program is
designed to provide affordable
access to bicycles for short-
distance trips in an urban area as an
alternative to motorized public
transit or private vehicles. Bikeshare
programs help reduce congestion,
noise and air pollution and support
sustainable growth that encourages
local economic development while
safeguarding health and the
environment.
The City will seek to develop a
business model for how such a
program might be developed,
managed and made financially
sustainable.
Voters OK $96.4
Million Budget for
Public Schools
Portland voters approved a
$96,360,549 school budget in a
citywide vote on May 14th, passing
it by a margin of 1395 to 971.
Voters also opted to continue to
hold school budget validation
referendums for
another three years - by a vote of
1319 to 1032.
The budget increases the school
portion of Portland’s property
taxes by 3 percent, or $58.36 per
year for a home assessed at
$200,000.
The school budget preserves core
academic programs serving students
from pre-kindergarten through adult
education and provides academic
support to help students graduate
ready for college and careers. The
district will continue to offer World
Languages, art, music, physical
education and co-curricular
activities.
The budget includes improvements
to school security and funding to
increase outreach and engagement
with families, businesses and
community organizations.
Million Budget for
Public Schools
Portland voters approved a
$96,360,549 school budget in a
citywide vote on May 14th, passing
it by a margin of 1395 to 971.
Voters also opted to continue to
hold school budget validation
referendums for
another three years - by a vote of
1319 to 1032.
The budget increases the school
portion of Portland’s property
taxes by 3 percent, or $58.36 per
year for a home assessed at
$200,000.
The school budget preserves core
academic programs serving students
from pre-kindergarten through adult
education and provides academic
support to help students graduate
ready for college and careers. The
district will continue to offer World
Languages, art, music, physical
education and co-curricular
activities.
The budget includes improvements
to school security and funding to
increase outreach and engagement
with families, businesses and
community organizations.
Greens Oppose
Landfill Expansions
A bill sponsored by Parkside/
Bayside Representative Ben
Chipman would place a one-year
moratorium on the issuing of
licenses to expand landfills in Maine.
The Environment and Natural
Resources Committee voted 10-3 in
favor of L.D. 1363, “An Act To
Ensure Landfill Capacity and
Promote Recycling.”
“This bill recognizes that landfills
should be the last option and that
we should not allow the existing
landfills to get any larger. We need
to do more to promote recycling
and work towards eliminating our
use of landfills," said Chipman, who
serves on the Environment and
Natural Resources Committee.
Maine faces a problem in its landfill
policies because surrounding states
and territories have more stringent
waste management standards,
which contributes to out-of-state
waste being carried across borders
to be deposited in Maine, according
to
Chipman.
Massachusetts, New
Hampshire and Rhode Island - as
well as New Brunswick - have
passed legislation promoting the
concept that landfills should be
reserved for non-recyclable waste,
while developing alternative options
for recyclable waste.
The bill would prevent expansion
licenses from being issued while the
committee does a study over the
next year and establishes a
statewide sustainable plan for solid
waste.
Landfill Expansions
A bill sponsored by Parkside/
Bayside Representative Ben
Chipman would place a one-year
moratorium on the issuing of
licenses to expand landfills in Maine.
The Environment and Natural
Resources Committee voted 10-3 in
favor of L.D. 1363, “An Act To
Ensure Landfill Capacity and
Promote Recycling.”
“This bill recognizes that landfills
should be the last option and that
we should not allow the existing
landfills to get any larger. We need
to do more to promote recycling
and work towards eliminating our
use of landfills," said Chipman, who
serves on the Environment and
Natural Resources Committee.
Maine faces a problem in its landfill
policies because surrounding states
and territories have more stringent
waste management standards,
which contributes to out-of-state
waste being carried across borders
to be deposited in Maine, according
to
Chipman.
Massachusetts, New
Hampshire and Rhode Island - as
well as New Brunswick - have
passed legislation promoting the
concept that landfills should be
reserved for non-recyclable waste,
while developing alternative options
for recyclable waste.
The bill would prevent expansion
licenses from being issued while the
committee does a study over the
next year and establishes a
statewide sustainable plan for solid
waste.
Voters Consider
$96.4 Million
Budget for Public
Schools
Citywide referendum on the
Portland Public Schools’
budget for the 2013-2014
school year will take place on
May 14th.
Voters will consider a $96,360,549
budget that was approved by the
Portland City Council on May 6th
and accepted by the Portland Board
of Public Education on May 7th.
The referendum also will decide
whether Portland continues to hold
school budget validation
referendums for another three
years.
The budget would increase the
school portion of Portland’s
property taxes by 3 percent, or
$58.36 per year for a home
assessed at $200,000.
May 9th is the last day for absentee
voting on the school budget
referendum. The city clerk’s office
will be open that day until 7:30
PM for absentee voting and voter
registration.
On May 14th, all polling places will
be open from 7AM to 8PM.
Residents can register to vote in
person at the city clerk’s office or
on the day of election at their polling
place. For more information about
voting and to see a sample ballot,
please visit
http://www.portlandvoters.com/
or call 874-8610.
The school budget preserves core
academic programs serving students
from pre-kindergarten through adult
education and provides academic
support to help students graduate
ready for college and careers. The
district will continue to offer World
Languages, art, music, physical
education and co-curricular
activities. Teachers will use
technology to enhance learning.
The proposed budget includes
improvements to school security
and funding to increase outreach
and engagement with families,
businesses and community
organizations. For school budget
information, please visit
http://www2.portlandschools.
org/school-budget. Bu
$96.4 Million
Budget for Public
Schools
Citywide referendum on the
Portland Public Schools’
budget for the 2013-2014
school year will take place on
May 14th.
Voters will consider a $96,360,549
budget that was approved by the
Portland City Council on May 6th
and accepted by the Portland Board
of Public Education on May 7th.
The referendum also will decide
whether Portland continues to hold
school budget validation
referendums for another three
years.
The budget would increase the
school portion of Portland’s
property taxes by 3 percent, or
$58.36 per year for a home
assessed at $200,000.
May 9th is the last day for absentee
voting on the school budget
referendum. The city clerk’s office
will be open that day until 7:30
PM for absentee voting and voter
registration.
On May 14th, all polling places will
be open from 7AM to 8PM.
Residents can register to vote in
person at the city clerk’s office or
on the day of election at their polling
place. For more information about
voting and to see a sample ballot,
please visit
http://www.portlandvoters.com/
or call 874-8610.
The school budget preserves core
academic programs serving students
from pre-kindergarten through adult
education and provides academic
support to help students graduate
ready for college and careers. The
district will continue to offer World
Languages, art, music, physical
education and co-curricular
activities. Teachers will use
technology to enhance learning.
The proposed budget includes
improvements to school security
and funding to increase outreach
and engagement with families,
businesses and community
organizations. For school budget
information, please visit
http://www2.portlandschools.
org/school-budget. Bu
Portland to
Re-Pave 40 Streets
The City of Portland has announced
$3 million worth of investment in
paving and street reconstruction for
the 2013 construction season
(May-November). Beginning this
month and continuing through the fall,
crews will be working on five busy
commuter streets as well as thirty-five
residential streets.
Five collector streets, including
Baxter Boulevard, International
Parkway (Jetport Access Road), the
Jetport Boulevard, Eastern Promenade,
Lambert Street and Veranda Street will
be resurfaced this year at a cost of
$1.28 million, which includes a
$283,000 local match. These projects
were identified by the City as busy
streets that provide access to key
areas within the city that are in need of
improvement.
In addition to the surfacing and
paving work, a number of residential
streets will have ramps installed in the
sidewalk curb to allow for improved
pedestrian accessibility.
Re-Pave 40 Streets
The City of Portland has announced
$3 million worth of investment in
paving and street reconstruction for
the 2013 construction season
(May-November). Beginning this
month and continuing through the fall,
crews will be working on five busy
commuter streets as well as thirty-five
residential streets.
Five collector streets, including
Baxter Boulevard, International
Parkway (Jetport Access Road), the
Jetport Boulevard, Eastern Promenade,
Lambert Street and Veranda Street will
be resurfaced this year at a cost of
$1.28 million, which includes a
$283,000 local match. These projects
were identified by the City as busy
streets that provide access to key
areas within the city that are in need of
improvement.
In addition to the surfacing and
paving work, a number of residential
streets will have ramps installed in the
sidewalk curb to allow for improved
pedestrian accessibility.
Bike Your Way to
Work Day Today
On Friday, May 17th, in celebration
of National Bike to Work Day, the
City of Portland with the Bicycle
Coalition of Maine, will welcome
bike commuters riding into work at
Monument Square with snacks,
drinks and prizes as well as bike
tech and safety tips. Cyclists will
have the opportunity to meet
Coalition staff, win prizes like
commuter lights, bike tools and
more, as well as pick up resources
on bike safety and commuting tips.
For more information about the
events, visit www.bikemaine.org.
Work Day Today
On Friday, May 17th, in celebration
of National Bike to Work Day, the
City of Portland with the Bicycle
Coalition of Maine, will welcome
bike commuters riding into work at
Monument Square with snacks,
drinks and prizes as well as bike
tech and safety tips. Cyclists will
have the opportunity to meet
Coalition staff, win prizes like
commuter lights, bike tools and
more, as well as pick up resources
on bike safety and commuting tips.
For more information about the
events, visit www.bikemaine.org.
Full-Scale Aircraft
Emergency Exercise
at Jetport
Local, county, state and federal
agencies will conduct a live training
exercise at Portland International
Jetport on Saturday, May 18th. The
exercise, required by the Federal
Aviation Administration, is designed
to test the airport’s emergency plan
and ensure that current policies and
procedures are appropriate to
respond to an aircraft emergency.
The exercise scenario involves the
emergency response to a fire that
engulfs a commercial airplane
during passenger boarding. The
event will test first responders and
local hospitals' ability to manage a
mass casualty situation. Crews
from the Portland and South
Portland Police and Fire
Departments, county and state
emergency agencies, area hospitals,
Red Cross, as well as private
entities will carry out live response
training throughout the day.
Operations at the airport will
continue as usual and should not be
negatively impacted by the training.
Motorists should anticipate traffic
congestion, including emergency
vehicles staged at the Elks Lodge on
Congress Street.
Emergency Exercise
at Jetport
Local, county, state and federal
agencies will conduct a live training
exercise at Portland International
Jetport on Saturday, May 18th. The
exercise, required by the Federal
Aviation Administration, is designed
to test the airport’s emergency plan
and ensure that current policies and
procedures are appropriate to
respond to an aircraft emergency.
The exercise scenario involves the
emergency response to a fire that
engulfs a commercial airplane
during passenger boarding. The
event will test first responders and
local hospitals' ability to manage a
mass casualty situation. Crews
from the Portland and South
Portland Police and Fire
Departments, county and state
emergency agencies, area hospitals,
Red Cross, as well as private
entities will carry out live response
training throughout the day.
Operations at the airport will
continue as usual and should not be
negatively impacted by the training.
Motorists should anticipate traffic
congestion, including emergency
vehicles staged at the Elks Lodge on
Congress Street.
WestFest to be
Held Saturday
The West End Neighborhood
Association's WestFest will be held on
Saturday, May 18th from 10AM to
10PM at the Maine Irish Heritage
Center on Gray Street. WENA's
WestFest 2013 incorporates several
events and locations, including:
*10:00-4:00 Craft Show at the Maine
Irish Heritage Center, 34 Gray Street.
*11:00-2:00 Chalk It Up drawing on
sidewalks near MIHC.
*7:30pm-10pm Talent Show at the
MIHC.
Also scheduled are a Neighborhood
Breakfast, Dining for Dollars, raffles,
contests, a visit from the new Portland
Public Library City of Readers
Bookmobile - and horse-drawn wagon
rides with Doc and Red from Rockin'
Horse Stables. The event supports the
swimming lessons and summer open
swim program for students at Reiche
School.
Forms & info:
http://www.wenamaine.org/WestF
est.htm
Held Saturday
The West End Neighborhood
Association's WestFest will be held on
Saturday, May 18th from 10AM to
10PM at the Maine Irish Heritage
Center on Gray Street. WENA's
WestFest 2013 incorporates several
events and locations, including:
*10:00-4:00 Craft Show at the Maine
Irish Heritage Center, 34 Gray Street.
*11:00-2:00 Chalk It Up drawing on
sidewalks near MIHC.
*7:30pm-10pm Talent Show at the
MIHC.
Also scheduled are a Neighborhood
Breakfast, Dining for Dollars, raffles,
contests, a visit from the new Portland
Public Library City of Readers
Bookmobile - and horse-drawn wagon
rides with Doc and Red from Rockin'
Horse Stables. The event supports the
swimming lessons and summer open
swim program for students at Reiche
School.
Forms & info:
http://www.wenamaine.org/WestF
est.htm
City Council
Will Vote on Tar
Sands Resolution
On Monday, May 20th, the
Portland City Council will vote on a
resolution that expresses the City’s
opposition to transporting tar sands
through the Portland Montreal
Pipeline, and calls for a thorough
environmental impact review by the
federal government of the risks
posed by transporting tar sands
through the 236-mile pipeline. The
resolution was sponsored by West
End City Councilor David Marshall.
The 61-year-old Portland Montreal
Pipeline passes near Sebago Lake,
Portland’s drinking water supply,
and ends in Casco Bay.
More than 1,800 Portland
residents have signed a petition in
opposition to tar sands. In January,
1,500 people marched through the
streets of Portland expressing their
opposition to transporting tar sands
through Maine and New England
and calling for a federal
environmental impact review. Since
then, four towns in Maine along the
pipeline including Bethel, Casco,
Raymond, and Waterford have
passed resolutions in opposition to
tar sands oil.
Will Vote on Tar
Sands Resolution
On Monday, May 20th, the
Portland City Council will vote on a
resolution that expresses the City’s
opposition to transporting tar sands
through the Portland Montreal
Pipeline, and calls for a thorough
environmental impact review by the
federal government of the risks
posed by transporting tar sands
through the 236-mile pipeline. The
resolution was sponsored by West
End City Councilor David Marshall.
The 61-year-old Portland Montreal
Pipeline passes near Sebago Lake,
Portland’s drinking water supply,
and ends in Casco Bay.
More than 1,800 Portland
residents have signed a petition in
opposition to tar sands. In January,
1,500 people marched through the
streets of Portland expressing their
opposition to transporting tar sands
through Maine and New England
and calling for a federal
environmental impact review. Since
then, four towns in Maine along the
pipeline including Bethel, Casco,
Raymond, and Waterford have
passed resolutions in opposition to
tar sands oil.
Customer Walks
Off with Rare
Building Part
The owners of a historic West End
property are appealing for the return of
a missing architectural element of the
building. The richly carved exterior
window head from a historic Greek
revival townhouse at 127-129 Park
Street was removed for restoration
and was temporarily being displayed at
Bintliff's Restaurant on Portland Street.
The piece had been taken down for
cleaning and was on the floor leaning
against the counter when a familiar
customer walked in and asked if they
were going to throw it out. Employees
thought the man was joking, but he
suddenly left, scooping up the massive
pine carving, shouldering it as he
hurried out.
The Park Street house is one of only
two in this city with this type of
peaked and scrolled window cap that
is an example of creative modification
of . The window header is needed to
bring the property into compliance
with the City's historic preservation
ordinance.
Off with Rare
Building Part
The owners of a historic West End
property are appealing for the return of
a missing architectural element of the
building. The richly carved exterior
window head from a historic Greek
revival townhouse at 127-129 Park
Street was removed for restoration
and was temporarily being displayed at
Bintliff's Restaurant on Portland Street.
The piece had been taken down for
cleaning and was on the floor leaning
against the counter when a familiar
customer walked in and asked if they
were going to throw it out. Employees
thought the man was joking, but he
suddenly left, scooping up the massive
pine carving, shouldering it as he
hurried out.
The Park Street house is one of only
two in this city with this type of
peaked and scrolled window cap that
is an example of creative modification
of . The window header is needed to
bring the property into compliance
with the City's historic preservation
ordinance.
St. Patrick
Church Closes
St. Patrick Church on Outer
Congress Street closed its doors on
Sunday, May 20th, after a final
special Mass. The church is in the
process of being sold to Charter
Realty Company, the owner of the
Westgate Shopping Center next
door. The St. Patrick School closed
in 2007.
The St. Patrick congregation,
which was founded in 1922, is now
part of Our Lady of Hope Parish,
along with St. Joseph and St. Pius
Churches, and is served by the
Jesuit Fathers. The new owners
reportedly plan to demolish the
church building after the completion
of the sale this summer.
Church Closes
St. Patrick Church on Outer
Congress Street closed its doors on
Sunday, May 20th, after a final
special Mass. The church is in the
process of being sold to Charter
Realty Company, the owner of the
Westgate Shopping Center next
door. The St. Patrick School closed
in 2007.
The St. Patrick congregation,
which was founded in 1922, is now
part of Our Lady of Hope Parish,
along with St. Joseph and St. Pius
Churches, and is served by the
Jesuit Fathers. The new owners
reportedly plan to demolish the
church building after the completion
of the sale this summer.
Local Police
Oppose Loosening
Gun Law
Legislation seeks to remove
permit requirements for
concealed weapons
Portland Police Chief Michael
Sauschuck and other local law
enforcement officers have
announced their opposition to LD
660, An Act to Enhance Self-
Defense by Removing Restrictions
on the Carrying and Use of
Weapons.
LD 660 seeks to eliminate the
permit required for concealed carry
for Maine residents and not
otherwise prohibited. The legislation
would also allow other types of
what the police consider
‘dangerous’ weapons to be
concealed. Currently, Maine
permitting process requires a
minimum age, no prior felony
convictions and no recent drug
convictions or commitments for
mental health treatment as well as
completing handgun safety training.
Those requirements would be
eliminated by LD 660.
Oppose Loosening
Gun Law
Legislation seeks to remove
permit requirements for
concealed weapons
Portland Police Chief Michael
Sauschuck and other local law
enforcement officers have
announced their opposition to LD
660, An Act to Enhance Self-
Defense by Removing Restrictions
on the Carrying and Use of
Weapons.
LD 660 seeks to eliminate the
permit required for concealed carry
for Maine residents and not
otherwise prohibited. The legislation
would also allow other types of
what the police consider
‘dangerous’ weapons to be
concealed. Currently, Maine
permitting process requires a
minimum age, no prior felony
convictions and no recent drug
convictions or commitments for
mental health treatment as well as
completing handgun safety training.
Those requirements would be
eliminated by LD 660.