May 2015 Munjoy Hill Observer

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: MHNO News 2 • AARP News, Aging in Place 3 • Capital & City, Money Prof 4 • MHNO Bulletin Board 5 • MHNO Bus Sponsors, Pet Essay 6 •

Parenting Tips, Crossword 8 • Bus Focus: PortlandMaine Rentals 9 • Maine Animal

Coalition 9 • Events Listings 10-11 •

Friends of the Eastern Promenade SPRING UPDATEFRIENDS OF THE EASTERN PROM-ENADE’S Board and Committees have been using this time to refresh and renew administrative opera-tions as we continue to grow into a stage two organization. For the year ahead, we’ve planned:• AnewFoEPlogo.

• ThereturnofourSummerConcertSeriestoFortAllenPark

• ThereturnoftheHiddenGardensofMunjoyHillTouronSunday,July12

Do you have a unique way of greening up your space? Do you know a Hill neighbor whose summer ’scapes brighten your life? Let us know. We’d love to consider your space for the garden tour. This year’s tour promises to Bee an exciting event! Curious?

Stay tuned at easternpromenade.org

1MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER May 2015

See page 4, 58 FORE: LAY OF THE LAND

By Matthew Kennedy

This article is the third in a series discussing aspects of the 58 Fore Street redevelopment proposal. In March we sum-marized the overall proposal and process, with emphasis on zoning issues. In April we addressed historic preservation designation. In this article we will report on the results of an MHNO survey of members regarding the redevelop-ment. We will also take a closer look at some of the key is-sues and concerns raised both in the survey and elsewhere.

MHNO Member SurveyOn March 23 the MHNO issued an on-line survey to its members to gauge sentiment regarding the cur-rent phase of the redevelopment proposal (the proposed rezoning), and to assess general levels of understand-ing regarding both the proposal and the process. The survey was distributed to 106 members for whom we had email addresses; we received 54 unique member responses, a response rate of slightly over 50%. Not all respondents answered all questions.

The survey’s core question asked, “What is your opin-ion on the proposed zoning map changes and text amendments?” Respondents were able to choose one of the following six answers: strong support; support; no opinion; opposition; strong opposition; or “I have questions and want more information.”

Focusing on the subset of respondents indicating a spe-cific sentiment (that is, excluding those who chose “I have questions and want more information”), the re-sults demonstrate broadly divided opinion regarding the proposed rezoning:

• Twenty-onerespondents,orabout48%,indicatedsomemeasureofoppositiontotheproposedrezoningandtextamendments(thatis,“oppose”or“stronglyoppose”).

• Eighteenrespondents,orabout41%,indicatedsomemeasureofsupportfortheproposedre-zoningandtextamendments(thatis,“support”or“strongsupport”).

• Fiverespondents,orabitover11%,hadnoopinion.

The survey also allowed respondents to ask questions or provide comments. Not surprisingly, these generally reflected the divided opinion captured by the senti-ment question. In many instances these questions and

comments involve issues yet to be addressed by the City. Some recurring themes include:

• Public access to the site and waterfront; open spaces for public use

• Opportunities for affordable housing• Impact on harbor views; height of buildings along

Fore Street• Criticism of NIMBY (“Not In My Back Yard”)

opposition to the project• Enthusiasm for a vibrant, mixed-use, 24/7 devel-

opment• Preservation of the historic structures

A Closer LookBelow we take a closer look at four issues raised often in communications to MHNO (including the survey). These matters have also been discussed at length in meetings before the Historic Preservation Board, the Planning Board, and the City Council – meetings that will continue in coming months. We approach these matters from two perspectives. First, we summarize the developers’ stated intent. However, recognizing that such statements are, in the end, just that, we then con-sider external factors that may constrain the developers’ – or, should the property be sold, any future owners’ – freedom of action.

1. “The developer plans to make a gated community with private streets and access to the historic build-ings will be restricted.”

Developers’ stated intent: At the top of the devel-opers’ published list of design principles is a desire to “enhance public access” at the site, including a goal of “dramatically increasing public access through the site from Fore Street to the water’s edge.” Additional design principles include “create an inviting neighbor-hood” and “encourage the development of a waterfront park” on adjacent City land. More recently the devel-opers have provided the following statement on this is-sue: “[W]e have never intended, nor do we ever intend in the future, to restrict public access through the site. In fact, with the rezoning, we intend to increase public access through the site. This has always been a prior-ity in our vision and development principles since the acquisition of the property.” The developers also view such public access to be an “economic necessity for a mixed-use development.”

58 Fore: Getting the Lay of the Land

Above, cherry blossoms make their appearance in a protected corner of the East End Community School’s children’s garden. PHOTO BY LISA PEÑALVER

Putting a Shine on Munjoy HillAPRIL STOOLS DAY and East End Commu-nity Cleanup 2015 were a huge success! Thanks to all our friends and neighbors who donated their time and energy to cleaning up Munjoy Hill on Saturday April 25th, a good time was had by all. Many remarked that the Hill was made cleaner than ever, so thanks to our neigh-bors who helped by taking the time to pick up their neighborhoods in advance.

Early on Saturday morning, around 30 volun-teers showed up at the Hill House, where they enjoyed coffee courtesy of Coffee by Design, and pastries donated by Rosemont Market.

Armed with trash bags, rakes, shovels, and gloves, the worker bees dispersed across the Hill and the Eastern Promenade to beautify our surroundings. A lucky few came across the “Golden Turds” and won gift certificates from Fish and Bone or PetLife! At the end of their shift, volunteers chowed down happily on pizzas donated by Otto Pizza’s East End location. Later in the day, residents took full advantage of a document shredding truck, donated by AARP for the afternoon.

A huge Thank You again to all our community members who donated time, energy, food and supplies to this event! Have a great Spring!

Above, the first wave of volunteers for the Cleanup get fueled up at the MHNO Hill House: L-R, MHNO board member Megan Summers, Friends of the Eastern Promenade board members Cami Smalley (VP, orange vest), Joyce Wethington Knight, and Diane Davison (ED).

Non Profit OrgUS Postage

PAIDPortland, ME

Permit No. 824 MUNJOY HILL

OBSERVER1979 – 2015

FREE • Published by the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization • Vol. 35, No. 4 • MAY 2015

Folks, I am pleased to report that the spirit of volunteerism is alive and well on Munjoy Hill!

On April 25, I arrived at the MHNO Hill House (a.k.a :”Clean-Up Central”) for the Saturday community clean-up at 9 am, and the place was already crowded with helpers picking up trash-bags and coffee and getting their marching or-ders.

It does the heart good to see so many people pitching in like this! I noticed that there were other neighbors working in their own areas in-dependently, including one older man and his young grandson. It is interesting how such an effort has ripple-effects.

About a week ago, I was listening to a forum on MPBN where panelists were discussing the importance , benefits and possible drawbacks of volunteerism in the community. I have to first make a cursory nod to the downsides (since I don’t think the complaints are legitimate). Some people will argue that volunteers are taking away work from people who might actually be paid to do it. If you think about it, this actually turns into a good reason in support of volunteering, because usually what volunteers are doing are things for which no funding exists. If they didn’t do it, it would not get done.

Now, mind you, I did not get to hear the full radio discussion (I was in the car on the way to the dentist when it began). But it made me think about the important role volunteers play in our lives.

Volunteers run neighborhood organizations, for one thing, and they lead the way in look-ing at problems in a community and working with City officials to find solutions. They watch out for those who are vulnerable. They see what needs to be done and they do it.

I have a friend who told me that one important quality she looks for in a man is the “helper gene”. I think that this quality exists in many people, regardless of gender, race, or culture. It just takes a certain amount of chutzpah to act on it, sometimes. Dare to be bold.

Beyond the obvious benefits to the community, there are a host of benefits for the individuals who participate in volunteering. Everything from exercise and self-esteem, to lower blood pressure, relief from depression, job networking and building new friendships. There exist whole websites dedicated to the topic.

So, if volunteering is something you have never tried, please consider it! If it’s something you

are already doing: THANK you!! —and please write to me (and the MHNO) to share your experience so we can include it in the Observer. Your work can inspire others to get involved. As the saying goes, “many hands make light work.” Go out and do good! :)

To listen to the MPBN piece on Volunteering in Maine online, visit: http://news.mpbn.net/post/volunteering-maine

Other resources:

http://www.worldvolunteerweb.org/resources/how-to-guides/manage-volunteers/doc/how-vol-unteers-benefit-organizations.html

http://www.idealist.org/info/Volunteer/Benefits

ht tp://spi r it .prudent ia l .com/v iew/page/soc/14839

http://www.helpguide.org/articles/work-career/volunteering-and-its-surprising-benefits.htm

ATTENTION!!

Look for NEW PARKING RULES AND SIGNS around Portland.

Double-check the signs when you park your car!

For the latest rules and where they apply, go to:

http://www.portlandmaine.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=757

2 May 2015 MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

WHO YOU GONNA CALL? You can help PREVENT crime on the Hill!If you see a crime happening or see/hear anything suspicious in your neighborhood, please call the police!

1) 756-8135 Daytimes: Janine Kaserman with Community Policing

2) 650-9005 cell: 11 am thru the night, Senior Lead Officer Jeff Druan

3) 874-8575/-8574: Dispatch/non-emergency events

4) EMERGENCIES: 9-1-1

The Munjoy Hill Observer is published by the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization

(MHNO) 92 Congress Street

Portland, Maine [email protected]

207-775-3050

EDITOR: Lisa Peñ[email protected]

(207) 272-5962 munjoyhill.org

OBSERVER COMMITTEEAndrea Myhaver, Tamera Edison, Ross Fields, Deborah Stevenson,

Lisa Peñalver

ADVERTISINGRoss Fields

[email protected] (207) 233-4327

Tamera Edison [email protected]

(207) 939-7998

Deborah [email protected]

(207) 807-0396

Lisa Peñalver, Layout & Design [email protected]

(207) 272-5962

3,000 Circulation 8,000+ Readership

ABOUT OUR PAPERThe Munjoy Hill Observer is published by the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization (MHNO) as a service to its members and to the community as a whole, to inform Portland’s East End residents of local issues and events, and of the services that can be found here. The Observer serves as a vehicle to connect and inform our neighbors, while enlisting community partners to help us help those who need it most.

The Munjoy Hill Observer was first published in May of 1979. Circulation is 3000, distributed free in Portland at over 100 locations. Nearly 300 copies are mailed to current and former members of the MHNO.

MHNO Board 2014-15Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization

Andrea Myhaver, President [email protected]

Matthew Kennedy, Treasurer [email protected]

Sean Turley, Secretary [email protected]

Sarah Graulty .............................................sarah.graulty@munjoyhill.org

Elise Loschiavo ............................................elise.loschiavo@munjoyhill.org

Elaine Mullin ..............................................elaine.mullin@munjoyhill.org

Joan Sheedy ...............................................joaniesheedy@gmail.com

Megan Summers ........................................megan.summers@munjoyhill.org

MHNO MissionIncorporated as a nonprofit organization

in January 1979, our purpose is to be a

broad-based, representative organization

committed to improving the quality

of life for the residents of Munjoy Hill

and the East End, by strengthening the

sense of community, maintaining the

current diversity of social and economic

groups, encouraging self-sufficiency, and

enriching the lives of all residents.

Clip and save these numbers!

PLEASE SEND YOUR ESSAYS, LETTERS AND HILL NEWS TO [email protected]

Editor, Lisa Peñalver

ANONYMOUS CRIMES TIPS PROGRAM:Phone Tip—Dial 874-8584 | Online: tipsubmit.comText-A-Tip: Text “GOTCHA” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES)

MHNO President, Andrea Myhaver

At right, How to Build Community, poster text by the Syracuse Cultural Workers (SCW); Karen Kerney, wa-tercolor, SCW © 1998. Poster available through www.syracuseculturalworkers.com. Used with permission.

All for one, and one for all!

Andrea is taking the month off from her usual Helm

piece.—Look for her next essay in the upcoming June 2015 issue of the

Observer.

Ode to Volunteers--Author Unknown

Many will be shocked to find,

When the day of judgment nears,

That there’s a special place in Heaven,

Set aside for volunteers.

Furnished with big recliners,

Satin couches and footstools,

Where there are no committee chair-men,

No yard sales or rest area coffee to serve,

No library duty or bulletin assembly,

There will be nothing to print or staple,

Not one thing to fold or mail,

Email lists are outlawed.

But a finger snap will bring

Cool drinks and gourmet dinners

And rare treats fit for a king.

You ask, “Who’ll serve these privileged

And work for all they’re worth?”

Why, all those who reaped the benefits,

And not once volunteered on Earth.

http://news.mpbn.net/post/volunteering-maine

http://news.mpbn.net/post/volunteering-maine

http://www.worldvolunteerweb.org/resources/how-to-guides/manage-volunteers/doc/how-volunteers-benefit-organizations.html



http://www.idealist.org/info/Volunteer/Benefits

http://spirit.prudential.com/view/page/soc/14839

http://spirit.prudential.com/view/page/soc/14839

By Laura Mailander

THE EASTERN PROMENADE community garden is going to be built with the help of volunteers, city staff, and the wonderful people at the Resilience Hub. Our first work evening will be May 12th, starting at 5:30. If interested, email [email protected] for more information.

To sign up for the waiting list for a community garden plot in Port-land, visit cultivatingcommunity.org. The wait is usually 1-2 years, but we hope to build at least one new community garden each year to reduce the waiting time.

The new garden on the Eastern Promenade will have around 60

plots. A section of the garden will be a common share area for grow-ing food communally and divid-ing the harvest. Brentwood Farms Community Garden currently uses a combination of individual plots and common growing areas.

We plan to plant fruit trees around the garden and possibly high bush blueberries as well.

BE SUSPICIOUS OF ANY CALLERS YOU DON’T KNOW!CURRENT SCAMS in Maine include: the Imposter Scam, Computer Fix Scam, Medi-

care scam, Grandparent scam, Fake Check Scams, Lottery/Sweepstakes, Govern-

ment Grants Scams, Nigerian Scheme, and Internet Phishing. From: http://www.

maine.gov/ag/consumer/scams.shtml ;

DO NOT give people your birth date, your

Social Security numbers, or your credit card

numbers. If they refuse to give you a call-back

number, just HANG UP! For more info: http://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/fraud-watch-network/

Eastern Prom Community GardenCOMING SOON TO A HILLSIDE NEAR YOU!

SPRING REPRESENTS NEW beginnings for me. It is when I feel energized and full of possibility. This is when I initiate change. Not in January, when I feel like a griz-zly bear and wish only to hibernate until spring once again fills the air with new life. This year though, as I get ready to turn 50, I am reflect-ing on my 40s, and all that I have created.

Five years ago, I embarked on a journey of huge proportions. I re-invented myself – changed careers, downsized my home, and while I did not add to my 401K during that time, I neither drew from it nor spent down my entire savings. Though I am proud of my efforts, there were times when my inner critic’s voice was louder than my inner wisdom. In those very trying times, I practiced the tips I write about in this column and share in my coaching practice. I offer them to you with the hope they renew your spirit and remind you that re-ality is ours to create.

It took about two years before the career-change idea sprouted any blossoms in my mind, and even then, it was another season before I found the courage to take any action. I was in resistance, firmly planted in it. I remember my peer coach asking me what it would take to loosen the dirt called resistance.

One of the best ways to overcome this resistance is to practice letting go. When we can let go of the fa-miliar, the comfort of “what is”, we create space for possibilities. Because letting go is easier said than done, it is important to create strategies for dissolving our attach-ments to our present reality.

Fertilized with possibility and free from the security of familiarity and comfort, I decided on my course of action. I narrowed my focus to what I wanted to achieve and then mapped out the steps. Of course, there were roadblocks at this stage too. My inner critic was as loud as a chorus of Spring Peepers is during mating season. She sang the songs

of doubt, fear, and failure.

To battle this roadblock, I prac-ticed the Law of Attraction. It states, I attract to myself whatever I give my focus, attention, or energy to; whether wanted or unwanted.

Staying connected to my goal and taking the next right best step, when the whole process seemed too overwhelming, got me through some of the most challenging times. I had to take an interim job that was not a good fit for me at all, yet, it paid well enough that I could continue adding to my repertoire of skills, and grow my coaching prac-tice. Today, I am working full time as a change consultant, and living in a maintenance-free condo over-looking the water; life is good.

Kathleen Kerr is a professional tran-sition coach supporting clients as they explore the space between endings and beginnings to dauntlessly create begin-nings that support them reaching their goals with optimism, courage, and joy.


The Space Between By Kathleen M. Kerr

Our beliefs shape our filters; our filters form our thoughts; our thoughts drive our feelings; our feelings spur our actions; our actions become our habits; our habits reinforce our beliefs

Help Stamp Out Hunger in Maine on May 9th By Jane Margesson, AARP Maine Communications Director

ONE PERSON IN MAINE going hungry is one too many. Our state has a far-flung population, and many who live here are on low or fixed incomes. One third of Mainers 65+, for example, is dependent on Social Security for 100 percent of their income, just over $1,100 per month. Every extra expense can have a ripple effect forcing at-risk seniors to have to choose between paying for their basic living expenses or their next meal.Now, more than ever, we must seek out opportunities to help Maine

residents, no matter their age, keep food on the table. If we work togeth-er, we can make a huge difference!

On May 9, 2015, the nation’s largest single-day food drive which is called Stamp Out Hunger will once again play an important role in stocking food pantries across the country and right here in Maine. Hosted by the National Association of Letter Car-riers and the U.S. Postal Service, this is the 23rd year of this effort.

Getting involved in this great ini-tiative is easy! On May 9th, about 180,000 letter carriers across the

country will collect non-perishable food donations from more than 10,000 communities at the same time they deliver the mail. After picking up all these donations they will deliver them to a local food bank or pantry. Households nationwide will be alerted to the opportunity to participate in this food drive through a postcard or bag delivered to their home. It’s a fantastic and simple ap-proach to helping those in need in every community across the state.

Considering the size and impor-tance of this single-day food drive, postal carriers are always apprecia-

tive of help from volunteers. Ask your postal carrier how you can be-come an active part of the process on May 9th. Many Stamp Out Hunger volunteers even use their own car to pick up the food donations, and ei-ther deliver them to a drop-off point or to the local food pantry. However you can help will have a huge im-pact for everyone involved.

Rates of food insecurity among those 50 and older have more than doubled since 2001. Sadly, Maine ranks highest in New England for hunger, but we can work together to change that. Right here in Portland,

Preble Street is doing amazing work to combat hunger and homelessness. I encourage you to go to www.pre-blestreet.org to learn more and to see how you can help.

To find out more information about Stamp Out Hunger visit https://foodlifeline.org/ and click on the Stamp Out Hunger tab near the bottom. Please share the details with friends, family, and neighbors about Stamp Out Hunger day on May 9th and, on behalf of AARP Maine, thank you for taking the step to help others through this great initiative.

BY THE TIME you read this col-umn, dandelions will be popping up all over the Hill. For some, the flowers are a glorious sign of warm weather; for the bees, they are an important food source; and for some, they are a scourge to be eliminated, hopefully without chemicals. But, to herbal-ist Mischa Schuler, they are a timely source of spring tonics.

According to Schuler, the roots and leaves can be used in a tonic to stimu-late the gall bladder to emulsify fats and eliminate the effects of winter on our bodies, while giving a generous dose of vitamins A and C, plus essen-tial minterals.

Schuler will be leading an herb walk on the Eastern Promenade on May 14 to introduce some wild herbs readily available locally. Schuler is an herbalist with a practice on Congress Street; she holds a master’s degree in herbal medicine. Participants in the herb walk will learn how to prepare medicines from the herbs they gather.

Herbal medicines are the root of

today’s pharmaceuticals and have been used by traditional cultures for thousands of years. Some of the ben-eficial plants widely available on the Hill include sumac fruit (vitamin C), plantain (an anti-inflammatory treat-ment for bug bites and stings), white pine (bark and needles produce anti-virals), burdock root and burrs (used for liver and kidney support and skin tonics). Also, Rosa rugosa (vitamin C), Japanese knotweed (known lo-cally as “bamboo”, anti-inflammatory for arthritic joints), Queen Anne’s Lace, and St John’s Wort.

The dandelion not only can be used to jump-start a sluggish gall bladder, but also to re-mineralize the jaw, and anchor loose teeth. “Have you seen this happen?”, an incredulous reporter asked. “Yes”, replied Schuler.

Though Schuler holds a degree from the accredited Maryland University of Integrative Health, she finds much herbal knowledge is handed down through oral tradition, and she fre-quently learns from participants in her herbal classes.

Schuler doesn’t encourage foraging for some herbs on the Promenade because of questions about the soil health, and also the presence of pet waste. Most of her professional for-aging is done in rural areas, such as Pineland Farms in Gloucester.

To learn more about Schuler’s prac-tice, see her website at wildcarrot-herbs.com or call her at 274-3242. To enroll in the May 14 herb walk, which will be held from 6 to 8 pm, see the Portland Adult Education website at portlandadulted.org and register for course 3276, Herb Walk.

Gardener’s DirtFinding herbal bounty in unexpected places By Nini McManamy

Herbalist Mischa Schuler finding early dandelions on the Promenade

Writer Nini McManamy is a Master Gardener with a garden design and consultation business, Gardener’s Dirt ([email protected])

FREE SCREENINGS FOR SKIN CANCERPEOPLE WHO ARE uninsured or under-insured can get free screen-ing for skin cancer on upcom-ing dates by appointment. These screenings are especially important to people with freckles, those who sunburn easily, or have a family history of skin cancer. Screenings for skin will include a thorough vi-sual exam from a qualified health professional who will provide use-ful prevention tips.Space is limited and patients who have never been screened by a der-matologist will receive priority for skin cancer screening.We will be also be offering a spe-cial oral cancer screening event at the MMC Cancer Institute on May 21 from 6-8pm for uninsured and under-insured patients.Oral Cancer (or Head and Neck Cancer) Screening is recommend-ed for those that don’t have routine dental care or have oral concerns such as: a mouth sore that doesn’t heal, a lump inside your mouth, white or reddish patches inside your mouth, or tongue pain.

Interpreter service is available. To complete an assessment and schedule an appointment, call 1-844-504-9680.All screenings are sponsored by the American Dermatology Soci-ety, Maine Medical Center Cancer Institute, Southern Maine Health Care, Mercy Oncology Hematol-ogy Center, Cancer Care Center of York County, and the American Cancer Society.

Tuesday, May 19, 2015Mercy Oncology-Hematology CenterFore River Medical Building195 Fore River Parkway, Suite 360Portland, Maine

Thursday, May 21, 2015 – Also offering screening for oral cancerMaine Medical Center Cancer In-stitute100 Campus Drive, Suite 121Scarborough, Maine

For additional information, call the Maine Medical Center Can-cer Institute at 1-844-504-9680.


BUDGETS ARE A REFLECTION of our priorities. From schools, to roads and bridges, to public safety, how we spend our tax dol-lars tells the world and each other what we care about.

Tax too much, and we stifle growth. Spend too little, and we fail to make critical investments in our future. When the right bal-ance is struck between revenue (taxes) and spending and meeting our needs, then we have the right condi-tions for everyone to do well.

Earlier this year, Gov. LePage submitted his $6.5 bil-lion two-year budget proposal. While the budget ad-dresses all aspects of state government, the biggest con-versation has centered on the changes in the tax code.

The LePage proposal makes reductions to the income tax: giving 50% of his tax break to the top 10% (in-dividuals with taxable income more than $134,000)

while middle-income earners will get around $145 break. Additionally, he proposes increasing the sales tax to 6.5%. He also completely eliminates revenue sharing by 2017--causing our towns to either cut es-sential services or raise property taxes--or do both. And, finally, for the first time ever, Gov. LePage pro-poses taxing non-profits.

In short, his priorities are based on the failed prem-ise of trickle-down economics: help the rich get richer, shift much of the tax burden on to property taxes, and squeeze future government spending and investments. This is not a sustainable path for future growth.

In response, Democrats unveiled an alternative tax plan, call the Better Budget for Maine. Our budget de-creases the tax burden on Maine’s working and mid-dle-income earners while maintaining critical invest-ments in infrastructure, public safety, and education.

Here are some of the highlights of the Better Deal for Maine proposal:

The Better Deal cuts property taxes by doubling the Homestead exemption for all Maine homeowners (not just those over the age of 65, as Gov. LePage proposes), and increasing the Property Tax Fairness Credit. The $120 million of direct relief to property taxpayers will have a huge impact on families’ bottom lines.

The Better Deal cuts income taxes and targets that re-lief at the middle-income earners, while making our income tax more progressive. Under our plan, 98% of the income tax relief goes to 95% of all Mainers.

The Better Deal for Maine prevents property tax spikes by investing $80 million in revenue sharing so that our communities can pay for local services like police, fire, and public works, and will not be forced to hike up property taxes to pay for essential services.

The Better Deal for Maine does not tax non-profits.

The Better Deal does not raise the sales tax rate. We keep the sales tax rate, the most regressive tax, at its current level of 5.5%.

The Better Deal makes critical investments in our fu-ture. Our plan invests an additional $20 million a year into K-12 education and gets us two percentage points closer to the voter mandated goal of 55%.

The Better Deal is fully paid for, now and in the future. The LePage plan leaves a $300 million shortfall in the next budget.

With everyone in Augusta agreeing upon the need for tax reform, we stand at a critical juncture that could positively shape Maine for decades to come. Democrats believe that we offer a better deal for Maine families, a better deal for Maine communities, and a better deal for Maine. We look forward to working with our colleagues and Gov. LePage to do what’s best for Maine families and our economy.

As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts and comments. Please feel free to email me at [email protected].

justinalfond.com

Building a Better Budget for Maine

ASK THE MONEY PROF

College professor and financial adviser Joel I. Gold is the owner of the Gold Company, located off of India Street, 145 Newbury Street, 3rd flr, (207) 650-7884, where he works as a Fee-Only Financial Planner. He’s been in Portland since 1995.

Building Wealth with InvestmentsPERSONAL FINANCIAL wealth means having enough net worth to have the funds necessary to meet your desired goals.

Let’s face reality: Someone with $2,000,000 in net worth (calcu-lated by taking one’s assets minus all debt) is probably in better finan-cial condition than someone with $200,000. Of course, everything is relative. Most of us will not inherit fortunes of money while we are in our younger years, if ever.

Becoming educated and getting a good job is the most important route to building financial wealth. I often tell students in my personal finance classes that saving and in-vesting, beginning as early as pos-sible, is an excellent way to build

financial wealth. All the monies that are spent on non-appreciating expenses and assets are lost oppor-tunities for saving and investing.

The goal of investing is to use mon-ey to make money. That means to make a profit or to have a positive investment return. There are re-ally only two types of profits that one can make: income returns and capital gains. Income can come in the form of interest or dividends. Capital gains occur if assets appre-ciate in value.

Take any investment; for example, buying stocks. The investment objective of buying most equi-ties (stocks) is capital gains. Many stocks also pay dividends. Bonds, on the other hand are purchased primarily for income (interest ). Capital gains can be realized if bonds are sold for a higher price than the cost basis.

Another investment may be real es-tate. On rental income properties, income is derived from rents and other income-generating sources. As rents increase, the value of the properties will increase, resulting in capital gains. A primary resi-dence is generally not considered a source of income. When the resi-dence is sold, there is, however, po-tential to realize good capital gains.

Finally, let’s take a look at what the profit incentive is to buy a business. Same thing: income/capital gains. The income is derived from the earnings of the business (revenues minus expenses) and as the busi-ness prospers, eventually it can be sold at a capital gain. The wealth of the richest has been a function of their success with investments. So, consider doing this: start small, but do yourselves a big favor, and start investing now.

Externalconstraints: In evaluating and approving development plans for the site, the Planning Board and City Council will be guided by a set of au-thoritative policy documents including the Eastern Waterfront Master Plan, which is part of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. This document calls for development of a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood integrated with neigh-boring districts, including establishment of an appropriately scaled internal street and pedestrian network that links with existing networks. Similarly, the purpose of the B-6 zoning requested by the developers is to promote “twenty-four hour urban vitality” through development that provides “a quality pedestrian experience, promotes public transit, and demonstrates exemplary urban design.”

City staff and elected officials have emphasized that they have the power and obligation to ensure that any development of the site aligns with the prin-ciples set forth in the Eastern Waterfront Master Plan, the B-6 zoning, and other elements of the Comprehensive Plan. Failure to do so could expose the City to legal action, as occurred last year in the context of the Bayside Midtown development.

There currently exists no formal public access to the developers’ property, nor public access to the historic buildings. To the extent any such access is established by the owners or mandated by the city, it would represent a net gain over current conditions.

2. “The developer plans to move the waterfront trail so he can build on the water.”

Developers’ stated intent: The developers have expressed an interest in moving the trail closer to the waterfront, from which it is currently sepa-rated by a wide strip of land used for boatyard and float storage, as well as a chain link fence. The developers have held informal discussions with Portland Trails regarding this proposed relocation.

Externalconstraints:The developers cannot unilaterally restrict access to the trail, nor can they unilaterally change its location. The trail runs on land they do not own, and over which other entities have easements. Any such change would require the agreement of a number of bodies, including the City Planning Board.

The Eastern Waterfront Master Plan calls for increased public access to the waterfront and enhanced recreational trail access.

The proposed rezoning would establish the 75-foot strip of land adjacent to the shoreline as an Eastern Waterfront Port Zone (EWPZ). The EWPZ exists to “protect and nurture” both extant and potential marine uses; exam-ples include transient and long-term commercial berthing, marine-related warehousing, and ship and off-shore support services. “Pedestrian and/or bicycle trails” are permitted in this zone “without limitation”; residential construction is explicitly prohibited. The rezoning would also prohibit all construction within 25 feet of the shoreline with the exception of marine offices, which could be built within 5 feet of shoreline or pier edge.

3. “What are the suggestions from the historical preservation commit-tee? Is there any way to control how the development looks?”

Developers’ stated intent: The developers’ design principles include the desire to “restore and invigorate the historic character” of the site, and they have stated an intention to retain a “core” of historic buildings in any de-velopment.

Externalconstraints:The Historic Preservation Board is in the early stages of evaluating a petition to designate the site an historic district, a designation first proposed by Greater Portland Landmarks. See the April Observer for more information on this process. Such designation would place additional burdens on the developers and limitations on what sorts of changes could be made to historic structures.

Any proposed development will be evaluated by the Planning Board with re-gard to the City’s Design Guidelines for the Eastern Waterfront, part of the Eastern Waterfront Master Plan. These guidelines address building height, massing, articulation, materials, and so on, and call for designs that are broadly compatible with the architecture and urban character of surround-ing neighborhoods. These guidelines also call for the preservation and adap-tive reuse of historic structures when practicable.

4. “The buildings should not come above Fore Street.”

Developers’statedintent: The developers propose constructing new build-ings along the south side of Fore Street, to rise a maximum of 35 feet (or about three stories) above street grade. View corridors to the water will be maintained along the north-south street lines (Atlantic, St. Lawrence, Wa-terville, and proposed Mountfort extension). While there is clearly econom-ic advantage in this, the developers also argue that such construction would afford the best opportunity to build an outward-facing district integrated with the neighboring residential community, and would also facilitate de-velopment of enhanced public access through the site and to the waterfront. The Planning Board recently voted to recommend approval of the proposed zoning change permitting such construction.

Externalconstraints: Both constraints noted above – 35-foot maximum height, retention of view corridors – would be mandated per the proposed rezoning supported by the Planning Board. In fact, other aspects of this

58 FORE: LAY OF THE LAND, from front page

See page 9, 58 FORE: LAY OF THE LAND

Cartoon, above, by Mike Dater © 2005, mikedater.com, for The New Hampshire Gazette, used with permission. www.nhgazette.com

http://mikedater.com/

http://www.nhgazette.com


Join the Munjoy Hill

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04/2015

VOLUNTEERforaCommittee!

We need your help to make Munjoy Hill an even better place to live! You can get involved by joining one or more of our committees:

Events Communications At Home on Munjoy Hill Safe & Livable Neighborhood Observer Membership & Fundraising

Communications Committee -‐ This committee oversees all methods by which the MHNO communicates information of relevance to the community we serve, including web, print, social media, email and direct mail. Meetings: 3rd Monday of the Month from 6:30-‐7:30 pm. Please contact Chair, Sarah Graulty: [email protected] for more information. Observer Committee – This committee publishes the MHNO’s monthly community newspaper, the Munjoy Hill Observer. Meetings: 1st Monday of the month from 6:30-‐7:30 pm. Please contact Chair, Andrea Myhaver: [email protected] for more information. Membership and Fundraising Committee – This committee champions the growth and involvement of our membership base, and develops and implements initiatives to raise money to support MHNO programs and keep the organization sustainable. Please contact Chair, Matthew Kennedy: [email protected] for more information. At Home on Munjoy Hill Committee – This committee is developing a program whose mission is to help empower older residents to stay and live comfortably on Munjoy Hill. Meetings: 3rd Wed of the month from 5:30-‐7, locations vary. Please contact Chair, Elaine Mullin: [email protected], for more information. Events Committee – This committee coordinates and implements community events and activities that the MHNO sponsors or develops, such as our 3 full membership meetings/gatherings each year, our annual Community Clean-‐Up Day, festivals, and other fun social activities. Meetings: Ad hoc based on Event Schedule. Please contact Chair, Elise Loschiavo: [email protected] for more information. Safe & Livable Neighborhood Committee -‐ This committee provides a forum to discuss and implement ways to improve life on the Hill for all its residents and to preserve Munjoy Hill’s unique character. Please contact Chair, Sean Turley: [email protected] for more information and meeting dates and times. Please note that unless otherwise noted, all committee meetings take place at Hill House, 92 Congress St. Meetings days and times are subject to change, so please consult our online calendar at munjoyhill.org for the most current schedule. All are welcome to attend, so please, join us!

Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization Committees

Get involved! Join the fun!

Communications Committee -‐ This committee oversees all methods by which the MHNO communicates information of relevance to the community we serve, including web, print, social media, email and direct mail. Meetings: 3rd Monday of the Month from 6:30-‐7:30 pm. Please contact Chair, Sarah Graulty: [email protected] for more information. Observer Committee – This committee publishes the MHNO’s monthly community newspaper, the Munjoy Hill Observer. Meetings: 1st Monday of the month from 6-‐7 pm. Please contact Chair, Andrea Myhaver: [email protected] for more information. Membership and Fundraising Committee – This committee champions the growth and involvement of our membership base and develops and implements initiatives to raise money to support MHNO programs and keep the organization sustainable. Please contact Chair, Matthew Kennedy: [email protected] for more information. At Home on Munjoy Hill Committee – This committee is developing a program whose mission is to help empower older residents to stay and live comfortably on Munjoy Hill. Meetings: 3rd Wed of the month from 5:30-‐7, locations vary. Please contact Chair, Elaine Mullin: [email protected], for more information. Events Committee – This committee coordinates and implements community events and activities that the MHNO sponsors or develops, such as our 3 full membership meetings/gatherings each year, our annual Community Clean-‐Up Day, festivals, and other fun social activities. Meetings: Ad hoc based on Event Schedule. Please contact Chair, Elise Loschiavo: [email protected] for more information. Safe & Livable Neighborhood Committee -‐ This committee provides a forum to discuss and implement ways to improve life on the Hill for all its residents and to protect Munjoy Hill’s unique character. Meetings: 1th Monday of the month 7-‐8 pm. Please contact Chair, Sean Turley: [email protected] for more information. Please note that unless otherwise noted, all committee meetings take place at Hill House, 92 Congress St. Meetings days and times are subject to change, so please consult our online calendar at munjoyhill.org for the most current schedule. All are welcome to attend, so please, join us!

Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization Committees

Get involved! Join the fun!

Recycle AND help fund the MHNO Heat Assistance Program: Donate recyclables thru

CLYNK! at Hannafords ... Funds raised support MHNO’s Fuel Assistance “Warm Hearts, Warm

Neighbors” program. Pick up the green bag from the fence box outside the Hill House/92 Congress. FMI: email Louise Little at [email protected].

Keep those cans & bottles coming!

Image from Peacebridge.org

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS to

attend City Planning meetings

and report on projects impacting

Munjoy Hill Please email info@

munjoyhill.org to participate.

THE MUNJOY HILL NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATION

OPE N M eetings!!

The MHNO Board

meets at 7 pm every

second Monday of

the month at the

“Hill House”

—92 Congress St.

Everyone is Welcome!


Invest in your future. Join the MHNO today. COME TO A MEETING • JOIN A COMMITTEE • GET INVOLVED

ED GARDNER

MUNJOY HILL LEVEL SPONSOR

OBSERVATORY LEVEL SPONSOR

HILL HOUSE LEVEL SPONSORS

FORT SUMNER LEVEL SPONSORS

Please join us in thanking our Sponsors for generously supporting the Munjoy Hill community:

Message at left is a quote from the June 1980 Observer, in the ‘Call for New Members’. These words are no less true today.

Your logo HERE

“We are not asking you to make a major commitment. If you’re like most of us, between work and family responsibilities, you can’t. But if a lot of us give a few hours a month to serve on a committee, help with an event, sign up new members, or work on a

specific project, we can get things done.”

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A CHARTER BUSINESS SPONSOR? Please contact Matthew Kennedy at [email protected] or call 207-370-1446.

portlandpaddle.net.PORTLAND PADDLE

TREVOR COYNE, REALTOR JOE PIERGROSSI, REALTOR

MHNO is grateful for the support of our Business Sponsors!

Invest in your future—Join the MHNO today. Come to a meeting. Join a committee. Get involved.To join the MHNO please complete and return the membership form on page 5.

Pet Insurance, Who Needs It?By John Flood, DVM

DURING YOUR PET’S LIFE, the chances that you are going to incur a vet bill of over $5000 is not great. But with some degree of bad luck, a bill of $2000 or $3000 would not be uncommon. And bills of $500 are almost a given; for instance, the cost to collect a minimum database on a sick pet. Pet insur-ance costs between $300 and $600 a year. So if you save the $50 a month premium for five years, and your dog can stay out of ma-jor trouble, you might get ahead of the game. So... do you feel lucky? But that’s not the only question to ask yourself.

Maybe more importantly, what is your situ-ation? Is your pet rambunctious and into mischief all the time? Is your toddler playing fetch with your lab puppy using corn cobs (a very common intestinal foreign body)? Just an example, but you get the idea. Not every-one is at the same risk.

The criteria used by insurance companies to quote you a policy are: breed, age and loca-tion. How bad can it be, with a $200 de-ductible? If you live in Manhattan with your 12-year-old French bulldog, Trupanion’s monthly premium is $268. The same policy for a 2-year-old mutt in Maine is $50. I have chosen a handful of popular companies and am going phone shopping for a policy for Mojo, a two year old Brittany. I want protec-tion from big veterinary bills. To save on the premium,I will opt for a moderate deductible, 200-250 and a copay of 10%. No wellness care, thanks, I can afford this. It is a given that preexisting conditions are excluded and a bilateral clause is in place. That is, any history of trouble on one side (i.e., previous lameness in the left rear leg) would exclude coverage of a related condition in the opposite rear leg. In most cases, congenital and inherited con-

ditions are covered. And there is no cap on coverage, or it is high enough not to be an important factor. Variations will be cited as I review the companies. I will get a price for Mojo’s major medical coverage and give them a hypothetical case: Mojo ruptures her ACL (buggers her knee), and the work-up and re-pair costs $4000. Sorry Wilson, Truman and YC, I’m only researching dog insurance.

Here are a few companies I looked at.

1. Trupanion Vancouver, BC, 1998: It is a medium-size publicly-traded company which consistently ranks high in industry reviews. Dealing on the phone with them, I felt they had good customer service. Let’s look at the policy: the office call/exam fee for each visit is never covered, but otherwise they seem to exclude very few things. The deductible is per condition, not per year. With a chronic ail-ment, allergy is a good example, you pay only one deductible for all care given that is related to this problem. Mojo’s policy will cost $56 per month. Her ACL repair ($4000) will be $580 out of pocket (deductible and co-pay).

2. PetplanUSA, Philadelphia, PA, 2006: Chris and Natasha Ashton imported this plan from the tried-and-true Petplan UK. It is a large successful privately-held company with good reviews. Its deductible is more se-vere than others, per condition, per year, or... you pay it for each condition, each year. It has yearly caps; the one we used for Mojo’s policy was $22,000. Her premium would be $36/mo and out of pocket for the knee work would be $600.

3. VPI Brea, CA, 1984: This company is owned by Nationwide Insurance, and is the oldest and most entrenched ($1,000,000 poli-cies) company out there. They also look to be

See page 9, PET INSURANCE


phot

o b

y Fido

loves

.com

YEARS!15

DOG WASH SUPPLIES TREAT BAR FERRY SERVICE DELIVERY 195 Commercial Street, Portland | 207.773.5450 | TheFishandBone.com

Tours now offered. Experience the amazing sense of space and light created by 10-foot ceilings, 8-foot doors and 7-foot windows. All corner units. One-level living. 2-3 bedrooms plus den. Private decks. Indoor parking, mud rooms, storage, a shared workshop and even a dog wash! Every design and construction detail has been carefully considered by the developers (They’re residents too!)Move in began in April.

50 WATERVILLE STREET HISTORIC GREEK REVIVAL HOME

SURVIVED THE FIRE OF 1866.

IN THE SAME FAMILY SINCE THE 1950'S, THIS HOME IS A SECRET HAVEN, SHELTERED FROM THE STREET BY GREENERY. IT BOASTS A GARDEN OASIS OF GRAPES, TULIPS, IRISES AND A SEA OF LILY OF THE VALLEY, EMBELLISHED WITH CREATIVE STONEWORK. ITS ORIGINAL FEATURES INCLUDE A FORMAL ENTRY WITH WALNUT STAIRCASE, LIVING ROOM WITH BAY WINDOWS, A SMALL DR, 2 BR'S, A DEN, PLUS A 1950'S KITCHEN AND BATHS. 3 C PARKING AND WATER VIEWS FROM THE SOUTH SIDE ENHANCE THE CHARM. RECONFIGURE THIS DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH, OR SIMPLY MAXIMIZE ITS INHERENT CHARACTER. THE OWNER, A LIFE LONG HILL RESIDENT, WILL MISS THE SCENIC WATERY VISTAS AND BOAT TRAFFIC OF THE EASTERN PROMENADE, 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS, LIVELY BAND CONCERTS IN THE FORT ALLEN GAZEBO, THE DISTANT FOG HORNS, THE OBSERVATORY BEACON AND HIS BIKE RIDES TO THE EAST END BEACH. AMAZING LOCAL CUISINE, THEATER, WATER ACTIVITIES, THE NEARBY HISTORIC OLD PORT AND AN ARRAY OF PORTLAND'S AMENITIES, COMPLETE THE MUNJOY HILL EXPERIENCE. More information available with Munjoy Hill’s “Go To” Girl, Rita Yarnold BAY REALTY 207-831-8356 List Price $350,000

Saturday, May 1610:30-11:30 amPortland Public LibraryMeeting Room 55 Monument Square, Portland

Monday, May 185:30-6:30 pm Merrill Memorial LibraryLewis Hall (3rd floor)215 Main Street, Yarmouth

Tuesday, May 195:30-6:30 pmWalker Memorial LibraryGathering Room (2nd Floor)800 Main Street, Westbrook

Wednesday, May 205:30-6:30 pmPortland Public LibraryMeeting Room 55 Monument Square, Portland

Wednesday, May 276:00-7:00 pmOceanView FalmouthBlueberry Commons Room20 Blueberry Lane, Falmouth(Please park on non-sidewalk side of Blueberry Lane.)

We’re Evolving, Growing and Changing

METRO is seeking your input on how ALL bus routescan be improved, proposed locations for new bus stop

shelters, and the recommended design of the newPortland-Falmouth-Yarmouth-Freeport Express Bus Service.

For more information, go togpmetrobus.com or call 207-774-0351

MINI GUINEA FEST, MAY 16, 2015Masters of West African Music & Dance to Teach/Perform in Portland EmbodyTheRhythm, a Portland Maine-based community for

West African-inspired dance, presents “Mini Guinea Fest”. With the vision of

building community, we celebrate the esteemed master drummer, teacher,

and “Village Drum Leader”, Namory Keita, and his recent move to Portland.

The occasion also marks the 10th Anniversary of EmbodyTheRhythm, Port-

land’s West African-Inspired Dance hub, and it celebrates the many artists

and students who have helped to foster the drum and dance community in

Maine and beyond. www.EmbodyTheRhythm.com

http://www.EmbodyTheRhythm.com


CROSSWORD Solution on Page 10

ACROSS

1. Pattern in suedes ignored (6)

3. Beer keg in snack bar relocated (6)

7. Gritty tabloid is abrasive (9)

10. Frantic rider is not so wet (5)

11. Recurring sport? (7)12. Release spear, it’s

independent (9)15. Atmospheric vessel, floats

in the sky (7)17. Saw a bird halfway

through Sahara venture (5)

19. Heard tins tainted when mixed (9)

20. Meandering inlets join up (6)

21. Located cadet our alternative way (6)

DOWN

1. Makes a decision about a month in short, part of the Roman calendar (7)

2. Confusion between his, us is fishy (5)

4. Found something was pickled in it (5)

5. Prone to prevarication? (5)6. Shattered icy cap a plot for

ultimate doom (11)8. Inner veracity shows

courage (5)9. More money gives you a

lift (5)12. Premier trees end

product (5)13. Governor then finds the

only way is up (5)14. Ravine garden contains

something sour (7)15. Put fruit in a heap please

(5)16. Dwells on past

instruments (5)18. I dove into picture

broadcast (5)

From: http://www.puzzlechoice.com/

pc/Puzzle_Choicex.html

It’s aboutrelationships

3 Business Parkway, Suite 3, Brunswick Industrial ParkBrunswick, Maine 04011(207) 504-8200 • (800) 356-8850www.alliance-press.com • [email protected]

F U L L S E R V I C E P R I N T I N G

Relationships are builton trust, and that’ssomething our sales representatives never lose sight of.

You want to feel that you are in capable hands, and that we understand your expectations.

From print to the packing and shipping details, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered into a partnership that fits; our clients tell us they like that.

GROWINGTOGETHERT I P S O N P A R E N T I N G & R E L A T I O N S H I P S

By Ross Fields, CPE & Kathleen Fields, CPE

THRIVING … on FoodPart Three of a Four-Part series on Thriving

WHAT GUIDES YOU in making food choices for you and for your family? Is your family thriving from the foods you eat, or just surviving? If you knew that certain food choices actually reduced the risk of some health- threatening conditions, would you be at least curious?

FOODQUIZ#1: Whichismorebenefi-cial–onecrunchyoats&honeygranolabar, or two slices of a popular, 100%wholewheatbread? (answer below)

Over the past two years, Kathleen and I have been focused on how what we eat directly impacts our health. We’ve discov-ered that what we previously thought as being “healthy” wasn’t necessarily accu-rate. The biggest change for us was learn-ing how carbohydrates equate to sugar calories.

My intent is not to be preachy, but rather to share the results we experienced. I cer-tainly don’t want to create a power struggle between you and your child around food (you probably have enough of those al-ready). From the parenting side of things, I encourage you to be more of a guide and teacher, not a food dictator. Think about what worked well, and what could have worked better, in your own food journey.

Parenting is probably the most challenging job there is. Your kids deserve to have you at your best. Eating in a way that promotes health and well being will benefit you and your whole family.

Think about this: the foods we eat that are grain-based were developed for surviving, not for thriving. They were for quelling hunger, filling up one’s belly, and were a relatively cheap way to feed the masses. Consuming grains is a deep-rooted habit. But just because it’s a habit doesn’t mean it’s correct.

Imagine reading, in 1543, De revolutioni-bus orbium coelestium (On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres) by Nicolaus Co-pernicus, that the earth revolved around the sun, and not the other way around as previously believed. Provocative then, known fact now.

FOODQUIZ#2:Healthystarttoyourday–YesorNo?

In his book, The 100, Jorge Cruise ex-plains that keeping your daily intake at, or just under, 100 sugar calories per day will not only shed that undesirable belly fat, it will also promote good health.

To determine how many sugar calories, multiply the grams of carbohydrate in each serving by 4. For example: a 6 oz. fruit yogurt cup contains 25 grams of carbohy-drate, meaning 100 sugar calories. Oops, that’s your whole daily allotment in one snack! A 1.52 ounce milk chocolate bar is exactly the same.

FOODQUIZ#1– Answer: Neither—A single crunchy oats & honey granola bar has 15 grams carbohydrate totalling 60 sugar calories. Eating both bars, in the package, puts you over your daily target of 100 sugar calories.

—Two slices of 100% whole wheat bread has 40 grams carbohydrate, meaning 160 sugar calories. Remember, the goal is for 100 sugar calories for the whole day.

Are you finding this intriguing? Are you wondering what the heck you would eat?

FOODQUIZ#2– Answer: None of them. Orange juice, 26 grams of carbs; cereal, 20 grams; banana, 26 grams; honey, 16 grams; milk, 12 grams; for a total of 100 grams of carbs, or 400 sugar calories. Yikes!

In one seemingly “healthy” breakfast, you’ve consumed 4 days worth of sugar calories. And you wonder why it’s so chal-lenging to take off extra pounds and keep them off.

“Youcannot‘out-exercise’poorfoodchoices andtheresultinghormonal

disruption”

—from It Starts with Food

And what about the exponential rise in childhood obesity? It may be due more to food choices than lack of exercise.

By simply paying attention to sugar calo-ries, I’ve been able to easily shed the ex-tra pounds – 210 to 175 pounds, waist of 42 inches to one of 34. I sleep better and have more stamina and energy – not spik-ing my blood sugar has a lot to do with that. My blood pressure is a very nice 111/ 71, had been in the 135/95 range. Kathleen’s experience is similar. Plus we eat 3 full meals a day.

I have so much more that I could say, but I think I’ve given you enough to “chew on”. I’m certain that you’ll benefit from the in-formation and guidance presented in the books listed below.

Prepare your food with love and, as often as possible, sit together as a fam-ily at meal time. Take time to appreci-ate the abundance and variety of food we have today. Make meal prepara-tion a fun time together – it’s a great way to learn teamwork.

As always … with patience, educa-tion, and practice, you will become a more confident and effective

It’s ALL about the relationship... with your-self, your child, your family, your commu-nity, and yes, even with your food.

Ross & Kathleen Fields are Certified Parenting Educators (CPE) and, co-founders of Results Parenting, LLC, www.resultsparenting.com.

FOOD SERVING HEATHY?

Fresh orange juice 1 cup (8 oz.) Y / N

“O’s” cereal, plain 1 cup (8 oz.) Y / N

Milk, 2% 1 cup (8 oz.) Y / N

Medium ripe banana 1 Y / N

Spoonful honey 1 TBS Y / N

Suggested Reading List

The 100: Count ONLY Sugar Calories and Lose Up to 18 Lbs. in 2 Weeks by Jorge Cruise

It Starts with Food – Discover the Whole30® and Change Your Life in Unexpected Ways by Dallas and Melissa Hartwig

Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth About Wheat, Carbs, and Sugar – Your Brain’s Silent Killers by David Perlmutter, MD.

Everyday Paleo – Family Cookbook by Sarah Fragoso

Nom Nom Paleo; Food for Humans by Michelle Tam and Henry Fong (nominated for a James Beard award)


EAST END Business Focus

PORTLAND MAINE RENT-ALS is Portland’s premier rental agency. We own and manage 190 furnished and unfurnished prop-erties on the peninsula, offering short and long term rentals, vaca-tion rentals and corporate reloca-tion assistance. We are dedicated to providing high quality rentals with exceptional customer service.

Portland Maine Rentals evolved from a partnership which start-ed in 1989 between Crandall Toothaker and Francis Cloutier. Crandall purchased his first prop-erty on Munjoy Hill in the late 1970’s and lived there until the late 1980’s. He left the Hill to ex-plore other areas of Portland but returned in 2000. Today, Portland Maine Rentals owns numerous rental properties on Munjoy Hill, and Crandall and Frank are fortu-nate enough to call the Hill their home.

About two thirds of our rentals are unfurnished with many of our tenants renting from us for several years. We are lucky enough to have exceptional tenants and rely on in-

house referrals. Much of our suc-cess comes from the professional, round-the-clock customer service we provide our tenants.

The vacation rental market has grown over the past several years as more people are traveling to Portland as a vacation destina-

tion. Portland Maine Rentals of-fers weekly accommodations, as well as monthly, with many of these rentals on Munjoy Hill and the Eastern Promenade. A number

of our summer vacationers return year after year, requesting the same rental.

We have recently taken on a new project in the Bayside area of the City. Portland Maine Rentals will be renovating several buildings in this neighborhood. In addition, we will expand the outdoor green space surrounding these build-ings. We feel that this area is up and coming and will continue to thrive over the next several years.

The Hill has become one of the most desirable places to live in Portland. We believe this area will remain vibrant and even more desirable with new construction and rehabbing of older, rundown buildings. As development con-tinues with more store fronts, this area will become a self-sustaining neighborhood. With the best view in Portland, restaurants, mar-kets, a coffee shop, diversity and a strong sense of community, who wouldn’t want to live on the Hill?

Portland Maine RentalsBy Lisa Peñalver

My first encounter with the Maine Animal Coalition (MAC) was through an article I saw in the PPH back in 2009, about the vegetarian festival held at the East End Com-munity School. Being the newly-hired editor of the neighborhood newspaper, pictures of tables over-flowing with yummy-looking veg-etarian foods, and crowds of smil-ing families—on Munjoy Hill no less!—immediately caught my eye (it’s taken me a bit longer to arrange this interview).

Earlier this month, I spoke with MAC volunteer, Mike Angelone, who filled me in on the workings of this organization. The group has a part of the Portland scene since 1989, when Will Anderson and Ray Putman co-founded the organiza-tion, their goal being to eliminate animal suffering in the state.

According to the group’s mission state-ment, the Maine Animal Coalition is “Dedicated to the Elimination of Animal Abuse and Exploitation through Edu-cation, Advocacy and Example.”

The mission is carried out through:

Education: MAC educates people about animal abuse and exploita-tion by partnering with other social justice organizations and sponsoring lectures, workshops, web-based and other grassroots efforts.

Advocacy: MAC promotes cruelty-free consumer options, lobbies for pro-animal Maine legislation, and supports local and national efforts that minimize the suffering of ani-mals.

Example: MAC refrains from contributing to animal suffering wherever possible; this includes demonstrating respect for animals, avoiding the use of products with animal-derived ingredients and ac-tively encouraging cruelty-free alter-natives.”

Mike described his own personal progression toward vegetarianism as gradual, following the lead of his now 30-something son, but his pas-sion about animals came from see-ing the suffering of a beloved fam-ily pet—brought about by a genetic disorder that resulted from careless breeding programs.

Mike went on to explain how the re-cent MAC focus has been on animal cruelty issues (puppy mills, aban-doned animals), advocating for the

well-being of animals destined to be food, on promoting a vegan lifestyle and on ending animal suffering in the state and beyond.

People who support MAC care deep-ly about how all animals are treated – including our food animals. Many are brought to this concept through experiences they have had with their family pets. Anyone who includes a cat or dog (or horse, goat or chicken) as a member of their family, knows that these creatures are emotional and fully capable of communicating their wants with you (if you are pay-ing attention).

There are many common-sense rea-sons to take up a vegetarian lifestyle: improved health, protecting the

environment, and economic sustain-ability benefits, but among these, valuing the very feelings of animals is one of the most emotionally com-pelling. Research is showing that most animals are more capable of social connections, and are much more

akin to humans than had long been thought, when the comment,“dumb animal”, was accepted as fact.

It’s not such a big step then, to believe in honoring the lives of animals as we honor our own. The justification for ignoring animal consciousness comes out of a desire to maintain the meat diet, which is historically traditional, and is still very profitable, but which is not ac-tually sustainable from an environ-mental perspective. Are we, as hu-mans, able to change course when faced with new information? The pragmatist in me says that Ameri-cans will not be giving up meat any time soon, but what if it turns out that all our lives depend on turning this corner? Food for thought.

These topics, and more, will be examined at the upcoming Vegetarian Food Festival, in the documentary,“Cowspiracy” (June 6, 2 pm), - which takes a hard look at the effects of corporate animal agri-culture on the environment.

The 11th Annual Vegetarian Food Festival will be held June 6th at the East End School for the 7th year in a row. Beth Gallie, MAC President, reports that last year (2014), “about 800 people attended, and we feel we have become part of the communi-ty. Our free festival features live mu-sic, lectures, free food samples, and a movie. For details please see http://www.maineanimalcoalition.org/

— Business Sponsor Promotion—

Maine Animal Coalition

vegetarian-food-festival.

To learn more about the Maine Ani-mal Coalition, visit the website at

http://www.maineanimalcoalition.org, or find them on FB.

“If you have men who will exclude any

of God’s creatures from the shelter of

compassion and pity, you will have men

who will deal likewise with their fellow men.

—St. Francis of Assisi

Spotlight on Non-Profits is a regular feature. To have your favorite non-profit profiled here, please contact [email protected].

MAC CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SupportLD335 Help Stop Puppy Mills

FollowAnimalRelatedBills before the Maine Legislature See ourlistonline.

MAC’s11thAnnualVegetarianFoodFestivalMark your calendar June6th,2015 for the Veg Fest

PurchaseaSpecialtyLicensePlate to help support Maine’s Animal Welfare Program Purchase an ADOPT specialty plate to support the State’s Animal Welfare Program and the Help Fix Me lost cost spay/neuter program.

MaineVeganMeetupGroup: Join your fellow Mainers as you dine for a cause! The Maine Vegan Meetup’s goal is to generate more interest in and acceptance of a vegan lifestyle by encouraging res-taurants to offer more vegan selections.

zoning would limit buildings to less than this 35-foot maximum for most of the length of Fore Street.

Recent public meetings have focused closely on the question of whether building height should be measured from “average grade” (which would per-mit the sort of buildings proposed by the developers) or from “flood plain” (which would largely prevent construction of buildings above the Fore Street grade). The focus of this debate concerns the intent of the City Council in 2004 when a key policy document, the Eastern Waterfront Building Height Study, was approved. Both City staff and residents affiliated with the advo-cacy group, Soul of Portland, have researched this issue in great depth, in-cluding review of historical documents, audio tapes of 2004 Planning Board meetings, and video tapes of 2004 City Council meetings. This debate will continue at the City Council hearing now tentatively scheduled for June 1.

AdditionalSources• http://www.portlandmaine.gov/1341/58-Fore-Street-Portland-

Company -- the City of Portland’s portal for key documents related to the 58 Fore Street project

• http://www.cpb2.com/ -- the developers’ website

• http://www.soulofportland.org/ -- the website of the advocacy group Keep the Soul of Portland in the Portland Company

the least expensive: major medical, $26/mo. But they differ from the others in a significant way; their payouts (per condition, per year) are off their own VPI schedule, regardless of the veterinary bill. This looked problematic. They had mixed reviews and more exclusions than other companies. Mojo’s premium would be $26/mo, and out-of-pocket for the knee would be around $700.

This list of companies is far from all-inclusive, but the names of these three kept coming up, when I talked with clinics around Portland. There are web sites that can help you understand and compare policies. Two I looked at were pet-insurance-university.com and petinsurancere-view.com. They seem unbiased in comparing companies, but keep in mind,they both receive referral fees from the insurance companies they list.

In the end, there is no simple answer, good deal vs. bad deal. It’s a person-al decision, with consideration toward the likelihood of your pet needing expensive veterinary care down the road, and your attitude toward insur-ance. Do you buy some peace of mind, or do you roll the dice?

Please send veterinary questions to John Flood DVM • [email protected] . John practices with Island Veterinary Service and House Calls on the Mainland www.islandvetservice.com. Blog; Cascobaymaine.com

58 FORE: LAY OF THE LAND, from page 4

PET INSURANCE, from page 6

http://www.maineanimalcoalition.org/vegetarian-food-festival



• Tanning Beds & Booths• Clothing & Jewelry

• Sunless Spray Tan• Tuxedo Rentals

When the Beach is Out of Reach ...

Portland 775-3318 Windham 893-0903www.tanoramame.com

Come See Us before the Prom for Your Tuxedo Rental!

PROM SPRAY TAN SPECIAL

$17


We’re just around the corner for all yourdigital printing and copying needs.

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775-2444www.xcopy.com

Mention code JOY15 to receive 15% off your next order.(maximum discount $25.)

CROSSWORD-puzzle on page 8

FARMSHARE 2015! List of CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture)

in Cumberland County, Source: mofga.net

Alewive’sBrookFarm,CapeElizabethBlackKettleFarm,PortlanddeliveryBroadturnFarmInc.,Scarborough

CrystalSpringCommunityFarm,BrunswickCultivatingCommunity,PortlandDandelionSpringFarm,Portland

DeriFarm,N.YarmouthDowFarmEnterprise,Standish

FreedomFarm,pickupsiteinPortlandFrithFarm,Scarborough

GreenSparkFarm,CapeElizabethHiddenAcresFarm,Bridgton

IbrahimFamilyFarm,CSApick-upinFreeportJordan’sFarm,CapeElizabethJuniperEdgeFarm,BrunswickLaughingStockFarm,FreeportLeftFieldFarm,PortlanddeliveryMorganHillFarm,NewGloucesterMapleSpringsFarm,HarrisonMeadowoodFarm,YarmouthMilkweedFarm,Brunswick

NewBeatFarm,pickupsiteinPortlandPleasantValleyAcres,CumberlandCtrPlowsharesCommunityFarm,Gorham

ResilientRootsPermacultureFarm,NYarmouthRipplingWatersFarm,SteepFalls

TheFarmer’sEightDaughters,NewGloucesterTwoCovesFarm,HarpswellWealdenFarm,FreeportWinterHillFarm,Freeport

PLACE AN AD IN THE OBSERVER

AND SHOW SUPPORT FOR YOUR

NEIGHBOR-HOOD!

Hearts, Minds & Homes: an Arts & Civic Listening Dialogue on Homelessness, Gen-trification & the Middle, FRI, May 1,5PMto8PMatMonumentSquare,Portland,WHO:Pro-ducedbyArtAtWorkwithUSMSocialWork,USMArt,UMAArchitecture,CreativePortland,Contact:ProjectCoordinator,MartyPottenger,,[email protected]

Introduction to Tai Chi at EECC Tues-days: Take your health into your own hands by studying this ancient Chinese art. Nurture your mind, body and spirit. Discover how to center and relax. We will practice stationary and moving exercises that are both easy to learn and suitable for everyone. Contact the instructor with questions: [email protected] Instructor: Ben Arnold. Deadline to pre-register: One week prior to start of session Portland Parks & Rec program

Laughter Yoga Club Thursdays’ Laughter Yoga is a great way to end your work day. Join us for this simple yet very powerful form of exercise that everyone can do anywhere and anytime! Learn the benefits of laughing for no reason at all. Be it real laughter or inten-tional laughter, you’ll leave the sessions with joy in your heart and feeling both happy and relaxed.FMI phone or email Denise Macaronas, Certified Laughter Yoga Leader at DLM@portlandmaine. gov or leave message at 766-2970. Portland Parks & Rec program

Hidden Gardens of Munjoy Hill

SAVE THE DATE: SUNDAY, JULY 12, 2015. We’d love to consider your space for the garden tour. Contact [email protected]

St. Lawrence Arts Yourneiborhoodartscenter!Creatinganaffordableandac-cessiblevenueforadiverseofferingsofartsincludingbutnotlimitedtotheater,dance,music,film,andworkshops;http://www.stlaw-rencearts.org/

The IKEA Bus rides again! onSAT, MAY 16 meetattheMar-ginalWayPark&Ridelot(locatedacrossthestreetfromtheWorldGym)SLIGHTLYBEFORE8AM.($3.19getsyouonthebus!,butregisteronline-ticketsgofast).Thebusleavesthelotpromptlyat8,sodon’tbelate!IT’STHE5THANNIVERSARY,Y’ALL!!!Bustoutyourpartyhats,becausetheIKEABusturns5thisyear,andwepartyliketolikewemeanit.Thisyearisgoingtobebigger,spar-klier,andmorefunthanever.Youmightevenbeabletosay,OFFTHECHAIN.FMI:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ikea-bus-5-the-fast-the-ikea-bus-tokyo-drift-tick-ets-16461703398

Tahntay! Spring Parade and CelebrationSUN May 17th201511am-3pm,FREEandforALLAttheEasternPromenadePortland,Maine,CommunityPicnic11:00am(bringablanketandsomethingtoshare),FacepaintingandCrownmakingactivities11:00am-1:00pm(undertheMusicandMagicMaineTent),ParadeBeginsat1:00pm(carryoneofourpuppetsorbringyourownparadeprops),FollowingtheParadearound2:00pmjointheSpringCelebrationLedbyEnchantmentCamp,formoreinformationpleaseconactAmandaatmusicand-magicmaine@gmail.com

Portland Public Library Teen LGBTQ Film Series

SAT, May 23rd from 2:00-3:30pm in the Teen Lounge. Come to the LGBTQ Teen Book Group! This month we will discuss Jacqueline Carey’s Santa Olivia.

PhoPa Gallery 132WashingtonAve|photographsandworksonpaper. March 11 - April 18, 2015,Salt,Silver,andSun:,His-toricProcessesbyPhotographersToday,Guest-CuratedbyBrentonHamilton,,http://www.phopagallery.com/

Mayo Street Arts Performances&Classes10MayoStreet,mayostreetarts.org—Timesvary.Classes:Tango,BellyDancing,KidsYoga,Juggling,ZumbaandPilates.ArtistStudios,theater,poetry,musicandmore.Contact615-3609,[email protected].

Maine Jewish Museum 267CongressSt,Phone(207)773-2339Email;[email protected];http://

SWAPmaine Clothing Swap SAT May 9 tobenefitGoodwillofNorthernNewEngland.theSWAPwillreturntotheEastEndSchool(195NorthSt,AllproceedsandleftoverclothingandaccessorieswillbedonatedtoGoodwillIndustriesofNorthernNewEngland.Theswapbeginsat10amandendsatnoon.FMI:SWAPmaine.com.FindusonFacebook,Twitter,andInstagram

MAY 10: MOTHERS’ DAY! Comparison Puzzle-by OutherebyGeorge.com. See if you can find the six differences


“Serving Greater Portland Since 1980”

104 Washington Avenue • Portland, Maine 04101 • (207) [email protected]

Congratulations to all of tonights Award Winners!104 Washington Avenue • Portland, ME 04101 • 207.773.8198

www.dalerandprinting.com

observer ad.indd 1 9/18/2009 8:37:35 AM

CHESTER & VESTAL, P.A.ATTORNEYS AT LAW

Over 30 years of service to Munjoy HillREAL ESTATE • SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

JUVENILE DEFENSE • PROBATE, WILLS AND ESTATES

107 CONGRESS STREET • PORTLAND, MAINE 04101

(207) 772-7426 | www.chesterandvestal.com

Portland Pottery 118-122 Washington Ave. Portland, ME 04101

www.portlandpottery.com • 207-772-4334

Summer Camp for KidsJune 22nd - August 21st

Wheel Throwing, Sculpture, Fiber Glass, Jewelry, Metalsmithing & More

Ages 6+ • One Week Camp $250

Portland Pottery CafeHomemade Baked Good • Sunday Blackboard Brunch

Hands-in-the-Dirt Funfor Kids Ages 4 to 14!

To Register Call :

Our Summer Day Camp offers fun, hands-on activities so your child can learn about organic gardening, farm

animals, and forest and pond habitats.

Turkey Hill Farm in Cape Elizabeth

Open June 29 - Aug. 21st

Call 518-1779

The Morris Farm in Wiscasset

Open July 6 - Aug. 21st

Call 518-3427

Part-time (MWF or T/TH) and Full-timePrograms available: 9am to 3pm with

additional aftercare until 5pm

Asseenon PBS

Two Locations:

Turkey Hill Farm in Cape

Elizabeth and The Morris

Farm in Wiscasset

PROGRAM FOR OLDER KIDS: Farm Trek! at Turkey Hill

Adventure program for ages 10-14 • 3 full week sessions: July 13, July 20, Aug.10

Register your child today at www.farmcampkids.com or call 518-1779

Now accepting applications for Junior Counselors ages 13-16

Our Summer Day Camp at the Morris Farm in Wiscasset offersfun, hands-on activities so your child can learn about organic

gardening, farm animals, and forest and pond habitats.

Turkey Hill Farmin Cape Elizabeth

Open June 29 - Aug 21Call 518-1779

Part-time (MWF or T/TH) and Full-timePrograms available: 9am to 3pm with

additional aftercare until 5pm

Asseen

on PBS

Two Locations:

Turkey Hill Farm in

Cape Elizabeth and

The Morris Farm in

Wiscasset

Our Summer Day Camp offers fun, hands-on activities so your child canlearn about organic gardening, farm animals, and forest and pond habitats.PROGRAM FOR OLDER KIDS: Farm Trek! at Turkey Hill

Adventure program for ages 10-14 • 3 full week sessions: July 13, July 20, Aug.10Register your child today at www.farmcampkids.com or call 518-1779Now accepting applications for Junior Counselors ages 13-16

Hands-in-the-Dirt Funfor Kids Ages 4 to 11!

The Morris Farmin Wiscasset

Open July 6 – Aug 21Call 518-3427

The Maine Comics Arts Festival MeCAF 2015: Sunday, May 17, Portl;and Company Complex http://www.mainecomicsfestival.com/location

Bug Light Kite Festival Saturday, May 24, 2014 at 11:00am - 4:00pm sponsored by the South Portland Historical Society

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS, MAY 23-25


HELOCFixed for 12 months:

Adjusts to Prime +0,Current Prime +0 rate:

3.25%APR

3.25%APR

And save up to $650 on closing costs!

ANGELA BANCROFTIronman CompetitorNorway Savings Customer

YOU’RE IN THE HOME STRETCH. LET’S GET YOU THERE!

Big Dream. Little Rate.

MEMBER FDIC

1.888.725.2207 www.norwaysavingsbank.com

Rate and closing cost offer are effective April 1, 2015, subject to change without notice and are for new home equity lines of credit. The 3.25% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is fi xed for the fi rst 12 months after the loan closes and then becomes variable each month. The APR will be based on an Index PLUS a margin after the initial fi xed rate period. The index is the highest Prime Rate published in The Wall Street Journal. As of April 1, 2015 the Prime Rate was 3.25%; however the APR can never go below 3.25%, the fl oor rate. The maximum APR will be 16% APR, the ceiling rate. APRs assume a credit score of 750 or better; other programs with other terms or costs are available for credit scores below 750 or line amounts over $500,000. Minimum line amount is $5,000.00. Offer excludes expenses for unusual legal, unique property appraisals or title issues. Offer applies to owner-occupied 1-4 family primary residences and second homes, excluding mobile homes. Homeowners insurance is required.

The Landry TeamTom LandryBroker /Owner(207) [email protected]

Glenna IrvineBuyer Broker(207) [email protected]

Trust your Local – Savvy – Responsive Realtors®

Portland - East EndCan sticks and bricks provide more than shelter? Can the built environment inspire, excite, embrace and nurture? Can a home with enough thought, attention and love become more than just a home? Can Home = Art? We at CornerStone Building & Restoration think so... Come tour our latest show house on Portland’s Hip & Happening Munjoy Hill. Comprehensively restored and updated to the highest levels. Near worry & maintenance free, rare heated garage/studio, first floor master with spa bath...45 Montreal St. 45MontrealSt.com Price: $845,000

Portland - East EndA Wonderful Home. A Wonderful Neighborhood. A Wonderful Life. Enjoy the best of Portland Peninsula living in an exceptional East End single family home. 51 Waterville provides a rare blend of what everyone seems to want in a Munjoy Hill home: expansive water views, sun-filled Southeast orientation, quiet location, very rare 2 car garage, comprehensive and quality updates, retained historic charm blended perfectly with high-end modern amenities, energy efficiency, lovely patio & more.51 Waterville St. 51WatervilleSt.com Price: $795,000

Portland’s Real Estate Leader®

It’s About People – Not Properties...

Local -Savvy-Responsive

BenchmarkMaine.com (207) 775-0248

“We initially attempted to sell our home ourselves as For Sale By Owner but were not receiving any offers. We consulted with Tom and were immediately impressed with his unmatched marketing materials. Tom’s knowledge of the market allowed us to maximize the pricing of our home. However, Tom’s greatest asset proved to be during the negotiations as his cool demeanor and experience paid off to allow us to sell well over our asking price at FSBO. Working with Tom was our best opportunity to sell our home at its full potential.” - Jen & Scott Derrig

Documents

May 2015 Munjoy Hill Observer