Tim Driscoll is a Democrat seeking re-election to District #126 in the Maine House of Representatives. Click here to see if Driscoll will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
Favorite actor and actress
Mel Gibson and Nicole Kidman
Favorite band
Fleetwood Mac
Favorite fiction book
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Favorite magazine
Downeast
Favorite movie
Braveheart
Favorite radio station
WYNZ
Favorite song
“Won’t Back Down,” Tom Petty
Favorite television show
Hardball with Chris Matthews
Favorite Web Site
Westbrook Diarist
Favorite writer
Edgar Allen Poe
Favorite historical politician
John F. Kennedy
Favorite living politician
George Mitchell
Favorite Maine politician
George Mitchell
Favorite newspaper
Bangor Daily News
Favorite part of being a candidate
Meeting many folks in town that ordinarily I would never know.
Favorite period of American history
Civil War
Favorite philosopher
Bertrand Russell
Favorite political web site
PolitickerME
Favorite automobile
Toyota Tacoma PreRunner
Favorite day trip
Home to bed after a busy 12-hour night in the ER.
Favorite food or drink
Guinness
Favorite hobby
Puttering around the yard.
Favorite piece of clothing
My Reef sandals.
Favorite place in Westbrook
Olmsted Field during a Friday night football game.
Favorite restaurant
Depends on what I’m craving at the time.
Favorite season
Fall
Favorite sport
Whatever my daughters happen to be playing in any given season.
Favorite vacation spot
Ireland
(Editor's Note: Tim Driscoll's opponent, Kevin Crocker, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
On Location: Brazier's Barber Shop
As a service for their undoubtedly cultured readers, Esquire printed a tongue-in-cheek piece entitled "How to Talk with a Barber." Besides a sidebar listing various questions you can ask the barber to avoid the awkwardness that can sometimes creep over you as you sit in the barber chair ("If you had my hair, what would it look like?"), the magazine gave a couple examples of what is usually said to a barber and a couple counterweight examples of what should be said to combat the bad 'do brought on by miscommunication. For example, instead of saying simply "Just a trim, buddy" you're supposed to say "Take off a little length and give me a lot of loose, disheveled layers." And instead of asking how Nosferatu would have his hair done, you're supposed to tell the barber to cut it with "[a] lot texture, with choppy, short layers."
All of which is useful advice--unless you're a regular at Brazier's Barber Shop.
That's because the conversation in the Main Street shop is effortless; a small mental pouch of inane conversation-starters ("Whatever happened to mousse?") is not required. Nor would a Brazier Boy dare to refer to the three Matrons of the Razor as "buddy." And, of course, thanks to the shop's unique Roladex, even the most laconic of Westbrook's fine men (or girls looking for men's haircuts) can trust their specifications will be met with little negotiation.
- John C.L. Morgan
All of which is useful advice--unless you're a regular at Brazier's Barber Shop.
That's because the conversation in the Main Street shop is effortless; a small mental pouch of inane conversation-starters ("Whatever happened to mousse?") is not required. Nor would a Brazier Boy dare to refer to the three Matrons of the Razor as "buddy." And, of course, thanks to the shop's unique Roladex, even the most laconic of Westbrook's fine men (or girls looking for men's haircuts) can trust their specifications will be met with little negotiation.
- John C.L. Morgan
P.S. The price of a haircut will go up to $12 starting tomorrow, so I got my $11 haircut (#2 all-over) on the last day it was available--mark this day in history. Anyway, the last time owner Dianne Brazier raised the price was October 1, 2005.
P.P.S. Read Christopher Benfey's essay "Close Shave: The Barber and the Meaning of Life," an excellent cultural history of barbers, particularly when they had easy access to an exposed jugular.
The Windows on the Bus Go Crack, Crack, Crack
When students from Poland, Maine were bused to Westbrook High School in the late-1990s and early-2000s (the Androscoggin County town was constructing a high school of its own at the time), their school buses--which were decked out with tinted windows and a spoiler--were a cause of envy, but also supplied fodder for ridicule for us Paper City kids.
The last laugh is on us, though, considering Westbrook may be one step closer to requiring bullet-proof (BB-proof?) school buses.
On a serious note, this is not the first time a Westbrook school bus carrying young children has attracted a dangerous projectile, though my memory is foggy when it comes to the particulars. So here's to a media outlet fleshing out this story with a little background.
- John C.L. Morgan
The last laugh is on us, though, considering Westbrook may be one step closer to requiring bullet-proof (BB-proof?) school buses.
On a serious note, this is not the first time a Westbrook school bus carrying young children has attracted a dangerous projectile, though my memory is foggy when it comes to the particulars. So here's to a media outlet fleshing out this story with a little background.
- John C.L. Morgan
Monday, September 29, 2008
Election '08: Ann Peoples's Favorite Things
Ann Peoples is a Democrat seeking re-election to District #125 in the Maine House of Representatives.
Favorite actor and actress
Tracy & Hepburn (I'm just an old romantic).
Favorite band or musician
The Moody Blues
Favorite fiction book
The Name of the Rose
Favorite magazine
Discovery.
Favorite movie
The Women
Favorite radio station
MPBN.
Favorite song
"Joy to the World," Three Dog Night
Favorite television show
"Star Trek"
Favorite Web Site
www.hgtv.com
Favorite writer
Carl Hiaasen
Favorite historical politician
Dolley Madison. She may not have been elected but she sure was political, and she saved the silver!
Favorite living politician
I honestly can't say that I have one.
Favorite Maine politician
Margaret Chase Smith
Favorite newspaper
Boston Globe
Favorite non-fiction book
Right now I'm reading Slavery by Another Name by Douglas Blackmon and am blown away!
Favorite part of being a candidate
Talking to all kinds of people
Favorite period of American history
Revolutionary War
Favorite philosopher
My grandmother
Favorite political magazine
I'm not a big magazine reader, but I've kind of liked Reason.
Favorite political Web Site
www.politico.com
Favorite automobile
My blue Subaru.
Favorite day trip
Shopping with my daughters, daughters-in-law, and granddaughter.
Favorite food or drink
Home-made mac and cheese
Favorite hobby
Crosswords
Favorite piece of clothing
Sloppy old sweats
Favorite place in Westbrook
My piece of the riverbank on Garfield.
Favorite restaurant
Hey, we're lucky to have a bunch of really good places to eat in Westbrook, and I love them all!
Favorite season
Fall
Favorite sport
Football
Favorite vacation spot
Anywhere my 5 grandchildren are.
- John C.L. Morgan
Favorite actor and actress
Tracy & Hepburn (I'm just an old romantic).
Favorite band or musician
The Moody Blues
Favorite fiction book
The Name of the Rose
Favorite magazine
Discovery.
Favorite movie
The Women
Favorite radio station
MPBN.
Favorite song
"Joy to the World," Three Dog Night
Favorite television show
"Star Trek"
Favorite Web Site
www.hgtv.com
Favorite writer
Carl Hiaasen
Favorite historical politician
Dolley Madison. She may not have been elected but she sure was political, and she saved the silver!
Favorite living politician
I honestly can't say that I have one.
Favorite Maine politician
Margaret Chase Smith
Favorite newspaper
Boston Globe
Favorite non-fiction book
Right now I'm reading Slavery by Another Name by Douglas Blackmon and am blown away!
Favorite part of being a candidate
Talking to all kinds of people
Favorite period of American history
Revolutionary War
Favorite philosopher
My grandmother
Favorite political magazine
I'm not a big magazine reader, but I've kind of liked Reason.
Favorite political Web Site
www.politico.com
Favorite automobile
My blue Subaru.
Favorite day trip
Shopping with my daughters, daughters-in-law, and granddaughter.
Favorite food or drink
Home-made mac and cheese
Favorite hobby
Crosswords
Favorite piece of clothing
Sloppy old sweats
Favorite place in Westbrook
My piece of the riverbank on Garfield.
Favorite restaurant
Hey, we're lucky to have a bunch of really good places to eat in Westbrook, and I love them all!
Favorite season
Fall
Favorite sport
Football
Favorite vacation spot
Anywhere my 5 grandchildren are.
- John C.L. Morgan
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Westbrook Politics: September 29- October 3, 2008
Monday, September 29
Accounts and Claims Committee meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
6:30p
FMI
City Council meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
7p
FMI
Public Safety Committee meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
Immediately following City Council meeting
FMI
Tuesday, September 30
Mayor's Ward One Public Meeting
Wescott Junior High School Cafeteria
6:30p
- John C.L. Morgan
Accounts and Claims Committee meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
6:30p
FMI
City Council meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
7p
FMI
Public Safety Committee meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
Immediately following City Council meeting
FMI
Tuesday, September 30
Mayor's Ward One Public Meeting
Wescott Junior High School Cafeteria
6:30p
- John C.L. Morgan
Westbrook Almanac: September 21- September 27, 2008
Week-to-Date:
High: 74F (September 21)
Low: 41F (September 24)
Precipitation: 3.48 inches
Previous Sunrise: 6:35a
Previous Sunset: 6:29p
Month-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: 36F (September 20)
Precipitation: 9.71 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 46.95 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
High: 74F (September 21)
Low: 41F (September 24)
Precipitation: 3.48 inches
Previous Sunrise: 6:35a
Previous Sunset: 6:29p
Month-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: 36F (September 20)
Precipitation: 9.71 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 46.95 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
Top 10 Local CDs: September 15- September 21, 2008
Here are the Top 10 Local CDs for the week of September 15- September 21, courtesy of the Portland Phoenix:
- Dead Season, "When Everything's Lost..."
- The Wrecking, "A New Abolition"
- Dead Season, "Rise"
- Dominic and the Lucid, "Season of the Sun"
- Rustic Overtones, "Long Division"
- Cambiata, "To Heal"
- Darien Brahms, "Number 4"
- Prospect Hill, "For the Lovers and the Haters and the Dead"
- Jerks of Grass, "Come on Home"
- Paranoid Social Club, "Axis III & I"
The list was compiled from Bull Moose Music.
- John C.L. Morgan
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Change
Considering only about a quarter of the the top twenty companies in the 2007 Fortune 500 inhabited a similar spot in the 1980 edition of that index, it should not come as a surprise that businesses expand and contract, come and go.
Still, my visit to the Westbrook Historical Society this morning was a stark reminder of the fluidity of businesses: Of the twenty-three firms that advertised in a 1980 newspaper supplement provided by the Westbrook Downtown Businessmen's Association (an organization whose title is yet another sign of how times change), only four remain in Westbrook.
These are Harmon's and Barton's Florist (which evidently has undergone a name change since 1980, as they advertised simply as Barton's Florist in the supplement), Sportsman's Hardware, Hub Furniture, and Rivermeadow Golf Course.
- John C.L. Morgan
Still, my visit to the Westbrook Historical Society this morning was a stark reminder of the fluidity of businesses: Of the twenty-three firms that advertised in a 1980 newspaper supplement provided by the Westbrook Downtown Businessmen's Association (an organization whose title is yet another sign of how times change), only four remain in Westbrook.
These are Harmon's and Barton's Florist (which evidently has undergone a name change since 1980, as they advertised simply as Barton's Florist in the supplement), Sportsman's Hardware, Hub Furniture, and Rivermeadow Golf Course.
- John C.L. Morgan
Lack of Chlorophyll Certainly Not, Um, Borophyll.
Before you take a foliage tour, check out the state's website devoted to the yellow, orange, and red leaves.
Besides featuring a statewide Foliage Report and an assortment of fact sheets and FAQs, the site also boasts sublime video footage of last fall from the Lakes Region, the Midcoast, and Millinocket.
How disappointing to know the eminent philosopher Billy Madison got it all wrong.
- John C.L. Morgan
Besides featuring a statewide Foliage Report and an assortment of fact sheets and FAQs, the site also boasts sublime video footage of last fall from the Lakes Region, the Midcoast, and Millinocket.
How disappointing to know the eminent philosopher Billy Madison got it all wrong.
- John C.L. Morgan
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Election '08: Nick S. McGee's Proust Questionnaire
Nick McGee is a Republican seeking election to District #9 in the Maine Senate. Click here to see if McGee will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A Sunday drive in the fall to go apple picking with my wife and daughter.
What is your current state of mind?
Content.
Which living person do you most admire?
My mother and father.
What is your greatest fear?
Losing my family.
What is your greatest extravagance?
A large TV.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Selfishness.
What is your most marked characteristic?
My smile and happy-go-lucky personality.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Nothing in particular--I am happy with the person I am.
Which living person do you most despise?
I don't despise anyone--hatred accomplishes nothing.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
All of them are important.
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
My nose is a bit large...not too bad though.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would be better at balancing my time.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Strength.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Compassion.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
The word "that" shows up often in my writing.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Play the guitar.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My wife and daughter.
When and where were you happiest?
My honeymoon stands out.
Where would you like to live?
Australia.
What is your most treasured possession?
My grandmother's cribbage board.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
To lose faith and to feel unloved.
What is your favorite occupation?
One of my first jobs as a line cook at a local restaurant.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Superman.
Who are your heroes in real life?
First responders, soldiers and charity workers.
What do you most value in your friends?
Honesty and openness.
What is it that you most dislike?
Rude and inconsiderate people.
What is your motto?
Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish and he will eat for a lifetime.
(Editor's Note: Nick McGee's opponent, Joe Brannigan, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A Sunday drive in the fall to go apple picking with my wife and daughter.
What is your current state of mind?
Content.
Which living person do you most admire?
My mother and father.
What is your greatest fear?
Losing my family.
What is your greatest extravagance?
A large TV.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Selfishness.
What is your most marked characteristic?
My smile and happy-go-lucky personality.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Nothing in particular--I am happy with the person I am.
Which living person do you most despise?
I don't despise anyone--hatred accomplishes nothing.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
All of them are important.
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
My nose is a bit large...not too bad though.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would be better at balancing my time.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Strength.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Compassion.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
The word "that" shows up often in my writing.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Play the guitar.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My wife and daughter.
When and where were you happiest?
My honeymoon stands out.
Where would you like to live?
Australia.
What is your most treasured possession?
My grandmother's cribbage board.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
To lose faith and to feel unloved.
What is your favorite occupation?
One of my first jobs as a line cook at a local restaurant.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Superman.
Who are your heroes in real life?
First responders, soldiers and charity workers.
What do you most value in your friends?
Honesty and openness.
What is it that you most dislike?
Rude and inconsiderate people.
What is your motto?
Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish and he will eat for a lifetime.
(Editor's Note: Nick McGee's opponent, Joe Brannigan, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Westbrook on OpenMaineGov.org
In their latest attempt to make Maine government more transparent (see MaineVotes.org), the Maine Heritage Policy Center has launched MaineOpenGov.org, a new website that tracks state spending (more info about the site can be learned here.)
I haven't spent a lot of time browsing the site, but I've already found a useful feature: The site's ability to track vendor payments from the State of Maine to inviduals, businesses, or contractors by city.
So whether you want to learn about the $81 the Maine Department of Environmental Protection paid A-1 Lockbox Inc. (963 Main Street) for miscellaneus repairs in 2007 or about the $1.2 million payment by the Maine Department of Transportation to HNTB (2 Thomas Drive) for consultation services in 2006, this site is for you.
Be prepared for many minutes of virtual combing, though. According to the site, Westbrook-based individuals, businesses, and contractors have netted $11.5 million from Augusta since 2006.
- John C.L. Morgan
I haven't spent a lot of time browsing the site, but I've already found a useful feature: The site's ability to track vendor payments from the State of Maine to inviduals, businesses, or contractors by city.
So whether you want to learn about the $81 the Maine Department of Environmental Protection paid A-1 Lockbox Inc. (963 Main Street) for miscellaneus repairs in 2007 or about the $1.2 million payment by the Maine Department of Transportation to HNTB (2 Thomas Drive) for consultation services in 2006, this site is for you.
Be prepared for many minutes of virtual combing, though. According to the site, Westbrook-based individuals, businesses, and contractors have netted $11.5 million from Augusta since 2006.
- John C.L. Morgan
Did You Know?
Did you know the City of Westbrook moved its offices from Main Street to York Street in the fall of 1995?
After selling the former City Hall at 790 Main Street (think Maine Bank & Trust) for $235,000, the City bought the building currently housing City Hall from the York Insurance Co. of Maine (hence the address's York Street moniker) for $950,100.
- John C.L. Morgan
After selling the former City Hall at 790 Main Street (think Maine Bank & Trust) for $235,000, the City bought the building currently housing City Hall from the York Insurance Co. of Maine (hence the address's York Street moniker) for $950,100.
- John C.L. Morgan
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Self-Worth
According to Website Outlook, the net worth of this blog is $1,649.80.
Which is $25 too high now that I've snorted milk onto my keyboard.
- John C.L. Morgan
Hat tip: Media Mutt
Which is $25 too high now that I've snorted milk onto my keyboard.
- John C.L. Morgan
Hat tip: Media Mutt
Fine Print
Though the City of Westbrook's agreement with Casella on recycling received prominent attention in today's PPH, there was an equally intriguing piece of Westbrook news, even if it was buried in today's Business section.
According to the brief write-up, Idexx announced yesterday that they're now planning to "invest more than $168 million into its Westbrook facility over a 20-year period," a figure which would represent a 31% increase over its initial projected investment of $128 million in 2006.
Considering Idexx had halted its expansion on Eisenhower Drive in early spring and that a company spokesman had ruminated about there being "lots of business parks in the Greater Portland area," could such a bullish investment be a hint of a resolution to the Idexx-Pike conflict? Or perhaps this is an attempt by Idexx to increase the size of the carrot dangling in front of York Street's eyeballs.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full Disclosure: My wife is employed by Idexx.
According to the brief write-up, Idexx announced yesterday that they're now planning to "invest more than $168 million into its Westbrook facility over a 20-year period," a figure which would represent a 31% increase over its initial projected investment of $128 million in 2006.
Considering Idexx had halted its expansion on Eisenhower Drive in early spring and that a company spokesman had ruminated about there being "lots of business parks in the Greater Portland area," could such a bullish investment be a hint of a resolution to the Idexx-Pike conflict? Or perhaps this is an attempt by Idexx to increase the size of the carrot dangling in front of York Street's eyeballs.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full Disclosure: My wife is employed by Idexx.
Election '08: Tim Driscoll's Proust Questionnaire
Tim Driscoll is a Democrat seeking re-election to District #126 in the Maine House of Representatives. Click here to see if Driscoll will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A world without conflict, hunger, or illness.
What is your current state of mind?
Sane.
Which living person do you most admire?
Sr. Consuela White.
What is your greatest fear?
Being stung by a bee (I’m allergic).
What is your most marked characteristic?
To my family, friends and colleagues, my composure.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I’m vertically challenged.
Which living person do you most despise?
I dislike Dick Cheney.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Daily coffee at Dunkin' Donuts.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
A standing height greater than 5’6”.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Patience.
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
Those damn crow’s feet came out of nowhere!
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Gravity is taking over, everything is dropping.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Kindness.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Self-confidence.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“Move forward.”
Who is the most influential person in your life?
My Mother.
Which talent would you most like to have?
To sit down at a piano and just play.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My wife, of course.
When and where were you happiest?
Southwest Cork, Ireland in 2002.
Where would you like to live?
I’m very happy and content right here in Westbrook, Maine.
What is your most treasured possession?
Genealogical research of my family.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Homelessness.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My Wife. She will complete her Masters Degree in Nurse Anesthesia in November.
What do you most value in your friends?
The ability to confide in them.
What is it that you most dislike?
A sink full of dirty dishes.
What is your motto?
“Let’s move forward.”
(Editor's Note: Tim Driscoll's opponent, Kevin Crocker, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Full Disclosure: My father has contributed to Tim Driscoll's campaigns in the past in the form of a $5 check to qualify to be a Clean Election candidate.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A world without conflict, hunger, or illness.
What is your current state of mind?
Sane.
Which living person do you most admire?
Sr. Consuela White.
What is your greatest fear?
Being stung by a bee (I’m allergic).
What is your most marked characteristic?
To my family, friends and colleagues, my composure.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I’m vertically challenged.
Which living person do you most despise?
I dislike Dick Cheney.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Daily coffee at Dunkin' Donuts.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
A standing height greater than 5’6”.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Patience.
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
Those damn crow’s feet came out of nowhere!
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Gravity is taking over, everything is dropping.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Kindness.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Self-confidence.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“Move forward.”
Who is the most influential person in your life?
My Mother.
Which talent would you most like to have?
To sit down at a piano and just play.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My wife, of course.
When and where were you happiest?
Southwest Cork, Ireland in 2002.
Where would you like to live?
I’m very happy and content right here in Westbrook, Maine.
What is your most treasured possession?
Genealogical research of my family.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Homelessness.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My Wife. She will complete her Masters Degree in Nurse Anesthesia in November.
What do you most value in your friends?
The ability to confide in them.
What is it that you most dislike?
A sink full of dirty dishes.
What is your motto?
“Let’s move forward.”
(Editor's Note: Tim Driscoll's opponent, Kevin Crocker, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Full Disclosure: My father has contributed to Tim Driscoll's campaigns in the past in the form of a $5 check to qualify to be a Clean Election candidate.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Election '08: Robert Morrill's Proust Questionnaire
Robert Morrill is a Republican seeking election to District #125 in the Maine House of Representatives. Click here to see if Morrill will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Relaxing with my wife Martha, while knowing all our children are happy and living their own lives as they choose.
What is your current state of mind?
Euphoric. We had our first grandchild, Hunter Ahlias, this past weekend.
Which living person do you most admire?
My wife Martha. She has been my rock for 38 years through tough times.
What is your greatest fear?
I do not have a greatest fear. We have wonderful family and friends. Whatever tomorrow brings, it is God’s plan.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Hiring someone to mow my lawn.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Lack of consideration of others and their opinions.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Strong willed.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
When I show a lack of consideration for others and their opinions.
Which living person do you most despise?
I do not despise or hate anyone. It is not Christian.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Altruism defined as devotion to the welfare of others. The majority of individuals are only concerned with their own well-being.
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
Nothing. I am quite comfortable in my own skin.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
More tolerance of others.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
The ability to show emotion without being embarrassed.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
The ability to love and nurture in tough times.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"You do not understand."
Which talent would you most like to have?
Professional golfer.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My wife Martha and our collective family.
When and where were you happiest?
Last Friday night when our grandson Hunter Ahlias was born in our presence.
Where would you like to live?
Eventually in warmer climates. I still have much to do in Maine.
What is your most treasured possession?
Pictures of family, as many have passed.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Being emotionally lost and thinking like there is no way back.
What is your favorite occupation?
Being in a position as a team builder.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Superman, because in actual life he showed real courage.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My mother and father in-laws, Agnes and Girard Giguere.
What do you most value in your friends?
Honesty and loyalty.
What is it that you most dislike?
When my friends are not honest and loyal.
What is your motto?
One of my favorites is “You either lead, follow, or get out of the way.”
- John C.L. Morgan
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Relaxing with my wife Martha, while knowing all our children are happy and living their own lives as they choose.
What is your current state of mind?
Euphoric. We had our first grandchild, Hunter Ahlias, this past weekend.
Which living person do you most admire?
My wife Martha. She has been my rock for 38 years through tough times.
What is your greatest fear?
I do not have a greatest fear. We have wonderful family and friends. Whatever tomorrow brings, it is God’s plan.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Hiring someone to mow my lawn.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Lack of consideration of others and their opinions.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Strong willed.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
When I show a lack of consideration for others and their opinions.
Which living person do you most despise?
I do not despise or hate anyone. It is not Christian.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Altruism defined as devotion to the welfare of others. The majority of individuals are only concerned with their own well-being.
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
Nothing. I am quite comfortable in my own skin.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
More tolerance of others.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
The ability to show emotion without being embarrassed.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
The ability to love and nurture in tough times.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"You do not understand."
Which talent would you most like to have?
Professional golfer.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My wife Martha and our collective family.
When and where were you happiest?
Last Friday night when our grandson Hunter Ahlias was born in our presence.
Where would you like to live?
Eventually in warmer climates. I still have much to do in Maine.
What is your most treasured possession?
Pictures of family, as many have passed.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Being emotionally lost and thinking like there is no way back.
What is your favorite occupation?
Being in a position as a team builder.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Superman, because in actual life he showed real courage.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My mother and father in-laws, Agnes and Girard Giguere.
What do you most value in your friends?
Honesty and loyalty.
What is it that you most dislike?
When my friends are not honest and loyal.
What is your motto?
One of my favorites is “You either lead, follow, or get out of the way.”
- John C.L. Morgan
Election '08: Ann Peoples's Proust Questionnaire
Ann Peoples is a Democrat seeking re-election to District #125 in the Maine House of Representatives.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
I don't think "perfect" happiness is possible in a less-than-perfect world. Being useful, fulfilled and fortunate in your friends and family is pretty darn good however.
What is your current state of mind?
Hopeful.
Which living person do you most admire?
The person who gets up every morning and does what needs to be done with good humor and compassion and without complaint.
What is your greatest fear?
Helplessness.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Um, pedicures if you must know!
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Thoughtless cruelty.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Curiosity.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Impatience.
Which living person do you most despise?
The person who does something to you "for your own good."
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Patience (I think there's a pattern in here somewhere).
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
My very round face.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
At almost 62, that would have to be my age!
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Compassion.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Compassion.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"Ya know?"
Which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to put people at ease.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My husband.
When and where were you happiest?
I make it a practice to be happiest in the here and now because that's where I am.
Where would you like to live?
Right here.
What is your most treasured possession?
My family.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Loneliness.
What is your favorite occupation?
Learning about everything and anything.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Horatio Hornblower (no, really!)
Who are your heroes in real life?
The guys who run into burning buildings.
What do you most value in your friends?
Their ability to put up with me!
What is it that you most dislike?
Meanness.
What is your motto?
The Lord will provide, but if you want potatoes, pick up the hoe.
- John C.L. Morgan
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
I don't think "perfect" happiness is possible in a less-than-perfect world. Being useful, fulfilled and fortunate in your friends and family is pretty darn good however.
What is your current state of mind?
Hopeful.
Which living person do you most admire?
The person who gets up every morning and does what needs to be done with good humor and compassion and without complaint.
What is your greatest fear?
Helplessness.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Um, pedicures if you must know!
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Thoughtless cruelty.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Curiosity.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Impatience.
Which living person do you most despise?
The person who does something to you "for your own good."
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Patience (I think there's a pattern in here somewhere).
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
My very round face.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
At almost 62, that would have to be my age!
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Compassion.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Compassion.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"Ya know?"
Which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to put people at ease.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My husband.
When and where were you happiest?
I make it a practice to be happiest in the here and now because that's where I am.
Where would you like to live?
Right here.
What is your most treasured possession?
My family.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Loneliness.
What is your favorite occupation?
Learning about everything and anything.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Horatio Hornblower (no, really!)
Who are your heroes in real life?
The guys who run into burning buildings.
What do you most value in your friends?
Their ability to put up with me!
What is it that you most dislike?
Meanness.
What is your motto?
The Lord will provide, but if you want potatoes, pick up the hoe.
- John C.L. Morgan
Debatable
Via Maine Politics, here's video footage of the first debate between Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Rep. (D-Tom Allen) in their contest for Collins's U.S. Senate seat. The PPH has a write-up of the event here, as well as a review of the second debate between Chellie Pingree and Charlie Summers in their race to replace Tom Allen in the U.S. House of Representatives.
- John C.L. Morgan
- John C.L. Morgan
Livestock and Carnies and Grub, Oh My
The fam and I ventured out to the Cumberland County Fair yesterday morning, an event captured quite nicely by this Roger McCord videogram.
For a schedule of events, click here.
- John C.L. Morgan
For a schedule of events, click here.
- John C.L. Morgan
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Westbrook Politics: September 22- September 26, 2008
Monday, September 22
City Council meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
6:30p
FMI
(Editor's Note: Though the agenda does not mention it, the City Council is also scheduled to workshop the proposed Stroudwater Place, according to the City Council President Brendan Rielly, the AJ, and the Stroudwater Place website.
- John C.L. Morgan
City Council meeting
Westbrook High School, Room 114
6:30p
FMI
(Editor's Note: Though the agenda does not mention it, the City Council is also scheduled to workshop the proposed Stroudwater Place, according to the City Council President Brendan Rielly, the AJ, and the Stroudwater Place website.
- John C.L. Morgan
Song of the Week
This week's song is "All Godz Critters" by Evan Casas. Despite Casas's over-the-top vocals, I challenge you to not tap your foot and chuckle while listening to this song.
Anyway, maybe I'm just looking for a reprieve from the fact that we are one day closer to winter and I had to fire up my furnace for the first time this weekend.
- John C.L. Morgan
Anyway, maybe I'm just looking for a reprieve from the fact that we are one day closer to winter and I had to fire up my furnace for the first time this weekend.
- John C.L. Morgan
Westbrook Almanac: September 14- September 20, 2008
Week-to-Date:
High: 81F (September 15)
Low: 36F (September 20)
Precipitation: 0.21 inches
Previous Sunrise: 6:27a
Previous Sunset: 6:42p
Month-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: 36F (September 20)
Precipitation: 6.23 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 43.47 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
High: 81F (September 15)
Low: 36F (September 20)
Precipitation: 0.21 inches
Previous Sunrise: 6:27a
Previous Sunset: 6:42p
Month-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: 36F (September 20)
Precipitation: 6.23 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 43.47 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Election '08: Introducing Nick S. McGee, Maine Senate #9
Full Name
Nicholas S. McGee
Political Party
Republican
Birthdate
November 27, 1979
Hometown
Portland, Maine
Family
Wife, Vanessa
Daughter, Madison
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Stay-at-home Dad/Part-time consultant
Education
BA, History and Political Science, Providence College
Professional Experience
Assistant to Town Planner and Mayoral aide, Lincoln, Rhode Island
Legal/arbitration at a non-profit
Office manager at a law firm
Political Experience
None
Military Experience
None
Association Membership(s)
Board Member, Northwood Condominium Association
Former Chairman, Portland Republican City Committee
Address
80 Northwood Drive
Website
www.mcgeeforme.com
Phone Number
797-3960
Click here to find out if Nick McGee will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
(Editor's Note: Nick McGee's opponent, Joe Brannigan, did not respond to my requests for biographical information.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Nicholas S. McGee
Political Party
Republican
Birthdate
November 27, 1979
Hometown
Portland, Maine
Family
Wife, Vanessa
Daughter, Madison
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Stay-at-home Dad/Part-time consultant
Education
BA, History and Political Science, Providence College
Professional Experience
Assistant to Town Planner and Mayoral aide, Lincoln, Rhode Island
Legal/arbitration at a non-profit
Office manager at a law firm
Political Experience
None
Military Experience
None
Association Membership(s)
Board Member, Northwood Condominium Association
Former Chairman, Portland Republican City Committee
Address
80 Northwood Drive
Website
www.mcgeeforme.com
Phone Number
797-3960
Click here to find out if Nick McGee will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
(Editor's Note: Nick McGee's opponent, Joe Brannigan, did not respond to my requests for biographical information.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Election '08: Introducing Phil Bartlett, Maine Senate #6
Full Name
Philip L. Bartlett II
Political Party
Democratic
Birthdate
September 24, 1976
Hometown
Gorham, Maine
Family
Wife, Susan
Daughter, Abigail
Religion
United Church of Christ
Current Occupation
Attorney
Education
JD, Harvard Law School
BA, Economics & Political Science, Tufts University
Professional Experience
Attorney, Scaccia, Lenkowski, Aranson & Bartlett
Associate, Ropes & Gray LLP
Law Clerk for Chief Justice Leigh Saufley, Maine Supreme Judicial Court
Political Experience
State Senator, Maine Senate
Military Experience
None
Association Membership(s)
None
Address
141 South Street, Gorham
Website
www.philbartlett.com
Phone Number
839-7827
Click here to see if Phil Bartlett will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4, 2008.
- John C.L. Morgan
Philip L. Bartlett II
Political Party
Democratic
Birthdate
September 24, 1976
Hometown
Gorham, Maine
Family
Wife, Susan
Daughter, Abigail
Religion
United Church of Christ
Current Occupation
Attorney
Education
JD, Harvard Law School
BA, Economics & Political Science, Tufts University
Professional Experience
Attorney, Scaccia, Lenkowski, Aranson & Bartlett
Associate, Ropes & Gray LLP
Law Clerk for Chief Justice Leigh Saufley, Maine Supreme Judicial Court
Political Experience
State Senator, Maine Senate
Military Experience
None
Association Membership(s)
None
Address
141 South Street, Gorham
Website
www.philbartlett.com
Phone Number
839-7827
Click here to see if Phil Bartlett will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4, 2008.
- John C.L. Morgan
Election '08: Introducing Phil A. Csoros, Maine Senate #6
Full Name
Phil A. Csoros
Political Party
Republican
Date of Birth
July 6, 1966
Hometown
Lewiston, Maine
Family
Wife, Tammy
Children, Mark, Constance, Elaine, and James
Religion
South Portland Church of the Nazarene
Current Occupation
Pilot, American Airlines.
Education
M.B.A., Finance, Walden University
M.S., International Relations, Troy State University
B.S., Aircraft Engineering Technology, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Professional Experience
AC-130 Gunship Pilot, U.S. Air Force
Political Experience
Town Councilor, Gorham, Maine
Military Experience
U.S. Air Force
Association Membership
Member, Gorham Economic Development Corporation
Coach, Gorham Recreation Department
Member, Children’s Council at the South Portland Church of the Nazarene.
Address
28 Black Brook Road, Gorham
Phone Number
415-9010
Click here to see if Phil Csoros will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Phil A. Csoros
Political Party
Republican
Date of Birth
July 6, 1966
Hometown
Lewiston, Maine
Family
Wife, Tammy
Children, Mark, Constance, Elaine, and James
Religion
South Portland Church of the Nazarene
Current Occupation
Pilot, American Airlines.
Education
M.B.A., Finance, Walden University
M.S., International Relations, Troy State University
B.S., Aircraft Engineering Technology, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Professional Experience
AC-130 Gunship Pilot, U.S. Air Force
Political Experience
Town Councilor, Gorham, Maine
Military Experience
U.S. Air Force
Association Membership
Member, Gorham Economic Development Corporation
Coach, Gorham Recreation Department
Member, Children’s Council at the South Portland Church of the Nazarene.
Address
28 Black Brook Road, Gorham
Phone Number
415-9010
Click here to see if Phil Csoros will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
L.L. Bean Gets Onion'd
Via Maine Politics, here's the Onion News Network's, um, news story on African-Americans' eighty-year boycott against L.L. Bean.
- John C.L. Morgan
- John C.L. Morgan
Quote, Unquote
"Only enemies speak the truth; friends and lovers lie endlessly, caught in the web of duty."
- A character in Stephen King's novel The Gunslinger.
- A character in Stephen King's novel The Gunslinger.
Unconsitutional
In honor of Constitution Day, I present Barney Fife's, er, recitation of that document's preamble.
On a more serious note, I recommend the National Constitution Center.
- John C.L. Morgan
On a more serious note, I recommend the National Constitution Center.
- John C.L. Morgan
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Election '08: Introducing Tim Driscoll, Maine House of Representatives #126
Name
Tim Driscoll
Political Party
Democratic
Birthdate
November 20, 1956
Hometown
Calais, Maine
Family
Tina, Jacquie, Mallory, Lindsay
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Emergency Room Registered Nurse, Mercy Hospital
Education
AAS Nursing, Westbrook College
AAS Occupational Health and Safety, Central Maine Community Center
Professional Experience
Registered Nurse, Mercy Hospital
Political Experience
Representative, Maine House of Representatives
Westbrook School Committee
Westbrook City Council
Westbrook Zoning Board of Appeals
Westbrook Board of Assessment Review
Military Experience
U.S. Navy, 1976-1980
Association Memberships
Friends of the Presumpscot
Emergency Nurses Association
Westbrook Democratic City Committee
Address
111 Monroe Avenue
Website
www.westbrookdems.com
Phone Numbers
856-7014
232-5026
Click here to find out if Tim Driscoll will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
(Editor's Note: Tim Driscoll's opponent, Kevin Crocker, did not respond to my requests for biographical information.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Full Disclosure: My father has contributed to Tim Driscoll's campaigns in the past in the form of a $5 check to qualify to be a Clean Election candidate.
Tim Driscoll
Political Party
Democratic
Birthdate
November 20, 1956
Hometown
Calais, Maine
Family
Tina, Jacquie, Mallory, Lindsay
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Emergency Room Registered Nurse, Mercy Hospital
Education
AAS Nursing, Westbrook College
AAS Occupational Health and Safety, Central Maine Community Center
Professional Experience
Registered Nurse, Mercy Hospital
Political Experience
Representative, Maine House of Representatives
Westbrook School Committee
Westbrook City Council
Westbrook Zoning Board of Appeals
Westbrook Board of Assessment Review
Military Experience
U.S. Navy, 1976-1980
Association Memberships
Friends of the Presumpscot
Emergency Nurses Association
Westbrook Democratic City Committee
Address
111 Monroe Avenue
Website
www.westbrookdems.com
Phone Numbers
856-7014
232-5026
Click here to find out if Tim Driscoll will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
(Editor's Note: Tim Driscoll's opponent, Kevin Crocker, did not respond to my requests for biographical information.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Full Disclosure: My father has contributed to Tim Driscoll's campaigns in the past in the form of a $5 check to qualify to be a Clean Election candidate.
On Location: Scouting on the Green
When I was in junior high school, I faced a dilemma: Do I attend school dances on Friday nights, or do I skip the opportunity to sit on the outskirts of Wescott's gym and pray for one slow dance in order to attend Boy Scouts meetings? Considering I readily admit I'm all ax, no lumber, I'll let you venture a guess about my choice.
Flipping through my 1990 edition of the Boy Scouts Handbook, I now realize that I regret that decision. I regret not soaking up the practical skills and experiences the organization has to offer. Moreover, I've acquired a new appreciation for the Boy Scouts' emphasis on a brand of conservation and environmentalism that dovetails nicely with Rooseveltian (as in Theodore) ethics. So it's sad to write about the sparsely-attended exposition of one of Westbrook's two Boy Scout Troops. And even sadder to read about the depth to which the Boy Scouts of America have been thrown (or have thrown themselves) into the fires of America's culture wars.
On Saturday morning, Boy Scouts Troop 81 gathered at Westbrook's civic capital, Riverbank Park, and hosted a "Scouting on the Green" exposition. The troop, which has made it a habit to camp out at the park and prepare a pancake breakfast during Westbrook Together Days, is now starting a tradition of hosting an annual display in which various skills are shown off and adventurous experiences are talked about in an effort to attract interest and therefore bolster the troop's membership rolls.
On Saturday morning, for example, the Boy Scouts showed off their tent-pitching skills by erecting a canvas shelter while blindfolded. And they used a century-old two-man saw to display the old-fashioned method of teething the wood for winter. They even appealed to their own tastebuds by making homemade vanilla ice cream to complement the root beer they'd whipped up and bottled using vintage Coke bottles.
Unfortunately, though, when I dropped by around 10:30a, the expo, which started at 9a, had not yet attracted one visitor.
According to Dick Chretien, Troop 81's Scout Leader for thirty-four years, active recruitment for the troop is necessary, as there are ten teenagers in his Boy Scout troop and only eight boys in his Cub Scout troop. When pressed for possible reasons for his troop's relatively low numbers, Chretien supplied two theories: Busy kids and politics. Now, busyness and an assortment of other reasons for a reduction in an association's membership are familiar fare for this Robert Putnam reader. But I pressed Chretien on the politics angle, and he mentioned the Boy Scouts' exclusionary policy regarding homosexuals, agnostics, and athiests as being possible factors. Chetien cited only one personal experience in which the Boy Scouts' politics explicitly affected whether a boy would become a member of the Boy Scouts or not (Chretien said he'd tried to recruit a young man living in his neighborhood, but the boy's mother balked because of the Boy Scouts' policies), so I was taken aback by the prevalence to which the Boy Scouts is now linked with homophobia and religious intolerance.
In an ultimately fruitless attempt to research the membership trends of the Boy Scouts of America, I Yahoo'd various combinations of "membership" and "Boy Scouts". But each time I was bombarded with webpages full of court cases, lawsuits, and all the other goodies associated with a good, old-fashioned battle in America's culture war.
Flipping through my 1990 edition of the Boy Scouts Handbook, I now realize that I regret that decision. I regret not soaking up the practical skills and experiences the organization has to offer. Moreover, I've acquired a new appreciation for the Boy Scouts' emphasis on a brand of conservation and environmentalism that dovetails nicely with Rooseveltian (as in Theodore) ethics. So it's sad to write about the sparsely-attended exposition of one of Westbrook's two Boy Scout Troops. And even sadder to read about the depth to which the Boy Scouts of America have been thrown (or have thrown themselves) into the fires of America's culture wars.
On Saturday morning, Boy Scouts Troop 81 gathered at Westbrook's civic capital, Riverbank Park, and hosted a "Scouting on the Green" exposition. The troop, which has made it a habit to camp out at the park and prepare a pancake breakfast during Westbrook Together Days, is now starting a tradition of hosting an annual display in which various skills are shown off and adventurous experiences are talked about in an effort to attract interest and therefore bolster the troop's membership rolls.
On Saturday morning, for example, the Boy Scouts showed off their tent-pitching skills by erecting a canvas shelter while blindfolded. And they used a century-old two-man saw to display the old-fashioned method of teething the wood for winter. They even appealed to their own tastebuds by making homemade vanilla ice cream to complement the root beer they'd whipped up and bottled using vintage Coke bottles.
Unfortunately, though, when I dropped by around 10:30a, the expo, which started at 9a, had not yet attracted one visitor.
According to Dick Chretien, Troop 81's Scout Leader for thirty-four years, active recruitment for the troop is necessary, as there are ten teenagers in his Boy Scout troop and only eight boys in his Cub Scout troop. When pressed for possible reasons for his troop's relatively low numbers, Chretien supplied two theories: Busy kids and politics. Now, busyness and an assortment of other reasons for a reduction in an association's membership are familiar fare for this Robert Putnam reader. But I pressed Chretien on the politics angle, and he mentioned the Boy Scouts' exclusionary policy regarding homosexuals, agnostics, and athiests as being possible factors. Chetien cited only one personal experience in which the Boy Scouts' politics explicitly affected whether a boy would become a member of the Boy Scouts or not (Chretien said he'd tried to recruit a young man living in his neighborhood, but the boy's mother balked because of the Boy Scouts' policies), so I was taken aback by the prevalence to which the Boy Scouts is now linked with homophobia and religious intolerance.
In an ultimately fruitless attempt to research the membership trends of the Boy Scouts of America, I Yahoo'd various combinations of "membership" and "Boy Scouts". But each time I was bombarded with webpages full of court cases, lawsuits, and all the other goodies associated with a good, old-fashioned battle in America's culture war.
Which is too bad, because my Handbook contains some really great advice about winter camping.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full Disclosure: My father has been involved with Troop 81 since I was a Cub Scout back in the day, and my youngest brother is currently working toward his Eagle Scout as a member of the troop.
A Closer Look at the Casella-Westbrook Agreement
Courtesy of Leslie Bridgers's fine article in the American Journal and an informative e-mail from Westbrook City Administator Jerre Bryant, here's a quick review of the agreement between Casella Waste Systems and the City of Westbrook:
- The free curbside recycling program Casella Waste Systems will provide for Westbrook residents slated to begin next October will cost the company $540,000 each year over the next 20 years.
- The City of Westbrook's municipal solid waste tipping fees, described by Bryant as the cost of disposing the city's trash, will be reduced from $94.50 per ton to $68.50 per ton. According to Bryant, the $55,250 savings this reduction in tipping fees will generate is an estimate based on the city's current volume of trash (6,500 ton), coupled with the anticipation that the city's volume of waste will be reduced by 20-25% as a result of the recycling program.
- Casella Waste Systems has agreed to fund the construction of a left-turn lane and related road improvements on County Road. Westbrook City Engineer Eric Dudley estimates the cost of the construction to be $317,483, according to Bryant.
- The City of Westbrook has agreed to pay for an extension of the public sewer line on County Road. According to Bryant, the sewer line currently ends at Ledgeview Drive, so the City will extend it 850 feet to the current entrances of Winward Petroleum and to the proposed entrance of Casella's proposed development at 610 County Road. Bryant writes that City Engineer Eric Dudley has estimated the cost of the sewer extension to be $258,063.
- And finally, according to Bryant, all the buildings, equipment, and land involved with the Casella project will be taxable. Moreover, Bryant writes, "[t]he 70+ acre parcel is currently assessed at $841,500 with a 2008/09 property tax bill of $12,984.35," but he's unable to project what the new property value and tax bill will be after construction.
The Westbrook City Council will vote on final approval for the agreement on Monday, September 22.
- John C.L. Morgan
- The free curbside recycling program Casella Waste Systems will provide for Westbrook residents slated to begin next October will cost the company $540,000 each year over the next 20 years.
- The City of Westbrook's municipal solid waste tipping fees, described by Bryant as the cost of disposing the city's trash, will be reduced from $94.50 per ton to $68.50 per ton. According to Bryant, the $55,250 savings this reduction in tipping fees will generate is an estimate based on the city's current volume of trash (6,500 ton), coupled with the anticipation that the city's volume of waste will be reduced by 20-25% as a result of the recycling program.
- Casella Waste Systems has agreed to fund the construction of a left-turn lane and related road improvements on County Road. Westbrook City Engineer Eric Dudley estimates the cost of the construction to be $317,483, according to Bryant.
- The City of Westbrook has agreed to pay for an extension of the public sewer line on County Road. According to Bryant, the sewer line currently ends at Ledgeview Drive, so the City will extend it 850 feet to the current entrances of Winward Petroleum and to the proposed entrance of Casella's proposed development at 610 County Road. Bryant writes that City Engineer Eric Dudley has estimated the cost of the sewer extension to be $258,063.
- And finally, according to Bryant, all the buildings, equipment, and land involved with the Casella project will be taxable. Moreover, Bryant writes, "[t]he 70+ acre parcel is currently assessed at $841,500 with a 2008/09 property tax bill of $12,984.35," but he's unable to project what the new property value and tax bill will be after construction.
The Westbrook City Council will vote on final approval for the agreement on Monday, September 22.
- John C.L. Morgan
Monday, September 15, 2008
Election '08: Introducing Robert S. Morrill, Maine House of Representatives #125
Name
Robert (Bob) S. Morrill
Political Party
Republican
Birthdate
February 18, 1947
Hometown
Portland, Maine
Family
Wife, Martha
Children, Jessica (Morrill) Sheets, Julie Morrill and Jaclyn Morrill
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Director of Client Relations, First Suburban Title Services
Education
High school, one year of college
Professional Experience
Director Marketing, Autowize Auto Parts
Vice President of Operations, Emery Waterhouse
Director of Customer Service and Distribution, Sebago Shoe
Political experience
Westbrook Planning Board
Westbrook Housing Authority
Westbrook Rent Justification Board
Military Experience
U.S. Air Force, 1965 – 1969
Association membership
Board of Directors, Mortgage Bankers Association of Maine
Address
260 Conant Street
Website
None
Phone Numbers
856-6613
807-8036
Click here to see if Robert S. Morrill will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Robert (Bob) S. Morrill
Political Party
Republican
Birthdate
February 18, 1947
Hometown
Portland, Maine
Family
Wife, Martha
Children, Jessica (Morrill) Sheets, Julie Morrill and Jaclyn Morrill
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Director of Client Relations, First Suburban Title Services
Education
High school, one year of college
Professional Experience
Director Marketing, Autowize Auto Parts
Vice President of Operations, Emery Waterhouse
Director of Customer Service and Distribution, Sebago Shoe
Political experience
Westbrook Planning Board
Westbrook Housing Authority
Westbrook Rent Justification Board
Military Experience
U.S. Air Force, 1965 – 1969
Association membership
Board of Directors, Mortgage Bankers Association of Maine
Address
260 Conant Street
Website
None
Phone Numbers
856-6613
807-8036
Click here to see if Robert S. Morrill will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Election '08: Introducing Ann E. Peoples, Maine House of Representatives #125
Name
Ann E. Peoples
Political Party
Democratic
Birthdate
January 31, 1947
Hometown
Westbrook, Maine
Family
Husband, Patrick
Children, Briana, Terry, Gavin, Kevin, and Kimberly
Grandchildren, Evan, Ainnir, Kyle, Lex and Fennel (Editor's Note: Another grandchild, Max, has joined the Peoples family since the 2008 elections.)
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Telephone provider, Pine Tree Network
Education
BA, University of California
Professional Experience
Process Technician and Employee Communication, S.D. Warren
Branch Office Administrator, Edward Jones Investments
Political Experience
Representative, Maine House of Representatives
Westbrook City Council
Westbrook Planning Board
Military Experience
None
Association Membership
Westbrook Woman's Club
Address
22 Garfield Street
Phone Number
856-7264
- John C.L. Morgan
Ann E. Peoples
Political Party
Democratic
Birthdate
January 31, 1947
Hometown
Westbrook, Maine
Family
Husband, Patrick
Children, Briana, Terry, Gavin, Kevin, and Kimberly
Grandchildren, Evan, Ainnir, Kyle, Lex and Fennel (Editor's Note: Another grandchild, Max, has joined the Peoples family since the 2008 elections.)
Religion
Catholic
Current Occupation
Telephone provider, Pine Tree Network
Education
BA, University of California
Professional Experience
Process Technician and Employee Communication, S.D. Warren
Branch Office Administrator, Edward Jones Investments
Political Experience
Representative, Maine House of Representatives
Westbrook City Council
Westbrook Planning Board
Military Experience
None
Association Membership
Westbrook Woman's Club
Address
22 Garfield Street
Phone Number
856-7264
- John C.L. Morgan
Paging Lynne Truss
River's Edge Deli, a local convenience store relocating from Bridge Street to Main Street, currently boasts a sign at its new location that attempts to remind passerby that the owner of River's Edge already has Main Street experience in the form of River's Edge Deli's antecedent, Fruiti's Deli.
Alas, the sign reads "formally (sic) Fruiti's Deli," which inspires a couple questions: Does how one refers to the deli (River's Edge or Fruiti's) depend on the fanciness of one's dress? Or does the diction and accent one uses when verbally referring to the shop determine whether it should be referred to as River's Edge or Fruiti's?
- John C.L. Morgan
Alas, the sign reads "formally (sic) Fruiti's Deli," which inspires a couple questions: Does how one refers to the deli (River's Edge or Fruiti's) depend on the fanciness of one's dress? Or does the diction and accent one uses when verbally referring to the shop determine whether it should be referred to as River's Edge or Fruiti's?
- John C.L. Morgan
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