Bob Morrill, the Republican candidate for the State House #125 seat, dropped by WLOB's morning show today to talk about his campaign.
Click here to see if Morrill will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Friday, October 31, 2008
Election '08: See Nick McGee Talk
Nick McGee, the Republican candidate for the State Senate #9 seat, dropped by WLOB's morning show today to talk about his campaign.
Click here to see if McGee will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Click here to see if McGee will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
On Mohawks and the Beautiful Game, Take Two
Ray Richardson invited the Westbrook High School boys' soccer team to his studio for another little chat this morning.
The Blue Blazes travel to Cumberland tomorrow night for a Western Class 'A' semifinal game against the Greely Rangers. The game starts at 6p.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full disclosure: I am an assistant coach in the program.
The Blue Blazes travel to Cumberland tomorrow night for a Western Class 'A' semifinal game against the Greely Rangers. The game starts at 6p.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full disclosure: I am an assistant coach in the program.
As Maine Kids Go, So Goes Maine
Students from 300 Maine schools have participated in a mock election, and the results are in. According to the Secretary of State's office, Maine students chose Sen. Barack Obama over Sen. John McCain in the presidential race; Sen. Susan Collins over Rep. Tom Allen in the U.S. Senate race; Charlie Summers over Chellie Pingree in the U.S. House, 1st district race; and Rep. Michael Michaud over John Frary in the U.S. House, 2nd district race. As for the referenda questions, the students voted 'Yes' on question 1 (the beverage tax), 'No' on question 2 (the casino in Oxford County), and 'Yes' on the bond question concerning drinking water and wastewater.
Historically, Maine students do a decent job forecasting Maine's actual results in gubernatorial, presidential, congressional, and senate races. In fact, the students have picked the winners in 12 of 14 of those races since 1998, a track record that means they've picked the eventual winner in 86% of the races. (They were wrong in the 2000 presidential election, voting for then-Gov. George W. Bush to win Maine instead of then-Vice President Al Gore; and in 2002, when they picked Kevin Raye to beat Michael Michaud in the U.S. House, 2nd district race.)
The students' voting preferences are not only decent predictors of the winners of each of the races; they are also pretty good at hinting at the eventual winners' winning percentage. In fact, of the twelve races the students picked correctly, they were within 5% of the eventual winners' winning percentage nine times, a success rate of 75%. The three races in which they were off the mark were the 2002 Senate race between Sen. Susan Collins and Chellie Pingree (72.2% of students picked Collins, but only 58.4% of actual Maine voters picked her); the 2004 presidential election between President George W. Bush and Sen. John Kerry (45.9% of students picked Kerry, but 53.6% of Maine voters picked him); and the 2004 U.S. House, 2nd district race (only 49.7% of Maine students voted for Rep. Michael Michaud, but 58% of actual voters picked him).
However, as good as the students are at predicting the winners of contested races, they're not that accurate at predicting the results in referenda since 1998. Indeed, their success rate in picking referenda winners is only 54% (7 of 13 questions) and they've been within 5% of the winning answers' winning percentage in only two out of those 7 correct forecasts (an accuracy percentage of 29%).
- John C.L. Morgan
P.S. The Press Herald has a write-up about this year's student mock election, but it incorrectly identifies Chellie Pingree as the winner of the U.S. House, 1st district race. According to the Secretary of State's figures, Summers won 50.6% of the vote to Pingree's 48.6%.
Historically, Maine students do a decent job forecasting Maine's actual results in gubernatorial, presidential, congressional, and senate races. In fact, the students have picked the winners in 12 of 14 of those races since 1998, a track record that means they've picked the eventual winner in 86% of the races. (They were wrong in the 2000 presidential election, voting for then-Gov. George W. Bush to win Maine instead of then-Vice President Al Gore; and in 2002, when they picked Kevin Raye to beat Michael Michaud in the U.S. House, 2nd district race.)
The students' voting preferences are not only decent predictors of the winners of each of the races; they are also pretty good at hinting at the eventual winners' winning percentage. In fact, of the twelve races the students picked correctly, they were within 5% of the eventual winners' winning percentage nine times, a success rate of 75%. The three races in which they were off the mark were the 2002 Senate race between Sen. Susan Collins and Chellie Pingree (72.2% of students picked Collins, but only 58.4% of actual Maine voters picked her); the 2004 presidential election between President George W. Bush and Sen. John Kerry (45.9% of students picked Kerry, but 53.6% of Maine voters picked him); and the 2004 U.S. House, 2nd district race (only 49.7% of Maine students voted for Rep. Michael Michaud, but 58% of actual voters picked him).
However, as good as the students are at predicting the winners of contested races, they're not that accurate at predicting the results in referenda since 1998. Indeed, their success rate in picking referenda winners is only 54% (7 of 13 questions) and they've been within 5% of the winning answers' winning percentage in only two out of those 7 correct forecasts (an accuracy percentage of 29%).
- John C.L. Morgan
P.S. The Press Herald has a write-up about this year's student mock election, but it incorrectly identifies Chellie Pingree as the winner of the U.S. House, 1st district race. According to the Secretary of State's figures, Summers won 50.6% of the vote to Pingree's 48.6%.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Election '08: Westbrook Voters' Guide
Over the last month-and-a-half, I've posted shards of information about each of the candidates seeking to represent Westbrook in the Maine House of Representatives and the Maine Senate. Below is a collection of those references, as well as some from other media outlets. To find out which races apply to where you live in Westbrook, click here ('SS' refers to the State Senate seat, and 'SR' refers to the State House seat).
Maine House of Representatives, #125
Press Herald summary
Robert Morrill (R)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
WLOB interview
Ann Peoples (D)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
Favorite Things
Website
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maine House of Representatives, #126
Press Herald summary
Kevin Crocker (R)
WLOB interview
Tim Driscoll (D)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
Favorite Things
Issues
Website
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maine Senate #6
Press Herald summary
Phil Bartlett (D)
Biography
Website
Phil Csoros (R)
Biography
WLOB interview
Website
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maine Senate #9
Press Herald summary
Joseph Brannigan (D)
Website
Nick McGee (R)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
Issues
WLOB Interview
Website
- John C.L. Morgan
Maine House of Representatives, #125
Press Herald summary
Robert Morrill (R)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
WLOB interview
Ann Peoples (D)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
Favorite Things
Website
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maine House of Representatives, #126
Press Herald summary
Kevin Crocker (R)
WLOB interview
Tim Driscoll (D)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
Favorite Things
Issues
Website
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maine Senate #6
Press Herald summary
Phil Bartlett (D)
Biography
Website
Phil Csoros (R)
Biography
WLOB interview
Website
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maine Senate #9
Press Herald summary
Joseph Brannigan (D)
Website
Nick McGee (R)
Biography
Proust Questionnaire
Issues
WLOB Interview
Website
- John C.L. Morgan
Election '08: Nick McGee on the Issues
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 are your top three legislative priorities for the upcoming session?
1. Improve Maine's economy: Investing in the creation of, and attracting existing businesses to the state that research, develop, manufacture and distribute alternative energy. Cuts on taxes and fees will help people and businesses in these tough economic conditions.
2. Health care reform: Allow Mainers to purchase health insurance from out-of-state carriers will reduce the consumers costs dramatically. It only makes sense that you are able to purchase a plan with a business that you trust and that suits your needs best, regardless of their physical location.
3. Reduce the tax burden: Maine needs relief now. Lowering taxes will give families more flexibility in their budgets to help meet the needs of rising energy, food and gas prices. More money in the consumers' pockets means more money spent in our economy.
How do you plan to implement each of these three goals?
1. To attract the new high-tech and manufacturing jobs of the future, we need a $100 million dollar per year investment in job training, education and internship programs that focus on the new and very promising future of alternative energy creation and manufacturing. We must have the skilled workers in place and a commitment to businesses looking to relocate to Maine that they will have a skilled workforce in place. Couple this with a 20-year tax break, Maine becomes one of the most attractive places to relocate a business.
2. Propose legislation to allow Mainers to purchase insurance across state borders. In a comparative study of New Hampshire vs. Maine, an individual can save as much as $2,000-$3,000 by buying their policy in New Hampshire that is the same as the one in Maine. Real savings to help families. Additionally, we need to end the Dirigo Health program. The program does not operate efficiently and with legislation that allows individuals to purchase health care outside of Maine in a more competitive environment, the premiums will be less for most Dirigo recipients than they already pay now.
3. A proposal that will return 50% of corporate taxes as long as half of the money returned goes to employees. This would essentially drop Maine's corporate tax rate from 11th highest in the nation to 22nd lowest. We would have a business tax environment better than half of the states in the U.S. Additionally, we need to start to support the working families of Maine. This would help boost family income and should spur job creation as well.
Which three state programs do you think should be maintained or expanded?
I would only advocate expanding two programs at this time:
1. Heating Assistance: We need emergency legislation to help families get through the winter.
2. OPEGA, the government oversight and evaluation program. This was threatened to be cut by the last legislature. They are there to look for efficiencies and savings in government. They have already found more savings in our government than it costs to fund the program. They have a backlog of work and a shortage of staff. Oversight of existing programs is essential to making sure we are not wasting taxpayer money.
Which three state programs do you think should be cut or eliminated?
1. Dirigo health program: Simple adjustments to our insurance laws would essentially make the program irrelevant. It is costly to operate and the money would be better spent directly assisting those that need help, rather than attempting to create a quasi-government run health care system. The program was created to help 130,000 Mainers that didn't have health insurance obtain affordable coverage. Only 3,000 of the people enrolled did not have insurance before. At a cost of $70 million per year, there are much better ways to help make health care affordable to more people than this program.
2. Clean Election Fund: First of all, I need to disclose that I accepted public financing through this program. This is my first time running and I believe that this program has allowed me to run, so I am grateful. However, I do not believe that sitting legislators should be able to utilize the program. I believe that they would have enough support from their constituents to pay for a campaign. I also do not believe in the matching funds formula. I think if you agree to accept the financing, that is all you should get. It's a decision that each candidate would have to make for themselves before getting involved.
3. Department of Health and Human Services: This $1 billion agency needs to be audited to find savings. I've knocked on a lot of doors, and the number of stories regarding abuse of the system in our social aid programs is astounding. I want to end abuse of the system, not pull the rug out from under those that truly need help.
What are your thoughts concerning the Dirigo Health program?
Great goals, terrible results. Eliminate the program and implement regulatory reform measures to reduce the health care costs for all Mainers, not just a few.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 1 on this year's referendum ballot?
I am voting yes to repeal the beverage tax. I cannot support any measure that was passed in the middle of the night, without a public hearing and that would hurt the poor the most.
What are your thoughts concerning casinos in Maine?
I believe that casinos offer great economic opportunity. If we have a casino, it needs to be done right. I do not support the current referendum because of some very major changes it would make to existing laws: 1) It lowers the gambling age to 19. 2) It creates a 10-year monopoly within the state. 3) It dictates how the tax money generated would be spent in the state. That is the job of the legislature to determine how the money is used best, not a corporation.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 2 on this year's referendum ballot?
No. The bill has too many problems and I don't have the confidence in the current legislature to make the necessary changes afterward.
Cite at least one example in which you cooperated with a member (or members) of another political party.
I am a Republican. But I interned and worked for a Democratic Rhode Island State Senator and Mayor for over 2 years after I left college. I believe that both parties offer good ideas and solutions; it's the quality and character of the person that matters most.
Cite at least one example in which you've differed with your own political party.
I believe in the traditional definition of marriage: One man, one woman. However, I am not opposed to civil unions because I view them as civil contracts that convey certain privileges (tax breaks, recognition in probate matters, etc.). I do not believe it takes away from the traditional and religious aspects of a marriage conducted before God.
What are your thoughts concerning school consolidation?
I support the effort to find administrative savings within the education system in Maine. I do not support taking away resources from the teachers or children. The consolidation law needs some tweaking, but ultimately I believe it is in the best interest of the state. It should be reviewed in two years to see what the actual results are. If childhood development is affected, then it needs to be reworked.
What are your thoughts concerning term limits for legislators?
Elections are the best term limits. If someone does a fantastic job, would you fire them because of the length of time they've been employed?
What are your thoughts concerning affirmative action in state hiring and contracting decisions, as well as in public university admissions?
I believe that affirmative action is a terrible policy. It is very clear that discrimination based on sex and gender is illegal under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, so why would any agency, business or other entity make it the centerpiece of an admission or job process?
What are your thoughts concerning the state budget?
It has been grossly mismanaged and the "tax-and-spend" mentality needs to end. We are looking at a $500 million budget gap. This is because the legislature has been irresponsible with the purse strings.
What are your thoughts concerning sex education in Maine's public schools?
I believe that systems like the one in New York work great. Parents are invited to come and sit through an entire class of sex ed. to see what is being taught. Parents are then allowed to ask questions and make suggestions. If any parent is uncomfortable with the materials or the manner in which it is taught, they are allowed to opt their child out of the program.
What are your thoughts concerning the state's current levels of sales tax and income taxes?
I think the sales tax rate is acceptable at this time. But I believe income taxes are too high and should be reduced.
What are your thoughts concerning Maine's gun laws?
I would not change the current laws and I would not support any further restrictions.
What are your thoughts concerning abortion?
I consider myself pro-life with certain exceptions. If the doctor told me that my wife's life may be in jeopardy during birth, I would do anything I could to save her life. I do not and will not support taxpayer funded abortions.
What are your thoughts concerning funding for education in Maine, particularly higher education?
K-12 funding needs to be increased to meet the 55% level mandated by voters in 2004. The state university system needs close examining to make sure that we do not have waste and it is quite possible that consolidation may be necessary. I would need more information before advocating for any specific measures.
(Editor's Note: Nick McGee's opponent, Joe Brannigan, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
What are your top three legislative priorities for the upcoming session?
1. Improve Maine's economy: Investing in the creation of, and attracting existing businesses to the state that research, develop, manufacture and distribute alternative energy. Cuts on taxes and fees will help people and businesses in these tough economic conditions.
2. Health care reform: Allow Mainers to purchase health insurance from out-of-state carriers will reduce the consumers costs dramatically. It only makes sense that you are able to purchase a plan with a business that you trust and that suits your needs best, regardless of their physical location.
3. Reduce the tax burden: Maine needs relief now. Lowering taxes will give families more flexibility in their budgets to help meet the needs of rising energy, food and gas prices. More money in the consumers' pockets means more money spent in our economy.
How do you plan to implement each of these three goals?
1. To attract the new high-tech and manufacturing jobs of the future, we need a $100 million dollar per year investment in job training, education and internship programs that focus on the new and very promising future of alternative energy creation and manufacturing. We must have the skilled workers in place and a commitment to businesses looking to relocate to Maine that they will have a skilled workforce in place. Couple this with a 20-year tax break, Maine becomes one of the most attractive places to relocate a business.
2. Propose legislation to allow Mainers to purchase insurance across state borders. In a comparative study of New Hampshire vs. Maine, an individual can save as much as $2,000-$3,000 by buying their policy in New Hampshire that is the same as the one in Maine. Real savings to help families. Additionally, we need to end the Dirigo Health program. The program does not operate efficiently and with legislation that allows individuals to purchase health care outside of Maine in a more competitive environment, the premiums will be less for most Dirigo recipients than they already pay now.
3. A proposal that will return 50% of corporate taxes as long as half of the money returned goes to employees. This would essentially drop Maine's corporate tax rate from 11th highest in the nation to 22nd lowest. We would have a business tax environment better than half of the states in the U.S. Additionally, we need to start to support the working families of Maine. This would help boost family income and should spur job creation as well.
Which three state programs do you think should be maintained or expanded?
I would only advocate expanding two programs at this time:
1. Heating Assistance: We need emergency legislation to help families get through the winter.
2. OPEGA, the government oversight and evaluation program. This was threatened to be cut by the last legislature. They are there to look for efficiencies and savings in government. They have already found more savings in our government than it costs to fund the program. They have a backlog of work and a shortage of staff. Oversight of existing programs is essential to making sure we are not wasting taxpayer money.
Which three state programs do you think should be cut or eliminated?
1. Dirigo health program: Simple adjustments to our insurance laws would essentially make the program irrelevant. It is costly to operate and the money would be better spent directly assisting those that need help, rather than attempting to create a quasi-government run health care system. The program was created to help 130,000 Mainers that didn't have health insurance obtain affordable coverage. Only 3,000 of the people enrolled did not have insurance before. At a cost of $70 million per year, there are much better ways to help make health care affordable to more people than this program.
2. Clean Election Fund: First of all, I need to disclose that I accepted public financing through this program. This is my first time running and I believe that this program has allowed me to run, so I am grateful. However, I do not believe that sitting legislators should be able to utilize the program. I believe that they would have enough support from their constituents to pay for a campaign. I also do not believe in the matching funds formula. I think if you agree to accept the financing, that is all you should get. It's a decision that each candidate would have to make for themselves before getting involved.
3. Department of Health and Human Services: This $1 billion agency needs to be audited to find savings. I've knocked on a lot of doors, and the number of stories regarding abuse of the system in our social aid programs is astounding. I want to end abuse of the system, not pull the rug out from under those that truly need help.
What are your thoughts concerning the Dirigo Health program?
Great goals, terrible results. Eliminate the program and implement regulatory reform measures to reduce the health care costs for all Mainers, not just a few.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 1 on this year's referendum ballot?
I am voting yes to repeal the beverage tax. I cannot support any measure that was passed in the middle of the night, without a public hearing and that would hurt the poor the most.
What are your thoughts concerning casinos in Maine?
I believe that casinos offer great economic opportunity. If we have a casino, it needs to be done right. I do not support the current referendum because of some very major changes it would make to existing laws: 1) It lowers the gambling age to 19. 2) It creates a 10-year monopoly within the state. 3) It dictates how the tax money generated would be spent in the state. That is the job of the legislature to determine how the money is used best, not a corporation.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 2 on this year's referendum ballot?
No. The bill has too many problems and I don't have the confidence in the current legislature to make the necessary changes afterward.
Cite at least one example in which you cooperated with a member (or members) of another political party.
I am a Republican. But I interned and worked for a Democratic Rhode Island State Senator and Mayor for over 2 years after I left college. I believe that both parties offer good ideas and solutions; it's the quality and character of the person that matters most.
Cite at least one example in which you've differed with your own political party.
I believe in the traditional definition of marriage: One man, one woman. However, I am not opposed to civil unions because I view them as civil contracts that convey certain privileges (tax breaks, recognition in probate matters, etc.). I do not believe it takes away from the traditional and religious aspects of a marriage conducted before God.
What are your thoughts concerning school consolidation?
I support the effort to find administrative savings within the education system in Maine. I do not support taking away resources from the teachers or children. The consolidation law needs some tweaking, but ultimately I believe it is in the best interest of the state. It should be reviewed in two years to see what the actual results are. If childhood development is affected, then it needs to be reworked.
What are your thoughts concerning term limits for legislators?
Elections are the best term limits. If someone does a fantastic job, would you fire them because of the length of time they've been employed?
What are your thoughts concerning affirmative action in state hiring and contracting decisions, as well as in public university admissions?
I believe that affirmative action is a terrible policy. It is very clear that discrimination based on sex and gender is illegal under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, so why would any agency, business or other entity make it the centerpiece of an admission or job process?
What are your thoughts concerning the state budget?
It has been grossly mismanaged and the "tax-and-spend" mentality needs to end. We are looking at a $500 million budget gap. This is because the legislature has been irresponsible with the purse strings.
What are your thoughts concerning sex education in Maine's public schools?
I believe that systems like the one in New York work great. Parents are invited to come and sit through an entire class of sex ed. to see what is being taught. Parents are then allowed to ask questions and make suggestions. If any parent is uncomfortable with the materials or the manner in which it is taught, they are allowed to opt their child out of the program.
What are your thoughts concerning the state's current levels of sales tax and income taxes?
I think the sales tax rate is acceptable at this time. But I believe income taxes are too high and should be reduced.
What are your thoughts concerning Maine's gun laws?
I would not change the current laws and I would not support any further restrictions.
What are your thoughts concerning abortion?
I consider myself pro-life with certain exceptions. If the doctor told me that my wife's life may be in jeopardy during birth, I would do anything I could to save her life. I do not and will not support taxpayer funded abortions.
What are your thoughts concerning funding for education in Maine, particularly higher education?
K-12 funding needs to be increased to meet the 55% level mandated by voters in 2004. The state university system needs close examining to make sure that we do not have waste and it is quite possible that consolidation may be necessary. I would need more information before advocating for any specific measures.
(Editor's Note: Nick McGee's opponent, Joe Brannigan, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
President of Westbrook Rod & Gun Club Endorses Allen
Richard Lowe, the president of the Westbrook Rod & Gun Club, is part of a coalition of sportsmen who have endorsed Rep. Tom Allen in his U.S. Senate race against Sen. Susan Collins.
- John C.L. Morgan
- John C.L. Morgan
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
A Blog Post About an Audioblog About a Soccer Game
Papa Richardson has a report on Westbrook's 1-0 victory over Portland in tonight's boys' soccer Western Class 'A' quarterfinal game.
A few corrections to his report, though: Backup goalkeeper Garrett Poitras did temporarily relieve starting goalkeeper Galen Perkins and make a critical save. However, Poitras's save occurred on a direct kick outside the penalty box, not on a penalty shot. And Brad Stiles scored a beautiful header in the run of play, not on a corner kick.
Still, I agree a good time was had by all. Well, except if you were pulling for the Bulldogs.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full disclosure: I am an assistant coach in the program.
A few corrections to his report, though: Backup goalkeeper Garrett Poitras did temporarily relieve starting goalkeeper Galen Perkins and make a critical save. However, Poitras's save occurred on a direct kick outside the penalty box, not on a penalty shot. And Brad Stiles scored a beautiful header in the run of play, not on a corner kick.
Still, I agree a good time was had by all. Well, except if you were pulling for the Bulldogs.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full disclosure: I am an assistant coach in the program.
Election '08: See Kevin Crocker Talk
Kevin Crocker, the Republican candidate for the State House #126, dropped by WLOB's morning show today to talk about his campaign.
Click here to see if Crocker will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Click here to see if Crocker will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Election '08: See Phil Csoros Talk
Phil Csoros, the Republican candidate for the State Senate #6 seat, dropped by WLOB's morning show today to talk about his campaign.
Click here to see if Csoros will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Click here to see if Csoros will be on your ballot on Tuesday, November 4.
- John C.L. Morgan
Election '08: Tim Driscoll on the Issues
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 are your top three legislative priorities for the upcoming session?
1. Provide efficient constituent service.
2. Maintain primary levels of service for the young, elderly and disabled.
3. Continue to plan for increasing faculty in our universities and colleges for health care
occupations (especially nurses).
How do you plan to implement each of these three goals?
1. Provide quick responses to constituent needs and requests, whether I am able or unable to
meet the specific need or request.
2. Despite the impending budget deficit we will be facing in the next budget, we need to ensure
that those most vulnerable are taken care of.
3. Because of the impending shortage of health care workers (especially nurses) in the state, I
have been meeting with a workgroup in Augusta throughout the summer discussing
healthcare occupations, where the current needs are, where will the shortfalls be in the near
future, and how do we meet those needs.
Which three state programs do you think should be maintained or expanded, and which three state programs do you think should be cut or eliminated?
Because of the impending shortfall/budget deficit that we will be facing in the upcoming 124th Legislature, my belief is that the budget in its totality has to be looked at. All departments need to find areas of efficiency and some consolidation and some reduction, including the legislature. One area I have thought about is the number of bills submitted by legislators each session. I have heard that each submitted bill costs between $2,500 or $3,000, even if it does not pass out of committee. My feeling is that we could eliminate half the number of bills submitted by limiting each legislator to five submitted bills per session. That would not only reduce the cost per bill submitted, but it would also reduce the committee time and the cost of taking up the bill. It might also reduce the time the legislature is in session, given the shortened committee time. If a legislator has a bill that he/she feels is so important that puts him or her beyond the five-bill limit, they could request the Legislative Council review whether the bill meets the merit of emergency legislation.
What are your thoughts concerning the Dirigo Health program?
- It was enacted by a bipartisan vote prior to my legislative service.
- Intentions are honorable, as there are approximately 120,000 uninsured in Maine.
- Dirigo Choice has not met benchmarks, though Dirigo Health has created real savings.
- We will have to seriously look at funding mechanism for Dirigo Choice.
- I have suggested in the past that all legislative employees (including legislators), executive
employees (including Governor), and judiciary employees should be enrolled in DirigoChoice. It
would give the program we are supporting as lawmakers more legitimacy.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 1 on this year's referendum ballot?
No.
What are your thoughts concerning casinos in Maine?
- I voted to support the Washington County Racino. Area residents overwhelmingly wanted it
per referendum and it would attract Canadian tourists (it is the 6th or 7th largest border
crossing in the United States). Also, at the time, unemployment in the area was up to 16%. And
finally, the project was not rushed; it had good planning and support from the area.
- I have reservations about the proposed casino in Oxford County.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 2 on this year's referendum ballot?
No.
Cite at least one example in which you cooperated with a member (or members) of another political party.
During the tax reform debate and vote, I spoke in support of Dick Woodbury’s (I)-Yarmouth amendment which decreased the income tax to 4.9% over 5 or 6 years. It got about 55 to 60 votes in the House. However, I voted against the enactment of the original bill because I didn’t feel the income tax reduction was significant enough.
Cite at least one example in which you've differed with your own political party.
See above.
What are your thoughts concerning same-sex marriage or civil unions?
I support civil unions.
What are your thoughts concerning school consolidation?
Good concept. I'm all about finding efficiencies, collaboration, cooperation, merging of programs and services and I think it could actually improve programming and curriculum for students in rural communities. It should save communities tax dollars.
What are your thoughts concerning term limits for legislators?
Leave it up to the voters.
What are your thoughts concerning the state budget?
These next 2 years will be very difficult. Tough choices will have to be made, as 70 to 80% of the budget is consumed by health care and education.
What are your thoughts concerning sex education in Maine 's public schools?
HPV, HIV, hepatitis, herpes, and STDs are where our focus should be. I see the repercussions almost daily in the emergency room. And while education starts in the home, it needs to be touched on in the schools as well, especially for those whose parents aren’t comfortable or willing to discuss these important life issues with their children.
What are your thoughts concerning the state's current levels of sales tax and income taxes?
I would support a broadening of the sales tax if the income tax were significantly reduced along with it, such as Rep. Woodbury’s amendment I spoke of earlier to the former tax reform vote. Our revenue is too dependent on items which rise and fall with the economic conditions of the time such as auto sales and home sales.
What are your thoughts concerning the Clean Elections law in Maine?
I support clean elections. It allows me to run for office without undo influence from special interest.
What are your thoughts concerning Maine's gun laws?
I am endorsed by the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine. I do not own a gun, but I used to hunt in my youth when I lived in Washington County. I feel Maine has adequate laws currently on the books.
What are your thoughts concerning abortion?
It is a decision to be made between a women and her health care provider.
What are your thoughts concerning funding for education in Maine, particularly higher education?
I am a strong advocate for our community college system. Its tuitions are less costly and, in many cases, 2 years of education (an associate's degree) usually leads to a good-paying job right away. The associate's degrees it provides enable an employee to be in the labor market, while earning a decent wage without being totally saddled with student loans. Also, since many of the degrees can be parlayed into a bachelor's degree at Maine's public colleges and universities, the employee can work toward the bachelor's degree using tuition-assistance from his or her employer.
(Editor's Note: Tim Driscoll's opponent, Kevin Crocker, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
What are your top three legislative priorities for the upcoming session?
1. Provide efficient constituent service.
2. Maintain primary levels of service for the young, elderly and disabled.
3. Continue to plan for increasing faculty in our universities and colleges for health care
occupations (especially nurses).
How do you plan to implement each of these three goals?
1. Provide quick responses to constituent needs and requests, whether I am able or unable to
meet the specific need or request.
2. Despite the impending budget deficit we will be facing in the next budget, we need to ensure
that those most vulnerable are taken care of.
3. Because of the impending shortage of health care workers (especially nurses) in the state, I
have been meeting with a workgroup in Augusta throughout the summer discussing
healthcare occupations, where the current needs are, where will the shortfalls be in the near
future, and how do we meet those needs.
Which three state programs do you think should be maintained or expanded, and which three state programs do you think should be cut or eliminated?
Because of the impending shortfall/budget deficit that we will be facing in the upcoming 124th Legislature, my belief is that the budget in its totality has to be looked at. All departments need to find areas of efficiency and some consolidation and some reduction, including the legislature. One area I have thought about is the number of bills submitted by legislators each session. I have heard that each submitted bill costs between $2,500 or $3,000, even if it does not pass out of committee. My feeling is that we could eliminate half the number of bills submitted by limiting each legislator to five submitted bills per session. That would not only reduce the cost per bill submitted, but it would also reduce the committee time and the cost of taking up the bill. It might also reduce the time the legislature is in session, given the shortened committee time. If a legislator has a bill that he/she feels is so important that puts him or her beyond the five-bill limit, they could request the Legislative Council review whether the bill meets the merit of emergency legislation.
What are your thoughts concerning the Dirigo Health program?
- It was enacted by a bipartisan vote prior to my legislative service.
- Intentions are honorable, as there are approximately 120,000 uninsured in Maine.
- Dirigo Choice has not met benchmarks, though Dirigo Health has created real savings.
- We will have to seriously look at funding mechanism for Dirigo Choice.
- I have suggested in the past that all legislative employees (including legislators), executive
employees (including Governor), and judiciary employees should be enrolled in DirigoChoice. It
would give the program we are supporting as lawmakers more legitimacy.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 1 on this year's referendum ballot?
No.
What are your thoughts concerning casinos in Maine?
- I voted to support the Washington County Racino. Area residents overwhelmingly wanted it
per referendum and it would attract Canadian tourists (it is the 6th or 7th largest border
crossing in the United States). Also, at the time, unemployment in the area was up to 16%. And
finally, the project was not rushed; it had good planning and support from the area.
- I have reservations about the proposed casino in Oxford County.
Do you plan to vote 'Yes' or 'No' on question 2 on this year's referendum ballot?
No.
Cite at least one example in which you cooperated with a member (or members) of another political party.
During the tax reform debate and vote, I spoke in support of Dick Woodbury’s (I)-Yarmouth amendment which decreased the income tax to 4.9% over 5 or 6 years. It got about 55 to 60 votes in the House. However, I voted against the enactment of the original bill because I didn’t feel the income tax reduction was significant enough.
Cite at least one example in which you've differed with your own political party.
See above.
What are your thoughts concerning same-sex marriage or civil unions?
I support civil unions.
What are your thoughts concerning school consolidation?
Good concept. I'm all about finding efficiencies, collaboration, cooperation, merging of programs and services and I think it could actually improve programming and curriculum for students in rural communities. It should save communities tax dollars.
What are your thoughts concerning term limits for legislators?
Leave it up to the voters.
What are your thoughts concerning the state budget?
These next 2 years will be very difficult. Tough choices will have to be made, as 70 to 80% of the budget is consumed by health care and education.
What are your thoughts concerning sex education in Maine 's public schools?
HPV, HIV, hepatitis, herpes, and STDs are where our focus should be. I see the repercussions almost daily in the emergency room. And while education starts in the home, it needs to be touched on in the schools as well, especially for those whose parents aren’t comfortable or willing to discuss these important life issues with their children.
What are your thoughts concerning the state's current levels of sales tax and income taxes?
I would support a broadening of the sales tax if the income tax were significantly reduced along with it, such as Rep. Woodbury’s amendment I spoke of earlier to the former tax reform vote. Our revenue is too dependent on items which rise and fall with the economic conditions of the time such as auto sales and home sales.
What are your thoughts concerning the Clean Elections law in Maine?
I support clean elections. It allows me to run for office without undo influence from special interest.
What are your thoughts concerning Maine's gun laws?
I am endorsed by the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine. I do not own a gun, but I used to hunt in my youth when I lived in Washington County. I feel Maine has adequate laws currently on the books.
What are your thoughts concerning abortion?
It is a decision to be made between a women and her health care provider.
What are your thoughts concerning funding for education in Maine, particularly higher education?
I am a strong advocate for our community college system. Its tuitions are less costly and, in many cases, 2 years of education (an associate's degree) usually leads to a good-paying job right away. The associate's degrees it provides enable an employee to be in the labor market, while earning a decent wage without being totally saddled with student loans. Also, since many of the degrees can be parlayed into a bachelor's degree at Maine's public colleges and universities, the employee can work toward the bachelor's degree using tuition-assistance from his or her employer.
(Editor's Note: Tim Driscoll's opponent, Kevin Crocker, did not respond to my e-mails.)
- John C.L. Morgan
More on the Drama at 570 Main Street
The PPH's David Hench has more on the early retirement of Westbrook Fire Chief Gary Littlefield, including the implication that Mayor Bruce Chuluda leaned on Chief Littlefield to hang up the hose earlier than initially anticipated and Littlefield's continuing denial that his retirement is related to the workplace complaints of two female firefighters.
- John C.L. Morgan
- John C.L. Morgan
About 1,500 Ballots Have Been Cast, Number of Registered Voters Up
As of yesterday afternoon, Westbrook City Clerk Lynda Adams reported 1,491 absentee ballots have been submitted ahead of next Tuesday's election.
And Westbrook's current number of registered voters is 14,810, which is an uptick from the approximately 12,000 Westbrook residents who were registered to vote at the time of the June primaries.
- John C.L. Morgan
And Westbrook's current number of registered voters is 14,810, which is an uptick from the approximately 12,000 Westbrook residents who were registered to vote at the time of the June primaries.
- John C.L. Morgan
On Mohawks and the Beautiful Game
WLOB radio talk show host Ray Richardson invited the Westbrook High School boys' soccer team to his studio for a little chat this morning.
The Blue Blazes travel to Fitzpatrick Stadium tomorrow night for a Western Class 'A' quarterfinal game against the Portland Bulldogs. The game starts at 6p.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full disclosure: I am an assistant coach in the program.
The Blue Blazes travel to Fitzpatrick Stadium tomorrow night for a Western Class 'A' quarterfinal game against the Portland Bulldogs. The game starts at 6p.
- John C.L. Morgan
Full disclosure: I am an assistant coach in the program.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Littlefield Quits, Bustlin' Bill Baker to Pull Double Duty
Per the AJ, Westbrook Fire Chief Gary Littlefield is leaving his post about a month sooner than expected, and Westbrook Police Chief Bill Baker will act as the head of the fire department until a permanent fire chief can be found.
Littlefield, who abruptly announced his plans to retire in the wake of personnel complaints from two female firefighters, had been expected to stay on the job until the end of November.
City Administrator Jerre Bryant hopes a new fire chief will be found by January.
- John C.L. Morgan
Littlefield, who abruptly announced his plans to retire in the wake of personnel complaints from two female firefighters, had been expected to stay on the job until the end of November.
City Administrator Jerre Bryant hopes a new fire chief will be found by January.
- John C.L. Morgan
Maine and the Electoral College
Though Sen. Barack Obama will surely win Maine and the state's first district next Tuesday (the latest two polls at Five Thirty Eight have him winning by about thirteen points and fifteen points, respectively), Sen. John McCain dispatched his running mate, Gov. Sarah Palin, to Bangor as late as October 16 in an attempt to win Maine's less populous second district.
Why? Because Maine is one of only two states (Nebraska is the other) that splits its Electoral College votes, awarding one electoral vote to the winner of each district and two votes to the winner of the statewide vote. So, you may be asking yourself, why is Maine is an exceptionalist (sort of) when it comes to the electoral college?
Well, that's where Julie Murchison Harris of the Bangor Daily News comes in.
According to Harris, Maine's love affair with the split electoral vote was inherited from our days as a colony of Massachusetts and lasted from our independence in 1820 (please, a moment of silence for the "Sultan of Bath") until 1828, when we decided to become more like the rest of the country and adopted the "winner-take-all" approach to handing out our electoral votes.
But then the 1968 presidential race happened.
Responding to complaints that the three-way race among Richard Nixon, Hubert Humphrey, and George Wallace produced a result that did fully embrace the "one person, one vote" democratic ideal, State Representative S. Glenn Starbird Jr., a Democrat from Kingman, proposed the state adopt a system in which Maine's Electoral College votes be split up according to congressional districts. Hence Maine's current electoral quirk.
Interestingly, Harris notes Rep. Starbird Jr.'s proposed reform attracted little attention and inspired little debate when it was taken up by the legislature in 1969, largely because the legislature and populace were pre-occupied with other issues. Indeed, according to Harris, the Vietnam War, a change in the minimum voting age (from 21 to 20 years), the establishment of the state income tax, a reform in school funding, a drunk-driving law, and the institution of the Maine Housing Authority all combined to steal the spotlight away from the Electoral College reform. Which is remarkable considering its potential effect on a close presidential race.
On the other hand, considering Maine hasn't split its Electoral College votes since the reform was first practiced during the 1972 presidential race, maybe it will remain the dinner party banter of only political junkies for at least four more years.
Much like the Electoral College was before the 2000 presidential election.
- John C.L. Morgan
Why? Because Maine is one of only two states (Nebraska is the other) that splits its Electoral College votes, awarding one electoral vote to the winner of each district and two votes to the winner of the statewide vote. So, you may be asking yourself, why is Maine is an exceptionalist (sort of) when it comes to the electoral college?
Well, that's where Julie Murchison Harris of the Bangor Daily News comes in.
According to Harris, Maine's love affair with the split electoral vote was inherited from our days as a colony of Massachusetts and lasted from our independence in 1820 (please, a moment of silence for the "Sultan of Bath") until 1828, when we decided to become more like the rest of the country and adopted the "winner-take-all" approach to handing out our electoral votes.
But then the 1968 presidential race happened.
Responding to complaints that the three-way race among Richard Nixon, Hubert Humphrey, and George Wallace produced a result that did fully embrace the "one person, one vote" democratic ideal, State Representative S. Glenn Starbird Jr., a Democrat from Kingman, proposed the state adopt a system in which Maine's Electoral College votes be split up according to congressional districts. Hence Maine's current electoral quirk.
Interestingly, Harris notes Rep. Starbird Jr.'s proposed reform attracted little attention and inspired little debate when it was taken up by the legislature in 1969, largely because the legislature and populace were pre-occupied with other issues. Indeed, according to Harris, the Vietnam War, a change in the minimum voting age (from 21 to 20 years), the establishment of the state income tax, a reform in school funding, a drunk-driving law, and the institution of the Maine Housing Authority all combined to steal the spotlight away from the Electoral College reform. Which is remarkable considering its potential effect on a close presidential race.
On the other hand, considering Maine hasn't split its Electoral College votes since the reform was first practiced during the 1972 presidential race, maybe it will remain the dinner party banter of only political junkies for at least four more years.
Much like the Electoral College was before the 2000 presidential election.
- John C.L. Morgan
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Westbrook Almanac: October 19- October 25, 2008
Week-to-Date:
High: 59F (October 20, October 25)
Low: 28F (October 23)
Precipitation: 0.18 inches
Previous Sunrise: 7:18a
Previous Sunset: 6:01p
Month-to-Date:
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 28F (October 23)
Precipitation: 0.82 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 48.90 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
High: 59F (October 20, October 25)
Low: 28F (October 23)
Precipitation: 0.18 inches
Previous Sunrise: 7:18a
Previous Sunset: 6:01p
Month-to-Date:
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 28F (October 23)
Precipitation: 0.82 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 48.90 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
Lack of Opposition or Ignorance?
According to the American Journal (did I mention there's no link?), folks from the state's Liquor Licensing and Compliance Division and the Attorney General's office were at the Westbrook Public Safety Building last Monday for a public hearing devoted to the question of whether the State of Maine should overturn the Westbrook City Council's decisions to deny the Skybox Bar and Grill's requests for liquor licenses in March and August. And, according to the American Journal, "[n]o one from the public attended the hearing."
Which sparks a couple questions: Is opposition to a Brown Street bar among Brown Streeters overstated? Or did people just not know about the meeting?
- John C.L. Morgan
Uh, No (Part Two)
At the risk of introducing the proverbial expired horse to my proverbial fists, I have a familiar quibble with Leslie Bridgers's summary of the Maine House #126 contest between Kevin Crocker and Tim Driscoll in thise week's American Journal (sorry, no link).
Like the Press Herald article I flagged yesterday, the summary of each candidate is informative, save the explanation (or lack of explanation) surrounding Crocker's departure from his radio show on WLOB. To be fair, unlike the PPH summary, Bridgers's reference to the discontinuation of Crocker's show ("'You can only complain so long before you have to do something,' said Crocker, who has only recently left the radio show." emphasis mine) doesn't give the reader the false impression that Crocker's absence from the airwaves was his decision.
But, at the same time, it doesn't provide context as to why Crocker "recently left the radio show," which can be found here.
- John C.L. Morgan
(P.S. The same disclosures apply to this post as my previous post on this subject, except a point of clarification: My father's contribution to the Driscoll campaign was a $5 check to help Driscoll qualify as a Clean Election candidate.)
Like the Press Herald article I flagged yesterday, the summary of each candidate is informative, save the explanation (or lack of explanation) surrounding Crocker's departure from his radio show on WLOB. To be fair, unlike the PPH summary, Bridgers's reference to the discontinuation of Crocker's show ("'You can only complain so long before you have to do something,' said Crocker, who has only recently left the radio show." emphasis mine) doesn't give the reader the false impression that Crocker's absence from the airwaves was his decision.
But, at the same time, it doesn't provide context as to why Crocker "recently left the radio show," which can be found here.
- John C.L. Morgan
(P.S. The same disclosures apply to this post as my previous post on this subject, except a point of clarification: My father's contribution to the Driscoll campaign was a $5 check to help Driscoll qualify as a Clean Election candidate.)
Dolley Farm and Rocky Hill are Okay--Sort Of
To follow up on last weekend's post about the State of Maine taking over Dolley Farm and Rocky Hill Manor, the American Journal is reporting (sorry, no link) residents at the two assisted-living facilities in Westbrook did not experience a drop in services, largely because an administrator at the homes used his personal credit card to continue funding the deliverance of services.
So, though other Eagle Landing Residential Care LLC facilities in Maine have suffered disruptions in services (Gray Manor's oil tank was empty in September because an oil company refused delivery due to outstanding bills and Somerset Residential in Madison has received disconnection notices for electricity and telephone service), it seems all is well at the Westbrook-based facilities.
Or, at least as well as can be expected for a facility managed by Eagle Landing.
- John C.L. Morgan
So, though other Eagle Landing Residential Care LLC facilities in Maine have suffered disruptions in services (Gray Manor's oil tank was empty in September because an oil company refused delivery due to outstanding bills and Somerset Residential in Madison has received disconnection notices for electricity and telephone service), it seems all is well at the Westbrook-based facilities.
Or, at least as well as can be expected for a facility managed by Eagle Landing.
- John C.L. Morgan
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Lobster as Pork
Here's your random fact of the day: The University of Maine's Maine Lobster Institute was lumped with the infamous Woodstock Museum as an example of one candidate's support for wasteful pork-barrel spending during a gubernatorial debate yesterday in, of all places, Missouri (excuse me, Missourah).
So much for some brotherly love from our sister state.
- John C.L. Morgan
So much for some brotherly love from our sister state.
- John C.L. Morgan
Friday, October 24, 2008
Uh, No
Tom Bell's summary of the Maine House #126 race in today's Press Herald made sense to me until the last paragraph: "[Kevin] Crocker hosted the radio talk show 'Talking Maine' for four years on WLOB. He suspended the show in May."
[Emphasis mine.]
Now, I have two problems with that specific sentence. First, it gives the reader the impression that Crocker himself decided to suspend his talk show in order to take a sabbatical to, I don't know, run for the Maine House of Representatives. But, according to Al Diamon and the Press Herald itself (I'd link to the article, but it exists only online in the "Maine Newsstand" at MARVEL! ), WLOB was the one doing the suspending, not Crocker.
Which brings me to the second quibble I have with the line: WLOB indefinitely suspended Crocker's weekend show because Crocker spit vulgar language (he reportedly dropped the f-bomb) and an ethnic slur ("jemhunter," the poster on As Maine Goes who's credited with breaking the story, reported that Crocker referred to co-worker Lou Castaldi as a guinea), while he was still on the air during a May 3 broadcast.
- John C.L. Morgan
P.S. In the interest of full disclosure, my father has contributed to the campaign of Crocker's opponent, Tim Driscoll, and my parents have planted one of Driscoll's campaign signs on their front lawn.
[Emphasis mine.]
Now, I have two problems with that specific sentence. First, it gives the reader the impression that Crocker himself decided to suspend his talk show in order to take a sabbatical to, I don't know, run for the Maine House of Representatives. But, according to Al Diamon and the Press Herald itself (I'd link to the article, but it exists only online in the "Maine Newsstand" at MARVEL! ), WLOB was the one doing the suspending, not Crocker.
Which brings me to the second quibble I have with the line: WLOB indefinitely suspended Crocker's weekend show because Crocker spit vulgar language (he reportedly dropped the f-bomb) and an ethnic slur ("jemhunter," the poster on As Maine Goes who's credited with breaking the story, reported that Crocker referred to co-worker Lou Castaldi as a guinea), while he was still on the air during a May 3 broadcast.
- John C.L. Morgan
P.S. In the interest of full disclosure, my father has contributed to the campaign of Crocker's opponent, Tim Driscoll, and my parents have planted one of Driscoll's campaign signs on their front lawn.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Ice Arena In Westbrook Seems Definite, But Where and When?
One way or another, it appears certain Westbrook will get an ice hockey arena of some sort. The only questions seem to be where and when.
Besides explicit references to a rink within the Stroudwater Place Contract Zone (2.5 hours of each day have already been reserved for Westbrook residents in the imaginary skating rink and there's a stipulation in the contract zone that requires the construction of an ice rink before the developers receive approval for 1.2 million square feet of commercial space), a skating rink also figures prominently in the plans for the re-use of Wescott Junior High.
Now, considering the Stroudwater Place Contract Zone gives the developers the option to either construct a facility on their own property or to "agree on a monetary contribution from 500 Westbrook LLC to assist the City in constructing or operating an off-site facility," I wouldn't be surprised if an ice rink is built at Wescott Junior High School, with significant funding coming from Stroudwater Place. On the other hand, Portland Pirates CEO Brian Petrovek floated the possibility of Westbrook (or Scarborough) becoming the site of a new civic center* in an interview with WJAB yesterday afternoon, so it might be intriguing for the developers of Stroudwater Place to just construct such a facility on their property.
Whatever happens, I don't think the current skating rinks on Lincoln Street and Stroudwater Street will be the only places to skate in Westbrook for very long.
- John C.L. Morgan
*Though he did briefly mention the possibility of a civic center in Westbrook or Scarborough, Petrovek focused primarily on the current efforts to renovate the civic center.
Besides explicit references to a rink within the Stroudwater Place Contract Zone (2.5 hours of each day have already been reserved for Westbrook residents in the imaginary skating rink and there's a stipulation in the contract zone that requires the construction of an ice rink before the developers receive approval for 1.2 million square feet of commercial space), a skating rink also figures prominently in the plans for the re-use of Wescott Junior High.
Now, considering the Stroudwater Place Contract Zone gives the developers the option to either construct a facility on their own property or to "agree on a monetary contribution from 500 Westbrook LLC to assist the City in constructing or operating an off-site facility," I wouldn't be surprised if an ice rink is built at Wescott Junior High School, with significant funding coming from Stroudwater Place. On the other hand, Portland Pirates CEO Brian Petrovek floated the possibility of Westbrook (or Scarborough) becoming the site of a new civic center* in an interview with WJAB yesterday afternoon, so it might be intriguing for the developers of Stroudwater Place to just construct such a facility on their property.
Whatever happens, I don't think the current skating rinks on Lincoln Street and Stroudwater Street will be the only places to skate in Westbrook for very long.
- John C.L. Morgan
*Though he did briefly mention the possibility of a civic center in Westbrook or Scarborough, Petrovek focused primarily on the current efforts to renovate the civic center.
A Look at the Stroudwater Place Contract Zone
Here's a quick review of Stroudwater Place's Contract Zone, which was unanimously approved by the Westbrook City Council Monday night:
Permitted Uses
A list of thirty-nine permitted uses that range from adult daycare to a veterinary office. The definitions of fifteen of these uses can be found on pages six and seven in the online version of the contract zone.
Minimum Building Setbacks
The buildings must be at least twenty feet removed from the Westbrook arterial, twenty feet removed from side property lines, and two-hundred feet removed from Stroudwater Street.
Maximum Height
The maximum height of any building is seventy-five feet. However, it does note the maximum height is "exclusive of architectural features which may, upon approval of the design by the Planning Board during site plan review, extend above the roof of the building provided such architectural features do not increase habitable space."
Which I interpret to mean the building can be prettified more than seventy-five feet off the ground, but that extra height cannot be functional.
Maximum Gross Density
No more than 78% of the sixty-one acres can be devoted to the buildings' footprints or "impervious" surfaces.
Minimum Landscaping
At least 22% of the sixty-one acres must be devoted to landscaping. Stabilized grass is considered by the contract zone to be a "pervious" surface, so it would count toward the 22% landscaping requirement.
Now, if any astute reader can define stabilized grass, I'd appreciate it.
Lighting
Besides prohibiting lighting on architectural features higher than 75 feet, the lighting must be "installed so that no permanent direct lighting is emitted beyond the lot lines, except for special accent/event lighting."
Oh, and the lighting must be cutoff luminaire, which is fancy-speak for light in which "[t]he luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above an angle of 90° above nadir does not numerically exceed 2.5% of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminaire, and the luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above a vertical angle of 80° above nadir does not numerically exceed 10% of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminaire."
Got it? Neither did I, so I'll find out what cutoff luminaire lighting is and report back with a plainspoken explanation. In the meantime, discuss among yourselves the relative advantages and disadvantages of full cutoff luminaire, semicutoff luminaire, and just plain 'ol cutoff luminaire.
Buffer
A fifty-foot buffer consisting of berms and trees must exist between the development and Stroudwater Street, and breaks in the buffer are permitted only where there's an entrance for emergency vehicles.
Traffic Impact
Access to the development will only be available from the Westbrook arterial or the connector road that runs between the arterial and the development, there will not be an access point off Stroudwater Street, and the developers are required to fund a traffic impact study.
Parking
The contract zone features an eighteen-line explanation on the parking situation in which a few guidelines are articulated. Essentially, though, it's a long-winded way of saying "We'll cross those bridges when we get to them."
Sustainability
Some language about energy efficiency and low environmental impact, but this clause contains no measurable targets or specific requirements.
Phasing
An outdoor farmers' market and an alternative transportation depot must be constructed within two years after the first 100,000 square feet of commercial space is occupied. Moreover, a certificate of occupancy for 400,000 square feet of commercial space will not be granted until the construction of the farmers' market and tranportation center. Also, a certificate of occupancy for more than 800,000 square feet of commercial space will not be granted until an outdoor gathering place has been constructed. And a certificate of occupancy for more than 1.2 million square feet will not be granted until an indoor ice rink or similar civic center is constructed (note: this clause also gives the developers the option to simply contribute financially toward the construction of an off-site civic center or ice rink).
Etc.
Permitted Uses
A list of thirty-nine permitted uses that range from adult daycare to a veterinary office. The definitions of fifteen of these uses can be found on pages six and seven in the online version of the contract zone.
Minimum Building Setbacks
The buildings must be at least twenty feet removed from the Westbrook arterial, twenty feet removed from side property lines, and two-hundred feet removed from Stroudwater Street.
Maximum Height
The maximum height of any building is seventy-five feet. However, it does note the maximum height is "exclusive of architectural features which may, upon approval of the design by the Planning Board during site plan review, extend above the roof of the building provided such architectural features do not increase habitable space."
Which I interpret to mean the building can be prettified more than seventy-five feet off the ground, but that extra height cannot be functional.
Maximum Gross Density
No more than 78% of the sixty-one acres can be devoted to the buildings' footprints or "impervious" surfaces.
Minimum Landscaping
At least 22% of the sixty-one acres must be devoted to landscaping. Stabilized grass is considered by the contract zone to be a "pervious" surface, so it would count toward the 22% landscaping requirement.
Now, if any astute reader can define stabilized grass, I'd appreciate it.
Lighting
Besides prohibiting lighting on architectural features higher than 75 feet, the lighting must be "installed so that no permanent direct lighting is emitted beyond the lot lines, except for special accent/event lighting."
Oh, and the lighting must be cutoff luminaire, which is fancy-speak for light in which "[t]he luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above an angle of 90° above nadir does not numerically exceed 2.5% of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminaire, and the luminous intensity (in candelas) at or above a vertical angle of 80° above nadir does not numerically exceed 10% of the luminous flux (in lumens) of the lamp or lamps in the luminaire."
Got it? Neither did I, so I'll find out what cutoff luminaire lighting is and report back with a plainspoken explanation. In the meantime, discuss among yourselves the relative advantages and disadvantages of full cutoff luminaire, semicutoff luminaire, and just plain 'ol cutoff luminaire.
Buffer
A fifty-foot buffer consisting of berms and trees must exist between the development and Stroudwater Street, and breaks in the buffer are permitted only where there's an entrance for emergency vehicles.
Traffic Impact
Access to the development will only be available from the Westbrook arterial or the connector road that runs between the arterial and the development, there will not be an access point off Stroudwater Street, and the developers are required to fund a traffic impact study.
Parking
The contract zone features an eighteen-line explanation on the parking situation in which a few guidelines are articulated. Essentially, though, it's a long-winded way of saying "We'll cross those bridges when we get to them."
Sustainability
Some language about energy efficiency and low environmental impact, but this clause contains no measurable targets or specific requirements.
Phasing
An outdoor farmers' market and an alternative transportation depot must be constructed within two years after the first 100,000 square feet of commercial space is occupied. Moreover, a certificate of occupancy for 400,000 square feet of commercial space will not be granted until the construction of the farmers' market and tranportation center. Also, a certificate of occupancy for more than 800,000 square feet of commercial space will not be granted until an outdoor gathering place has been constructed. And a certificate of occupancy for more than 1.2 million square feet will not be granted until an indoor ice rink or similar civic center is constructed (note: this clause also gives the developers the option to simply contribute financially toward the construction of an off-site civic center or ice rink).
Etc.
- When all is said and done, the project will include retail, office space, hospitality and food, and sports and entertainment facilities. Each of these uses is numerically listed, but I am unsure of whether those numbers represent the sequence in which the uses will be developed or if they are simply arbitrary. Again, I'll get back to you.
- High quality public spaces (no definition or examples are provided) are required for both the individual phases of the project, as well as the completed project.
- The development will be constructed in such a way that parking will be centralized and building entrances will be located on internal streets.
- The Master Plan will deal with such issues as alternative transportation, trails, recreation uses, and other outdoor gathering places. Also, the ice rink will set aside 2.5 hours of free time each day for Westbrook residents and youth hockey teams.
- Dollar stores or any other sellers "distressed or salvaged merchandise and other retailers whose advertising, marketing practices or appearance, either interior or exterior, are not consistent with the kind of quality, destination-retail development described in the Vision Statement" are prohibited. Consider this the City's "No Strip Mall" insurance policy.
- John C.L. Morgan
Did You Know?
Did you know the Brackett House was once a station in the Underground Railroad during the Civil War?
Built by Zachariah Brackett around 1810 with bricks from his brickyard at Prides Corner, the house was torn down during Urban Renewal in the 1970s. It was located in what is now the plaza across the street from the row of businesses on Main Street (Freaky Bean, Full Court Press, etc.).
- John C.L. Morgan
Built by Zachariah Brackett around 1810 with bricks from his brickyard at Prides Corner, the house was torn down during Urban Renewal in the 1970s. It was located in what is now the plaza across the street from the row of businesses on Main Street (Freaky Bean, Full Court Press, etc.).
- John C.L. Morgan
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
City Council Approves Amendment, Zoning Change for Stroudwater Place
The City Council last night approved the first reading for an amendment to the City's Comprehensive Plan and approved the Stroudwater Place developers' request for a contract zone. The vote for the amendment was 6-1 (Gattine opposed), and the latter vote was unanimous. For more details, check out this Press Herald piece about the meeting. And to watch a replay of the meeting, which featured a wide spectrum of arguments and considerations, click here (the video's not up yet, but should be up shortly).
The City Council will hold the second readings of both the amendment and the contract zone on either Monday, October 27 or Monday, November 3. If both are approved, the project will go back to the Planning Board for site-plan review.
- John C.L. Morgan
The City Council will hold the second readings of both the amendment and the contract zone on either Monday, October 27 or Monday, November 3. If both are approved, the project will go back to the Planning Board for site-plan review.
- John C.L. Morgan
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Westbrook Politics: October 20- October 24, 2008
Westbrook Almanac: October 12- October 18, 2008
Week-to-Date:
High: 66F (October 12)
Low: 31F (October 18)
Precipitation: 0.15 inches
Previous Sunrise: 7:00a
Previous Sunset: 5:53p
Month-to-Date:
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 31F (October 18)
Precipitation: 0.64 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 48.72 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
High: 66F (October 12)
Low: 31F (October 18)
Precipitation: 0.15 inches
Previous Sunrise: 7:00a
Previous Sunset: 5:53p
Month-to-Date:
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 31F (October 18)
Precipitation: 0.64 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 48.72 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
Saturday, October 18, 2008
State Takes Over Dolley Farm and Rocky Hill Manor
According to the Bangor Daily News, the State of Maine has taken over seven retirement homes and assisted living centers in the state, including Westbrook's Dolley Farm Residential Care Home (98 Bridge Street) and Rocky Hill Manor (511 Bridge Street).
Citing mismanagement by Connecticut-based Eagle Landing Residential Care LLC, the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) requested Thursday $87,000 from the Legislature's Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee to manage the facilities until a more permanent solution can be found.
Examples of corporate mismanagement include unpaid bills resulting in vendors ceasing to deliver food and supplies, including heating oil, propane gas, Internet service, and telephone service. Employees have had to "routinely" use their personal credit cards to pay for such things as food delivery and phone service, while their workers' compensation and liability insurance policies have been canceled because of nonpayment. And Eagle Landing owes about $400,000 in unpaid taxes and about $794,000 in overpayments from the state's Medicaid billing computer system, while their vehicles used to transports residents to medical appointments have either been repossessed or are threatened with repossession.
- John C.L. Morgan
Citing mismanagement by Connecticut-based Eagle Landing Residential Care LLC, the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) requested Thursday $87,000 from the Legislature's Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee to manage the facilities until a more permanent solution can be found.
Examples of corporate mismanagement include unpaid bills resulting in vendors ceasing to deliver food and supplies, including heating oil, propane gas, Internet service, and telephone service. Employees have had to "routinely" use their personal credit cards to pay for such things as food delivery and phone service, while their workers' compensation and liability insurance policies have been canceled because of nonpayment. And Eagle Landing owes about $400,000 in unpaid taxes and about $794,000 in overpayments from the state's Medicaid billing computer system, while their vehicles used to transports residents to medical appointments have either been repossessed or are threatened with repossession.
- John C.L. Morgan
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Web Surfer Beware
Courtesy of Marie Claire (real men read MC), I came across Flickr.com's feature that organized posted photographs by location.
So being the intrepid and provincial correspondent that I am, I looked up photos associated with the fair city of Westbrook (type in 'Westbrook, Maine' in the 'Taken in' box). And let's just say Heidi Julavits's observations that Maine is made up primarily of (half-naked) obese cat-lovers seems accurate, at least as far as my very quick tour of Flickr is concerned.
Please excuse me while I shower.
- John C.L. Morgan
So being the intrepid and provincial correspondent that I am, I looked up photos associated with the fair city of Westbrook (type in 'Westbrook, Maine' in the 'Taken in' box). And let's just say Heidi Julavits's observations that Maine is made up primarily of (half-naked) obese cat-lovers seems accurate, at least as far as my very quick tour of Flickr is concerned.
Please excuse me while I shower.
- John C.L. Morgan
American Journal One-Liners
An unspecified number of the Westbrook firefighters have been suspended or demoted as a result of co-workers' complaints.
Stroudwater Place on the City Council's agenda for Monday.
Westbrook-based weekly shopper The Wise Guide published its last issue this week to culminate a 35-year run.
- John C.L. Morgan
Stroudwater Place on the City Council's agenda for Monday.
Westbrook-based weekly shopper The Wise Guide published its last issue this week to culminate a 35-year run.
- John C.L. Morgan
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Quote, Unquote
"Sometimes you know more about them than you wish you did; sometimes you know less and make up the rest."
- North Haven resident Herb Parsons on the intimacy (or lack thereof) that exists among neighbors on small Maine islands. The quote was lifted from a WGME profile of congressional candidate Chellie Pingree.
- John C.L. Morgan
- North Haven resident Herb Parsons on the intimacy (or lack thereof) that exists among neighbors on small Maine islands. The quote was lifted from a WGME profile of congressional candidate Chellie Pingree.
- John C.L. Morgan
Gattine Addresses Project Labor Agreements
City Councilor Drew Gattine's e-mail to me concerning Ray Richardson's complaints that the Westbrook City Council may be stalling the Stroudwater Place in order to force a Project Labor Agreement upon developer Jason Snyder:
"I saw your post today about Stroudwater Place and Ray's comments last week. I don't really even know what a PLA is. I've never heard such a concept discussed in the context of this project or any other. It isn't an issue as far as I am concerned."
- John C.L. Morgan
"I saw your post today about Stroudwater Place and Ray's comments last week. I don't really even know what a PLA is. I've never heard such a concept discussed in the context of this project or any other. It isn't an issue as far as I am concerned."
- John C.L. Morgan
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
On Location: The Hamlet
According to Bubbles from the Canadian mockumentary "Trailer Park Boys," life in a trailer park can be summed up in "five little words": Liquor, whores, cigarettes, mustard, and balogna.
Now, my adolescence in Westbrook's trailer park, The Hamlet, certainly featured plenty of mustard and balogna. And it even included a cigarette (though if my mother asks, I made up that last detail only to strengthen my street cred). But I can't speak much about the other two words on Bubble's list, at least not when discussing my childhood (zing!).
Instead, I remember The Hamlet as the site of a wonderful childhood and a place that generates nostalgia whenever I consider it for any length of time. So, without further ado, here's a brief retrospective--and undoubtedly romantic--tour of my childhood at The Hamlet:
The Field- In a more bucolic setting, this patch of green space atop Windsor Drive might've been referred to as a quad, instead of simply The Field (which, by the way, should not be confused with the other The Field, which I'll explain in a bit). Nonetheless, it was dubbed The Field and its simple functions matched its simple moniker: Its interior served as the site of rowdy football games, while its exterior marked the running track where everyone battled for second place behind Tommy Murray. Put simply, The Field was every boy's reward for hiking to the park's sole bus stop each morning.
The Mailbox- Closely related to The Field both in geography and function, The Mailbox was the bank of postal boxes at which The Hamlet's aspiring scholars (think you'd ever see those words crammed together in a single sentence?) gathered each weekday morning while waiting for the school bus. Matt Doucette entertained us during the winter by licking the outside of the boxes and peeling his tongue off their metal exterior. And the fact that it also served as the one-stop place for mail in the entire trailer park made the personal mail slot at our house on (sniff) Monroe Avenue a revelation. (What do you mean we don't have to drive to our mailbox?)
The Clubhouse- Though I recall numerous Cub Scout meetings and Pinewood Derbies taking place in the park's clubhouse, my most poignant memory of the gathering place was when my father won the Portland City Championship chess tournament for the first time there in 1990. That and a couple Halloween parties in which one of the attractions was to plunge your hand into a jar containing a slimy conconction that remains a secret to this day.
The Hill- About halfway down the sloping Windsor Drive, you have to take a quick right onto St. James Street in order to appreciate The Hill. Thirteen years after the fact, The Hill seems only a tad bit more intimidating than an ant hill. But in our pre-teen minds, The Hill was the nastiest sledding hill in town, made only more dangerous by our parents' constant warnings against letting our momentum carry us under the tires of a car gliding on St. James.
The Woods- Not to be confused with the other The Woods--again, I'll explain later--The Woods were a stretch of suburban forest at the crest of The Hill. Forts made from sticks and brush were constructed, destructed, and constructed again in The Woods. And if we were especially daring, we'd hop the barbed-wire fence surrounding the block of farm land that was sandwiched between Saco Street and the trailer park. Knowing the $300,000 homes that make up the Victoria Heights subdivision are now located on the same spot where we once threw cow patties at one another never ceases to make me chuckle. That, and the memory of my best friend Walter Burney shooting my index finger with a BB gun while I held up a plastic cup for target practice.
Bond Street- After you drive by The Hill on St. James Street, take a left-turn onto Bond Street, which was named in honor of Bond, James Bond. This, in my modest opinion, was the street on which to live in The Hamlet. My family and I lived at 247, Walter lived across the street, and the Edwards brothers (Ryan and Kevin) lived near the end of the street. When we weren't playing, er, field hockey (we played hockey in the Edwards's side yard, but we used real hockey sticks, tennis balls, and garbage cans as goalposts), we were playing basketball at my trailer. And when we weren't playing basketball at my trailer, we were playing b-ball at the Edwards'. Or maybe we were playing pick-sticks (think: Capture the Flag) around the Burney's trailer. That is, of course, when Walter wasn't jumping off the roof of his trailer onto a comforter (logic wasn't always our strength). Anyway, you get the point: Bond Street was where it was at. Especially if you wanted to get sworn at by a telephone operator responsible for interpreting phone calls for our deaf neighbor's deaf friend (it's a long story, so remind me to tell you about when we're sharing an edible shot at Mill Side.)
The Woods- Not to be confused with the other The Woods--I've explained those woods already--The Woods at the end of Bond Street featured a lot of the same activities--building forts, tearing down forts, re-building forts--as the other The Woods, except these The Woods had a stream that provided ample opportunity for one of our favorite pasttimes: Catching frogs. The fact that these woods now have a "Danger: Restricted Property" sign attached to a tree nearby gives me pause.
The Playground- If you take a left at the end of Bond Street and drive beyond the end of Windsor Drive, you'll see a field that features nothing of interest. Once upon a time, though, it featured the best playground in the park. It was also the site of the seventeenth-most embarassing moments of my life: My first girlfriend (I can't bring myself to type her name, the wound is still that fresh) and my friends ganged up on me to give me a ho-down and therefore display my red and blue tighty whities for all The Hamlet to see. It was also there that I heard my first dirty joke involving tuna, maggots, and, well, never mind.
The Field- If The Hamlet had a Mecca to which a pilgrimmage must be made, it would be The Field (not to be confused with the, all together now, other The Field). Located between Bond Street and Windsor Drive, The Field was surrounded by a moat-like gully of rust-colored water (I think it was water, but looking back, am not so sure) that stained hundreds of white socks and ruined dozens of sneakers. Featuring a broad head and a narrowing peninsula-like base that jutted into the gully, The Field was by far the place at which we logged the most hours. Baseball played with tennis balls and wooden bats was our game of choice, but we also enjoyed the occasional game of tackle football, especially during football season (one of our cohorts, Kenny Wendrick, always insisted on being Vincent Brisby in our games, which is funny if you know anything about the New England Patriots). And during the summer, we'd play in The Field from the early morning until early evening, with the only breaks coming when our parents forced us to join the families for meals. We'd even play football in The Field during the winter, despite the crusty shell of the powder scraping our exposed ankles and wrists when we ran or tumbled to the ground.
- John C.L. Morgan
(The Hamlet alumni, '95)
Now, my adolescence in Westbrook's trailer park, The Hamlet, certainly featured plenty of mustard and balogna. And it even included a cigarette (though if my mother asks, I made up that last detail only to strengthen my street cred). But I can't speak much about the other two words on Bubble's list, at least not when discussing my childhood (zing!).
Instead, I remember The Hamlet as the site of a wonderful childhood and a place that generates nostalgia whenever I consider it for any length of time. So, without further ado, here's a brief retrospective--and undoubtedly romantic--tour of my childhood at The Hamlet:
The Field- In a more bucolic setting, this patch of green space atop Windsor Drive might've been referred to as a quad, instead of simply The Field (which, by the way, should not be confused with the other The Field, which I'll explain in a bit). Nonetheless, it was dubbed The Field and its simple functions matched its simple moniker: Its interior served as the site of rowdy football games, while its exterior marked the running track where everyone battled for second place behind Tommy Murray. Put simply, The Field was every boy's reward for hiking to the park's sole bus stop each morning.
The Mailbox- Closely related to The Field both in geography and function, The Mailbox was the bank of postal boxes at which The Hamlet's aspiring scholars (think you'd ever see those words crammed together in a single sentence?) gathered each weekday morning while waiting for the school bus. Matt Doucette entertained us during the winter by licking the outside of the boxes and peeling his tongue off their metal exterior. And the fact that it also served as the one-stop place for mail in the entire trailer park made the personal mail slot at our house on (sniff) Monroe Avenue a revelation. (What do you mean we don't have to drive to our mailbox?)
The Clubhouse- Though I recall numerous Cub Scout meetings and Pinewood Derbies taking place in the park's clubhouse, my most poignant memory of the gathering place was when my father won the Portland City Championship chess tournament for the first time there in 1990. That and a couple Halloween parties in which one of the attractions was to plunge your hand into a jar containing a slimy conconction that remains a secret to this day.
The Hill- About halfway down the sloping Windsor Drive, you have to take a quick right onto St. James Street in order to appreciate The Hill. Thirteen years after the fact, The Hill seems only a tad bit more intimidating than an ant hill. But in our pre-teen minds, The Hill was the nastiest sledding hill in town, made only more dangerous by our parents' constant warnings against letting our momentum carry us under the tires of a car gliding on St. James.
The Woods- Not to be confused with the other The Woods--again, I'll explain later--The Woods were a stretch of suburban forest at the crest of The Hill. Forts made from sticks and brush were constructed, destructed, and constructed again in The Woods. And if we were especially daring, we'd hop the barbed-wire fence surrounding the block of farm land that was sandwiched between Saco Street and the trailer park. Knowing the $300,000 homes that make up the Victoria Heights subdivision are now located on the same spot where we once threw cow patties at one another never ceases to make me chuckle. That, and the memory of my best friend Walter Burney shooting my index finger with a BB gun while I held up a plastic cup for target practice.
Bond Street- After you drive by The Hill on St. James Street, take a left-turn onto Bond Street, which was named in honor of Bond, James Bond. This, in my modest opinion, was the street on which to live in The Hamlet. My family and I lived at 247, Walter lived across the street, and the Edwards brothers (Ryan and Kevin) lived near the end of the street. When we weren't playing, er, field hockey (we played hockey in the Edwards's side yard, but we used real hockey sticks, tennis balls, and garbage cans as goalposts), we were playing basketball at my trailer. And when we weren't playing basketball at my trailer, we were playing b-ball at the Edwards'. Or maybe we were playing pick-sticks (think: Capture the Flag) around the Burney's trailer. That is, of course, when Walter wasn't jumping off the roof of his trailer onto a comforter (logic wasn't always our strength). Anyway, you get the point: Bond Street was where it was at. Especially if you wanted to get sworn at by a telephone operator responsible for interpreting phone calls for our deaf neighbor's deaf friend (it's a long story, so remind me to tell you about when we're sharing an edible shot at Mill Side.)
The Woods- Not to be confused with the other The Woods--I've explained those woods already--The Woods at the end of Bond Street featured a lot of the same activities--building forts, tearing down forts, re-building forts--as the other The Woods, except these The Woods had a stream that provided ample opportunity for one of our favorite pasttimes: Catching frogs. The fact that these woods now have a "Danger: Restricted Property" sign attached to a tree nearby gives me pause.
The Playground- If you take a left at the end of Bond Street and drive beyond the end of Windsor Drive, you'll see a field that features nothing of interest. Once upon a time, though, it featured the best playground in the park. It was also the site of the seventeenth-most embarassing moments of my life: My first girlfriend (I can't bring myself to type her name, the wound is still that fresh) and my friends ganged up on me to give me a ho-down and therefore display my red and blue tighty whities for all The Hamlet to see. It was also there that I heard my first dirty joke involving tuna, maggots, and, well, never mind.
The Field- If The Hamlet had a Mecca to which a pilgrimmage must be made, it would be The Field (not to be confused with the, all together now, other The Field). Located between Bond Street and Windsor Drive, The Field was surrounded by a moat-like gully of rust-colored water (I think it was water, but looking back, am not so sure) that stained hundreds of white socks and ruined dozens of sneakers. Featuring a broad head and a narrowing peninsula-like base that jutted into the gully, The Field was by far the place at which we logged the most hours. Baseball played with tennis balls and wooden bats was our game of choice, but we also enjoyed the occasional game of tackle football, especially during football season (one of our cohorts, Kenny Wendrick, always insisted on being Vincent Brisby in our games, which is funny if you know anything about the New England Patriots). And during the summer, we'd play in The Field from the early morning until early evening, with the only breaks coming when our parents forced us to join the families for meals. We'd even play football in The Field during the winter, despite the crusty shell of the powder scraping our exposed ankles and wrists when we ran or tumbled to the ground.
- John C.L. Morgan
(The Hamlet alumni, '95)
Richardson: Shenanigans Marring Stroudwater Place Process
Ray Richardson, the host of WLOB's Morning News radio show, weighed in last week on the latest developments concerning Stroudwater Place.
Besides criticizing Councilor Drew Gattine's apparent conflict of interest (Gattine lives across the street from where the development would be located), Richardson worries the Council is delaying its approval until a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) can be forced upon developer Jason Snyder, thereby making the construction work on the project open only to unionized workers.
- John C.L. Morgan
Besides criticizing Councilor Drew Gattine's apparent conflict of interest (Gattine lives across the street from where the development would be located), Richardson worries the Council is delaying its approval until a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) can be forced upon developer Jason Snyder, thereby making the construction work on the project open only to unionized workers.
- John C.L. Morgan
Monday, October 13, 2008
County Road Eats
Haven's Candies gave out free candy at their County Road shop during their twelfth annual Columbus Day open house earlier today. And Silvery Moon Creamery, which is located at County Road's Smiling Hill Farm, participated in the 2008 edition of Open Creamery Day yesterday.
- John C.L. Morgan
- John C.L. Morgan
Hallelujah!
I just discovered this weekend that the fine folks at York Street have posted past City Council, School Board, and Planning Board meetings on the Internet.
So if you don't hear from me for a couple days, you'll know what I'm up to. (No, I won't be watching grass grow...at least not literally.)
- John C.L. Morgan
So if you don't hear from me for a couple days, you'll know what I'm up to. (No, I won't be watching grass grow...at least not literally.)
- John C.L. Morgan
Quote of the Day: Heidi Julavits
"In Maine, meanwhile, 2005 was business as usual--just a lot of fat people hanging out in the rain with their cats, drinking coffee brandy and trying, without cheating, to kill a bear."
- Heidi Julavits in her essay "Maine: The Way Life Should Be," which is part of the new anthology State by State: A Panoramic View of America. Julevits is a co-editor of The Believer and the daughter of a former English teacher at Westbrook High School.
- John C.L. Morgan
(Hat Tip: Portland Psst!)
P.S. As an aside, Julavits's quote and part of her essay are factually incorrect. She states "it's illegal to bait bears with donuts and then shoot them" in Maine, but such behavior was legal in 2005 and remains legal to this day. Maine voters rejected a referendum question that would've banned bear-baiting in a November 2004 vote, 53% to 47%. So we Mainers are wet and fat, do like cats, and do chug lots of Allen's. But, legally speaking, we didn't (and still don't) need to avoid cheating by baiting a bear. Baiting, after all, was (and is) the rule.
P.P.S. Here's a relatively recent video spoof of bear-baiting.
- Heidi Julavits in her essay "Maine: The Way Life Should Be," which is part of the new anthology State by State: A Panoramic View of America. Julevits is a co-editor of The Believer and the daughter of a former English teacher at Westbrook High School.
- John C.L. Morgan
(Hat Tip: Portland Psst!)
P.S. As an aside, Julavits's quote and part of her essay are factually incorrect. She states "it's illegal to bait bears with donuts and then shoot them" in Maine, but such behavior was legal in 2005 and remains legal to this day. Maine voters rejected a referendum question that would've banned bear-baiting in a November 2004 vote, 53% to 47%. So we Mainers are wet and fat, do like cats, and do chug lots of Allen's. But, legally speaking, we didn't (and still don't) need to avoid cheating by baiting a bear. Baiting, after all, was (and is) the rule.
P.P.S. Here's a relatively recent video spoof of bear-baiting.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Westbrook Almanac: October 5- October 11, 2008
Week-to-Date:
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 35F (October 7)
Precipitation: 0.06 inches
Previous sunrise: 6:51a
Previous sunset: 6:04p
Month-to-Date:
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 35F (October 4)
Precipitation: 0.49 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 48.57 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 35F (October 7)
Precipitation: 0.06 inches
Previous sunrise: 6:51a
Previous sunset: 6:04p
Month-to-Date:
High: 73F (October 9)
Low: 35F (October 4)
Precipitation: 0.49 inches
Year-to-Date:
High: 88F (September 4)
Low: -5F (January 4)
Precipitation: 48.57 inches
Source: National Weather Service
- John C.L. Morgan
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