The Portland Daily Sun, Thursday, January 19, 2012

ly Dai Deal

The Gorham SAVE SAVE 50% 50% Grind Pay 5 for a 10 Voucher 18 South Street Gorham, ME 04038

$

$

*

WELCOME BACK USM Students & Faculty

Internet Offer Only! VISIT PORTL ANDDAILYSUN.ME FOR THIS AND OTHER GRE AT OFFERS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2012

VOL. 3 NO. 248

A fresh look for a Bard classic Portland’s Suslovic mulling statehouse run in District 118

See page 4

PORTLAND, ME

PORTLAND’S DAILY NEWSPAPER

699-5801

FREE

City, school jockey over Nathan Clifford Elementary School Where should the money go? See the story on page 3

Deadline extended; local contractors vying for $33 million Civic Center remodel — See the story on page 6

See page 7

PARKER’S Midweek X-travaganza Wednesday & Thursday

*1/2 Rack Ribs, Teriyaki Chicken Breast and a Sweet Italian Sausage served with homemade cornbread and coleslaw

16.99!!!

4:30pm - close www.parkers-maine.com * No Substitutes. Offer not to be combined with any other offers.

1349 Washington Ave. (Northport Business Park)

Portland, ME • 207-878-3339

LePage vows to fight energy initiative See page 13

Chairman Neal Pratt discusses the uncertainty about how long the Cumberland County Civic Center might need to be closed for a $33 million renovation, speaking during a Civic Center board meeting Wednesday. From left, next to Pratt, are Civic Center General Manager Steve Crane and trustees Brian Dudley and Beth Edmonds. (DAVID CARKHUFF PHOTO)

Page 2 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012

Password to my heart (NY Times) — Young couples have long signaled their devotion to each other by various means — the gift of a letterman jacket, or an exchange of class rings or ID bracelets. Best friends share locker combinations.

The digital era has given rise to a more intimate custom.

It has become fashionable for young people to express their affection for each other by sharing their passwords to e-mail, Facebook and other accounts. Boyfriends and girlfriends sometimes even create identical passwords, and let each other read their private e-mails and texts.

They say they know such digital entanglements are risky, because a souring relationship can lead to people using online secrets against each other. But that, they say, is part of what makes the symbolism of the shared password so powerful.

“It’s a sign of trust,” Tiffany Carandang, a high school senior in San Francisco, said of the decision she and her boyfriend made several months ago to share passwords for e-mail and Facebook. “I have nothing to hide from him, and he has nothing to hide from me.”

It doesn’t always end so well, of course. Changing a password is simple, but students, counselors and parents say that damage is often done before a password is changed, or that the sharing of online lives can be the reason a relationship falters.

The stories of fallout include a spurned boyfriend in junior high who tries to humiliate his ex-girlfriend by spreading her e-mail secrets; tensions between significant others over scouring each other’s private messages for clues of disloyalty or infidelity; or grabbing a cellphone from a former best friend, unlocking it with a password and sending threatening texts to someone else.

Rosalind Wiseman, who studies how teenagers use technology and is author of “Queen Bees and Wannabes,” a book for parents about helping girls survive adolescence, said the sharing of passwords, and the pressure to do so, was somewhat similar to sex.

Sharing passwords, she noted, feels forbidden because it is generally discouraged by adults and involves vulnerability. And there is pressure in many teenage relationships to share passwords, just as there is to have sex.

In a 2011 telephone survey, the Pew Internet and American Life Project found that 30 percent of teenagers who were regularly online had shared a password with a friend, boyfriend or girlfriend.

The survey, of 770 teenagers aged 12 to 17, found that girls were almost twice as likely as boys to share.

SAYWHAT...

“

A very small degree of hope is sufficient to cause the birth of love.”

—Stendhal

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– DIGEST––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

THEMARKET

3DAYFORECAST Today High: 28 Record: 56 (1929) Sunrise: 7:10 a.m.

Tomorrow High: 30 Low: 11 Sunrise: 7:09 a.m.

Sunset: 4:35 p.m.

DOW JONES 96.88 to 12,578.95

Tonight Low: 26 Record: -26 (1971) Sunset: 4:34 p.m.

Saturday High: 25 Low: 6

S&P 14.37 to 1,308.04

NASDAQ 41.63 to 2,769.71

TODAY’SJOKE

THETIDES

“Called somebody an ‘Indian giver’ recently. They were really offended so I had to take it back.”

— T.J. Miller

MORNING High: 7:01 a.m.

Low: 12:38 a.m.

EVENING High: 7:48 p.m.

Low: 1:33 p.m.

-courtesy of www.maineboats.com

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WORLD/NATION–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Cruise captain now says he tripped, fell into lifeboat

BY GAIA PIANIGIANI THE NEW YORK TIMES

GIGLIO, Italy — The saga of the stricken cruise liner Costa Concordia took further twists Wednesday, with a warning from Italy’s environment minister that it could sink and news that the captain claimed he had slipped on deck and tumbled overboard to wind up in a life boat during the panicky passenger escape — and had not abandoned ship like a coward as accused.

The captain’s newly disclosed account of the Costa Concordia’s final moments afloat as it lurched heavily to starboard with a rip in the hull, reported by the newspaper La Repubblica, came as Italian frogmen were forced to suspend their rescue efforts in the gurgling underbelly of the half-submerged $450 million vessel because it had shifted on

its rocky perch for the second time in three days.

The instability, coupled with forecasts of stormy winds for this island off the Tuscany coast, raised fears the hull could slide into deeper water. Those fears were reinforced later by Italy’s environment minister, Corrado Clini, while addressing the Parliament in Rome.

“The ship is leaning on the right hand side, on a rocky bottom and next to an escarpment that goes deep down to 50-90 meters,” he said, and there was a “real risk that that coming sea storms could cause the ship to sink further.” The minister also said structural damage to portions of the ship could cause “potentially dangerous consequences for the environment.”

The suspended rescue effort also delayed plans by marine salvage workers to begin extracting the ship’s half-mil-

lion gallons of fuel and other potential pollutants. Conflicting information about the total number of missing added to the frustration five days after the shipwreck, which could become one of the costliest disasters in the cruise line industry.

The Italian authorities revised the missing figure on Wednesday to 26, including a missing American retired couple, and identified one of the five waterlogged bodies found on Tuesday as that of a 42-year-old Hungarian crew member. The official death toll still stood at 11.

The new explanation by the captain, Francesco Schettino, for why he vacated the vessel after he smashed into the rocks last Friday night, came as the Italian press has pilloried him as a negligent coward. But his earlier account of hitting an uncharted obstruction received a credible boost. Lloyd’s List,

a leading maritime publication, said on Wednesday the ship had sailed close to the island on a previous occasion in August of last year, when it came within 230 meters of the coast — “slightly closer to the shore than where it subsequently hit rocks on Friday.”

Captain Schettino was quoted by the La Repubblica newspaper as telling investigators that he had not planned to leave the ship as it tilted toward the water.

“The passengers were pouring onto the decks, taking the lifeboats by assault,” he said, according to the newspaper. “I didn’t even have a life jacket because I had given it to one of the passengers. I was trying to get people to get into the boats in an orderly fashion. Suddenly, since the ship was at a 60 to 70 degree angle, I tripped and I ended up in one of the boats.

That’s how I found myself there.”

Keystone pipeline project set for delay Court backs

BY JOHN M. BRODER THE NEW YORK TIMES

WASHINGTON — President Obama on Wednesday rejected for now the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, saying the $7 billion project could not be adequately reviewed within the 60-day deadline set by Congress. While the president’s action does not preclude later approval of the project, it sets up a baldly partisan fight over energy, jobs and regulation that will likely persist through the November election.

The president said his hand had been forced by Republicans in Congress, who inserted a provision in the temporary payroll tax cut bill passed in December giving the administration 60 days to decide the fate of the 1,700-mile pipeline, from oil sands formations in Alberta, Canada, to refineries on the Gulf Coast.

The State Department, which has authority over the project because it crosses an international border, said that there was not enough time to draw a new route for the pipeline and assess the potential environmental harm to sensitive grasslands and aquifers along its path. The agency

recommended that the permit be denied, and Mr. Obama concurred.

“As the State Department made clear last month,” the president said in a statement, “the rushed and arbitrary deadline insisted on by Congressional Republicans prevented a full assessment of the pipeline’s impact, especially the health and safety of the American people, as well as our environment.”

Mr. Obama said that his action was not a final judgment on the merits of the project, which the administration had been on a slow track to approving.

“I’m disappointed that Republicans in Congress forced this decision, but it does not change my administration’s commitment to American-made energy that creates jobs and reduces our dependence on oil,” he said. He added that he would work with the oil industry to increase domestic production and perhaps build additional pipelines within the United States.

The trans-border pipeline has become a political flashpoint, with proponents saying it will create thousands of jobs and help wean the nation off of

Middle Eastern oil, while opponents charge that it furthers dependence on dirty fuels, contributes to global warming and threatens ecological disaster.

Canada’s prime minister, Stephen Harper, who has been a strong advocate of the pipeline, told Mr. Obama in a telephone conversation Wednesday that he was profoundly disappointed in the decision. The White House spokesman, Jay Carney, at a briefing with reporters Wednesday before the State Department released its announcement, was sharply critical of the Republicansponsored legislation that he said had forced a decision before the project could be fully studied.

“In a purely partisan effort to score political points, Republicans in Congress insisted on inserting an extraneous provision in a bill that had nothing to do with pipelines,” he said. “The State Department has made it clear that setting an arbitrary deadline through this purely political effort would put State Department in a corner and severely hamper their ability to review an alternate route, a new pipeline route, in a proper way.”

inmate in mail mix-up

BY ADAM LIPTAK THE NEW YORK TIMES

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled that an Alabama death row inmate who missed a filing deadline thanks to a mix-up in the mailroom of a prominent New York law firm must be given another chance.

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, writing for the majority in the 7-to-2 decision, said “no just system” would allow the missed deadline to be held against the inmate, Cory R. Maples, in light of how he had been treated by lawyers from Sullivan & Cromwell, who handled his case without charge after he was convicted of murdering two people in 1997. The decision allows lower federal courts to consider Mr. Maples’s claim that his trial court lawyers were ineffective notwithstanding the missed deadline in the state court system.

The two lawyers from Sullivan & Cromwell failed to inform Maples when they left the firm. When two copies of that ruling were sent to the firm, it returned them unopened.

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012— Page 3

D

y ail

D

eal

Internet Offers Only!

The Gorham Grind

18 South Street Gorham, ME 04038

Visit

Welcome Back USM Students & Faculty

%

50 OFF Pay just $5 for $10 Voucher

VISIT PORTL A NDDA ILYSUN.ME FOR THIS A ND OTHER GRE AT OFFERS

CO

NW

L BER LAC

O

AY CONWAYDAILYSUN.COM

IN

NIA

To Sign Up For Upcoming Deals $

10 buys you a $20 Voucher

CORRIGAN SCREEN PRINTING 29 Lancaster Road, Gorham, NH 03581 Visit

LACONIADAILYSUN.COM To Sign Up For Upcoming Deals

City, school jockey over Nathan Clifford school

BY MATTHEW ARCO THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

Almost a year after the lights went dark at Nathan Clifford Elementary and students started walking the halls of their new building, the Portland School Board began taking initial steps to formally transfer the retired facility to the city.

The board approved adding the item to its agenda Tuesday, and will likely decide whether to officially transfer the facility to the city at its Jan. 24 meeting.

With many expecting the city to sell or lease the former school, some city and school officials are wondering where any proceeds would go.

At least one councilor argues against setting revenues from Nathan Clifford into a special fund.

"Those funds ought to go into the general pool of money," said Councilor Ed Suslovic, who has expressed concerns over the amount of time it has taken the school board to transfer the building to the city.

"I don't think it's a good idea to start carving up these pools of money for restricted funds, or for this that or the other thing," he said. "Because then that starts defeating the purpose for longer-range capital needs plan."

The reserve fund established by the city's Finance Committee and approved by the council is intended to develop longtime capital needs for the city — which Suslovic said included the school district, but was not limited to it.

He went on to accuse the school district of "dragging their feet" in an effort to "get a commitment from the city that they get to hang onto all of the proceeds" from the sale of the building.

"Empty buildings are a cancer for the neighborhood," he said. "The longer that building sits empty the worse it is for the neighborhood."

Portland School Board Chairwoman Kathleen Snyder disagreed with Suslovic, and said the board has been in ongoing and productive discussions with the city about Nathan Clifford.

"I look at the work that the two bodies were doing jointly and I look at the work that happened though October and November," she said. "I feel that was a mischaracterization of that situation."

Snyder said she hopes that the school board will

“Whenever there’s an opportunity to use resources generated by the sale of a school for future capital needs, particularly given the condition of our other facilities, it’s worth the discussion.” — Peter Eglinton, the school district’s chief operations officer be able to engage in future discussions with the council about how best to use revenues, though respects that it's the city's decision.

"It's important to declare that the school board understands that once the transfer is made, it's a City Council process to determine the best use of the building," she said. "That's the process that will need to unfold."

Ultimately, a City Hall official said Wednesday that little has been done by way of any action that would decide the fate of the revenue.

"When they transfer ownership to us, that's when our process begins and that would typically mean we send the matter to the housing and community development committee," said Nicole Clegg, a city spokeswoman. "They would setup a public process that would involve neighborhood input about what to use the property for."

Although the city and the school department have separate budgets that are approved individually, they are interconnected because both are funded largely through property taxes. Officially, the city owns all school facilities.

Nathan Clifford Elementary, named for a U.S. Supreme Court justice and designed by the first registered architect in the state, was declared "excess"

by Portland Public Schools following the opening of Ocean Avenue Elementary in February 2011.

Peter Eglinton, the school district's chief operations officer, explains buildings must basically be released to the owner once the district no longer has use of them.

"Once a building has fulfilled its purpose and it no longer has an educational need, it needs to be transferred back to the city," he said. "If we had seen it as

an opportunity for continued educational use down the road ... we would have come forward with a recommendation for potential future uses."

In recent history, the district has released Marada Adams Elementary School and the Martin's Point property, formally occupied by Central Office, to the city. The district received money from the sale of Martin's Point — though nothing from Adams, which was deemed to have little or no value, according to school documents.

The city sold Martin's Point and put the revenue, roughly $3 million, into a special reserve fund set up for the school district. About $600,000 was spent on moving administrative offices to PATHS, while other funds went toward "critical renovations" at Riverton and East End elementary schools, Eglinton said.

There is about $340,000 left in the fund.

The district would like to see another reserve fund set up in a similar fashion that, while would give the city final authority on how the money will be spent, would be used only toward improving or making repairs to the district's facilities.

"So, whenever there's an opportunity to use resources generated by the sale of a school for future capital needs, particularly given the condition of our other facilities, it's worth the discussion," Eglinton said. "It's been done before and so we're starting with some precedent, but we still need to have those discussions once they have ownership of the Nathan Clifford."

Eglinton pointed to a new reserve fund approved by the Portland School Board and city council in October and November, respectively. He said the fund, which was discussed during joint finance committee meetings between city and school officials, could be used in the same way the Martin's Point reserve fund was, but there is no guarantee.

"The reserve fund was not designated for a specific school, indeed, the fund is set up and controlled by the city for city (and school) related purposes," he said.

Any consensus between the city and school officials is far from certain. Of course, while the City Council has final authority on what to do with the building and where to send the revenues, it's likely the school district will be given an opportunity to present input.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– NEWS BRIEFS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Michaud to attend retirement party Thursday for AARP Maine director DAILY SUN STAFF REPORTS U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, D-Maine, announced that on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. he plans to attend a retirement party for Nancy Kelleher, state director of AARP Maine. The event will take place at the Marriott at Sable Oaks, 200 Sable Oaks Drive, South Portland, as part of the group’s meeting.

Founded in 1958, AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that serves people 50 and over.

AARP has offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Maine office was opened in 2001.

As state director, last fall Kelleher participated in the Maine Hunger Initiative, which was created

by Preble Street Resource Center in 2009 and was

joined by nonprofit organizations including AARP Maine, Maine Equal Justice Partners, Maine Center for Economic Policy, Maine Council of Churches, and Muskie School of Public Service.

USDA delivers Irene ag assistance The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded $810,000 in disaster assistance grant funding to the state of Maine to assist farmers and landowners in rebuilding land damaged by Hurricane Irene in August of last year, according to a press release from U.S. Sens. Olympia J. Snowe and Susan Collins, R-Maine.

USDA has awarded $550,000 under the Emergency Conservation Program, $120,000 under the Emergency Watershed Protection Program and $140,000 under the Emergency Forest Restoration Program. Hurricane Irene was downgraded to a tropical storm in Maine.

Pingree, Michaud oppose SOPA U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, said Wednesday that the effect of the Stop Online Piracy Act would be to stifle innovation and would likely lead to censorship of websites.

“This proposal is supposed to stop online piracy but the bill is so vaguely worded that the result could be quite different,” Pingree said. “All a big entertainment or Internet company would have to do is claim that a website is somehow linked to piracy and it would immediately be blocked and censored.”

Congressman Mike Michaud, D-Maine, said, “There’s no question that we need to crack down on websites in places like China that infringe U.S. copyrights and hurt our businesses. But it must be done in a way that doesn’t shutdown legitimate websites, violate people’s rights and censor the internet. I oppose this bill and encourage congressional leaders to listen to the legitimate concerns raised by the many Americans who have spoken out against it.”

Page 4 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012

––––––––––––– COLUMN –––––––––––––

Bruce Knight — putting out fires of human tragedy Bruce Knight, age 61 of Sanford, was looking for something to do. He had been a firefighter for the Sanford Fire Department for 38 years. After inhaling toxins, by 2007, he could no longer work. Today he is completely disabled and unable to hold a paid job.

I met Bruce this past week. With hearing aids in both ears, shortness of breath, and a nagging cough when he speaks, he still has a sparkle in his eye, and an abundance of love in his heart to go around. He decided this disability would not force him to stay home and sit around. In his quest for purpose in this new chapter in life, he sought out volunteer work, which led to so much more. Today he’s busy. And he’s asking for help; not for himself, but for someone else.

––––– He decided to become a volBetter with unteer for York County Community Action. This group of Age roughly 85 volunteers, ranging in age from 20s to 70s, lends a helping hand to all ages in need. They take senior and disabled citizens to doctor appointments; drug and brain injury citizens to rehab; cancer patients to chemotherapy; and mentally challenged people to schools that

Karen Vachon

see VACHON page 5

We want your opinions All letters columns and editorial cartoons are the opinion of the writer or artists and do not reflect the opinions of the staff, editors or publisher of The Portland Daily Sun. We welcome your ideas and opinions on all topics and consider every signed letter for publication. Limit letters to 300 words and include your address and phone number.

Longer letters will only be published as space allows and may be edited. Anonymous letters, letters without full names and generic letters will not be published. Please send your letters to: THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, news@portlanddailysun.me.

Portland’s FREE DAILY Newspaper David Carkhuff, Editor Casey Conley, City Editor Matthew Arco, Reporter THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN is published Tuesday through Saturday by Portland News Club, LLC. Mark Guerringue, Adam Hirshan, Curtis Robinson Founders Offices: 477 Congress Street, Suite 1105, Portland ME 04101 (207) 699-5801 Founding Editor Curtis Robinson Website: www.portlanddailysun.me E-mail: news@portlanddailysun.me For advertising contact: (207) 699-5801 or ads@portlanddailysun.me Classifieds: (207) 699-5807 or classifieds@portlanddailysun.me CIRCULATION: 15,100 daily distributed Tuesday through Saturday FREE throughout Portland by Jeff Spofford, jspofford@maine.rr.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– THEATER REVIEW ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘A Midsummer’s Night Dream’ offers steampunk delights “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Portland Players The Portland Players, the oldest community theater in Maine, opened the new year with William Shakespeare’s, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Directed

by Stacey Koloski and featuring a cast of 21 multi-aged thespians, Midsummer offers mischief, mayhem and magic as four lovers from Athens and a group of amateur actors find themselves caught up and manipulated by the fairies who inhabit the forest in one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays.

Koloski and the very talented costume designer, Crystal Giordano, have created a steampunk fashion show that incorporates elements of science fiction and fantasy, featuring anachronistic ideas and futuristic innovations influenced by the Victorian era.

Outfits were accented with several period accessories, modified by modern attributes. The overall picture was a visual feast and executed beautifully by Giordano and her many costume assistants.

Michael J. Tobin ––––– Theatre Talk Koloski’s direction is well blocked, fun at times and open to interpretation. As Koloski wrote in her director’s notes, “The play is universal in themes, and the characters so timeless, that it doesn’t matter where or when it is set,” which is exactly what she delivered to the audience.

Sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn’t. But Koliski knows her Shakespeare and got the most from her performers, who varied in their experience with the Bard.

There is no question that Michael Donovan (Bottom) and John Schrank (Quince) delivered the best performances of the evening. Donovan proved why he’s a local theater favorite with his spot-on comedic timing and facial expressions. Schrank was the perfect sidekick to Donovan’s

antics. Schrank’s voice was Shakespeare perfect, every word clear and hilariously delivered with an understanding of the language.

April Singley (Helena) gave an energetic and fun-filled performance, giving the stage a shot of adrenaline each time she entered.

John U. Robinson (Lysander) looked and sounded great in his Shakespearian debut, having as much fun with his role as we did.

Nate Speckman (Demetrius) was very funny in his subtle delivery, making the most of his time on stage. Kristen Peters (Hermia) was a strong compliment to the four lovers with a nice balance to Singley’s character choices.

Alison Guite (Titania) proved that she comes from a talented family tree with her very enjoyable performance, taking command of the stage with each of her scenes. And 18-year-old Luke Sisselman (Starveling) proved that less is more and did a great job with his small role. Sisselman has that “certain something” that makes you watch him on stage. see TOBIN page 5

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012— Page 5

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– OPINION ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Bruce had never seen one family go through so much VACHON from page 4

teach them the skills of everyday living. For Bruce, this work is meaningful, giving him great purpose.

Last February he met Nicole Purington, a 3-yearold from Lebanon. Diagnosed with Neuroblastoma Cancer at five months of age, Nicole and her family have been through a lot. Nicole suffered hearing loss from heavy doses of chemotherapy. Bruce drove Nicole to the Baxter School for the Deaf. A child with cancer is hard for any family — everyone knows that. Get up close and personal and it is hard not to get emotionally involved in the situation. Bruce knows. He’s a firefighter — he entered a smoky home, and discovered a raging fire of sadness and loss. He felt called to action. The family sought help from Lebanon’s General Assistance program, and were told they didn’t qualify. “No family should have to go through what they’ve been through,” he said.

Carin and Dean Purington moved to Lebanon in 1991. They were proud of their home they purchased; a love for gardening and landscape, they found joy in recreational toys that include a motorcycle, snowmobiles and four wheelers. Bought and paid for, they had no debt.

“I’m a country girl” explains Carin, recalling the year 2007, when she won the moose lottery and shot her moose. This thrill had come after much grief; little did she know her moose hunt thrill would be very short lived.

She had lost her first child, Devon in 2002. He was stillborn. Eight weeks following the birth of their second child, Kaitlin, in 2004, a series of seizures led to heart surgery. Still today, she is carefully monitored, and eventually will require a second surgery. Three days following the 2007 moose hunt, five-month-old Nicole’s lazy eye, getting progressively worse, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer of

the nervous system. With eight tumors; one popping out of the side of her head, baby Nicole was rapidly becoming deformed. Carin spent the next 18 months in Boston, staying at the Ronald McDonald house while baby Nicole underwent cancer treatment.

Kaitlin was rotated among family members, while Dean worked to keep the family financially afloat.

Shortly after Carin’s returned home with Nicole, Dean lost his job — this was May of 2009. Unemployed for one year, Dean’s unemployment check ran out; Carin was experiencing pain; the couple went to the town of Lebanon for help. The town told them that because they had assets, they would have to sell them before they would qualify for assistance.

Carin’s pain required a surgery. Three days after returning home, Dean had a heart attack. By January, 2011, there was no income coming in. The family mortgaged the house, and ran up their credit cards. Bruce entered their life in February of 2011.

“Bruce is a firefighter, he found the right people, he made calls, and is an amazing person,” says Carin, overcome with emotion and appreciation. Bruce recognized that Carin has been fighting fires, too, “one day at a time,” she says. Normalcy in their children’s life is what the Puringtons want most. When days are numbered — you want to make every day count. Feeling shamed to unload your entire lifestyle and joy to qualify for public assistance adds insult to injury. In all his years of firefighting, Bruce had never seen one family go through so much.

This past year, Bruce and his wife, Karen joined the Sanford Elks Club, who hosted a bean supper to help the family. They’ve gotten involved in the Maine Children’s Cancer Program, and Bruce’s passion for charity motor cycle rides with two groups, Patriot Rider’s and Ridin’ Steel — both have raised awareness and funds for Nicole’s cause. Bruce is planning a benefit ride Aug. 12. Breakfasts and dinners have been held at the Stokewoods Restaurant,

organized by the Lebanon rescue. Dean has a new job, thanks to a Bruce connection. For the moment, there is normalcy; Carin restates her motto: “one day at a time,” and she’s grateful for each happy moment.

To look at Nicole today, nobody would know she has terminal cancer. She and her sister share a simple joy of going to Smitty’s Cinema in Sanford. And both girls enjoy riding horses. Affording this activity has been challenging. Carin recently exchanged her riding lawnmower for a few months more of riding lessons; a sacrifice worth making, to see her girls bouncing around on horses after being through so much means the world to Carin. She’s cherishing the moment, Nicole’s cancer is stable.

She cried when Bruce showed up with a case of toilet paper and paper towels. Last weekend two cords of wood arrived. Gift bags for the girls arrived — they’re going to Smitty’s, thanks to Bruce and Karen. “He’s amazing” says Carin, shedding emotional tears of joy. The girls call Bruce “grandpa,” he plays games with them, teasing them, and loves being around them.

In poor health, he’s done so much. He realizes his physical limitations to do more, but that doesn’t stop him from asking others to help. He’s looking for a building contractor willing to donate time and shingles to repair their roof. If you would like to help the family financially, donations to the Nicole Purington Benefit Fund may be made to the Sanford Institute for Savings, 900 Main St., Sanford, ME 04073. Phone: 888-226-5747. To learn more about the motorcycle benefit ride or help with the house roofing project, please call Bruce Knight at (207) 651-9328.

(Karen Vachon is a resident of Scarborough, a community volunteer, and a licensed independent insurance agent.)

Production incorporates elements of science fiction, fantasy show and more than once my theater companion and other patrons turned to see who it was, taking focus away from the stage. And please, don’t lower the heat at 10 p.m., that last half hour was quite cold in the theater. A special “thank you” to board member Sam Rinaldi for giving a short curtain speech, it was much appreciated. Yes, folks, these little things that happen can make or break the total theater experience, that’s why I mention them.

The Portland Players and this production of “A Midsummer’s Night Dream” deserve to be experienced. It made me sad to see such a small house on Saturday night, knowing how hard these folks worked on this show. So please, shut off your computers and put your gaming devices on pause and go see “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

TOBIN from page 4

Jody McColman (Theseus) was not on stage nearly enough, however brought well-defined character choices to his role and provided a strong support to the play. Charlie Marenghi (Oberon) gave the almost-too subtle performance of the evening, obviously confident in his delivery but needing a good dose of the Singley energy to keep us interested in what he said.

A strong first act gave way to a sluggish act twoenergy seemed low after intermission. Although some performances were weak and uneven, the cast as a whole must be congratulated for their commitment to the show, which was clearly evident on Saturday night. Kudos to Koloski for directing a true ensemble of 21, proving that there are “no small parts”.

Steve Lupien designed and executed the best set of the Players’ season so far, enhanced by the beautiful scenic painting of Koloski. Sue Finch, lighting designer, delivered some of her best work with “Midsummer.”

I do wish the backstage noise had not been so distracting; at times, we could hear laughter and talking from our seats, which was commented on during intermission by several patrons around me. However, audience members also need to remember that when they get up during the show (as the gentleman in the row in front of me did several times), it takes away from everyone’s experience- especially

“A Midsummer’s Night Dream” continues through Jan. 29 with performances Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Portland Players is located at 420 Cottage Road in South Portland. Call 7997337 or go to portlandplayers.org.

when they make noise. A friendly note to the Players, oil your doors into the theater and bathrooms — we heard every door opening and closing during the

Find us on...

(Michael J. Tobin has been a professional actor, director, theatre administrator and educator for 30 years in theaters throughout New England and around the country. Mr. Tobin has performed and directed in 350-plus shows Off-Broadway, National Tours, Regional Theatre, Summer Stock, Children’s Theatre and Community Theatre. Mr. Tobin lives in South Portland.)

The Portland Daily Sun welcomes readers to check out our Facebook page. Just search “Portland Daily Sun” on Facebook or go to www.facebook.com/TheDailySun

Page 6 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012

RIGHT: Allan Tubbs, with Shyka, Sheppard and Garster of Bangor, surveys interior areas Monday as part of a renovation of the Cumberland County Civic Center.

(DAVID CARKHUFF PHOTO)

It’s money in, money out for Civic Center

BY DAVID CARKHUFF THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

Local contractors vying for $33M Civic Center remodel

BY DAVID CARKHUFF THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

A $33 million renovation of the Cumberland County Civic Center has drawn the interest of nine construction companies, including Cianbro of Pittsfield, Wright-Ryan Construction of Portland and Ledgewood Construction of South Portland, the Civic Center board of trustees learned Wednesday.

At the request of interested contractors, the board agreed to delay by a week the selection of a construction manager, pushing back the likely date of hiring a firm to Feb. 21.

Nearly a month after the board selected WBRC Architects/Engineers and Sink Combs Dethlefs as the architects and engineers for the renovation, the search for a construction manager has now been advertised. Nine firms have picked up the paper-

46” Panasonic Plasma TV ONLY $799 or 42” Panasonic Plasma TV ONLY $599

Gray appointed to Civic Center board Former Portland city manager Joe Gray has been appointed to the Cumberland County Civic Center’s Board of Trustees, according to a news release. Gray, who worked for the city for nearly four decades, retired as city manager last February. He held the position for a decade. Brian Dudley, the development director at Cheverus High School, was also appointed to the board of trustees. Neal Pratt, a partner in the law firm of Preti, Flaherty, Beleveau and Pachios, was re-elected board chair. Betheda Edmonds, a former Maine state senator, was elected vice chair.

— Staff Report

work from the county, trustees learned at their regular meeting Wednesday. There's a Jan. 31 deadline for companies to submit proposals for the roughly two-and-a-half-year renovation project.

The Civic Center and county should have a "short list" of candidate firms by Feb. 6, and a site walkthrough with these finalists should occur on Feb. 8, according to a timeline presented to the board by WBRC.

It's feast or famine for Mark Eddy as he handles the books at the Cumberland County Civic Center. Eddy is the Civic Center's controller, essentially the facility's number cruncher, and he's hoping the arena won't be closed long for a $33 million renovation.

Finances at the Civic Center swing wildly from month to month, with a $423,000 surge in income from the sale of tickets for upcoming events through March. Problem is, the bulk of those same revenues will go out the door as expenses, Eddy explained.

The Civic Center is $64,000 ahead of budget through December and $30,000 ahead of last year, Eddy told the Civic Center board Wednesday. But he said cash on hand ebbs and flows.

The facility's major tenant, the Portland Pirates hockey team, was paid an $80,000 subsidy, which the county hasn't yet reimbursed; the county also hasn't yet paid the Civic Center a financial reimbursement for a 2011 operating deficit; and income on ticket sales can't be counted on, since most of it will be paid out, he said.

A current unrestricted cash balance, without including $423,000 in ticket receipts for several future events, was in the red by $12,000, Eddy told the board Wednesday. The $423,000 in ticket receipts will be reduced by payments to promoters, artists and other parties to the live shows, he said. County reimbursements haven't been received by the Civic Center, either, creating this momentary budgetary picture where expenses exceed revenues.

"This reflects the fact that we had a $142,000 deficit last June that has not been reimbursed to us, and it also reflects the fact we paid the $80,000 Pirates subsidy from last April that has not been reimbursed to us yet. So hopefully in March, this looks a little different for us," Eddy said.

Vic Labrecque, the county's director of finance, explained in an interview that the county by law is responsible for the Civic Center financially.

"They stand alone, they operate alone; at the end of the year, if there's any deficit, the county statutorily must cover it," Labrecque said.

A "warrant" for $503,213 will be delivered to the Civic Center once the county acquires liquidity through a financial tool called tax anticipation notes, Labrecque said. The warrant will include $296,000 for the Civic Center's 2011 deficit; and a bond for recent capital purchases of $206,000, he said.

Concessions and other revenues fill the Civic see FINANCE page 7

see CENTER page 7

CHARLIE’S DINER

Celebrating 38 years of business

Friday Night Dinners FULL BYOB MENU 1557 Bridgton Road, Westbrook • 854-0048 Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 7am-2pm • Fri. 7am-8pm Full Dinner Menu Sat. 7am-2pm • Sun. 7am-1pm Breakfast Only We accept all major credit cards

BEGIN DOING Presents An Evening With

New York Times Bestselling Author

ANDY ANDREWS • Hailed by a New York Times writer as a “modern-day Will Rogers who has quietly become one of the most influential people in America.”

• Spoken at the request of four different U.S. Presidents • “One of the funniest guys I know.” - Kenny Rogers • “Entertains everybody, offends nobody and he’s getting standing ovations.” - Paul Harvey

Merrill Auditorium • Wednesday, January 25 at 7pm Tickets Available At: PortTix.com Media Sponsor:

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012— Page 7

Suslovic mulling statehouse run in Dist. 118

BY CASEY CONLEY THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

City councilor Ed Suslovic says he’s “considering the possibility” of running for the statehouse seat soon to be vacated by fellow Democrat John Hinck.

Suslovic, who served one two-year term in the state Legislature from 2002-2004, said yesterday that several people have asked him to run in District 118 but that he still hasn’t made up his mind.

“It’s always flattering when people ask you to do something like that, but I would say at this point that I am leaning in the negative,” he said during a phone interview yesterday.

Green Party candidate Tom MacMillan announced

last week that he was running for the seat in District 118, which covers the West End and parts of Libbytown and Rosemont neighborhoods.

Hinck, who has served three terms in the state legislature since 2006, is seeking the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate and is not seeking re-election to the statehouse.

Suslovic Suslovic, who has served on the city council twice, once as an atlarge councilor and as of 2009 as the district 3 coun-

cilor, said he’s wary of running for the Legislature before the new district lines are drawn. Under state law, redistricting will be done in 2013.

In 2003, the boundaries in Suslovic’s district changed significantly, and he lost re-election against John Eder, another sitting state representative at the time.

Meantime, Suslovic said he is focused on city issues such as the ongoing effort to develop Thompson’s Point. Launching a campaign for state representative, Suslovic said, would distract him from those matters.

To date, no Democrats or Republicans have declared their intent to run for the seat.

In November, the Civic Center generated operating income of $40,109 FINANCE from page 6

Center's coffers during events, but there are also expenses and deductions, Eddy explained.

In November, the Civic Center generated operating income of $40,109 from total revenues of $156,248 minus total expenses of $116,138, Eddy stated in a controller's report.

Concessions generated $107,378, primarily because of $34,603 in food, merchandise and alco-

hol sales during a concert by Grateful Dead heir, Further, and a bigger-than-expected income from a University of Maine hockey game, the report indicated. Five Portland Pirate hockey games contributed more than $47,348 in concessions income, the report stated.

Promoters and artists represented the biggest expense in the monthly report. Their share of November expenses was $337,525, over 81 percent of the $416,379 total spent by the Civic Center for events, the

report showed. Net income from event sales amounted to $17,718 in November, the report showed.

"It's expensive to operate a nice arena," Eddy acknowledged.

But he promoted the idea of keeping the Civic Center open, at least as much as feasible during the upcoming, voter-approved renovation.

"We typically make money on these events, that's why we prefer to have more events than less, it helps us all," he said.

Pratt: The Pirates are ‘looking at their model’ concerning renovations

The Opportunity Alliance Board of Trustees’ meeting is scheduled for January 26, 2012 at 8:00a.m. at 50 Lydia Lane, South Portland.

This meeting is open to the public.

We Accept EBT Cards

Meat Market www.freshapproachmarket.com

Fresh All Natural Boneless

Skinless Chicken Breast $

10lb Bag Fresh Boneless

Skinless Chicken Breast

1.99lb

Deli Sliced Riverside

Turkey Breast

1.99lb

$

18.90

$ Deli Sliced

Honey Turkey Breast $

3.99lb

Deli Sliced

Lunch Special

2 - 1/3lb. Cheese Virginia Ham $ Burgers $

5.00

2.99lb

155 Brackett St., Portland

Mon-Fri 8-7 • Sat 9-7 • Sun 9-5

774-7250

amounts to $95,000, according to Civic Center controller Mark Eddy. Meanwhile, the Pirates receive a subsidy of $80,000, he said.

Vic Labrecque, the county's director of finance, agreed in an interview that the county and Civic Center board lack adequate information to predict how long the venue will be closed.

"We don't have any facts. We would like the answer to the question," he said.

Labrecque said the duration of closure of the Civic Center would affect financial planning but also could lower the cost of the project.

"The concept is simply that the project's projected to go two and a half years right now. If in fact, we close the facility, maybe we can get it down to two years. If we close the facility, maybe the contract price is cheaper because they don't have to tear down and set up," he said.

Eddy said, "Certainly, in our industry, it is the norm to continue operating as much as possible if you can, and it's strategically important to do so, but there are a lot of variables that go into that equation. It's hard to quantify at this point in time, but I can tell you there will be a cost of closing, no question, to the taxpayers. The numbers will be defined I believe in the next two months."

Restaurant & Sports Bar

G R DiMillo’s BA Y SID E

D inner Features Maine Shrimp Scampi................ 17.95 Served over pasta, with salad

New York Sirloin......................... 16.95 Served with potato and vegetable

Join us for happy hour and enjoy 1/2 PRICED APPETIZERS and 1/2 PRICE PIZZA 4-6PM Mon. thru Fri.!

Everyday Lunch Features From $5.95 118 Preble St., Portland, ME at the entrance to Downtown Portland

207-699-5959 • www.grdimillos.com

Pizza - Pasta - Parmagiana - Espresso - Cannoli - Steak

PUBLIC NOTICE

where around Feb. 14, which is just three weeks from now. I've heard nothing from the hockey tenant," Crane said.

Pratt said he spoke with Brian Petrovek, CEO of the Portland Pirates, the day before the meeting.

(The Portland Daily Sun, when it contacted Petrovek this week, was referred to Crane.)

"I don't know exactly what the Pirates' plans are, other than that they want to get at the table with us.

The lease expires in April, and they're keenly aware of that," Pratt said.

The Pirates are "looking at their model" concerning the renovations, he said.

A March 31, 2011 report on the Civic Center renovation predicted that a portion of the net income (such as suites, club and premium seating) would be shared with the Portland Pirates. "The exact amount will be determined through lease negotiation," the report indicated. "The hockey franchise owners have already indicated that if the renovations occur as recommended, they would be willing to negotiate a long term lease to remain a major tenant."

Still, it's unclear how the Pirates would respond to an extended closure of the facility. The American Hockey League franchise pays rent of $2,500 per home game, which this year, for 38 home games,

Pizza - Pasta - Parmagiana - Espresso - Cannoli - Steak

CENTER from page 6

The looming question of how long the Civic Center will be closed during renovations hasn't been settled.

Joe Gray, Portland's former city manager who is the Civic Center board's finance committee chair and treasurer, wondered how the financial picture would be affected by different closure scenarios.

Board Chair Neal Pratt said, "That decision hasn't been made yet, and the reason it hasn't been made is because we simply don't have the information we need to make that decision. As our architect advised us, we need to have the construction manager in place, and we need to have the construction manager's input on that sequencing analysis because obviously the work that has been done to date is conceptual and you can't plan a construction schedule around a conceptual design."

Pratt said this uncertainty was part of the challenge of renovating a 34-year-old arena, and called it typical of any major renovation project.

"I know we don't have a lot of events scheduled, I don't think we have any firmly committed to after June of this year. We have the flexibility to make the best decision about the project that we can make. We want to be firm about that, but we don't want to be premature about it," he said.

Stephen Crane, general manager of the Civic Center, estimated he has turned away roughly $100,000 worth of revenue in the form of events that could have been booked after June. Calling it a difficult decision, Crane said he couldn't risk booking acts and then find out the venue couldn't accommodate them because of renovation work.

He also wondered how the Portland Pirates hockey team, a major tenant at the Civic Center, would adjust to the looming renovation.

"The American Hockey League requires the team to provide them with next year's home dates, some-

Page 8 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012

Ship salvage workers roll up their sleeves

BY HENRY FOUNTAIN THE NEW YORK TIMES

A Dutch marine salvage company prepared on Tuesday to begin pumping half a million gallons of fuel from the stricken cruise ship Costa Concordia, the first step toward hauling the luxury liner away for a complete overhaul or cutting it up for scrap.

Workers from the company, Smit Salvage, expected to begin transferring the fuel, which weighs about 2,400 tons, to barges on Wednesday. About 200 tons of heavier oil will also have to be removed from the ship, which is on its side, half-submerged, off the Italian island of Giglio in the Mediterranean.

The process is expected to take two to four weeks, depending on the weather.

The ship ran aground within a 30,000-square-mile zone that is designated a sanctuary for marine mammals, and Italian government officials and environmentalists are worried that rough seas may further damage the ship and cause a fuel leak. Company officials said that so far all of the ship’s 17 tanks are intact.

Mike Lacey, secretary general of the International Salvage Union, a trade group, said the salvage workers’ task would be a little easier because most of the fuel is diesel, which is relatively light and will not have to be warmed before pumping. “It’s not as bad as heavy fuel, but it can still make a mess,” he said.

Mr. Lacey said that crews had begun surveying the ship for damage, an initial step in determining whether repairs are feasible. “There’s damage you can see on the port side,” he said, referring to a large gash below the waterline where the ship struck rocks on Friday.

“Maybe there’s similar damage on the starboard side.

There’s certainly damage to the starboard structure of the ship, because she’s on the rock.”

Based in part on the salvage company’s report, the ship’s owners and insurers will have to decide whether to overhaul the ship, which cost $450 million when it was built in 2006.

LE B LA I A W AV NO

Divers were forced to suspend their rescue efforts in the the half-submerged Costa Concordia on Wednesday because it had shifted on its rocky perch for the second time in three days. (Massimo Percossi/European Pressphoto Agency/The New York Times)

“You can spend a lot of money repairing a ship like this,” said Mr. Lacey, who likened the situation to that faced by a driver and an insurance company when deciding whether to repair or total a luxury car that has been heavily damaged in an accident.

“But the conclusion might very well be reached that it’s not worth it.”

If the decision is made to scrap the liner, it will be cut up in place and the pieces hauled away, he said.

But if the insurers decide on overhauling it, then the salvage workers will have to right the ship and refloat

it. “It will be a very difficult operation,” Mr. Lacey said.

David DeVilbiss, a vice president of Global Diving and Salvage, a Seattle-based company that is not involved in the work, said the salvage company would work with naval architects and create a computer simulation of the flooded liner, “which is going to tell you if the ship is going to break in half when you try to right it.”

Workers would have to patch any holes in the hull first, Mr. DeVilbiss said. Then, given the weight of the 950-foot ship and the water within it, largecapacity cranes or other lifting equipment would be brought in. Mr. DeVilbiss said that workers would probably use air bags underneath the submerged portion of the ship to help right it.

They might also try to pump some of the water out of the ship to increase its internal buoyancy, although Mr. Lacey said that was not likely given the probability of heavy interior damage. “Unless you’ve patched up all the holes, all you are actually doing when you pump is circulating the Mediterranean through the ship,” he said.

Instead, once the ship is upright and much of it is above the waterline, the water could be pumped out and the ship refloated. But even that would not be simple, Mr. Lacey said.

Few cities have regained jobs that they lost, report finds

© 2012 Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

(The New York Times) Less than a tenth of the nation’s metropolitan areas have regained the jobs they lost in the economic downturn, according to a report being released Wednesday by the nation’s mayors as they gather in Washington to express their exasperation that the federal government seems more intent on cutting aid to cities than on sending more.

Only 26 of the nation’s 363 metropolitan areas had recovered their lost jobs by the end of 2011, and only 26 more are projected to recover them by end of this year, according to the report, which was commissioned by the United States Conference of Mayors. It will take at least five years for the 80 hardest-hit areas to recover the jobs they lost, the report forecast.

Households in metropolitan areas experienced a 2.2 percent decline in median income from 2009 to 2010, it found, while those in rural areas did not see a statistically significant decline. And the report said that housing prices fell by 4 percent in 2011, sapping household wealth and further shrinking the property tax base that many cities rely on. But the lingering economic crisis has failed to spur any meaningful recent action in Washington, mayors said in interviews.

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012— Page 9

In the year of hut, hut, hut, the 49ers hit, hit, hit

BY GREG BISHOP THE NEW YORK TIMES

Poor Anthony Dixon. While most N.F.L. teams shelve their practice pads

by Halloween, the 49ers and their physical, intimidating defense opt for full contact as often as league rules allow. Dixon, their backup running back, absorbed the impact of such forceful preparation last week.

“I hit him; Dashon hit him; Patrick Willis was hitting him all day,” Whitner said. “I told myself: even my own guys better get out of the way, because I’m going to hit everything.”

That statement expanded — hit everything, hit anything, hit hard, hit first, hit often — has become the 49ers’ mantra, boosting them into the playoffs for the first time since 2002. In an N.F.L. season defined by offense, the 49ers have won more by their refusal to yield yards and touchdowns than by their ability to generate them.

At his locker Monday, Whitner explained that the 49ers’ defensive philosophy began with contact, the kind that rattles bones and incites fear and lives on tape. In the modern N.F.L., where rules favor the offense, and hits once considered glamorous are now offenses subject to fines, this seems counterintuitive to everyone except those on the receiving end.

In the first quarter against New Orleans last weekend, Whitner dropped Pierre Thomas with such force that Thomas wobbled to the locker room and never returned. The hit, which was helmet-to-helmet but legal under N.F.L.

rules because Thomas had caught the pass and turned upfield, prompted a debate on whether such tackles should be allowed.

It was the seventh time this season a starting running back left a game against San Francisco because of injury, including Felix Jones of Dallas (separated shoulder) and Jahvid Best of Detroit (concussion), according to ESPN. Message sent.

Even in this era of heightened concussion awareness, Whitner’s hit was celebrated as the play that changed that game. Even Roger Craig, the great 49ers running back who was once the recipient of such blows, said: “I had goose bumps. It was like when a heavyweight boxer, like Mike Tyson, when he used to knock people out, and they’d just fall over. I hope the kid didn’t get hurt, but it’s one of those things. That gave our team momentum. We won the whole game on that one hit.”

Whitner arrived on the 49ers this offseason, from Buffalo, as one of several important but uncelebrated additions to the roster. He liked Vic Fangio, the defensive coordinator, and more important, he liked the defense Fangio was assembling and the style he promised to install.

To Whitner, this 49ers defense looked like the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense, or the Baltimore Ravens’ defense, as fearsome as any in the league. Whitner even noted the similarities: 3-4 base defense, tackle machines at inside linebacker, big bodies up front, players who sought quarterbacks like missiles from the edge.

“We’re not really trying to hurt people, but when you play physical, people get hurt,” Whitner said.

“Sometimes that happens in this game. We understand that.”

The 49ers might hit with impact similar to the Ravens and the Steelers, but as a relatively new defensive force, they have not yet gained their Saints running back Pierre Thomas fumbled after a hit by 49ers safety Donte reputations. Trent Whitner (31) that forced Thomas from Saturday’s playoff game (NEW YORK Dilfer, the retired TIMES PHOTO) quarterback and Lott was going to tear your head off,” ESPN analyst, still believes offensive players will said, “Without a doubt, the Steelers and avoid contact, still believes in defense Ravens get more undue flags against in this season of offensive explosion. them than other teams, because the “Look, Green Bay and New Orleans, perception is they’re dirtier or tougher they’ve been selling tickets all year or more physical.” long, they’ve been on TV all year long,” As a child, Whitner said he studied Whitner said. “But when it boils down the game’s great safeties, including to it, they’re not in the final four. We San Francisco’s local legend Ronnie are. The Giants are. It’s a testament to Lott. In doing that, Whitner witnessed having a real strong, physical defense.” the ripple effect of a big hit, the way Even in practice. Cornerback Tarell it made receivers more hesitant and Brown said he noticed that Whitner offenses more tentative. and company seemed especially excited Whitner still remembers, years later, last week. “Those guys were so amped the hit safety Brian Dawkins of the up to hit somebody,” Brown said.

Eagles put on tight end Alge Crum“They’ll hit anybody. pler of the Falcons in the N.F.C. title “You never know, they might hit you,” game in the 2004 season. Whitner still he added. believes that “everybody knew Ronnie

DAILY CROSSWORD TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

by Lynn Johnston

By Holiday Mathis you are on the inside will make a certain reality outside of you come into being.

Be clear about what you’re creating.

Feel the energy of what you want your future to be, and you’ll naturally begin to move toward it.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21).

Your desire for greater peace on the subject of relationships will manifest itself in quiet moments of reflection.

You’ll notice your true feelings with great specificity.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19).

Your mind loves to complicate things because unraveling the puzzle keeps you sharp. All the while, you know that you’re playing a game and when you want to see the situation in an uncomplicated way, you will.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18).

There are many reasons you should invest in yourself. For one, you deserve it. Also, the world will be a better place because you make personal development a priority.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The difference between being extraordinary and being ordinary is the “extra.” You’ll push yourself to do more than what’s expected. Then suddenly doing more is the new normal.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (Jan. 19).

You’ll approach life with new creativity and a gleeful heart. Potential mates and business partners find you attractive in February. March brings the opportunity to put your faith in a loved one, and this person will make you proud. You’ll find money in April. Special training in the fall will increase your financial bottom line. Leo and Pisces adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 3, 14, 39, 20 and 6.

by Paul Gilligan

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ll lead conversations and influence others strongly with your words. You have the power to bring a mood up or down with your chosen topic of conversation.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Misunderstandings and losses will occur if you hurry into anything now. What’s the rush? Take your time and do your research. Avoid major financial decisions and risks for the time being.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). All that you need to learn is readily available to you in your current situation. Maybe you think the energy will change if you seek a new position, but it won’t. So instead, work your current scene to the best of your ability.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Hone your talents by exploring what captures your interest and quickly move past what doesn’t. You’ll find friends and group activities especially fun tonight.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your social network could use some attention. It’s an excellent time to remember those who have supported you in the past with a kind gesture. Also, make a list of potential future supporters.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). When you like something, you often like it so much that it’s hard to keep from selling others on it as well. Perhaps it’s about time you made a commission. Consider becoming an affiliate.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). It will be very difficult for you to assess your own situation. You need a knowledgeable and objective person to give you perspective, tell you where you’re going right and what you’re doing wrong.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Who

by Jan Eliot

HOROSCOPE

by Chad Carpenter

Solution and tips at www.sudoku.com

TUNDRA Stone Soup Pooch Café For Better or Worse LIO

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 thru 9.

by Mark Tatulli

Page 10 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012

1 6 10 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 24 25 26 29 30 31 33 37 39 41

ACROSS “The Wheel of Fortune” host Dull noise Poor box donation Oak tree nut Italy’s capital Smell awful Bring together “Heidi” setting Nation south of Algeria Forbearance; compassion Wore away Glasgow resident Black-and-blue marks Small rooster Modify Sra. Perón __ Picasso Passed out cards Grave Last-__ effort; final attempt Permanent skin

5 6 7 8

69

marking Sugary Accepts Cow’s remark Vacillate Affirm as true Attaches Above Lassie, for one Norms __ on; crushed underfoot Wily scheme Just right Meanie Kuwaiti leader Depart Tush Nutty as a fruitcake Goofed

1 2 3 4

DOWN Writer Bellow Facial spots Enroll in Painter

29 32

42 44 46 47 49 51 54 55 56 60 61 63 64 65 66 67 68

9 10 11 12 13 21 23 25 26 27 28

34 35

Patella Stretch of land Saintly “Safe” & “Out” caller, for short Gobi or Mojave Freestanding wardrobes __ the way; pioneers Noisy brawl Slips sideways on an icy road Wanderer Had regrets Prevent from passing Wagers Declare openly First line on an application, usually Church table Orthodontist’s concerns Peak Asian nation

36 38 40 43 45 48 50 51

Horse’s gait Confuse Lift and throw Cab Germfree Swerved Barterer Many an Oscar ceremony attendee

52 Blacksmith’s furnace 53 Plant life 54 Obvious 56 Looks __; seems like 57 Equipment 58 Roof’s edge 59 Downhill glider 62 Actress Thurman

Yesterday’s Answer

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012— Page 11

––––––– ALMANAC ––––––– Today is Thursday, Jan. 19, the 19th day of 2012 with 347 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: In 1861, Georgia seceded from the Union and joined the Confederacy.

On this date: In 1920, the U.S. Senate voted against the country joining the League of Nations.

In 1938, the Spanish Nationalist air force bombed Barcelona and Valencia, killing 700 civilians and wounding hundreds more.

In 1975, China published a new constitution that adopted the precepts and policies of Mao Zedong.

In 1977, U.S. President Gerald Ford pardoned Iva Toguri D’Aquino, who had been convicted of treason for her World War II Japanese propaganda broadcasts as Tokyo Rose.

Also in 1977, snowfall was recorded in Miami and the Bahamas. It was the first recorded snowfall in Miami.

In 1994, ice skater Tonya Harding’s former husband, Jeff Gillooly, was arrested and charged with conspiracy in the attack two weeks earlier on Harding rival Nancy Kerrigan.

In 1995, Russian forces captured the presidential palace in the rebel republic of Chechnya.

In 2001, U.S. President Bill Clinton announced he had made a deal with the independent prosecutor that would prevent him from being indicted after he left office.

In 2005, the Southeast Asian tsunami death toll was raised to 220,000, including more than 166,000 killed in Indonesia.

In 2007, former U.S. Rep. Bob Ney, R-Ohio, the only member of Congress to plead guilty in the Jack Abramoff lobbying scandal, was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison.

In 2008, U.S. President George W. Bush said that although the economy was growing, the rate of growth has slowed and “there’s a risk of a downturn.” He called it “a challenging period for our economy.”

In 2009, Iranian intelligence officials said their forces had dismantled a U.S.-backed spy network involving several nations aimed at toppling the country’s Islamic regime.

In 2010, Republican Scott Brown, a little known former state senator, scored a major political upset by winning a special Massachusetts election over a heavily favored Democrat to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by the death of Democratic legend Ted Kennedy.

In 2011, Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill to repeal healthcare reform legislation enacted during the last Congress. The Senate, however, blocked the proposal.

Today’s Birthdays: James Watt, inventor of the steam engine, in 1736; Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee in 1807; American short story writer and poet Edgar Allan Poe in 1809; French post-Impressionist painter Paul Cezanne in 1839; actors Jean Stapleton is 89, Fritz Weaver is 86 and Tippi Hedren is 82; television newscaster Robert MacNeil is 81; singer Phil Everly of the Everly Brothers is 73; British stage singer and actor Michael Crawford is 70; singer Dolly Parton is 66; actors Shelley Fabares is 68 and Katey Sagal is 58; chef Paula Deen is 65; singer/actor Desi Arnaz Jr. is 59; comedian Frank Caliendo is 38.

THURSDAY PRIME TIME 8:00

Dial 5

CTN 5 Poet

6

30 Rock WCSH (N) Å

7

8

10

11

12

13 17 24

8:30 Whistle

JANUARY 19, 2012

9:00

9:30

Cumberland County

10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30 Thom Hartmann Show Grit TV

Parks and Recreation (N) Å American Idol Hopefuls WPFO perform for the judges.

(N) (In Stereo) Å Wipeout “Winter WipeWMTW out: Family Tree” (N) (In Stereo) Å Maine Maine Calling MPBN Watch

The Office Up All The Firm “Chapter Four” “Pool Party” Night “Ri- Mitch defends a psychia(N) vals” (N) trist. (N) Å The Finder “Bullets” Wal- News 13 on FOX (N) ter helps a man on death row. (N) Å Grey’s Anatomy Richard Private Practice A performs a liver transwoman needs help after plant. (N) Å being beaten. (N) Doc Martin “On the The Jeremiah O’Brien Edge” Martin is forced out Homecoming of the picture. Å Roadside Windows Inside Nature’s Giants Frontline “Nuclear Aftershocks” Nuclear energy.

WENH Stories Å to the Wild Dissection of a sperm (N) Å whale’s organs. (N) (N) Å The Vampire Diaries The Secret Circle “Wit- Excused American ness” Faye is trapped in (N) Å Dad “Wife WPXT Alaric’s new friend intrigues Damon. (N) a perilous situation.

Insurance” The Big Rob “Sec- Person of Interest The Mentalist “My ond Wed- “Legacy” Carter finally Bloody Valentine” A mob WGME Bang Theory (N) ding” (N) meets Reese. (N) Å boss’ son is killed.

Without a Trace Å WPME College Basketball Man, Woman, Wild (N) First Week In Å DISC Dual Survival Å Movie: ››› “Steel Magnolias” (1989) Sally Field.

Update

News

Tonight Show With Jay Leno The OfThe Office fice “The “Company Injury” Å Picnic” News 8 Nightline WMTW at (N) Å 11PM (N) Charlie Rose (N) (In Stereo) Å Legacy: Austria’s Influence on American Skiing Å It’s Always That ’70s Sunny in Show Å Phila.

WGME Late Show News 13 at With David 11:00 Letterman Without a Trace Å Man, Woman, Wild The 700 Club Å

25

FAM Stepmom

26

USA NCIS “High Seas”

27

NESN NHL Hockey: Bruins at Devils

Bruins

Daily

Instigators Daily

Dennis

28

CSNE Tailgate

Tailgate

Sports

SportsNet Sports

SportsNet

30

ESPN College Basketball

31

ESPN2 College Basketball

Quick

Patriots

NCIS “Marine Down”

Burn Notice Å

SportsCenter (N) Å

College Basketball College Basketball Illinois at Penn State. (N)

Australian Open

33

ION

Cold Case Å

Criminal Minds Å

Criminal Minds Å

34

DISN Austin

Phineas

Wizards-Place

Jessie

Phineas

35

TOON MAD

Regular

King of Hill King of Hill Amer. Dad Amer. Dad Fam. Guy

Fam. Guy

36

NICK George

George

George

Friends

37

Cold Case Å

NCIS (In Stereo) Å

MSNBC The Ed Show (N)

George

George

Wizards George

Rachel Maddow Show The Last Word

Friends

Phineas

The Ed Show

38

CNN South Carolina Republican Presidential Debate

Anderson Cooper 360

SC Rep Pres Debate

40

CNBC Bill Gates: How a Geek Best Buy: Big

Best Buy: Big

Mad Money

Greta Van Susteren

The O’Reilly Factor

FNC

The O’Reilly Factor (N) Hannity (N)

43

TNT

NBA Basketball Los Angeles Lakers at Miami Heat. (N) Å

44

LIFE Project Runway

41

NY Ink “Paying Dues”

NBA Basketball: Mavericks at Jazz

Project Runway

24 Hour Catwalk (N)

Dance Moms Å

NY Ink (N) Å

Cellblock 6

NY Ink (In Stereo) Å

46

TLC

47

AMC Movie: ›››‡ “The Fugitive” (1993, Suspense) Harrison Ford. Å

48

HGTV Price This First Place Selling LA Selling NY House

49

TRAV When Vacations

Bizarre Foods

No Reservation

The Layover “London”

50

A&E The First 48 Å

The First 48 (N) Å

Beyond Scared

Beyond Scared

Housewives/Atl.

Happens

Atlanta

Frasier

Frasier

Frasier

52

BRAVO Real

Tabatha Takes Over

Atlanta

Movie: “The Fugitive” Hunters

Hunters

55

HALL Little House on Prairie Little H’se Frasier

56

SYFY “My Bloody Valentine”

Movie: ››‡ “Constantine” (2005, Fantasy) Keanu Reeves.

Joshua

57

ANIM Wildman

Snake Man

American Stuffers (N)

Wildman

58

HIST American Pickers Å

Swamp People Å

Cajun Pwn Cajun Pwn Ancient Aliens Å

Wildman

Movie: ›› “Fat Albert” (2004) Å

Frasier

House

Wildman

Movie: ››‡ “Roll Bounce” (2005) Bow Wow. Å

60

BET

61

COM Futurama

Futurama

Futurama

Two Men

Two Men

Two Men

Two Men

Archer (N) Unsuper.

Archer

Unsuper.

TVLND Home Imp. Home Imp. Raymond

Raymond

Raymond

Raymond

King

King

Big Bang

Big Bang

Big Bang

Conan (N)

62 67 68 76

FX

TBS

Fam. Guy

SPIKE Jail Å

Fam. Guy Jail Å

Big Bang

Futurama

Daily Show Colbert

iMPACT Wrestling (N) (In Stereo) Å

Ink Master Å

Law Order: CI

Law Order: CI

78

OXY Law Order: CI

146

TCM Movie: ››‡ “Under Capricorn” (1949, Drama)

DAILY CROSSWORD

BY WAYNE ROBERT WILLIAMS

Aries Spears, Smiling

1 5 10 14 15 16 17 20 21 22 25 28 29 30 32 33 34 37 40 41 42 43

Law Order: CI

Movie: ›› “The Master of Ballantrae” (1953)

ACROSS Dole (out) Watts of “Le Divorce” Phone Thicke of “Growing Pains” UFO pilot Most land Winter index figure Spherical vegetable Making a choice Moonshine maker Space Prize money Panama passage Humiliates Border against Showy shrub Operate Go nuts “Ulalume” author National song Food for aardvarks Verbalizer

44 45 48 49 50 52 53 60 61 62 63 64 65

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

List of candidates Identical Mag supervisors Nancy of “Pollyanna” Solitary sorts Expected to arrive Calls it a play?

Fish-eating eagle Relating to the ear Without work __-do-well Saxophonist Mulligan Type of revolver DOWN Gullet Peyton Manning’s brother Summertime color Part of a motor neuron Port on Okinawa Actress MacGraw OPEC product

8 Brooks or Gibson 9 Dope or skinny 10 Bloom in the hot sun 11 On the move 12 Detroit pros 13 Shirt size 18 Slammer cubicle 19 Seem 22 Resell tickets 23 Forbidden thing 24 Occupied 25 Newspaper 26 Red in the face 27 Arnie and Sandra of golf 31 Line of stitches 33 Tolstoy novel, “__ Karenina” 34 Bones in forearms 35 Altercation 36 Industrial city on the Ruhr 38 Horse operas 39 Like Nureyev’s moves

43 Barbecue spit 44 Like Aesop’s grapes 45 Standish’s stand-in 46 “Casablanca” co-star Peter 47 Idiotic 51 Affair for men only 52 As expected

54 Shade of color 55 Behave humanly?

56 Convertible or coupe 57 Fuss about nothing 58 Poorly 59 Lepidopterist’s equipment

Yesterday’s Answer

THE

Page 12 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS • CALL 699-5807

Animals

Free

DOLLAR-A-DAY CLASSIFIEDS: Ads must be 15 words or less and run a minimum of 5 consecutive days. Ads that run less than 5 days or nonconsecutive days are $2 per day. Ads over 15 words add 10¢ per word per day. PREMIUMS: First word caps no charge. Additional caps 10¢ per word per day. Centered bold heading: 9 pt. caps 40¢ per line, per day (2 lines maximum) TYPOS: Check your ad the first day of publication. Sorry, we will not issue credit after an ad has run once.

DEADLINES: noon, one business day prior to the day of publication. PAYMENT: All private party ads must be pre-paid. We accept checks, Visa and Mastercard credit cards and, of course, cash. There is a $10 minimum order for credit cards. CORRESPONDENCE: To place your ad call our offices 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 699-5807; or send a check or money order with ad copy to The Conway Daily Sun, P.O. Box 1940, North Conway, NH 03860. OTHER RATES: For information about classified display ads please call 699-5807.

AKC Golden Retriever puppies born Dec. 24th, taking reservations now. Ready for adoption Feb. 2012. Health clearances done on parents. FMI Sandra (207)899-5822.

10 FREE FIREPLATES

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

DACHSHUNDS puppies. Heath & temperament guaranteed. $450 (603)539-1603.

Labradoodle Puppies Ready to go 1-21-12. $1200 heath certified.

Non-shed hypoallergenic. For more info email: info@karlaspets.com.

G O O D M A N L A W F IR M E F F E C T IV E • C A R IN G

PIT Bull/ Bull Mastiff pups. Born Sept. 26th. Very friendly, nice colors, good with kids and other animals. Parents on premise. $600 or trade for hunting equipment/ tools, etc. (603)539-7009.

DEBT RELIEF BANKRUPTCY

P!

EL We C a n H

537 C O N G R E SS ST ., ST 404, P O R T L A N D 207-775-4335 • w w w .g o o dm an law firm .co m

146 Rand Rd., Portland 772-8436 Just off The Maine Turnpike (I-95) exit 47

YOU TRUST US TO CLEAN YOUR HOME, NOW TRUST US TO HEAT YOUR HOME

TWIN ELECTRIC

INTRODUCING THE GUARDIAN HEATER ®

BY AERUS with Active PCO Technology • Exclusive Active PCO Technology send out “scrubbers” to remove contaminants from surfaces • Combines everything you want in a heater: energy-efficiency, effectiveness & safety • Safety features prevent fires and make it safer for children & pets • Doesn’t emit harmful fumes or carbon monoxide • An energy efficient way to heat your environment

24 MONUMENT SQUARE | 699-5577

“Lighting Your Way Into The Future” Last year’s close out model on sale for

299

$

• Fu lly L icensed • Fu lly Insured • Free E stim ates

• Fast/Q uality Service • N o Job T oo Sm all • 24/7 Service

While Supplies Last!

Call Today To Learn More About Creating Safe, Healthy Environments 352 Warren Ave. Portland • 207-871-8610 or toll free 1-888-358-3589

(207) 318-8808

Randy MacWhinnie

twinelectricme@aol.com

Master Electrician/Owner

Benefits of Tai Chi Chih Blood Pressure Control • Improved Balance Arthritis Relief For information call Raymond Reid (207) 518-9375

www.taichichihstudio.com New Year - New Classes See our new Winter Class Schedule

We haul anything to the dump. Basement, attic, garage cleanouts.

Insured www.thedumpguy.com (207)450-5858.

Wanted

95 Congress St, 3 bedroom, heated, w/d hookup, parking, $1200/mo security deposit, no pets. Call (207)409-0879 or (207)874-2050.

PORTLAND- Danforth, 2 bedrooms, heated, renovated Victorian townhouse, 2 floors, 1.5 baths, parking. $1400/mo (207)773-1814.

PORTLAND- Maine MedicalStudio, 1/ 2 bedroom. Heated, off street parking, newly renovated. $550-$875.

(207)773-1814.

SMALL Portland company looking for styrofoam peanuts/ packing material. We will reuse/ recycle your peanuts.

(207)773-8047.

Wanted To Buy I pay cash today for broken and unwanted Notebooks, Netbooks, and Macbooks. Highest prices (207)233-5381.

Yard Sale SOUTH Portland 4th Saturday coin show- Buying and sellingAmerican Legion Post 35, 413 Broadway, 8-2pm.

(802)266-8179, free admission.

PORTLAND- Woodford’s. 1 and 3 bedroom heated. Bright rooms, oak floor, just painted. $775-$1300/mo. (207)773-1814.

ROOM for rent upper Sawyer St. South Portland, ME.. $120/wk. 6 month minimum.

(207)233-6056.

WINDHAM- 1 bedroom, utilities plus cable included. Yard parking, partial rent for some work.

(207)892-7150.

For Rent-Commercial 75 Oak Street, Portland, ME

disposal.

DUMP GUY

IRON cannonballs, circa 1755, used on the attack of Portland (Falmouth Neck), we will purchase, or trade hot sauce. Contact Captain Mowatt (207)773-8047.

For Rent

DOUBLE CHEESEBURGER W / FRENCH FRIES & CAN OF SODA

A-TEAM

Autos

A-TEAM

SPECIAL - $6.75

Services Complete (207)615-6092.

1995 GMC 1500 SLE extended cab, with Fisher plow, V8 auto, 144k, fiberglass cap, new tires and battery $3940 (207)791-7874.

Auto Recyclers paying cash.

(207)615-6092.

!

“A Local Moved We’ve Company Selling American Made Products”

Save oil & money, make hot water with a Fireplate "water heating baffle for wood stove".

Restrictions apply, Email: info@dearbornbortec.com or Call: 207-935-2502 for complete details.

PORTLAND Art District- Art studios, utilities. First floor. Adjacent to 3 occupied studios. $325 (207)773-1814.

For Sale 1 awesome deal- Queen mat tress set- $150 brand namebrand new- (603)591-4927.

Your Classified Is Wired!

The Sun’s classifieds now are on the Internet.

YOU’VE GOT IT.

Atlantic H eating Com pany Serving G reater Portland since 19 6 9 H eating and Plum bing Installation,Service and Repair

We’d Like To Get To Know You!

5¢ OFF

per gallon on our low everyday cash oil price.

(minimum 150 gallon purchase - new customers only)

V isit ou r w ebsite at w w w .atlanticheatingcom pany.com 24 -H O U R D EL IV ERY AN D EM ERG EN CY SERV ICE

207 -7 97 -7 21 8

SOMEBODY ELSE WANTS IT! Got something special you no longer use? Sell it in the Classifieds.

It may just be the perfect item to fill somebody else’s need.

Call us today!

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012— Page 13

LePage says he’ll fight energy referendum

BY MAL LEARY CAPITOL NEWS SERVICE

Gov. Paul LePage is denouncing a citizen initiative that expects to file petitions later this month to force consideration of legislation they argue would increase energy efficiency and bolster renewable energy. If the legislature rejects the measure, the voters will decide the question next fall.

“The way I look at it is this proposal, this whole referendum issue is nothing more than a scam to make a few people wealthy, “LePage said in an interview.” I think it is shameful and it’s immoral that some of these folks would come and put this kind of price tag on Maine people. “ He said a study done by the Public Utilities Commission estimates the cost of the initiative would be between $40 and $80 million a year and that Mainers can not afford any increase in electric rates. He said he will do what he can to convince Mainers the proposal is bad for the state and should be defeated should the petitions be validated.

“They are short circuiting the system because their facts don’t hold up,” LePage said, “ and they know they have to go and mislead the populace in order to get this passed. “ He said he will speak about the problems he sees in the measure as part of his State of the State speech to the legislature next week. He flatly rejected the assertion by the supporters of the bill that ratepayers would benefit from the legislation.

“They are lying to you,” LePage said.

The Governor’s comments were triggered by a news conference by Maine Citizens for Clean Energy, a coalition of groups and individuals circulating the petitions. They released a poll showing broad support for the proposal and an analysis by Environment Northeast, an environmental advocacy group, claiming the measure would save ratepayers in the long run.

Beth Nagusky, Maine Director of Environment Northeast, one of the member organizations of the Citizens group, said the analysis used by the Governor was limited to looking at costs, and not at benefits and she rejected the Governor’s claim the bill would cost ratepayers.

“That is not true, “she said Nagusky said the ENE analysis projects electric bills would go up in the first year, but would then decrease as the efficiency provisions are fully implemented.

“It’s important to remember that the ballot initiative is a two part question,” Nagusky said.

She said the first part of the bill requires expanded energy efficiency efforts from most efficient lighting systems to more efficient equipment used by businesses and individuals. She said the second part requires more of the electricity in the state to come from renewable power sources will reduce the over reliance on fossil fuels that have volatile prices.

“Nobody has a crystal bill and can accurately predict energy prices, but we have looked at a range of

ANNIE’S MAILBOX Dear Annie: I am in a relationship with a widower. He is a thoughtful person and works two jobs. His two adult sons live in his home with their girlfriends. Neither of the boys pays rent. Nor do they buy groceries or cleaning supplies.

They never offer to take their father out to dinner or do anything special for him. Their father buys their vehicles and pays their insurance.

The house is in shambles. The boys’ only responsibility is to take the trash to the dump and mow the yard in the summer. They do this grudgingly and not very well. The boys show little respect for their father. They leave beer bottles and dirty dishes all over the kitchen and their shoes, dirty clothes and trash all over the house. No one cleans a bathroom or vacuums a floor. They are busy working out, doing what they want with their friends or going out drinking. One of the girlfriends is always broke and looking for a handout, but she has money to get hammered every weekend. She doesn’t lift a finger around the house and has the nerve to tell my boyfriend what he needs to buy to make her more comfortable.

My boyfriend thinks that this is normal behavior and that I am the one with the problem. He believes it is his responsibility to take care of them, because they don’t have “good” jobs that pay a lot of money. He would never kick them out.

We don’t live together and never will under these circumstances. My boyfriend reads your column every day. Will you tell him I’m not the only one who thinks this situation stinks?

-- Kick ‘Em Out! Dear Kick: Some parents have such soft spots for their children that they become enablers, allowing the kids to postpone adulthood. This is unfortunate for the children. They never learn to support themselves or manage their money and are forever dependent on others to take care of them.

However, these are not your children, and how your boyfriend chooses to deal with them is only your business if you marry him. Right now, we don’t recommend it.

Dear Annie: I have been at my job for more than 20 years and will be retiring soon. Co-workers have been asking whether I would like a party and gifts. I’ve made it clear that I want absolutely nothing and politely suggested that they donate to the local food bank.

I don’t like these people. I will not “keep in touch.” I am happy to leave this miserable job. So if they give me a cake or gifts, is it OK to simply express my thanks, or do I have to send a thank-you note? All gifts will end up in the trash, and I have no intention of participating in any celebration. -- New York Grouch Dear Grouch: Verbal thanks are sufficient for an office cake or party. If you are given a gift, however, a thank-you note is in order. We think you can manage it, especially because it’s likely to be the last communication you will have with these people. It never hurts to depart on a gracious note.

Dear Annie: Our experience as an over-50 couple has been entirely different from that of the couple who were having the problems with intimacy.

When my husband and I retired, we both got back in shape after 40 years behind desks. I felt better and younger than I did at 25. I took up belly-dancing, and even though I can’t seem to make it past the beginner level, my husband thinks it is very sexy. I try to build up his confidence in the bedroom even when things are less than perfect, and he does the same for me. We both have loads of fun trying new things, and after this many years, there is absolutely no pressure to perform. Sex after 50 is awesome. -- Flirtin’ in Florida Dear Florida: Good for you! We love your attitude.

Annie’s Mailbox is written by Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar, longtime editors of the Ann Landers column. Please e-mail your questions to: anniesmailbox@comcast.net, or write to: Annie’s Mailbox, c/o Creators Syndicate, 737 3rd Street, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254.

Prickly City

by Scott Stantis

assumptions in doing our analysis, and we believe it will lower prices over time, “she said.

At their news conference the group said a survey of 601 likely Maine voters conducted in early October found that 76 percent of respondents support the ballot initiative, with 17 percent against, and 7 percent undecided. The poll also showed support from a majority of voters enrolled as Democrats, Republicans, and independents, as well as support from both sportsmen and non-sportsmen.

“They asked if people supported green energy, “LePage said, “of course they do. They didn’t ask if they would support it when it would cost them more.”

Nagusky said they did ask a similar question and that most respondents said they would support a small increase in rates to increase the amount of renewable energy sources.

LePage said the group is supported by wind power companies that will make money from provisions requiring more renewable power generation sources.

Nagusky said the group is funded not only by businesses, but labor and environmental groups and is seeking funds as more groups join the coalition.

The group collected a lot of signatures at polling places across the state during November’s election. They say more than 500 volunteers have been involved in collecting the signatures and expect to submit more than the needed 57,000 signatures to the Secretary of State’s Office by the end of the month.

Poll finds Gingrich cutting into Romney’s lead in South Carolina Newt Gingrich has gained significant ground on Mitt Romney in South Carolina as the two men intensify their rhetoric with three days left before Republicans go to the polls on Saturday.

But a new Time CNN/ORC poll still puts Mr. Romney well ahead, with 33 percent of the vote, followed by Mr. Gingrich, who has 23 percent. The poll was conducted over four days beginning on Jan. 13, a period that included a nationally televised debate Monday night on Fox News.

Mr. Romney’s lead over Mr. Gingrich in South Carolina has been cut in half since the week before New Hampshire primary, when CNN’s poll showed Mr. Romney with 37 percent of the vote and Mr. Gingrich with just 18 percent.

The results suggest that Mr. Gingrich has reversed the steep fall in the polls that followed a barrage of negative ads several weeks ago by a pro-Romney “super PAC.” At the same time, Mr. Romney’s support in the state has dropped amid attacks on his tenure at Bain Capital, a private equity firm, and questions about his personal wealth.

The poll results provided evidence to support the dynamic on the campaign trail, where Mr. Gingrich and Mr. Romney sparred throughout the day.

Mr. Romney’s campaign released two Web videos dismissing Mr. Gingrich as an “unreliable conservative” and using two of Mr. Gingrich’s former colleagues in the House of Representatives to criticize him.

Former Representative Susan Molinari of New York said in one of the ads that “the last time Newt Gingrich was the head of the Republican party, he became so controversial he helped re-elect a Democratic president.’’ Mr. Gingrich called that “just stupid.”

The CNN poll of likely voters in South Carolina showed Rick Santorum in third, with 16 percent support, a little behind his previous second-place spot in the state. Ron Paul has 13 percent, according to the poll, and Rick Perry 6 percent.

The news organizations also released a poll of likely Florida voters that showed Mr. Romney with a commanding lead there, 43 percent support. Florida voters go to the polls on Jan. 31.

— The New York Times

Page 14 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– EVENTS CALENDAR–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Thursday, Jan. 19 Forum — Financing Maine’s Clean Tech Sector

eider. Limited to 12 participants (5 in the van).” Advance registration is necessary.

For those with questions, call 781-2330 or email programs@maineaudubon.org.

WMPG Power Up! 7:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Environmental & Energy TechOpen House nology Council of Maine, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “WMPG Financing Maine’s Clean Community Radio’s Power Tech Sector, Abromson Up! signal improvement projCenter, University of Southern ect is a success! After years Maine, Portland. “Compared of planning, fund-raising, to a year ago, venture capiand hard work, WMPG is tal investment in clean tech now broadcasting a new companies has increased 73 more powerful signal, reachpercent to $1.1 billion (Ernst ing radios from southern & Young). Clean technology York County to the Augusta investments are on the rise area, and west to Central but what does this mean for New Hampshire. To celebrate Maine? The Jan.19 forum, this important milestone with Financing Maine’s Clean Tech our listeners, supporters and Sector will be a two-part event volunteers, WMPG is holding to explore the state of venture a day-long Power Up! Open capital in Maine, as well as House on Saturday, Jan. 21, other sources of funding availfrom 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please able to clean tech start ups, join us by listening to 90.9 or firms experiencing growth, 104.1 FM, or stop by in person and other businesses seeking at 92 Bedford Street on the capital. Part I: Panel (8 a.m.

Portland campus of the Unito 9:30 a.m.) State of Giving: versity of Southern Maine for philanthropic and foundaour transmitter-warming party! tion grant support--Betsy “If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front” explores two of America’s most pressing issues — environmentalism and terror- On that day you’ll hear special ism — by lifting the veil on a radical environmental group the FBI calls America’s “number one domestic terrorism threat.”

The fi lm will Biemann, Maine Technology celebratory programming on screen at the Portland Public Library, 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 25.

(COURTESY PHOTO) Institute. State of Lending: the air all day long, with live commercial and public loans music, voices from the past, Global Humanities has partnered with the Maine Humaniand the political/regulatory environment’s influence — Mike and live and recorded calls from our new expanded listenties Council to provide local discussions and live streaming Finnegan, Coastal Enterprises, Inc.; and, an overview of the ing area. The theme of the Power Up! Open House is ‘Same of Bill McKibben’s lecture on “Local And Global: Notes from steps necessary to access loans and other funding streams — Community Radio ... MUCH More Community!’ At the WMPG the Frontlines of the Climate Fight.”

Portland Public Library Stephen Lovejoy, Maine Small Business Development Center, studios, 92 Bedford Street on the Portland campus of the Uniwill host the streamed lecture and discussion from 5 p.m. to State of Capital: venture capital availability and angel investors versity of Southern Maine.”

8 p.m. Owen Grumbling, Professor of Environmental Litera-- Don Gooding, Maine Angels. Part II: Break Out Sessions ture and Chair of the Department of Environmental Studies ‘The Mystery of Ice Mountain’ (9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.). will facilitate a discussion around the lecture. Grumbling 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The Dolly Wagglers present “The MysStory Telling Circle will focus on McKibben’s book, Eaarth, and the issue of tery of Ice Mountain,” puppet show for all ages. Mayo Street 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Join storyteller Deena R. Weinstein climate change. Participants are encouraged to read the Arts, 10 Mayo St., Portland. Run Time approx 30 minutes. to enjoy a cozy evening while discovering the delight of book ahead of time. $8 adults/ $4 kids under 12. www.mayostreetarts.org. The telling and being told stories. Gather at 6:30 to schmooze Dolly Wagglers present “The Mystery of Ice Mountain” at Maine Academy of Modern Music benefit (become acquainted) and snack. This month’s theme will be Mayo Street Arts. “It is about an adventure in a remote, icy 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Maine Academy of Modern Music is tales of animals. Perhaps you’ve had an adventure with a landscape with some exotic creatures of the colder climes. hosting a benefit at The Big Easy (55 Market St., Portland) pet, a wild critter, a raven, or Bigfoot (!) in the snowy woods Slapstick, life-sized puppets, and ventriloquism are just a to raise funds for its music programs. “The whole family or hot desert. Take us along through your story! Share up few of the old-world tricks the Dolly Wagglers may pull from can rock to live music from The Twisted Truth, Beware of to a 10-minute story. All are encouraged to tell rather than their sleeves. Audiences of all ages will enjoy the show. This Pedestrians, Static and Phantom Companion from 6 p.m. read, but works-in-progress are encouraged in an environpuppet show is part of The Children’s Puppet Workshop — to 9 p.m. and the 21-plus crowd can rock a little harder from ment supportive of learning storytelling, so notes are not a series of puppet-themed workshops and performances 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. with the addition of The Trickle Down and discouraged. Handicap accessible entrance is available.” for the community at Mayo Street Arts. Sponsored in part LQH. Admission is $5.

The Jewish Museum, Etz Chaim Synagogue, 267 Congress

by The Virginia Hodgkins Somers Foundation, Portland ‘The Fairy’ St. (at the head of India Street), Portland. http://treeoflifeCommunity Policing, and Coffee By Design.”

6:30 p.m. Movies at the Museum, “The Fairy,” Portland museum.org/info.php?info_id=8 Benefit for Jeremy Lester Fire Relief Fund Museum of Art. Friday, Jan. 20, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. “Benefit for local musician Jeremy Lester, 21, 2 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 22, 2 p.m. NR. www.portlandmuFriday, Jan. 20 who lost his home and all his earthly possessions in a tragic seum.org/events fire three weeks before Christmas. He also spent two weeks ‘The Preservation of Earth’ in the hospital, and had no insurance of any kind. Local 2012 eco-Excellence Awards nominations 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Constellation Gallery artist Joanne Fitzmusicians are encouraged to attend and show your support 5 p.m. The 2012 eco-Excellence Awards nominations are patrick will be providing a free interactive demonstration of for one of our own. Silent auction items and volunteers to due by Jan. 20. The awards are given annually in recognithe process she employs for the preservation of fl owers and bring a potluck dish also needed. Contact Ken Grimsley or tion of “green” activities by ecomaine, a nonprofit recycling leaves, an integral part of her artistic avocation “The PreserElks Lodge manager John Plumley (797 5791). Confirmed and waste disposal operation that is municipally owned and vation of Earth.” Materials for attendees are provided free of musical acts include The Ken Grimsley Band, Capt. Ray & operated. Michael Bobinsky chair of the ecomaine Board charge. Light refreshments provided.

The Castaways, Naked Cowgirl, Live Bait feat. Jeff Merrow, of Directors and director of Portland Public Services, said, M.J. Brink, and ... wait for it ... Greta Schaefer!” http://www.

Film: Future Shorts Pop-Up Film Fesival “Each one of the 43 communities served by ecomaine can ridinsteel.com/apps/calendar/showEvent?calID=2578581& 7:30 p.m. SPACE Gallery. “The Future Shorts Festival is win an award – it’s a great opportunity to recognize a person, eventID=164253172 the biggest pop up film festival of its kind, showcasing group or business that has made a difference in your comthe most exciting short films from around the world. Anyone, munity.” The judging of entries will be done by members Nor’Easters Synchronized Skating Teams anywhere can set up a screening, forming a massive network of the ecomaine Recycling Committee. Troy Moon (Port5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Nor’Easters Synchronized Skating of cinematic events and becoming part of a powerful global land), chair of the committee, and a member of the board of Teams will host a fundraiser and exhibition on Jan. 21-22 in community.” $8/$6 for SPACE members and students with ID. directors, said all the recipients and their nominators will be preparation for the 2012 U.S. Eastern Synchronized Skating www.space538.org/events.php invited to an awards luncheon given in their honor in PortSectional Championships on Jan. 26-28 in Hershey, Penn. land on Wednesday, March 7. “At that time,” said Moon, Maine’s only synchronized skating team, the Nor’Easters “we will present the individual awards and announce the are comprised of three teams featuring 38 skaters aged Saturday, Jan. 21 Grand Award winners for community and business.” The 9 to 59 from Maine and New Hampshire. Funds will be brief entry forms and information about previous winners used for travel expenses to Easterns, where 2,000 athletes Wings of Winter with Maine Audubon can be found on-line at www.ecomaine.org or requested by representing 150 teams from Florida to Maine will vie for 9 a.m. Wings of Winter with Maine Audubon. “Join this phoning 523-3108. titles in 13 divisions. The weekend will kick off on Saturday, annual field trip to several of Greater Portland’s birding hot Jan. 21 with a Spaghetti Dinner from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Facebook Portrait Project spots. Starting at Back Cove, we’ll scan for waterfowl, then the St. Mary’s Church on 43 Foreside Road in Falmouth.

5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Portland Museum of Art, Great Hall. Artist work our way around the East End to Portland’s waterfront Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $5 for Tanja Alexia Hollander invites you to stop by the museum. to check the congregations of gulls for unusual species, children. On Sunday, Jan. 22, the Nor’Easters will perform The Are You Really My Friend? exhibition will open in Febincluding Iceland, glaucous, and lesser black-backed. From in a free exhibition from 2:40 p.m. to 4:50 p.m. at the Family ruary. On Friday, Jan. 20, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the public there we’ll cross the bridge to Willard Beach and work our Ice Center in Falmouth. Donations of bottles and cans are is invited to Collaborative Confessional: Tanja Alexia Holway along the Cape Elizabeth shore to Portland Head Light, welcomed at both events. For more information, please visit lander and the Facebook Portrait Project. www.portlandTwo Lights State Park, and Kettle Cove (time and weather www.northatlanticfsc.org. museum.org/Content/6628.shtml permitting). Expect to see loons, grebes, great cormorant, at least eight duck species, and other seabirds. Luck may ‘Notes from the Frontlines of the Climate Fight’ see next page turn up a Barrow’s goldeneye, brant, or possibly a king 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The University of New England’s Center for

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012— Page 15

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– EVENTS CALENDAR––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– night is Jan. 28 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $22 student/senior $20. The Maine Premiere of “Becky Shaw” marks the first time Mad Horse Theatre Company has produced a work by Gionfriddo. According to Herrera, the cast made his transition from actor to director easier than it could have been.

from preceding page

Women in Harmony 7 p.m. Women in Harmony, Portland’s 60-voice women’s chorus, presents a winter concert, Still I Rise, also Jan. 22 at 4 p.m. “The program celebrates the strength and resilience of women as they seek peace, freedom and understanding. Over three quarters of the pieces on the program were written by women composers and/or performers, including Joan Szymko, Carol Maillard of Sweet Honey in the Rock, Elizabeth Alexander, Eleanor Daley, Gwyneth Walker, The Righteous Mothers, Laura Berkson, Rosephayne Powell, and Holly Near. Woodfords Congregational Church, 202 Woodford St., Portland. Admission is $15 at the door; Students/Seniors $10.”

Monday, Jan. 23 Young drivers’ safety discussion 6 p.m. “Conversations with the Communities,” a public discussion regarding ways to improve the safety of Maine’s young drivers. The Secretary of State’s “Conversations with the Communities” were scheduled to be held on the following dates at the local Bureau of Motor Vehicle Offices: Tuesday, Jan. 17 in Bangor at 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 18 in Caribou at 6 p.m.; and Thursday, Jan. 19 in Calais at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

For a complete schedule of “Conversations with the Community” including addresses to the motor vehicle locations or for information and instructions on joining the discussion via Webinar, please visit the Secretary of State’s website at www.maine.gov/sos/.

‘A Journey to Darfur’ 7 p.m. The Meg Perry Center, 644 Congress St., Portland.

Fur Cultural Revival (part of The Darfur Community Center of Maine) is proud to present the documentary film, “A Journey to Darfur” starring George Clooney. This film will be shown for free on Monday, January 23, 2011 at 7:00 PM at The Meg Perry Center, 644 Congress Street in Portland, Maine. The public is encouraged to attend. The event is all ages and free. The film will be followed by a discussion and a short presentation by El-Fadel Arbab, America’s primary spokesperson for the Darfuri refugee diaspora, who will speak about the ongoing Genocide throughout Sudan.

Tuesday, Jan. 24 SMCC offers free weatherization courses 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. “With a recent spike in oil prices and cuts to the Low Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) threatening to leave many Mainers out in the cold, Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) is offering free weatherization courses to help ease the burden of the Maine winter.

The classes, offered through SMCC’s Continuing Studies Department, will be taught at the Sustainable Energy Alternatives Center (SEA Center) on the South Portland campus.” The workshop will be offered on two dates: the first on Tuesday, Jan. 24 (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and the second on Saturday, Jan. 28 (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.). “The federal government recently announced that funding for Maine’s LIHEAP program would be reduced to $23 million, a $33 million cut from previous levels. In addition to reduced aid, Maine families are facing rapidly increasing fuel costs, with the price of heating oil increasing by $.13 a gallon during the month of January.”

Film: Urbanized at SPACE 7:30 p.m. SPACE Gallery film screening. “‘Urbanized’ (the third part of Gary Hustwit’s design film trilogy, joining ‘Helvetica’ and ‘Objectified’) is a feature-length documentary about the design of cities, which looks at the issues and strategies behind urban design and features some of the world’s foremost architects, planners, policymakers, builders, and thinkers. Followed by Q&A with Noah Chasin, Assistant Professor at Bard College and Mitchell Rasor of MRLD Landscape Architecture + Design. Co-Presented by AIGA Maine and MRLD Landscape Architecture + Urbanism.” $7/$5 for SPACE members, free for AIGA Maine, all ages. www. space538.org/events.php

Wednesday, Jan. 25 Walker Memorial Library computer classes 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Walker Memorial Library is deep into the digital age and invites you to learn more about computers with us. Starting Wednesday, Jan. 25, staff will offer computer discussion classes. Sign up and join us.

10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. we will offer short discussion and demonstrations related to computers and what they can do for you. All sessions are free yet limited to six persons

Friday, Jan. 27 Portland Sea Dogs Food Drive

The sister/brother ice dance team of Sinead Kerr & John Kerr will join the Emmy-award winning Stars on Ice Tour, produced by skating legend Scott Hamilton, which is coming to the Cumberland County Civic Center on March 16. (COURTESY PHOTO) at each session. Signup for each session recommended.

854-0630, ext. 5 .

‘If A Tree Falls’ screening 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. “If A Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front,” at the Portland Public Library. The Portland Public Library announces its Winter Documentary Film Series, to be held Wednesday’s throughout the winter from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Rines Auditorium at the Main Library. Dates for the series are: Jan. 25, Feb. 1, Feb. 22 and Feb. 29, and March 7, March 21 and March 28. This series is made possible by a partnership between the Portland Public Library and POV (Point of View), Public Television’s premier documentary series. Films are offered free to the public and facilitated group discussions will be offered after select showings. The award-winning POV series is the longest-running showcase on American television to feature the work of today’s best independent documentary filmmakers. POV has brought more than 300 acclaimed documentaries to millions nationwide and has a Webby Award-winning online series, POV’s Borders. Since 1988, POV has pioneered the art of presentation and outreach using independent nonfiction media to build new communities in conversation about today’s most pressing social issues. For more information visit www.pbs.org/pov.

Free For All opening reception 6 p.m. SPACE Gallery exhibit opening. “Come celebrate the opening of our salon style exhibit Free For All. The walls will be stacked with art from emerging and established artists, in a range of subject, size and medium. It’ a true Free For All!” www.space538.org/events.php

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Portland Sea Dogs have announced that the organization will hold its 12th annual Food Drive which will run from now through Friday, Jan. 27. All the collected food items will be donated to the Good Shepherd Food Bank. As in the past, this year’s food drive will be “Buy One, Bring One, Get One.” “For every ticket purchased and every donated food item you bring, you will receive a free Sea Dogs ticket to the same game. For example, if you buy three tickets to the June 7 game and bring in three food items, you will receive three additional complimentary tickets of equal or lesser value to the June 7 game. The offer is good for Box Seats, Reserved, General Admission, and Pavilion seating; subject to availability. Fans may take advantage of this offer by bringing their non-perishable food items to the Hadlock Field Box Office. The Sea Dogs Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each year the Sea Dogs have been able to donate hundreds of food items to the Good Shepherd Food Bank thanks to the generosity of Sea Dogs’ fans. The Sea Dogs open the 2012 season on the road with a 4:05 p.m. doubleheader in Reading, Penn., against the Reading Phillies. The home opener is slated for Thursday, April 12 at 6 p.m. against the Binghamton Mets at Hadlock Field.”

Tickets can be purchased by calling the Sea Dogs Ticket Office at 879-9500 and online at www.seadogs.com.

Movies at the Museum, ‘One for the Road’ 6:30 p.m. Movies at the Museum, “One for the Road,” Portland Museum of Art. Friday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 29, 2 p.m. NR. www. portlandmuseum.org/events

‘Sailing with Paper’ at Constellation 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Sailing with Paper” at Constellation Gallery. Constellation artist Jos Ruks is offering a free demonstration and hands-on workshop “Sailing with Paper.” “Jos will be teaching you how to expand your paper-art horizons beyond traditional origami!

Materials for attendees are provided free of charge.

Light refreshments provided.” Constellation Gallery, 511 Congress St., Portland. 409-6617.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Wind Power discussion 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Gilsland Farm Sanctuary, Falmouth, Maine Audubon. Kate Williams, Wildlife and Renewable Energy Program Director at the Biodiversity Research Institute, has worked with shorebirds, wading birds, seabirds, passerines, fishes, and mammals across Maine and internationally. Kate will be providing an overview of wildlife issues related to wind power development, both onshore and offshore, with a focus on birds and bats. She will also discuss current studies in this arena, and discuss proposals for offshore wind farms in Maine. Free.

‘Next Fall’ by Good Theater 7 p.m. “Next Fall” by Geoffrey Nauffts, Jan. 25 to Feb. 19.

“Good Theater presents the Maine premiere of this recent Best Play Tony Award nominee. A charming, funny and touching play about life and love from one of the writers of the hit TV series, Brothers & Sisters.” Directed by Brian P. Allen and starring Joe Bearor, Rob Cameron, Matt Delamater, Moira Driscoll Abbie Killeen and Tony Reilly. St Lawrence Arts Center, 76 Congress St. Wednesdays 7 p.m. ($15), Thursdays 7 p.m. ($20), Fridays 7:30 p.m. ($20), Saturday 7:30 p.m. ($25), Sundays 2 p.m. ($25) with a special added matinee on Saturday, Feb. 11, 3 p.m. ($20). Reservations and information call 885-5883. Presented by Good Theater, a professional theater; the theater is in residence at the St. Lawrence Arts Center. www.goodtheater.com

Thursday, Jan. 26 Mad Horse Theatre Company’s ‘Becky Shaw’ production 7:30 p.m. Mad Horse Theatre Company presents “Becky Shaw,” “the Pulitzer Prize finalist and smash hit by Obie Award winning playwright Gina Gionfriddo. In what The New York Times calls ‘a comedy of bad manners,’ a woman fixes up her romantically challenged best friend with her husband’s mysterious co-worker. The date goes horribly awry, forcing the matchmakers to examine their own relationship and leading the daters to an emotional detente.”

Written by Gina Gionfriddo, directed by James Herrera.

Previews begin Thursday, Jan. 26 at 7:30 p.m. Opening

‘Puss ‘n Boots’ 11 a.m. This winter, Acorn Productions’ “Fairy Tale Players,” an ensemble of children, teens and adults who have studied at the Acorn Acting Academy, continues its third season of productions with Producing Director Michael Levine’s adaptation of “Puss ‘n Boots.” “The production is suitable for audiences of all ages, and centers around the story of a clever cat who helps her mistress win the love of a prince by pretending to be the Marquis de Carrabas.

Along the way, we meet a crazy cast of characters including spoiled sisters, a foolish hare, and a lonely ogre. Acorn’s comedic version of the well-known fairy tale is directed by Karen Ball, and the script includes references to King Lear and the Occupy Wall Street Movement for the more sophisticated audience members. There are 8 actors ranging in age from 9 to 17 in the show, which runs from Jan. 28 to Feb. 12 in the Acorn Studio Theater in Westbrook.” Saturday, Jan. 28 at 11 a.m.; Sunday, Jan. 29 at 2 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 4 at 11 a.m.; Sunday, Feb. 5 at 2 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 11 at 11 a.m.; Sunday, Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. Acorn Studio Theater, Dana Warp Mill, 90 Bridge St., Westbrook. Admission: $8 adults; $6 kids 12 and under. FMI: www.acorn-productions.org or 854-0065

Club 86 comedy and music 7:30 p.m. Near Sighted Productions and SPACE Gallery present “Club 86,” an evening of comedy and music featuring special guest, Grammy award saxophone virtuoso, Charlie Neville of the Neville Brothers. The evening features the first live performance of “Club 86,” an exciting new radio series in the tradition of A Prairie Home Companion and The Vinyl Café. Charlie Neville will appear as himself in “Club 86” and will perform a solo set afterwards. Charlie Neville’s solo work as a jazz saxophonist has been hailed around the world. The evening includes music from the Club 86 Ensemble, led by noted jazz pianist Jesse Lynch plus music/ spoken word collaborations with a prominent member of Portland’s arts community, poet and spoken word performer Gil Helmick. Club 86 is a weekly series following the sometimes reluctant, sometimes clumsy, always entertaining reactions of employees and patrons of a local tavern in Lewiston as the new manager strives to re-brand the club as a showcase for local and national performing artists.

Page 16 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, January 19, 2012