The Portland Daily Sun, Thursday, December 1, 2011

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2011

VOL. 3 NO. 213

PORTLAND, ME

PORTLAND’S DAILY NEWSPAPER

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OMG OccupyMaine Going?

See the story on page 9

Billy O’Rourke, of Westbrook, sets up his tent at OccupyMaine’s Lincoln Park encampment yesterday afternoon. O’Rourke, who has spent the past week at the OccupyMaine camp, moved the tent to a more protected spot after the previous night’s rainstorm soaked his belongings. (CASEY CONLEY PHOTO)

Falmouth police find pot grow operation Unlikely suspect — See page 3

‘Diaries’ a hoot See the theater review on page 7

Page 2 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011

Broadway’s ‘Spider-Man’ finally makes money (NY Times) — One year after naysayers were predicting a quick death, the musical “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” is doubling down on Broadway, forgoing potentially lucrative overseas tours in the near term to try to refine the New York production and burnish the long-term value of the show.

In an interview to mark the Monday anniversary of the production’s first, fumbling preview performance, the producers of “Spider-Man” said they were considering new plans for recouping the show’s record-setting $75 million capitalization.

The most unusual idea: adding new scenes and perhaps a new musical number to the New York “Spider-Man” every year, making it akin to a new comic book edition, and then urging the show’s fans to buy tickets again. The producers are also expanding to all 50 states their radio campaign, inspired by rock concert promotions, in which listeners are flown to New York to see the show and then give reviews back home on the air.

And last Friday “SpiderMan” executives played host at the show to Brazilian journalists, as they had with media from Australia, Germany and Mexico, in an effort to turn the musical into a magnet for foreign tourists who speak little or no English, much as “Mamma Mia!” is now.

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Clinton visits Myanmar to assess pace of change NAYPYIDAW, Myanmar (NY Times) — Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton arrived here on Wednesday to measure the depth of the political and economic opening that the country’s autocratic, military-dominated government has unexpectedly begun.

After years of abysmal relations, the Obama administration has promised to respond to progress — Mrs. Clinton’s trip being the most significant reward so far — even as it presses for more significant

steps to end the country’s repressive rule and international isolation.

Those steps include freeing hundreds more political prisoners, an end to the often violent repression of democracy advocates and ethnic groups, and clarification of the country’s illicit cooperation with North Korea on developing ballistic missiles and, possibly, nuclear technologies.

Clinton’s reception at the airport in this remote, newly built capital was relatively muted. A small delegation lead by a deputy

Stocks surge after central banks’ action on debt crisis (NY Times) — Stocks rallied in the United States on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve and other central banks took action to try to contain the debt crisis in the euro zone, with market indexes gaining more than 4 percent and the Dow Jones industrial average ending up 490 points. The floor of the New York Stock Exchange, where stocks rose nearly 4 percent on Wednesday.

As the exuberance set in and funding pressures appeared to ease, bond prices fell, commodity prices rallied and financial shares soared.

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But analysts were skeptical about whether Wednesday’s market enthusiasm would stick. Some warned that the central banks’ move addressed only some symptoms of the euro zone financial crisis. Others noted that Europe has tried many times over the past two years to stave off a deterioration in the financial crisis.

Still, traders bought shares – especially bank stocks – on the hope that the central banks had smoothed the way for Europe to take more forceful action in advance of a European summit Dec. 9.

foreign minister, U Myo Myint, greeted her without ceremony as she got off her plane.

By contrast, an enormous red billboard had been set up to welcome Prime Minister Mikhail V. Myasnikovich of Belarus, another autocratic nation at odds with the United States, who is scheduled to arrive here on Thursday.

A spokesman for the Myanmar government, U Yeh Tut, welcomed Clinton’s visit, calling it “a great chance to normalize relations between the two countries.”

Police clear Occupy camps in Los Angeles and Philadelphia LOS ANGELES (NY Times) — The police broke up large Occupy encampments in Los Angeles and Philadelphia early on Wednesday, arresting hundreds of protesters who had been camped out for the past two months and who had remained in public squares beyond city-mandated deadlines this week.

Around 12:30 a.m. in Los Angeles, scores of police officers raided the Occupy camp that had been set up in a park outside City Hall, leading most of the protesters to scramble from their tents and gather in large groups in the surrounding streets.

By the time the raid ended several hours later, the police had arrested about 300 people. Most were cited for failure to disperse.

After much of the park had been cleared of what had grown into a colorful — if sometimes squalid — camp of several hundred tents, Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa told reporters that he was proud of the way the police had performed, in particular, by employing force only as a last resort.

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Falmouth police seize $40,000 worth of pot

One of the largest seizures in past decade by Falmouth Police Dept.

Falmouth police were tipped off to a marijuana grow operation and seized 11 pounds of narcotics worth about $40,000 Tuesday. (COURTESY PHOTOS)

BY MATTHEW ARCO THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

“To say that she was on our

Falmouth police say they were surradar for something of this prised to discover that the alleged culprit behind one of the town’s largest magnitude in scale, no. She had marijuana grow operations in recent quite the operation going out history was a 47-year-old woman who had few interactions with officers. of that apartment.” — Lt. John Officials arrested KellyJean Kelley Kilbride, a spokesman for the Tuesday and charged her with a felony count of drug trafficking. Police were Falmouth Police Department tipped off that Kelley had an elaborate grow operation, that included lamps and ventilation systems, set up evicted,” Kilbride said. “They went inside her apartment, said Lt. John down to do a spot inspection and Kilbride, a spokesman for the discovered evidence of her Falmouth Police Department. grow, (so) they called us.”

“It’s one of the largest seiHe explained that once zures of marijuana that I’ve officers paid a visit to her seen out here in the past 10 apartment to investigate, years,” he said. “We don’t police “saw in plain view see a lot of it.” some large amounts of Officers also confiscated marijuana.” Investigators 11 pounds of marijuana obtained a search warrant they say has a street value and later arrested Kelley, of about $40,000. he said.

Kilbride said aside from Kelley lived at Blackroutine and minor interacstone apartments located tions with law enforcement, on Depot Road behind Kelley had little contact a youth baseball field, Kelley with police and was not Kilbride said. someone drugs agents were Blackstone apartments investigating. are maintained by Avesta Housing “To say that she was on our radar and caters to residents 62 years or for something of this magnitude in older, or people with disabilities, scale, no,” Kilbride said. “She had according to housing officials. quite the operation going out of that Kilbride said police don’t know apartment.” how long Kelley is suspected of Police were notified about the growing. grow operation by management at She was booked at the Cumberthe subsidized apartment complex land County Jail Tuesday and was where Kelley lived. free on bail later in the day, officials “She was in the process of being said.

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Page 4 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011

––––––––––––– COLUMN –––––––––––––

The campaign against Romney On Monday, the Democratic National Committee unveiled a new ad targeting Mitt Romney. The 30-second spot (there is also a four-minute version on the DNC’s website) is made to look like a movie trailer about “the story of two men trapped in one body.”

“Mitt vs. Mitt” focuses on Romney’s alleged inconsistency on two issues: 1) abortion, on which he pronounced himself staunchly pro-choice when running for both governor and senator in Massachusetts and now claims to be staunchly pro-life, and 2) health care, for which he once favored exchanges, a critical ingredient in health care reform in Massachusetts, and now opposes Obamacare, which relies on just such exchanges. The ad is running in five swing states, and in all the reports I read and heard on Monday, it is seen as an early ––––– effort by President Obama to target swing voters who might Creators be drawn to Romney in a genSyndicate eral election.

OK, call me a cynic, but that’s not how I see it at all.

First of all, there is almost no money behind the ad. And I mean no money when we’re talking about advertisements. Many of the new reports failed to address the point, but according to Republicans (and I haven’t heard any Democratic denials), the “buy” is in the neighborhood of $14,000, which in politics is chump change. Even more revealing is the fact that the ad, supposedly targeted to swing states, is also running in Washington, D.C. So why advertise to swing voters this early? Ask anybody who paid attention to the gubernatorial race here in California back in 2002, and they’ll explain it to you.

In 2002, Gray Davis, the then incredibly unpopular Democratic governor of California, was running for re-election. Polls showed him getting clobbered by the moderate and very popular two-term Republican mayor of Los Angeles, Dick Riordan. Riordan’s only problem was that he had to first win the Republican nomination.

Early in 2002, Davis began running negative ads against Riordan, challenging his pro-choice position by pointing to his support of pro-life judges and other officials. Need I add that Riordan’s pro-choice position was, without a doubt, an asset in a general

Susan Estrich

see ESTRICH page 5

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– COLUMN ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Health issues can cause burgeoning costs When I was pregnant with my second child I decided that the maple tree in the back yard needed a nice bed of pachysandra under it. I purchased 8 flats of seedlings, crouched down, and dug into the hard soil diligently planting the little plants. At the end of the day, I thought my right wrist was going to fall off.

The pain didn’t go away. I lost the ability to grip with my right hand.

Turning the key in my car ignition and gripping my pantyhose to get dressed, was excruciating. I couldn’t do it. My husband finished the pachysandra project (which was the last thing he wanted to do). Since driving was a key part of my job, I had to take time off from work. But what really struck me was that common everyday things that I barley gave a thought to doing , I suddenly couldn’t do — such as holding a bottle to twist a cap, turning a faucet, wiping my bottom, or pulling up my pants.

I was frustrated, and felt foolish asking for help. But I had no choice.

I was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. Thankfully, this involved only my right wrist

Karen Vachon ––––– Better with Age and went away after my son was born. However, this opened my eyes to what it’s like to live with a handicap — it got me thinking: What would my life be like if both hands were afflicted? Or worse: What if I were to suffer a more debilitating disability or illness and would never get better? Who would care of me?

Where would I receive my care?

What are the chances this could happen to me?

When a family member needs assistance performing everyday activities of daily living (ADL’s) such as dressing, toileting, bathing, eating, transporting, or continence, and their condition is chronic (never going to get better), they need long-term care.

This is a humility admission that is difficult to grip; I got a small taste of it early on. Little did I know, answers to my questions would unfold many years later

as I witnessed something so much worse.

In April of 2009, my mother-inlaw, who suffered from rheumatoid arthritis for years, realized that she could no longer squeeze the clothes pins to hang out laundry. Walking with two canes, she’d scoot around the kitchen on a rolling doctors stool, and have her extended arm grippers to reach things in all directions. Between her canes and her grippers, she was resourceful and good natured about her situation, but after a fall, it became clear that she needed help. Within months her situation worsened; she was completely bedridden and needed care 24/7. Blessed with a large family that lived nearby; two daughters who are school teachers (off for the summer), another daughter a nurse, my father-in-law, other family members, and outside caregivers, toileting, bathing, transporting, feeding, and cleaning were taken care of. It was intense.

My mother-in-law passed away in September 2009; her death certificate identified cause of death to be ALS. It was a blessing that it didn’t see VACHON page 5

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011— Page 5

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SPORTS COLUMN–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Mustaches remain in vogue as Pirates heat up

BY BRENT MARCOTTE SPECIAL TO THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

Currently on a seven-game point streak (6-01-0) and five-game winning streak at home, Portland Pirates has quickly turned the sentiment from frustration to praise and excitement.

The Pirates did not seem to mind the three games in four days slate while fighting off any tryptophan after-effects on Turkey Day Weekend, winning two of three (only loss coming in Hartford against the Connecticut Whale in overtime) and ending a successful November month with seven wins in 10 games. Perhaps the “Movember” moustaches should stick around due to the great success achieved this month as a good luck charm/superstition. However, even if 26 players on the active roster have decided to pick up the Barbasol and Bic razor on Thursday morning when a new month arrives, there is one that would not dare let his upper lip go bare during these cold months.

Feared by many including the Grinch, Yosemite Sam, and Chuck Norris, Ryan Hollweg and his trusty facial companion have made an instant splash on the Portland scene as the two have quickly become a cult sensation. With a right hand as potent as that of Floyd Mayweather and owner of many bone-crushing hits into the glass that would make Milan Lucic think before skating forward, Hollweg provides that intense physical and pesty edge that many teams desire to skate on their third and fourth lines. Having skated in 228 National Hockey League contests in his career with the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Phoenix Coyotes, the former eighth round pick in 2001 provides stout veteran leadership to go along with his “living on the edge” style of play. While only providing two assists in 18 games to go along with a team leading 44 penalty minutes, it is not the offensive

production and glitz that helps the 28-year old maintain a professional contract — it is mentorship and on-ice protection of the future stars of the Phoenix Coyotes along with his stand-out leadership that matters most.

With enforcers such as Hollweg, it is easy for opposing fans to assume that their personality directly parallels their attitude off of the ice. However, when one conducts research about a vast majority of these “tough guys,” it can be noticed that they are traditionally the most charitable and outgoing personalities in the league. For example, Bruins fan favorite enforcer Shawn Thornton has taken a stand for Parkinson’s disease with his “Putts and Punches for Parkinson’s” golf tournament and the late Derek Boogaard (forward for the Minnesota Wild and Rangers) was heavily involved in military-centered organizations with his creation of “Boogaard’s Booguardians” while in New York which hosted members of the military and their families at Rangers home games.

Currently this season, Hollweg has already taken part in a numerous amount of the Pirates charitable and community driven initiatives, including the delivery of season ticket packages to local charities as a part of the Community Captains program, and visiting hospitalized children at the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital at Maine Medical Center. With a servant’s heart and warrior’s spirit, it is easy to see why Phoenix desired to keep him around for another season.

Follow Ryan Hollweg on Twitter: @thestache15 NOTE: After a long seven-game road trip, the Pirates will be back in action at the Civic Center

on Wednesday, Dec. 14 when the Manchester Monarchs come to town for a 6:30 p.m. faceoff. Once again you can make a difference to the less fortunate during the Holidays! During the Portland Pirates Holiday Toy Drive, all toy donations to Toys for Tots and cash donations to the Bruce Roberts Toy Fund will be rewarded with a pair of tickets to a future Pirates game. The Bruce Roberts Toy Fund assists children from birth through age 18 in Cumberland, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, and York counties during the holiday season. Parents and legal guardians of children 18 and under can apply, beginning midOctober at The Welcome Center, Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram, and through local service organizations or call (791-6672) to have an application sent by mail.

The Portland Pirates Holiday Toy Drive will continue on Saturday, Dec. 17 (7 p.m.) and Sunday, Dec. 18 (4 p.m.) when Newfoundland’s own St. John’s IceCaps visit Maine for the first time this season. On Saturday, join us for another Bud Light Saturday Night is Hockey Night in Portland where the Portland Pirates annual Teddy Bear Toss, presented by Fox 23, will be featured! Bring in a teddy bear to toss onto the ice after the Pirates score their first goal of the night — all teddy bears will be donated to Toys for Tots and other area charitable toy drives. Also, Bring your skates and stick around after Sunday’s game to skate with your favorite members of the Pirates presented by Mercy Hospital and Steele Hill Resorts!

(Brent Marcotte is director of communications and team services for the Portland Pirates American Hockey League team.)

In 2012, Democrats have far more to fear from Romney ESTRICH from page 4

election — but not with Republican primary voters.

By the time of the Republican primary, Davis had spent some $7 million attacking Riordan — far more than Riordan’s Republican opponent could afford. It worked. He lost the Republican primary to the far more conservative Bill Simon, one of the few candidates for public office whom Davis could beat. And he did.

The lesson of the Davis campaign, which was

widely considered to be politically brilliant (even if it did leave people feeling angry enough to recall him a year later), is that you don’t have to sit on your hands while the other side picks its nominee.

No law prohibits a competitor from trying to weaken the opponent he most fears by making sure that primary and caucus voters are very familiar with positions they will find unpopular.

Nobody is whispering in my ear, but speaking for myself, between Romney and Newt Gingrich, Democrats have far more to fear from Romney. Gingrich’s

hard-core conservatism helps him a lot more in January and February than it does in November. Maybe it’s just a wonderful coincidence, but anyone paying attention to campaign news this week — and by anyone, I mean anyone planning to vote in the Republican primaries and caucuses — will be seeing footage of the “pro-choice” Romney that they will not like.

The president’s supporters are doing Newt’s work for him. Now why would they do that? To win swing voters 11 months from now? Call me a cynic, but I don’t think so. Go, Newt.

Think health insurance or Medicare pays for long-term care? Think again VACHON from page 4

last longer, because we all were wiped out. However, we were relieved that we were able to grant my mother-in-law her wish: to stay at home, and have her family members around her. She was uncomfortable with (as she’d say) “the men folk,” turning her, bathing her and getting her on the potty. In the perfect world, family around her would have been to enjoy each other, leaving the heavy lifting and humility tasks to an outsider. We pulled together, and did what we needed to do. This situation isn’t unique.

We are an aging population that is living longer.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, it is estimated that 70 percent of people over age 65 will require long-term care at some point in their lives. Long-term care isn’t only a concern for seniors. Accident and illness can strike at any age. Currently, 41 percent of people

receiving long-term care are under age 65. The cost of care is expensive. Today, the national average for 24-hour home care, or one year in the nursing home costs more than $75,000 per year. The cost is rising.

If costs increase 4.1 percent per year (the 30-year average annual rate of inflation), the average cost of care in thirty years will be $250,000/year. A longterm care event can easily wipe out a life time of savings in a short period of time.

Think health insurance or Medicare pays for longterm care? Think again. Health insurance plans do not cover long-term care. Medicare doesn’t cover it either. In fact, the U.S. Social Security Administration, 2008 Social Security Statement advised: “Medicare does not pay for long-term care, so you may want to consider options for private insurance”.

Without private long-term care insurance, there are few choices. Calling on family members and friends (as in the case with my mother-in-law) is the most common. When the job becomes to much for

family members, the spend down of assets begins by hiring care providers, or paying for day care facilities or assisted living. Medicaid becomes an option, only after assets are diminished to your last $2,000, and then you’ll qualify for a Medicaid bed in a nursing home, which is the last place people want to go.

These are hard questions to ask: What would life look like if this happened to me? Who will take care of me? Where would I like to receive my care? The sooner we’re able to come to grips with the reality of long-term care, the better we all will be. Proactive planning, such as purchasing a private longterm insurance policy is the best way to protect your independence and choice of care, your family well being, and your assets. For more information: www.

AALTI.org.

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

Page 6 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MUSIC CALENDAR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Thursday, Dec. 1 Assembly of Dust & Ryan Montbleau at Port City 7 p.m. Assembly of Dust, Ryan Montbleau Band, at Port City Music Hall. Advance: $20; door: $25; VIP: $30; 18 plus. http://portcitymusichall.com/events

An evening of jazz, big band music 7:30 p.m. Swing to the big band beat with the University of Southern Maine Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Lab Ensemble as they perform an evening of jazz and big band music Thursday, Dec. 1, at 7:30 p.m. in Corthell Concert Hall, USM Gorham. The evening offers not just one, but two big bands: the Lab Jazz Ensemble, directed by Mark Tipton, and the Jazz Ensemble, directed by Chris Oberholtzer. The Jazz Ensemble will perform pieces from the libraries of the Stan Kenton, the Woody Herman, Duke Ellington and Artie Shaw. They will also perform the compositions of Johnny Mandel, Dexter Gordon and local writers, Craig Skeffington and Michael Sakash. The Jazz Lab Ensemble’s repertoire will consist of compositions by Thad Jones, Oliver Nelson, and Sammy Nestico, and will also feature arrangements of pieces

by Woody Shaw, Joe Raposo, and Benny Carter. Tickets cost $6 general public; $3 seniors/students/children and will be sold at the door. For more information on the USM School of Music’s fall concert season and programs of study, visit www.usm.maine.edu/music. Sign up for e-notices, or find us on Facebook as USM School of Music, www.facebook.com/ Music.USM.

Jeffrey Foucault & Mark Erelli 8 p.m. Jeffrey Foucault & Mark Erelli, Seven Curses. On their CD “Seven Curses,” songwriters Mark Erelli and Jeffrey Foucault match an elemental approach with the elemental subjects: love and death. Under the banner of the Murder Ballad, Foucault and Erelli execute uncanny harmony arrangements with a list of songs that decidedly expands the genre. One Longfellow Square. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Singles/Mouth Washington at Matthew’s in Portland 9 p.m. Matthew’s at 133 Free St., Portland, features ldest bar in town/newest live music venue in town. “An evening of Fantasy and Science Fiction, and Serious Rock Music! with Singles, a band featuring Nick Pee, Alec, and Max Treezy that is both pop, and punk, but not pop-punk; and Mouth Washington, it’s like, Modest Mouse taking bong rips with Bruce Springsteen! This is the very first show to be held at Matthew’s: Portlands oldest pub and newest place to have shows. Matthew’s has reached out a hand to the young people of Portland, the manager wants to start having shows at Matthew’s to bring in a younger crowd. ...”

Friday, Dec. 2 The Fogcutters present Big Band Syndrome 7 p.m. State Theatre, Maine’s biggest acts with The Fogcutters’ twist. Featuring Dave Gutter (Rustic Overtones/Paranoid Social Club); Spose; Darien Brahms; Jacob Augustine (Jacob and the House of Fire); Zach Jones; Dominic Lavoie (The Lucid); The Mallett Brothers; Lyle Divinsky; SlyChi. The Fogcutters will present original arrangements of Maine’s biggest musical acts — accompanied on-stage by these musicians themselves — as well as the band’s original material.

Portland Community Chorus 7:30 p.m. The Portland Community Chorus will be performing their holiday concert at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m., at Scarborough High School, 11 Municipal Drive, Scarborough. Advance tickets are $12 and $15 at the door.

Tickets can be purchased at Starbird Music, 525 Forest Ave., Portland. For more information, please call 839-7070 or visit www.portlandcommunitychorus.org.

Brad Barr, Andrew Barr, Sarah Page and Andres Vial are the Barr Brothers. They will play at One Longfellow Square on Saturday, Dec. 3.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Marty Party at Port City 8 p.m. Marty Party at Port City. Advance: $18; door: $22; VIP: $30. Marty Party has been taking the electronic dance music scene by storm, blowing up festivals and dance floors with his original style of dubstep-crossing-hip-hopbig-bass bangers. Born and raised in South Africa and now residing in Brooklyn, N.Y., Marty Party has released over 50 tracks in just two years both prominently and frequently featured on the iTunes, Addictech and Beatport charts. http://portcitymusichall.com/events

The Barr Brothers 8 p.m. The Barr Brothers with Jocie Adams, One Longfellow Square. The Barr Brothers offer a unique sound, one reliant on interwoven string arrangements, wide open spaces, and a multitude of musical traditions. All ages, $12. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Sunday, Dec. 4 Edie Carey, Jennifer Kimball and Rose Polenzani at One Longfellow Square 7 p.m. Edie Carey, Jennifer Kimball & Rose Polenzani at One Longfellow Square. An excellent evening with three wonderful singer songwriters! Edie Carey grabs hold of her audiences and doesn’t let go until she steps off the stage.

While her songs are what first draw listeners in, it’s what she says in between that keeps them coming back. Jennifer Kimball is a vocalist and songwriter who is notable for being part of the acclaimed folk duo The Story. Rose Polenzani’s singing style is distinctive and emotionally charged. Her lyrics often consist of rich blends of obscure images and emotions. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Wednesday, Dec. 7 Carbon Vapor Presents The Clash 9 p.m. Battle of the cover bands. Main Event: Red Hot Chili Peppers Vs. Rage Against The Machine at Port City Music Hall. Door: $5. 18 plus. http://portcitymusichall.com/events

Thursday, Dec. 8 Lake Street Dive

8 p.m. Rush’s impact on the American music scene has been profound. He helped shape the folk revival in the ‘60s and the renaissance of the ‘80s and ‘90s, his music having left its stamp on generations of artists. One Longfellow Square. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

8 p.m. One Longfellow Square. Lake Street Dive Is a Pop Music Play-Date. The ensemble derives inexhaustible energy from the joy of invention and creation together.

Their exuberant live shows and carefully crafted studio albums share a blissful irreverence for convention and an undying devotion to melody, spontaneity and groove. Darrell Foster opens!

Saturday, Dec. 3

Friday, Dec. 9

Tom Rush at One Longfellow

Gala Caribbean at Bar Mills 7:30 p.m. Pan Fried Steel Drum Band. Gala Caribbean, A Holiday Concert. The Saco River Grange Hall, 29 Salmon Falls Road, Bar Mills. This 18 piece high-energy steel drum band is directed by Ian Ramsey, music director at North Yarmouth Academy. You may want to wear your dancing shoes for what we guarantee to be a spectacular celebration of the human spirit for all faiths. Adm. $16, $13 students and seniors, or by donation; 12 and under free. Family maximum $30. Please call 929-6472 for reservations.

Magic of Christmas 7:30 p.m. The Portland Symphony Orchestra celebrates the 2011 Christmas season with the Magic of Christmas, featuring the daring feats of acrobats, the joyful sound of Christmas carols and the heartwarming traditions of the PSO’s holiday performances beginning Dec. 9 at Merrill Auditorium.

Magic of Christmas has been a holiday favorite for generations, delighting audiences of all ages who embrace the childlike wonder and excitement of Christmas and the majestic beauty of orchestral music. Magic of Christmas 2011 will feature the

Magic of Christmas Chorus, music from The Nutcracker and more: Eleven performances of Magic of Christmas will run from Dec. 9 to Dec. 18 at Merrill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St. in Portland.

Tickets are available at porttix.com, by phone at 842-0800 or at the PortTIX box office (20 Myrtle St.) Monday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Phone and internet orders are subject to $6 per-ticket PortTIX handling fee, and all ticket prices include a $2 Merrill Restoration fee. Friday, Dec. 9, at 7:30 p.m. (preview night); Saturday, Dec. 10, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 11, at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 16,at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 17, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 18, at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

The Brew at Port City 8 p.m. With Dirigo at Port City Music Hall. The Brew are an aptly named quartet from Amesbury, a town in northeastern Massachusetts, cooking up a musical melting pot on their brand-new, self-released album, “Back to the Woods,” that combines their roots in classic rock, adding ingredients of prog, jazz, reggae, world beat, indie, funk and orchestral pop, sometimes in the course of a single song. Advance: $13; door: $15; VIP: $20. 18 plus. CD Release Show. http:// portcitymusichall.com

Saturday, Dec. 10 Dark Star Orchestra at the State 8 p.m. Presenting its critically acclaimed live show to Deadheads both young and old, Dark Star Orchestra is set to perform at the State Theatre in Portland. This event is all ages. Tickets, $25 advance/$30 day of show.

Darol Anger’s Republic of Strings 8 p.m. Big thanks to Lauren Rioux — the motivating force behind Yulegrass — for two great sold out Yulegrass shows already and another great one in the works. Join legendary string pioneer Darol Anger and the Republic of Strings for a luminous evening of Yulegrass music, good cheer and wassail at One Longfellow Square. www. onelongfellowsquare.com

The Devil Makes Three 8 p.m. With Brown Bird at Port City Music Hall. For the past seven years, Santa Cruz, Calif. group the Devil Makes Three have garnered fans the old school way, playing a city, making friends, conquering fans and moving on. Laced with elements of ragtime, blues, country, folk and rockabilly, the critically praised, drummer-less trio — consisting of guitarist/front man Pete Bernhard, stand-up bassist Lucia Turino and guitarist Cooper McBean — brings forth a genuine approach to acoustic music. Advance: $12.50; door: $15; VIP: $20. http://portcitymusichall.com

Sunday, Dec. 11 Ring in the Holidays Gospel Style with Rock My Soul 4 p.m. One Longfellow Square. Bring the family for an afternoon of “gospelized” Christmas carols and R&B- and doo-wop flavored arrangements of popular holiday favorites. Numbers range from spirited versions of familiar songs such as “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “Joy to the World,” and “O Holy Night” to the less familiar but no less inspiring “Great Day in December” and “I Pray on Christmas.” In contrast to the high-energy gospel sound are introspective carols such as a Temptations arrangement of “Silent Night” and a Drifters-inspired version of “White Christmas.” ($12 adv/$15 door). www.onelongfellowsquare.com

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011— Page 7

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

‘Santaland Diaries’ ho, ho, horrifyingly funny “Santaland Diaries”/Portland Stage Company Studio Theater In the words of Crumpet, one of Santa’s little helpers, “It makes one’s mouth hurt to speak with such forced merriment.” However, the merriment is anything but forced when actor Dustin Tucker takes the stage in “Santaland Diaries,” now playing at Portland Stage Company Studio Theater.

For 75 minutes, larger-than-life actor Tucker captivates the audience with what should be called, “Misery on 34th Street,” as he copes with thousands of Macy’s shoppers (and their kiddies) with wicked wit written by David Sedaris. With his boyish charm, Tucker mischievously relishes the delicious details and shock effects of Sedaris’ naughty true confessions, bringing three-dimensional life to this entertaining, amusing and surprisingly uplifting show. Tucker’s animated facial expressions and

spot-on physical gestures tell Crumpet’s tale with just the right mix of cynicism and bitterness, yet manages to give us a warm glow at the show’s end as he surrenders to the ––––– season’s sentiment. Tucker is Theatre Talk versatile, precise and gives a “must see” performance not to be missed.

Director Daniel Burson gave Tucker a solid foundation to build upon, creating perfect pictures to fit each scene in Crumpet’s season of hell at Macy’s.

Burson’s transitions were smooth and well defined.

Together, Burson and Tucker created perfect timing for the 31 pages of memorized madness, never letting the audience’s attention stray any further than the hand that Tucker so masterfully held us in.

Scenic designer, Anita Stewart, gave us a messy, miserable backroom of debris, with its various Macy’s posters and scattered paper snowflakes on the floor. Stewart always delivers with detail in her set designs, cleverly shown in Dairies with

Michael J. Tobin

the uneven table leg that was balanced by the Elfin Guide. Although show appropriate, costume designer Susan Thomas needed to give Crumpet’s attire a seasonal facelift, as it looked just a bit too faded and limp. Original lighting design by Matthew Cost and adapted by Shannon Zura was fine, given the limitations of the studio lighting system. Sound choices by Cost worked well, although I found the background music and noise to be more distracting than an enhancement when Tucker was speaking.

Stage manager Shane Van Vliet continues to prove why the stage manager is the glue that holds a show together. Another excellent job by Van Vliet.

A special mention to Amber Callahan, who designed the colorful and fun lobby decorations. It truly was a wonderful way to start your journey with Crumpet, making you smile and feel like a kid.

“Santaland Diaries” has become a PSC tradition and, like seasons past, will most likely sell out, so get your seats early. Tucker’s performance is the perfect holiday gift.

“Santaland Diaries” plays through Dec. 18. For show schedule, information and to make reservations, go to portlandstage.org or call 774-0465. Portland Stage Company Studio Theater is located at 25A Forest Ave., Portland.

(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.)

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Page 8 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SPORTS COLUMN –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Bobby Valentine in Boston? Now that’s entertainment

BY GEORGE VECSEY THE NEW YORK TIMES SPORTS COLUMNIST

Now the fun begins.

It may not always be fun for that most fervent of franchises, the one known as Ye Olde Towne Team.

It may not always be fun for that sometimes tortured genius known as Bobby V. It may not always be fun for that formidable windmill in the Bronx at which Bobby V was born to tilt his lance.

Actually, it will probably be the most fun for Mets fans, who can sit back in their own impoverished Dark Ages and watch the Northeast rivalry take an entirely new form. Mets fans have understood the real Bobby V ever since that day in 1999 when he wore the Groucho mustache in the dugout.

Bobby Valentine won a pennant in Queens with regular outfielders named Agbayani, Payton and Bell.

Some Mets fans have long harbored the belief that he would come back to Flushing and have a second run. This is much better.

Bobby V, who loves challenges so much that he sometimes invents them, is going to replace the most successful manager in Red Sox history.

Way to go.

Terry Francona won two World Series in eight seasons with the Red Sox, coming out of the same division as the Yankees, who won one during

Bobby Valentine brings to Boston the experience of more than 3,000 games managed for three seperate teams. (NY TIMES/G. PAUL BURNETT PHOTO)

that time.

Valentine gets to manage a very talented team that self-destructed late last season in circumstances that are still murky. He has to restore discipline and confidence with a franchise that, like the Yankees, has no patience for rebuilding.

He will be confident that he can. One can envision him on his long flight back from Japan, coming up with dozens of plans for reviving the Red Sox. He will be designing defensive alignments for the iconic ballpark, lineups to put runners on base, pitching rotations, home and away. Any manager would. But Bobby V seethes with ideas.

When he managed the Mets, a reporter could sit in his office during one of his twitchy meetings with the news media, and he would keep us busy with one section of his active brain, but you could see his half-smile flickering with other ideas, other tangents.

Sometimes it was fun to ask him about Japanese baseball. This is one of the best things about Bobby Valentine: not only did he successfully manage the Chiba Lotte Marines, but he questioned the traditions of long workouts and pitchers throwing every day and playing for one run — and he did it in their language. He tilted at windmills in another culture.

Fans could not characterize him as a disrespectful gaijin because he did it from within, from knowledge and from love. He led cheers with the fans. He made jokes in Japanese. Now he tries to leap another cultural gap — managing Ye Olde Towne Team.

They care about the Red Sox in Boston in ways very different from Yankees fans or Phillies fans or Cardinals fans. This wonderful city and region is extremely involved in the Red Sox, since the current ownership spent tons of money to build and rebuild the franchise.

The fans want more, and the communal pressure, including in the news media, reflects that. They take every game extremely seriously. If Bobby V tinkers with the lineup or the rotation or the strategy, he will give his reasons — Bobby V always has his reasons — but he will be scrutinized more intimately than he ever was in Texas or Queens.

Two years. That is what a Yankees

fan I know is giving Bobby V in Boston.

Two years to clash with management or build up a prickly relationship with a star or two, or irritate the writers or the fans. In Queens, it was always possible, at least for me, to smile and say, ‘That’s Bobby V for you.” But in Boston they take this stuff seriously.

He’s a lot like Billy Martin. That’s what my Yankees fan correspondent says about Valentine. The man leads a much more stable life than the tortured perennial Yankees manager ever did, but his mind is constantly in ferment, and he does not suffer fools easily.

For all that, this is a confident hire by Messrs. Henry, Werner, Lucchino and Cherington, the Boston brain trust.

Bobby V will have no qualms about challenging the stale and the comfortable who came apart last fall. He was never shy about critiquing his own players.

In 1997, Valentine told reporters that he thought Todd Hundley, his regular catcher, was not getting enough sleep.

Hundley did not appreciate that. Neither did some others in the Mets organization.

“I don’t get paid enough to have a relationship with that guy,” Hundley said. “You couldn’t pay me enough.”

Then Hundley, the son of a major league catcher, added: “The manager’s never your buddy. He’s your boss. That’s the way I look at it. He’s not out there to hit and catch and throw. We are. That’s the emphasis. I can’t worry about how good friends we are.”

Whatever happened in the closing weeks of the Francona regime, some Red Sox starters are not likely to treat the team clubhouse as their personal pub during games. Bobby V would probably describe the menu to the public.

Two years? That’s a Billy-and-George timetable. The more structured Boston management did not make this move without thinking about it. Management can budget some time for smoothing things over. It also hired the best manager out there.Now the fun begins.

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011— Page 9

City council to delve into Occupy debate

Outfitting the Outfitters

BY CASEY CONLEY THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

Two months after OccupyMaine protesters first arrived in Lincoln Park, city councilors are expected to begin debate today on several measures that would clarify when and under what conditions people can camp overnight in city parks.

Camping is already banned in city parks under an existing ordinance. But City Manager Mark Rees has opted not to enforce the ban in Lincoln Park with OccupyMaine protesters, which has left some councilors unhappy as the protest enters its ninth week.

The city council’s Public Safety subcommittee is expected to discuss one or more ordinance amendments today that are geared toward expanding the city council’s authority to regulate activity in Lincoln Park — if and when the city manager chooses not to enforce the existing ordinances.

Rees “There are two ordinance provisions (being proposed), and they both would achieve the same goal of giving the council power to decide what is permitted and not permitted in the park,” Councilor David Marshall, who sits on the committee, said yesterday.

Exact details on the proposals were not available on the city’s website last night.

Although the proposals were drafted in response to ongoing uncertainty about how the city Marshall should respond to OccupyMaine protesters, neither deals directly with OccupyMaine’s petition submitted to the city this week that asks to stay in the park for another six months.

City staff requested the group apply for an occupancy permit last month after discovering more than a dozen fire code violations in the Lincoln Park encampment and amid ongoing concerns about crime.

Councilors cannot approve a permit for something that is explicitly prohibited under city code — such as camping in city parks. But by creating a new ordinance that allows camping under some conditions, it would potentially give the council authority to grant the permit or deny it, effectively ending the protest.

The committee meets at 5 p.m. at City Hall. No final decisions will be made tonight, but the committee is expected to make a recommendation to the full city council, which will take up the issue on Dec. 7.

Regardless of how the committee responds to the ordinance proposals, its involvement in the Occupy issue signals a new chapter in the city’s overall response to the anti-Wall Street protests that began Oct. 3.

City administrators at first seemed comfortable handling the OccupyMaine question without seeking input from the council. But several councilors started losing patience as the protest continued and arrests started piling up.

As of yesterday, at least 13 people have been arrested in Lincoln Park for a host of offenses, including assuault and domestic violence.

Even so, it’s possible the Public Safety committee or the full city council will take no action on the ordinance amendments. Councilors could simply refer the OccupyMaine issue back to city staff.

A new clothing option is coming to Portland’s downtown area. Urban Outfitters clothing company plans a Dec. 8 opening, according to a sign on the window. Justin St. Germaine with Eastern Fire of Auburn was busy Wednesday working on a fire-protection system for the clothing chain. The store is leasing space at 188 Middle St., which formerly housed The Pavilion function hall. (DAVID CARKHUFF PHOTO)

Brennan’s swearing-in noon Monday On Monday, Michael Brennan will be inaugurated as Portland mayor, serving December 2011 to December 2015, the city announced. Brennan will serve as the first popularly elected mayor in more than 88 years. City Councilors John Coyne and Cheryl Leeman will also be sworn in during the ceremony.

“As Portland’s first elected mayor in nearly a century, I recognize the incredible opportunity I have been presented and I take that responsibility to heart. I am committed to living up to the expectations the residents and businesses of Portland have for this office,” Brennan said.

The noon swearingin ceremony will take place in City Council Chambers at City Hall.

At 6 p.m. Monday, a reception and inaugural address will follow at Ocean Gateway International Marine Terminal.

— Staff Report

DAILY CROSSWORD TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

by Lynn Johnston

By Holiday Mathis thing you would not ordinarily do.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). If you take a different action, you’ll get a different result. Don’t change what is already working well. Just know it’s better to be grateful for what comes than to push for more.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21).

Your self-control may wane. Or perhaps the personal influence you wield may not seem to be working as effectively as it did last week. You haven’t lost your touch; you just have to work a bit harder to maintain it now.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). A hotheaded person you know may act rashly today. Consider that it might be your steady attitude of stability that allows this person to fly off the handle.

You’re the safety net.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18).

You’ll try to cover a wide base of interests, desires and activities -- maybe too wide for one day’s work. There’s much to be accomplished before the weekend.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Whatever you hope to gain by your efforts is not likely to be what results. What comes will be better -- more surprising, complex and engaging. It’s truly a good day.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (Dec. 1).

In many ways, you blossom. You become more focused and organized this month. January brings partnership proposals. In February, you will gain a greater understanding of your power, and you will use it to create and control your environment. There’s a tradeoff in the spring that leaves you feeling wealthier. Aquarius and Taurus people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 3, 1, 44, 39 and 18.

by Paul Gilligan

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You can’t expect yourself to endure endless hours of thankless work without retaliating in some way at the end of the day. If your pleasure-to-pain ratio is off, everything will be off.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You’ll find a way to make a deal sweeter, to make an offer more graceful or to create a stir in an otherwise boring situation. It’s a talent of yours, and you’ll feel complete when you use it.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). One of your favorite people will reach out and communicate with you. You weren’t sitting around waiting for the message, but you’ll respond quickly, and that quick response will convey your true affection.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). There’s a question in your mind about what you deserve and why. You feel that in many ways you are privileged beyond reason.

Yet there’s something more you want, and you wonder whether you have a right to it.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Instead of smirking at the establishment, you lean forward to listen. You’ll like getting out of your own head in this way. And in listening, you learn a great deal about where your talents might best be utilized.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You don’t mind a sprinkle of uncertainty and unpredictability in your day. It makes life exciting -- as long as circumstances don’t make you feel too tense or aggravated. When it gets to that point, you can always walk away.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You don’t have to try to be interesting. You’re fascinating to someone as you react to the normal ups and downs of life. Heightened emotions cause you to do some-

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, December 1, 2011

1 5 10 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 22 24 25 26 29 30 34 35 36 37 38 40

ACROSS Plunge into water headfirst Huge success Incisions Large kitchen appliance Biblical book Deathly pale Lion’s refuge “What I Did on My Summer Vacation,” e.g.

Actress Harlow Intertwines Tuneful Martini ingredient Like a twang Spirited horse Prohibit Stop Haughtiness Hovel Neither large nor small Tavern Nasal passages Water barrier

41 Constructs 43 Home __; fourbagger 44 Tax 45 “M*A*S*H” role 46 Taxi 47 Roller coasters and carousels 48 Opponent 50 Curved bone 51 Sagged 54 __ Bureau of Investigation; FBI 58 Landlord’s collection 59 Albert or Fisher 61 Italy’s capital 62 One opposed 63 Hilarious folks 64 Wedding vows 65 __-for-nothing; useless 66 Perceive 67 Invites

1 2

DOWN __ out; allot __ the Terrible

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 21 23 25 26 27 28 29 31 32 33 35 36

Mantilla Infuriates Glossy surface Playwright Hart Pack animal Sailor Rutherford or Helen Coaxed Secondhand Bangkok native Out of __; not in harmony El __; Spanish hero Adds liquor to, as punch Inborn Dueling sword Coronet Goofed Olive Oyl’s hairstyle Lent a hand to Debonair TV awards __ and hers Fellows

38 Disrobe 39 Teacher’s fill-in, for short 42 Neck artery 44 African nation 46 Golfer’s aide 47 __ of; free from 49 Swerves 50 Actress Della

51 Haul 52 City in Nevada 53 Aware of the duplicity of 54 Conniptions 55 Curtain holders 56 Run __; go wild 57 Not as much 60 Put on, as garb

Yesterday’s Answer

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011— Page 11

––––––– ALMANAC ––––––– Today is Thursday, Dec. 1, the 335th day of 2011. There are 30 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: On Dec. 1, 1941, Japan’s Emperor Hirohito approved waging war against the United States, Britain and the Netherlands after his government rejected U.S. demands contained in the Hull Note, including a call for Japan to withdraw all of its forces from China and French Indochina.

On this date: In 1824, the presidential election was turned over to the U.S. House of Representatives when a deadlock developed between John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William H. Crawford and Henry Clay. (Adams ended up the winner.)

In 1860, the Charles Dickens novel “Great Expectations” was first published in weekly serial form.

In 1921, the Navy flew the first nonrigid dirigible to use helium; the C-7 traveled from Hampton Roads, Va., to Washington, D.C. In 1934, Soviet communist official Sergei M. Kirov, an associate of Josef Stalin, was assassinated in Leningrad, resulting in a massive purge.

In 1955, Rosa Parks, a black seamstress, was arrested after refusing to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, Ala., city bus; the incident sparked a year-long boycott of the buses by blacks.

In 1969, the U.S. government held its first draft lottery since World War II. In 1990, British and French workers digging the Channel Tunnel between their countries finally met after knocking out a passage in a service tunnel.

In 1991, Ukrainians voted overwhelmingly for independence from the Soviet Union.

One year ago: President Barack Obama’s bipartisan deficit commission unveiled its recommendations including lower income taxes, fewer tax breaks and higher age for retirement benefits (however, the panel failed to advance the package to Congress two days later by a vote of 11 in favor, 7 against, falling short of the 14 votes needed).

Today’s Birthdays: Singer Billy Paul is 77. Actor-director Woody Allen is 76. World Golf Hall of Famer Lee Trevino is 72. Singer Dianne Lennon is 72. Rock singer-musician Eric Bloom is 67. Rock musician John Densmore is 67. Actress-singer Bette Midler is 66.

Singer Gilbert O’Sullivan is 65. Actor Treat Williams is 60. Country singer Kim Richey is 55. Actress Charlene Tilton is 53. Actor Nestor Carbonell is 44. Actress Golden Brooks is 41. Actress-comedian Sarah Silverman is 41. Actor Ron Melendez is 39.

Actor-writer-producer David Hornsby is 36.

Singer Sarah Masen is 36. Rock musician Brad Delson is 34. Actor Nate Torrence is 34. Rock/Christian music singer-songwriter Mat Kearney is 33.

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Movie: “The Fugitive”

Selling LA Selling NY Hunters

55

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56

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Movie: ›› “National Treasure: Book of Secrets” (2007)

57

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58

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Re.- Lines Re.- Lines Re.- Lines Re.- Lines Movie: ›› “Double Platinum” (1999) Å

60

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61

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Futurama

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DAILY CROSSWORD

BY WAYNE ROBERT WILLIAMS

Futurama

1 7 10 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 28 30 33 36 38 39 41

ACROSS Professional copyist Platter spinners Mach+ jets Buckeye Right out of the oven Follow One of the Merry Men Like a dipstick Trample Hold title to Distinct sections Tape meas.

Sebaceous cyst Milk not to cry over?

Magna Carta signer __ alai “Morning Train” singer Easton Performers in a play Consecrated __-Normandie Caprice

“Ex-Mrs Bradfrd”

42 Markets more 44 Twists together 46 Gold in Guadalajara 47 Large bottle 49 Black in Barcelona 51 One for Juanita 52 Dawber or Tillis 55 Delight in 57 Figs.

59 Body bulk 61 Deity in Barcelona 62 Singer Olivia 64 Snake: pref.

65 Afore 66 Traveled by punt 67 Singer Aimee 68 First of September?

69 Ineffective 1 2 3 4 5 6

DOWN Conductor Sir Georg Nestling’s call Acts of worship Greek letter Apple choice Hydrocarbon

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 18 22 25 27 28 29 31 32 33 34 35

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Singer Colter ‘97 Indy winner Luyendyk Philosophies Bug off!

Sixty minutes “Your Song” singer

37 Minnesota pro 40 Charity distributors 43 Uptight 45 Bric-a-brac 48 Barely 50 Red dye 52 First: pref.

53 Hearth remains 54 Yvette’s world 55 Ancient kingdom

south of the Dead Sea 56 Malay thatch 58 Has outstanding bills 60 City near Santa Barbara 62 Word before an old name 63 Seller’s $$ equivocation

Yesterday’s Answer

Page 12 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011

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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.

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ANNIE’S MAILBOX Dear Annie: My nephew was in the hospital last summer.

Because the hospital is closer to our house, his parents and the nephew’s 17-year-old girlfriend stayed with us for two nights.

Within a few hours, we noticed $70 was missing from a container on the kitchen counter. We asked if anyone had seen or moved it. That same evening, the girlfriend returned from a shopping trip with a new dress, new shoes and new purse, bragging that her mother had given up her whole paycheck to buy “necessities.” The morning she left, we discovered another $100 missing from a different part of the house.

We called my brother-in-law and informed him of the missing money. After much discussion, we agreed that the girl was the likely suspect. Due to the delicate nature of his son’s illness, he asked that nothing be said about the theft. He even offered to pay us back, which we refused. The whole incident was then swept under the rug and not mentioned again.

Here’s the problem now. We have no intention of welcoming this girl into our home, which means my nephew and his parents will not be coming to Christmas dinner, which we are hosting. Also, when making our Christmas gift list, we usually include girlfriends, but since we’ve already “gifted” this young lady, I don’t wish to buy her anything.

How should we handle the gift exchange (at my brother-inlaw’s house) given the fact that she will be there? -- Standing My Ground as the Bad Aunt Dear Aunt: We’re not saying this girl should be let off the hook, but you have no actual proof that she stole the money.

More importantly, you promised your brother-in-law not to let on, yet your subsequent choices are spilling the beans.

Their relationship could go on a long time. How will you an-

swer your nephew when he asks why the girl can’t come to your home and why she never gets a Christmas gift?

If you aren’t willing to lock up the house treasures in order to have the girl over for a family dinner, fine. But the Christmas gift is easily solved. Get her something small and inexpensive so her exclusion isn’t so obvious.

Dear Annie: How old do men have to be to quit having sex?

My husband is 82, and I am 80, and the only thing on his mind is having sex two to three times a week. I have lost all my desire for sex. I’ve grown to hate it. He says women don’t lose their desire and I must have something wrong with me. I say he is oversexed. He watches porn and reads sex magazines.

This is the only thing we argue about. Is he oversexed, or am I abnormal? -- Lost All My Desire in Chicago Dear Chicago: Neither. Some men never lose their desire, but it is quite common (and natural) for women to lose interest in sex after menopause. The problem is not only that you have incompatible sexual needs. It’s how the two of you are handling the issue. Your husband’s demands are excessive for you, and his harebrained ideas about a woman’s libido are guaranteed to make you angry and unwilling. Ask him to come to your next doctor’s appointment and discuss this, and see if you can reach a compromise that takes both your needs into account.

Dear Annie: Tell “Beleaguered Mom” it is not Grandma’s job to babysit. It is Grandma’s job to develop a relationship with her grandson that is special to the two of them. Being a grandmother should not be work. Since when did we assume grandparents should be fill-in parents in order to make life more enjoyable for the children we already raised? -- Grandma in Pennsylvania

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THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011— Page 13

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

Thursday, Dec. 1 World AIDS Day reception and vigil 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. In a unique collaboration, Frannie Peabody Center will partner with one of Portland’s most historic landmarks, Victoria Mansion, to hold its annual World AIDS Day reception and vigil. The event will be highlighted by a reading and talk from John-Manuel Andriote, author of the recently re-released Victory Deferred: How AIDS Changed Gay Life in America and culminate in a candlelight vigil on the mansion steps, weather permitting. Each year clients, supporters, volunteers and community leaders around the world gather in a variety of ceremonies and special events to recognize World AIDS Day, a day marked for remembering those lost to the epidemic and honoring the progress made in the thirty years since the epidemic began. This will be the first time Frannie Peabody Center has held World AIDS Day at Victoria Mansion, which will be completely decorated for the holidays.

Community forum for Westbrook Schools 6:30 p.m. Community forum on the FY 13 budget at Westbrook Middle School. Marc Gousse Superintendent of Westbrook Schools wrote, “School is well under way with a renewed sense of direction. Over the summer, Westbrook school administrators established collaborative working environments; hiring professional, qualified employees that embrace our mission in providing ‘The best education for all for life.’ Last year’s budget gave way to deep cuts in staff and student resources. We are all doing more with less but still focused on providing an educational environment where all students are engaged in learning to the highest level for each individual. To that end, we have already begun work on our FY 13. Faced with projected state and federal shortfalls, we will need to carefully review each and every expense to determine its merit in bringing forth a prudent, fiscally responsible budget that speaks to the taxpayers and supports educational excellence for our learning community. Westbrook’s Strategic Plan states that ‘education is a partnership among students, staff, parents, and the community’. As Superintendent of Schools, I believe this is key to providing a successful, comprehensive education necessary for all of our students to be successful in a world that is constantly changing. There are many opportunities for students, staff and community to become an integral part of investing in the educational success of Westbrook’s youth. I encourage you to learn more about our initiatives and committees and become a part of continuing the excellence for which Westbrook is.“ http://westbrookschools.org

Good Theater Broadway hits, holiday favorites 7 p.m. Good Theater’s annual concerts featuring Broadway hits and holiday favorites Dec. 1-4. Good Theater presents Broadway leading man Kevin Earley joined by a cast of 17 singers including Marva Pittman, Kelly Caufield, Lynne McGhee and Stephen Underwood. Directed by Brian P. Allen with musical direction by Victoria Stubbs who leads the three-piece band. Performance times are Thursday at 7 p.m. ($25), Friday at 7:30 ($25), Saturday matinee at 3 p.m. ($25) and Saturday evening at 7:30 p.m. ($30), and Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. ($30). At the St. Lawrence Arts Center, 76 Congress St., Portland. Call 885-5883 for reservations and information. www.goodtheater.com

Portland’s first annual Palestinian Film Festival 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1— “‘Jenin Jenin.’ A documentary of the city and refugee camp destroyed by Israeli forces in April 2002 and the indomitable spirit of the Palestinians in their struggle for human rights and statehood.” SPACE Gallery, 538 Congress St., Portland. 7:30 p.m. $7/5 for Space and MVPR members and students with ID. Dec. 2 — “‘Eyewitness Gaza.’ A documentary of life in Gaza following Israel’s attack in the winter of 2008-09. Focus is on Gazan youths’ ability to survive a siege and marginalization by the world community. Director Tom Jackson will attend.” Meg Perry Center, 644 Congress St. 8 p.m. $7/5 for MVPR & Peace Action Maine members & students w/ID. Dec. 3 — “‘Salt of This Sea.’ Feature-length film, starring noted Palestinian poet Suheir Hammad, at SPACE Gallery, 538 Congress St. 7:30 p.m. $7/5 for SPACE and Maine Voices for Palestinian Rights members and students with ID. Sponsored and organized by MVPR. Net proceeds will go to the Middle East Children’s Alliance water project to bring clean, safe water to the children of Gaza. Robert Schaible, 239-8060; rmschaible@gmail.com.

Friday, Dec. 2 The Polar Express train ride 4 p.m. The Polar Express returns to Portland. “And this year, we’ve added an early train time (2:45 p.m.) and another First Class car! Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between Nov. 25 and Dec. 23, 2:45 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:15 p.m., 6:30 p.m. The Polar Express will come to life when the Maine

The Polar Express will come to life again when the Maine Narrow Gauge train departs its Ocean Gateway depot for a journey to the “North Pole.” Holiday decorations inside the train will add to the festive atmosphere as guests on board meet the conductor, have hot chocolate and a treat, sing carols and listen to the enchanting story read over our sound system. During the ride, Santa will greet the children while helpers make sure each child receives a special bell. Trains run on Friday at 4 p.m. and Saturday at 2:45 p.m. (COURTESY PHOTO) Narrow Gauge train departs its Ocean Gateway depot for a journey to the ‘North Pole.’ Holiday decorations inside the train will add to the festive atmosphere as guests on board meet the conductor, have hot chocolate and a treat, listen to a reading of the enchanting story over our sound system, and sing carols. Santa will ride back with everyone to the train station from a special outpost of the North Pole and every child will receive their special bell on board the train.” www.mainenarrowgauge.org

Exhibit: Port of Portland: A Ship-Shaped History 5 p.m. Portland Public Library, Lewis Gallery, free admission. Friday, Dec. 2 through Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012. Opening event, 5 p.m., Friday Dec. 2 – Director’s Remarks and Meet the Curator. “Maine Maritime Museum’s latest exhibit presents a vision of the history of Maine’s Gateway City as portrayed by the ships that have transited Portland Head to clear Spring Point Ledge, a series of vessels as diverse as the different eras they represent; vessels that have brought hope, grief, sustenance, prosperity, disappointment, and a good day’s work to its people.” For more information visit www.MaineMaritimeMuseum.org or call 443-1316 during business hours.

Bakery on the Hill First Friday 5 p.m. First Friday Art Walk at Bakery on the Hill, base of Munjoy Hill. Ling-wen’s intro to drawing class, MECA students showing thier art.

Five Dollar First Friday 5 p.m. “On the first Friday of December, Victoria Mansion will extend its hours until 8:30 p.m. and all admissions after 5 p.m. are only $5. There will be holiday refreshments in the Carriage House Museum Shop’s Loft for our guests! Do not miss out on the only time to tour the Mansion after dark this Christmas Season!”

The Gallery at Harmon’s & Barton’s First Friday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Bringing Art Home for the Holidays” featuring four inspired craft artists in fiber, metal, wood and clay. “Join us for our Holiday Celebration, First Friday Art Walk, Dec. 2, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., 584 Congress St., Portland.

Exhibit and sale through December during gallery hours, Mon.–Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 774-5948. www.harmonsbartons.com

Beauty of Spain and Portugal 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For First Friday Art Walk, experience the beauty of Spain and Portugal with a library photo slide presentation at the Maine Charitable Mechanic Association in Portland. The “Back Cove Artist Group” will be exhibiting their watercolors and there will be handmade items for sale with proceeds going to the library fund.Note cards made from a 1859 wood engraving by Bircher & Russell of Boston and being printed again today locally by David

Wolfe of Wolfe Editions in Portland will also be available for purchase. www.mainecharitablemechanicassociation.com

‘In The Forest By The Sea’ 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. First Friday Art Walk opening of “In The Forest By The Sea,” paintings by Jada Fitch, at the Green Hand Bookshop, 661 Congress St., Portland. On display through the month of January. Contact Michelle Souliere at 253-6808 or michelle.souliere@gmail.com. “Each canvas allows visitors to catch a glimpse of the curious goings-on in a mysterious seaside forest world few have seen before,” reports the Green Hand bookstore.

‘Darfur at Our Doorstep’ 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Artist Kenny Cole interviewed El Fadel Arbab, the Darfur community’s activist and lead spokesperson, about his life growing up in Darfur and the odyssey that led to his arrival in Maine. These drawings weave this interview into Cole’s invented acronyms. Funded with a grant from the Maine Arts Commission.” This exhibit runs from Dec. 2 through Dec. 30 at the Meg Perry Center, 644 Congress Street/Portland. There will be an opening reception for the artist during Portland’s First Friday Art Walk, Dec. 2, from 5pm to 8pm. For more information visit: http://www. peaceactionme.org/meg-perry-center

Goodwill Industries art sale 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Goodwill Industries of Northern New England will hold its sixth bi-annual ‘Art for Everyone: A Collection of Donated Art,’ on Friday, December 2, from, at Goodwill’s Headquarters (353 Cumberland Ave., Portland). The sale will feature over 250 drawings, oils, pastels, posters, prints and watercolors donated to Goodwill stores in the local community. All pieces of art will be affordably priced just in time for the holidays. ...

Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Goodwill’s job training and support services in the northern New England community.”

Bob Tkacik at Geno’s Rock Club 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. At Geno’s Rock Club, Bob Tkacik will be opening his month-long exhibit in the lobby. “Bob lives in Portland, and went to art school once (although he claims you won’t be able to tell based on this particular exhibit). He has a penchant for attracting piles of skeletal remains and rusted things, simply by stepping out of his house, and because of this he has decided to adhere said items to other inanimate bits of detritus and display it for all to see. He will also display works revolving around geometric repetition and spiraling colors. Most recently, he has been involved with a collaborative mural at the Octopi Gallery on Congress Street in Portland. Art Walk in Geno’s lobby is open to all, refreshments provided, for free.“ see next page

Page 14 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– EVENTS CALENDAR––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– from preceding page

2011 SEA Holiday Art Sale 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Over 80 artists bringing you blown glass, jewelry, journals, paintings, textiles, sculptures, photography, paper crafts, pottery, magnets, cards, bags, children’s soft toys, and more. Also Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 4, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. East End Community School Center, 195 North St., Portland. Free admission; light food available in PTO Café.

Open Sky Fund event 6 p.m. “Two nights of ‘FUN’draising or the Open Sky Fund, a registered nonprofit organization providing Musical Instruments and Opportunities to children in Maine. At this event, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 2 and 3 at the Big Easy there will be live music by local bands who are donating their time, food from Divided Sky Café, and some very special guests including a 12-year-old guitar player from the area.

The Open Sky Faery will present an instrument to a child each night. There will be a silent auction with items from local businesses. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and music will begin at 7 p.m. Come early as space is limited, and these shows will sell out. Open Sky Fund has been providing instruments to children in Maine since 2009, in memory of Van Lawton of Oxford County, a magickal musician who left to his closest friends, his last song titled ‘Open Sky.’ More information about the Open Sky Fund is available at www. openskyfund.org.” Tickets for Kimmy’s Odd Ball are $10 each night and all proceeds benefit the fund. Tickets are on sale now at www.openskyfund.org. Donations of gently used instruments are always welcome. Guests are encouraged to dress in costume and prepare to dance.

Sparkle Parade of Lights in Freeport 6 p.m. “The whole town gets into the holiday spirit! Find something for everyone, the Sparkle Parade of Lights kicks off the holiday weekend event in grand style with Santa!

Witness it for yourself — young and all enjoy this event.

Free hot chocolate, horse drawn carriage rides carolers,and visits with Santa make this weekend complete along with the activities and festivities enjoy a meal with loved ones at any one of our fabulous eateries, reserve a room at your favorite Freeport property and stay for the entire weekend.” www.freeportusa.com

Lighting of the Copper Beech Tree 6:30 p.m. Lighting of the Copper Beech Tree at Portland Museum of Art. “Join us for a wintery First Friday family night as we gather outside in the Sculpture Garden to carry on this beloved holiday tradition at the Museum. The night air will be filled with lovely sounds of holiday choral music by the members of the Vox Nova Chamber Choir. Children of all ages will delight in a candlelit walk to our spectacular Cooper Beech Tree lighting ceremony!”

Portland Playback Theater 7:30 p.m. First Friday, Dec. 2, Theme: Holidays from Heaven and Hell. “Portland Playback performs its very popular holiday offering next month: Holidays from Heaven and Hell.

We all know how rich and emotionally complex the holiday season is. Everyone’s expectations are so high; there’s the commercial aspect, family relationships, friendships. Some of our happiest and some of our saddest stories are told and ‘played back’ at this event.” Every month, Portland Playback puts five actors at your disposal to reenact true stories from your life with improvisation. $5 at the door, CTN5 studio, 516 Congress St., Portland. FMI, email portlandplaybacktheatre@gmail.com or call 671-9481. Find out more at www.portlandplayback.com.

‘The Wandering Beggar’ 7:30 p.m. Acorn Productions, a nonprofit company based in the Dana Warp Mill in downtown Westbrook, continues its second season of Studio Series presentations with an adaptation by local playwright Howard Rosenfield of the book “The Wandering Beggar … or The Adventures of Simple Shmerel” by Solomon Simon. The book was written originally in Yiddish and first published in 1931. It was then translated, by the author and his son, David Simon, and published in English in 1942. “The Wandering Beggar” is comprised of a charming series of vignettes, in which the title character encounters a series of dishonest servants and greedy kings, overcoming each obstacle with a direct and honest approach. By the end of the play, the simple beggar has proven to have more wisdom than the rabbis. This adaptation was commissioned by Acorn and is being performed with the good wishes of the author’s family. Acorn’s production is directed by veteran theater artist Harlan Baker, and features an ensemble of 11 actors, including returning faces from previous Acorn shows along with several newcomers to the theater scene. The show runs from Dec. 2 through Dec. 18, with performances Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and may be purchased on-line at www.acornproductions.org or by calling 854-0065.

The WFCP Home Time Radio Hour

Paranormal Book Group

7:30 p.m. Freeport Players present The WFCP Home Time Radio Hour 2011, Dec. 2-4, Fri./Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. Freeport Performing Arts Center, Holbrook Street, $10 in advance, $15 at the door. “Be in the audience for this year’s ‘broadcast’ — each year our Sparkle Weekend show simply gets better and more fun.

We never get tired of all the great music of the ‘40s/’50s (and early ‘60s this year!), we still get a kick out of writing sketches and jingles in the style of the great old-time radio shows, and we know you can’t wait to see what the sound effects team brings to the table. Save $5! Get your tickets in advance at Freeport Community Center Thrift Store (43 Depot St.) or online at http://www.fcponline.org.”

10 a.m. The Falmouth Memorial Library Paranormal Book Group will meet at the library. “At our first meeting we will discuss ‘Rot & Ruin’ by Jonathan Maberry. Need more information? Contact Jeannie at 781-2351.”

Calkins family theater benefit

The Big Thaw Craft Fair

8 p.m. “On Friday evening, Nov. 25, a two-alarm fire destroyed the home of Mark and Denise Calkins at 17 Osborne Ave. in South Portland. The Calkins family, which includes two young boys, lost everything but the clothes they were wearing. All the family pets, two dogs and two cats, were killed in the fire. The fire was ruled accidental by South Portland Lt. Robb Couture. Firefighters from Cape Elizabeth, Portland and Scarborough assisted South Portland firefighters in getting the fire under control in just over an hour. The house is not habitable and will have to be rebuilt.

According to Michael J. Tobin, producing artistic director of CoveLight Productions, the Calkins are staying in a local hotel until other arrangements can be made. ‘The outpouring of love and support has been monumental so far,’ Tobin said. ‘But this family needs everything, they have to start from scratch. I hope people will come see the shows this weekend and help this family get through this very difficult and challenging time.’ CoveLight Productions will donate ticket sales from Friday and Saturday night’s shows to the Calkins family so that they may have a very merry Christmas during this difficult time. The performance this Friday at 8 p.m. will be performed at First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 114 Main St. in Kennebunk, as part of the Prelude celebration. Tickets are $15/$10. The show on Saturday at 8 p.m. will be performed at The Dunaway Center, 23 School St. in Ogunquit, as part of the Christmas by the Sea celebration. Tickets are $10/$8. Tickets will be available at the door beginning at 7:30 p.m.” For more information or to make reservations, go to www.covelight2011.com, emailing covelight2011@aol.com or calling (603) 953-3640.

Eyewitness Gaza 8 p.m. Meg Perry Center photo exhibit. “Through the lens of photographer Skip Schiel and the film directing/editing of Tom Jackson, Eyewitness Gaza captures the unique position Gazans are in: under siege, under occupation, constantly threatened by attacks from Israel and their own political factions, with little awareness or concern from the rest of the world. Central to Eyewitness Gaza are Gazan youth and how they survive a siege and marginalization by the world community. Director Tom Jackson will attend the showing for questions and discussion afterwards.” Tickets: $7/$5 for Peace Action Maine & MVPR members and students with ID. Net proceeds will go to the Middle East Children’s Alliance water project to bring clean, safe water to the children of Gaza. www. peaceactionme.org/meg-perry-center

Saturday, Dec. 3 Loretta Voyer Fund Craft Fair on Peaks Island 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Join Peaks Island artists and craftsmen in supporting the Loretta Voyer Fund. Come to the Loretta Voyer Fund craft fair to find hundreds of handmade gifts.

The Loretta Voyer Fund provides car ferry tickets to island residents with cancer, allowing them to travel to and from their hospital appointments more easily. The craft fair is our annual fund raiser, but donations are accepted any time. Please send donations to: The Loretta Voyer Fund, c/o Suellen Roberts, 6 Alderbrook Road, Peaks Island, ME 04108. ... This year’s raffle will benefit the Island Taxi, with donated craft items raffled off by the Island Taxi folks to ‘keep the wheels rolling.’”

Science Literacy: How do we get there?

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. An “unconference” for educators. The Gulf of Maine Research Institute invites educators to join an “unconference” exploring the topic of science literacy and envisioning how it may be achieved. All who are invested in education are welcome. The event will take place at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. There is no cost, and breakfast and lunch are included. Six contact hours are available. http://gmri.org

Christmas at Thrifty Kitty 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Christmas at Thrifty Kitty, holiday fair to benefit Friends of Feral Felines, Sat. 9-4, Sun. 10-3, 651 Forest Ave. (at Woodfords St.), Portland, second floor. 7973014, www.feralfelines.net

Shaker Christmas Fair 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shaker Christmas Fair, Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, 707 Shaker Road, Route 26, New Gloucester. “Always the first Saturday in December! A traditional holiday fair with gifts for all ages, held in nine rooms of the 1816 Trustees’ Office and the Merry Christmas Garage at the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village. Highlights include but not limited to Shaker home made baked goods, herbs, oval boxes and yarns, and the White Elephant Room full of bargains.” www.shaker.lib.me.us 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Big Thaw Craft Fair at Mayo Street Arts. Free admission. Mayo Street Arts, 10 Mayo St., Portland. http://mayostreetarts.org/calendar

Christmas with Alpacas 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. At Estabrook’s Garden Center in Yarmouth to have some fun and learn about New England’s growing Alpaca farm community. “Join us in Yarmouth on the weekend of Dec. 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to have some fun and learn about New England’s growing alpaca farm community during the 3rd annual “Christmas with Alpacas” holiday family event. Friendly alpacas will be on hand to meet, greet and walk, local and regional vendors will be selling their natural fiber products including hats, scarves and more, you’ll be able to get creative in the children’s craft area, and we’ll also be serving snacks and warm beverages. The expanded two-day event will be housed indoors in our greenhouses and hosted by Abbott Farm Alpacas and SuriPaco.” www.estabrooksonline.com/seasons/events.asp

Riverview Kids Who Care Kick for Kids 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Riverview Foundation today is a community-based organization providing educational and wilderness programs for youth and adults throughout Southern, Central and Mid-coast Maine. The fourth annual Riverview Kids Who Care Kick for Kids is a fundraising event to support the kids at Riverview Foundation; held at the Ocean Gateway Terminal in Portland. http://kidswhocaremaine.org

Oak Street Lofts open house noon to 2 p.m. Avesta Housing will offer tours of a new affordable housing complex, the Oak Street Lofts, from noon to 2 p.m. “Located at 72 Oak St., Oak Street Lofts is a new community located in the heart of Portland’s Arts District featuring affordable, artist-friendly efficiency apartments.

Individual units feature high ceilings, natural light, and deep storage. Common spaces allow for work and exhibition spaces. Income limits apply. Add your name to the interest list at www.avestahousing.org/properties/60/Oak-StreetLofts or call 553-7780 ext. 253 for more information.”

Christmas at the Cathedral noon and 8 p.m. The Choral Art Society’s Christmas at the Cathedral is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 3, at 8 p.m. and on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There is also a noon preview concert on Saturday, Dec. 3. Audiences can expect to hear traditional holiday songs, concluding with a candle lit procession to “Silent Night.” The concerts are held at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, Portland, 307 Congress St. Tickets price range from $10-$30 and are sold (check or cash only) at Starbird Music, Longfellow Books, the Book Review (Falmouth), Nonesuch Books (Mill Creek Shopping Center, South Portland), and Gulf of Maine Books in Brunswick. www.choralart.org

Tour of the Longfellow House 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, 10, 17, Listen to pianist David Maxwell play the 1843 piano while taking a tour of the Longfellow House. Carols in the Library, Dec. 11 and 18, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Listen to the Choral Art Society sing Christmas carols from the balcony of the Brown Library (directly behind the Longfellow House). Enjoy refreshments in the Library library following the concert. Reservations required.

Call 774-1822, ext. 206 or enash@mainehistory.org. Adult $12. Seniors, Students with IDs, AAA Members $10.

The Polar Express train ride 2:45 p.m. The Polar Express returns to Portland. “And this year, we’ve added an early train time (2:45 p.m.) and another First Class car! Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between Nov. 25 and Dec. 23, 2:45 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:15 p.m., 6:30 p.m. The Polar Express will come to life when the Maine Narrow Gauge train departs its Ocean Gateway depot for a journey to the ‘North Pole.’ Holiday decorations inside the train will add to the festive atmosphere as guests on board meet the conductor, have hot chocolate and a treat, listen to a reading of the enchanting story over our sound system, and sing carols.” www. mainenarrowgauge.org see next page

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011— Page 15

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Portland police stay tight lipped about fatal stabbing Police have say they have no one in custody and are not releasing any details surrounding Monday's fatal stabbing of a 47-year-old Portland man at his Forest Avenue apartment.

An autopsy determined Carlos Ramos died from a stab wound to the chest, but investigators won't say if Ramos' death was a homicide, self inflicted or an accident.

Ramos was pronounced dead at the Maine Medical Center Monday evening, police said. Officers were called to his apartment at 991 Forest Ave. shortly after 7 p.m. in reference to a stabbing.

Officials declined to comment Wednesday on who called for emergency personnel and whether someone was in Ramos' apartment at the time of the incident.

"It comes down to interviews and gathering evidence," said Lt. Gary

Rogers, a police spokesman.

Neighbors who gathered outside Ramos' apartment Tuesday told The Portland Daily Sun that he lived with his girlfriend. Friends said the couple were often seen drinking with one another and would frequently fight.

They said police had responded to the apartment on multiple occasions in reference to fights.

Rogers declined to say if officers were ever called to Ramos' apartment, citing the ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Portland Police Department at 874-8533 or text an anonymous tip from a mobile phone using keyword "GOTCHA" plus the message to 274637 (CRIMES).

Union appealing chief’s decision in fire boat incident City officials say the union representing two firefighters disciplined after a boating accident that cost tax-

payers $25,000 is appealing the fire chief’s decision to place the men on unpaid suspension.

The union, Local 740, notified the city in late October of its decision to appeal the suspension on behalf of Capt. Christopher Goodall and firefighter Joseph Murphy. The men were piloting the multi-million dollar MV City of Portland IV on a “training exercise” when the boat struck an underwater object, damaging the propeller and rudder.

The incident occurred on an October weekend in what city and fire officials maintain was a routine training mission. A dozen civilians — including the firefighters’ family members — were on board.

Fire Chief Fred LaMontagne placed both men on temporary unpaid leave following the accident. According to a preliminary report of the accident, LaMontagne determined the incident was preventable.

Officials originally estimated the repair cost to be about $38,000, but the accident totaled nearly $60,000

worth of repairs.

The city only expects to pay $25,000 — the amount of the insurance deductible.

A city spokeswoman, Nicole Clegg, confirmed Wednesday that the city received notice that the men intended to appeal their suspension.

According to the worker agreement between the city of Portland and the Local 740, the firefighters can appeal LaMontagne’s discipline decision to the chief, next to the director of human resources and then up to City Manager Mark Rees.

“Any grievance not resolved to the satisfaction of the union by the city manager may be submitted to a single arbitrator,” the agreement reads.

City staff have said the entire appeals process, which can include arbitration, can take up to a year.

Details surrounding the investigation into the accident are confidential until the process is complete, according to officials.

— Matthew Arco

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the event and others will be available to download later.” www.planetdogfoundation.org

‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’

‘Under Milk Wood’

died while in the service of the armed forces of the United States,” the school reported in a press release. The public is invited to attend this year’s event.

Film Screening: ‘Handmade Puppet Dreams’

6:30 p.m. A group of Peaks Islanders will perform a special, one-night-only holiday performance of ‘Under Milk Wood,’ the classic play by Dylan Thomas, which tells the story of a day in the life of a Welsh fishing village. It was originally written in 1954 as a radio play to be performed by the famous poet himself, however, Dylan Thomas died suddenly and the work was taken up by Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, and many others. Join us for this event which is also a fund raiser for our food pantry. Admission is by donation to the Peaks Island Community Food Pantry – either cash donation or non-perishable food donation. At the Brackett Memorial Church on Peaks Island, take the 5:35 p.m. boat out to Peaks from Casco Bay Lines. The play will be over in plenty of time to take the 8:40 p.m. boat back to the mainland. Susan Hanley, 766-2735.

1 p.m. The Welsh poet Dylan Thomas was a musician with words. Writing poetry, even as a child, he loved not solely the meaning of words but also their sounds. Much of his work is best read aloud. Jack Nordby will recite the Dylan Thomas classic, “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” in the main exhibit room at the Society’s museum at Bug Light Park. “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” is a light, much-loved, almost lyrical tale of childhood Christmas memories. Full of beauty and wonder, this “prose-poem” harkens us all back to a simpler time, a nostalgic time. Its “free-flow-of-consciousness” style leaves all of our senses unfurled. Filled with alliteration, this 25-minute star of Thomas’ work is best heard or read aloud for the “music” in the words. Cushing’s Point Museum, 55 Bug Light Park, South Portland.

Maine Red Claws opening weekend

2 p.m. “‘The ‘Funniest Woman in Maine’ just loves Christmas. Join Ida as she shares stories of Christmas time in the tiny town of Mahoosuc Mills, Maine.” Memorial Hall at Woodfords Church, Portland, $15, Woman’s Literary Union Scholarship Benefit. 774-7200.

noon. Starting at noon on Monday, Dec. 5, WCYY will turn its format upside down once again for the good of the Center. “Mark-A-Thon” is an on-air benefit carried out by Mark Curdo, from Portland’s 94.3 WCYY. Tune in, spread the word. “The idea, simple and fun: listeners can request anything they want, anything (in compliance with FCC guidelines of course) and Mark will play it for a donation to the Center for Grieving Children. The kicker however, is that Mark will remain on air 102 hours non-stop! It’s a week in radio you won’t wan’t to miss.”

Holiday Celtic Harp concert

Inauguration of Mayor Michael F. Brennan

7 p.m. The Maine Red Claws announced that their two home opener weekend games will feature some entertainment acts well-known to NBA fans. The Red Claws will host arch rival Springfield in the 7 p.m. contest, and all fans in attendance will receive a 2011-12 Red Claws magnetic schedule, courtesy of Norway Savings Bank. On Sunday, Dec. 4, the Red Claws will welcome popular Boston Celtics mascot Lucky to Maine. The irrepressible leprechaun will join Red Claws mascot Crusher in entertaining the crowd. The Dec. 4 game vs. the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, which is presented by Hannaford Supermarkets, will also feature a food drive to benefit the Good Shepherd Food Bank. All fans bringing a canned good or other nonperishable food item will be entered to win great Red Claws prizes. Tip off for the Sunday contest is at 5 p.m.

Viva Lebowski 2011 9 p.m. Bayside Bowl will host Viva Lebowski 2011, a tribute to the Coen Brothers’ cult classic, “The Big Lebowski.” The event will feature an evening of bowling, trivia and costume contests, and will also include a screening of the Coen Brothers’ film. In its inaugural year, proceeds went to benefit local business owner Nicholas Stevens, a Portland resident who has been struggling with the cost of treatment for Multiple Sclerosis since opening his bakery, 13th Cookie.

Over $2,500 was raised and 150 tickets were sold for the evening’s event. For 2011, all ticket sales will be donated to the American Heart Association — Maine. Bayside Bowl is located at 58 Alder St., Portland.

Sunday, Dec. 4

Susan Poulin in ‘A Holiday Visit with Ida’

3 p.m. Holiday Celtic Harp concert with Julia Lane and the Auburn Harp Circle, St. Michaels Church, 78 Pleasant St., Auburn. (201) 529-5438. www.castlebay.net. Price: $10 adult/$5 kids.

Railroad to host Barbara Bush Hospital 4 p.m. The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum will host patients and their families of the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital at Maine Medical Center on the Polar Express on the 4 p.m. train. The Museum has presented the hospital with 45 free tickets for the run and will set aside a special coach for the event. “We think that this time of year is special for children and their families and we wanted to do something for those children facing health issues this holiday season, said Hans Brandis, a member of the Board of Directors. “We are looking forward to these children and their families joining us for this exciting rail adventure.” The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is operating the Polar Express Trains afternoons and evenings through Dec. 23. The Polar Express will come to life when the Maine departs the Ocean Gateway depot for a journey to the “North Pole.” Holiday decorations inside the train create a festive atmosphere as guests on board meet the conductor, have hot chocolate and a treat, listen to a reading of the enchanting story over our sound system, and sing carols. Directions and more information about the railroad can be found at www. mainenarrowgauge.org or by calling 828-0814.

Planet Dog’s ‘Sit With Santa’ event

Wreaths Across America Project

10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Planet Dog Company Store is hosting its seventh annual “Sit With Santa” event. “The popular annual fundraiser helps the Planet Dog Foundation support canine service organizations. A photographer will be taking the photos and a box of “costumes” will be provided for interested dogs (antlers, etc.). Free refreshments for the kids and dogs will also be provided (cider, cookies, dog treats and water). Planet Dog Company Store, 211 Marginal Way, Portland. The cost is $10. for a sitting with Santa. One image will be provided at

4 p.m. This year, the Cheverus High School community will once again gather on campus to welcome the volunteers of the Wreaths Across America Project. Last year, the Wreaths Across America Project convoy made a stop at its campus at 267 Ocean Ave. in Portland, the school reported. “Hundreds gathered to watch as a seemingly endless convoy of tractor trailer trucks and their escorts, en route with handmade Maine wreaths for placement on the graves of service members at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., shared its mission to venerate those who have

7 p.m. Film Screening: “Handmade Puppet Dreams, Volume Three,” $7. Mayo Street Arts, 10 Mayo St., Portland. http:// www.handmadepuppetdreams.com/contact.html or http:// mayostreetarts.org/calendar

Monday, Dec. 5 Mark-A-Thon on WCYY

noon. Michael F. Brennan will be inaugurated as the mayor for the city of Portland serving December 2011 to December 2015. Brennan will serve as the first popularly elected mayor in more than 88 years. City Councilors John Coyne and Cheryl Leeman will also be sworn-in during noontime the ceremony. A reception will follow at 6 p.m. at Ocean Gateway during which Mayor Brennan will deliver his inaugural address. City Councilor Coyne will be returning for his second term serving District 5, and Leeman will be serving her eighth term representing District 4.

Noon swearing-in ceremony in the City Council Chambers, City Hall; 6 p.m. reception and inaugural address at Ocean Gateway International Marine Terminal

Portland School Board inauguration ceremony 4 p.m. The Portland School Board will hold an inauguration ceremony at 4 p.m. in the Portland City Council chambers at Portland City Hall. The School Board will inaugurate three members who won reelection: Elizabeth Holton, an At Large representative, Justin Costa, who represents District 4, and Marnie Morrione, who represents District 5. The School Board also will inaugurate Charles “Chip” Weber, the Portland High School student representative, and Zev Bliss, the Casco Bay High School student representative. Deering High School will elect its student representative in early December. There will be a joint School Board and City Council reception at 6 p.m. at Ocean Gateway.

East/West Westbrook Girls Basketball Challenge 4 p.m. The third annual East/West Westbrook Girls Basketball Challenge will start at 4 p.m. with Oxford Hills vs. Biddeford; followed at 5:30 p.m. by Messalonskee vs. South Portland; at 7 p.m. by Edward Little vs. Deering; and at 8:30 p.m. by Lewiston vs. Westbrook. Westbrook High School, admission $4 for adults, $2 for students. Organizers are sending a care package to troops overseas, so bring a nonperishable item and it will be sent along.

Page 16 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, December 1, 2011