July 2014 Munjoy Hill Observer by Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization

MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

1979 – 2014

M u n joy Hil l

OBSERVER

Profit Org1 JulyNon 2014 US Postage

PAID

Portland, ME Permit No. 824

YEARS

FREE • Published by the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization • Vol. 34, No 6 • JULY 2014

Not a moment too soon—Here comes

Summer! H e r e co m e s t h e s u n !

Welcome! Munjoy Hill residents and visitors alike will be making the most of the glorious summer weather. Whether they come to the green slopes of the Eastern Prom, dip toes in the Atlantic at the East End Beach, or visit the shops and eateries on Munjoy Hill, a good time will

surely be had by all! See page 6 for the Eastern Promenade Independence Day Schedule; see page 9 for Summer Outdoor Concerts, and find local events on pages 10 and 11.

Sun Worshipers: Photo above: a local child welcomes Spring during the annual Tahntay/Ebune Celebration and Parade on the Eastern Prom held in May; above right, Amanda Blake Soule introduces her daughter, Adelaide Soule, to the ocean on the East End Beach.

The MHNO’s Housing Initiative By Matthew Kennedy

In 2014, the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization celebrates its 35th birthday. The MHNO was incorporated as a non-profit on January 17, 1979. Over the past 35 years, the “Hill” has seen many changes, but the MHNO, lead by a volunteer Board of Directors, has been a constant and consistent presence in the neighborhood. The MHNO helps to build community and improve the quality of life for all those fortunate enough to call Munjoy Hill their home.

Earlier articles in this series have touched on the two issues that most drove Munjoy Hill residents to found the MHNO in 1979 — the fate of the Hill’s four public schools, and concern over gentrification and its potential impact on the community’s socio-economic diversity. In the end, a setback on the schools front—the city’s decision to close both Shailer and Emerson elementary schools— created an opportunity for an innovative and ambitious plan to address the urgent need for lower cost housing on the Hill. The housing challenge was not so different from what we see today; rising demand fueled rising costs, restricting lower- and middle-income families’ ability to afford homes on the Hill, and threatening renters with displacement. Early in 1981 the Board’s discussions advanced from an examination of the is-

sue itself to a bold plan of corrective, or at least ameliorative, action: a proposal to establish large-scale cooperative (co-op) housing on Munjoy Hill. At its most basic, the co-op model involves residents’ cooperative ownership of housing in the form of shares in a non-

The Founding of the MHNO Part II: The ’80s BOOM profit housing corporation governed by a board of owner-residents. Profit is not a motive, so costs (the cost of shares as well as monthly maintenance costs) are contained. Shareholders in good standing cannot be evicted. In short, it is a model that addresses both the restricting and displacing effects of gentrification.

In the early ’80s, Munjoy Hill saw “the first ever large-scale cooperative housing venture in the state of Maine” when the Shailer and Emerson schools were converted to residences.

Save the dates!

Progress was rapid. Observer articles in May, June and July, 1981, provided the community with basic information on how co-op housing works and who might be served by it; already in May the MHNO’s Cooperative Housing Committee, with over 40 active members, was meeting twice a month to push the initiative forward. By August, the Committee had secured federal support for a “needs assessment” to further evaluate the viability of the plan. In addition, the City of Portland expressed support for a key feature of the plan—the conversion of the Emerson and Shailer school buildings into 39 brand new units of lower- and middle-income housing.

The organizational basis of the initiative was transformed in September and October, when the MHNO welcomed Greater Portland Landmarks as a partner. In October, the two organizations established the Munjoy Hill Housing Authority (MHHA) to oversee progress

Mhno Pizza Night July 8, 5-9 pm On July 8, 2014, the MHNO is hosting a fundraiser at our local Otto Pizza, 225 Congress Street. From 5 PM to 9 PM, Otto will give a percentage of all proceeds from pizza, both eat-in and carry-out, to the MHNO. Representatives from the MHNO will be on hand to talk about the organization, our initiatives and goals. JOIN US! Sharpen your multi-tasking skills by eating amazingly tasty pizza while helping out the MHNO! (menu online at ottoportland.com .)

See page 3, the ’80s boom

BUYING OR SELLING, THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR EXPERIENCE.

LOVE the city?

Own a piece of it!

Friends of the Eastern Promenade’s Bicentennial Celebration of Fort Allen Park, Hosted by FoEP and the City of Portland, Friday and Saturday, September 19 & 20, 2014: and MHNO”s 35th Anniversary Celebration, September 20, 2014

151 Newbury St., Portland, Me 04101 • Cell 207.465.5569 • M arc c hadbourne . coM

July 2014

MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

At the Helm The Munjoy Hill Observer is published by the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization (MHNO) 92 Congress Street Portland, Maine 04101 info@munjoyhill.org 207-775-3050 Editor: Lisa Peñalver

observer@munjoyhill.org (207) 272-5962 munjoyhill.org

Observer Committee Andrea Myhaver, Tamera Edison, Sarah Graulty, Lisa Peñalver

advertising Ross Fields Ross.Fields@munjoyhill.org (207) 233-4327 Tamera Edison tamera.edison@munjoyhill.org (207) 939-7998 Lisa Peñalver, Layout & Design Observer@munjoyhill.org (207) 272-5962

3,000 Circulation 8,000+ Readership About our paper The Munjoy Hill Observer is published by the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization (MHNO) as a service to its members and to the community as a whole, to inform Portland’s East End residents of local issues and events, and of the services that can be found here. The Observer serves as a vehicle to connect and inform our neighbors, while enlisting community partners to help us help those who need it most.

MHNO President, Andrea Myhaver

By the time this is in print, the MHNO will have had our annual meeting and elections, and welcomed into service a new slate of Board members. Because I’m writing ahead, I’m a bit superstitious and will avoid sharing details about our new Board members (we’ll save that for the August issue) but I do want to say, I very much look forward to working with each and every one of them, and I’m excited to have their energy, skills, and commitment join forces with the amazing directors that are continuing with twoyear terms that began in 2013. We’re going to have a great team this year!

As we begin our fiscal year in July, our MHNO Board of Directors team has much to look forward to, and much to get done. By now you’ve all noticed the new logo we introduced a few months back. Well, that was just the first step in solidifying an MHNO “brand” that I hope will take us through years to come. In the upcoming weeks (maybe as soon as July 4; watch for us in front of Hill House that day!). We’ll be introducing logo-wear t-shirts and hats that will allow Munjoy Hill residents to show their neighborhood pride in style. In addition, we’re working on a new window decal that our business sponsors will be able to display front and center to show their support for the MHNO. You’ll be hearing much more about business sponsorships (and how YOU can become one) over the next few months, as we embark on a fundraising campaign that will help us to strengthen our position financially, keep doing the work we

already do well, and expand the ways that we serve the community. Along with the branding that you’ll see happening on t-shirts, hats, letter head, and decals, you’ll also see our new logo prominently displayed on our redesigned website, which we hope to launch by August. Our website re-design is being made possible in part by a generous donation from AARP ME, who is proud to help support us as we kick our “At Home on Munjoy Hill” (AHOM) program into high gear. The AHOM program has been in an exploratory phase for the last couple of years, as committee members have researched what is takes to launch and sustain a successful program geared towards helping elders stay in their homes. The committee has also surveyed Munjoy Hill residents and caregivers of Munjoy Hill residents, to see what is needed most here in our own backyard. Armed with this information the AHOM committee is ready to move from planning to doing, so expect to hear much more about the program soon. Also, to learn how you can become involved, please contact our Services Committee chair, Elaine Mullin, at: elaine.mullin@munjoyhill.org. In keeping with our effort to solidify our brand and get the word out about all we do, on Tuesday, July 8, we’re hosting a fundraising event at Otto Pizza (225 Congress, right in the ‘hood!). From 5-9 pm, members of the MHNO Board of Directors will be on hand at Otto, handing out Observers, talk-

CORRECTION

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

Andrea Myhaver, President.......................... . ......... andrea.myhaver@munjoyhill.org

Sarah Graulty.............................................. . ..............sarah.graulty@munjoyhill.org Matthew Kennedy........................................ . ....... matthew.kennedy@munjoyhill.org Thomas Kelley............................................. Joan Sheedy.................................. 774-7616 . .................... joaniesheedy@gmail.com Sean Ryan Turley......................................... . ................. sean.turley@munjoyhill.org

MHNO Mission Incorporated as a nonprofit organization in January 1979, our purpose is to be a broad-based, representative organization committed to improving the quality

Now I’m off to get some work (and play!) done. I hope your July is spectacular! See you in a month.

From the Editor, Lisa Peñalver

Life’s a Beach head to the shore. Research has shown that rest & relaxation are essential for creativity and productivity. A break from the routine and the work and worries of everyday life helps your ‘batteries’ to recharge. You can figuratively take one step back in order to take three steps forward. So, plan for some downtime this summer, guilt-free. Be kind to yourself and to others, and trust that the world will go on with

Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization

Sam Cohen, Secretary.................................. . .................. sam.cohen@munjoyhill.org

Finally, the MHNO will be rounding out our summer activities by hosting our long-anticipated 35th anniversary event. As I’ve mentioned before in this column, we think 35 years is a huge accomplishment, and we’ve been planning a big celebration to mark the occasion. In addition to the MHNO turning 35, there is another momentous anniversary to celebrate on Munjoy Hill. Fort Allen Park turns 200 this year! The Friends of Eastern Promenade has been planning an event to commemorate the bicentennial of Fort Allen, and our two groups recently decided to collaborate to plan our fantastic events to coincide with one another. So save the date, September 20, and watch for more information in the August Observer.

What a difference the sun makes! Time to

MHNO Board 2013-14

Elaine Mullin, Treasurer.................671-6132 . .............. elaine.mullin@munjoyhill.org

ing about our programs, and, of course, eating pizza! Otto is generously donating to the MHNO 8% of their sales for both dine-in and takeout that evening. So please, bring your appetite and show your support for Otto and the MHNO!

CORRECTION

Portland Company article: In the April 2014 issue of the Observer, we ran a front-page story on The Portland Company by Markos Miller. We received the following correction from Jim Brady.

Adams School Wall Mural: In

the August 2011 issue of the Observer, we ran a story titled, “The Great Wall Mural of the Adams School.” Many long-time “Hillkids” remember the mural with fondness and with pride. Theresa Solak Eldert called and wrote to the MHNO recently to make a correction to the article: the authorship of the jumprope girl is hers; Theresa vividly remembers the day she drew the figure as part of a special assignment in Mrs. Foley’s third grade classroom. Duly noted. —LP, Ed.

“Just for the record and future, and I apologize if we did not discuss this in our meeting [with Markos Miller]— The owner of the site now, which was purchased from the Sprague family, is an entity: CPB2, LLC, a Maine limited liability company. The managers of that entity are Casey Prentice, Kevin Costello and me. In addition, we have investors, many of whom live in Portland and share our vision for redevelopment of this site into a world-class mixed-use development. RED Group is just the name of my little Real Estate Development company… (not really affiliated with CPB2)....” Regards, Jim Brady

out you for a while, until you are ready to return. See you at the beach!

Above: “Girl with a Jump Rope,” figure drawn in 1957 by Theresa Solak Eldert when she was in the third grade ant the Marada Adam School on Moody St., Munjoy Hill.

Send Your Let ters and Hill news to

observ er@Munjoy Hill .org

of life for the residents of Munjoy Hill and the East End, by strengthening the sense of community, maintaining the current diversity of social and economic groups, encouraging self-sufficiency, and enriching the lives of all residents.

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

756-8135 Daytimes: Janine Kaserman with Community Policing 2) 650-9005 cell: 11 am thru the night, Senior Lead Officer Jeff Druan 3) 874-8575/-8574: Dispatch/non-emergency events 1)

4) Emergencies: 9-1-1

Clip and save these numbers!

Anonymous Crimes tips Program: Phone Tip—Dial 874-8584 | Online: tipsubmit.com Text-A-Tip: Text “GOTCHA” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES)

MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

Change –the True Constant

MHNO Vice President, Ross Fields

Life here on the Hill continues to change and progress: Fort Allen nears its make-over completion; the new Superette will soon be turning out pizza, among other items, once again; Lolita’s is open and Hilltop Coffee is settling in nicely; the construction of new housing developments on Congress, Lafayette and Sheridan Streets, is in full swing; and I’m stepping down from the position of Vice President of MHNO, and as a board member – because it’s time.

I’ve so enjoyed my association with MHNO; I will continue to be a member, and promote the value of membership in this, your community organization. For me, being new to Portland, joining MHNO and the Board was the perfect way to immerse myself in

my neighborhood, while getting to know you and Portland at the same time. I’ve come to appreciate how passionately involved the citizens of Portland are with their city. And rightly so – it truly is a gem. There aren’t too many other places where I’d find all the amenities of a larger city within an easy 2-mile walk from my doorstep. And if walking is not your cup of tea, the Metro Bus system can get you pretty close to wherever you need to go. I look forward to watching, and participating in, the changes that continue to shape our neighborhood and city. For now, I plan on focusing on my business, writing, and . . . oh yes! The upcoming wedding of our eldest daughter, Stephanie.

Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve this community. You make Munjoy Hill home, and an awesome place to live. Please, continue having as much fun as you possibly can; say “Hi” to someone you don’t know when you’re out for a stroll on the Hill; participate in Clean Sweep Saturdays, and make sure you’re a member of Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization—celebrating 35 years!

—Ross Fields

ross.fields@munjoyhill.org • Munjoy Hill Observer Ad Sales Representative • Former Vice President of the MHNO Board • Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization

Ensuring a Safe and Walkable Neighborhood for Munjoy Hill Residents By Lori K Parham, State Director AARP Maine

In June, I had the chance

to present to Portland PACTS (Portland Area Comprehensive Transportation System) on the preferences of Baby Boomers when it comes to transportation and planning issues. Increasingly, Baby Boomers are looking to live in communities where all that they need is close by, and they can limit their time in the car. AARP recently released a survey of older adults in which we asked them to prioritize actions that local governments could take that would be most important to them. Only increased police presence and better schools were ranked higher than a more pedestrian-friendly environment. Munjoy Hill is a great example of a neighborhood that is catering to this trend. The ability to travel on foot is one of the reasons I love living on the Hill. Yet there are opportunities to ensure that

Portland continues to adapt to a growing Boomer population when it comes to getting around our neighborhoods. Given what is at stake with pedestrian safety, it is no wonder older adults are focused on this issue. A new nationwide report released in May by Smart Growth America and the National Complete Streets Coalition in collaboration with AARP, points out that between 2003 and 2012, there were 35 pedestrian fatalities in the Portland/ S. Portland metro area. During the same period, 108 people in Maine were killed by a vehicle while walking. The report, “Dangerous by Design 2014”, ought to serve as a flashing red light for all of us. It notes that across America more than 47,000 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic accidents during those years. It also found that a disproportionately high number of them were older adults, a fact of particular significance in our

Ask the Money Prof

state, which has the oldest population in the country.

crosswalk made safe for a senior is also safe for a child.

Adults aged 65 and older make up 15 percent of Maine’s population, but they were 35 percent of pedestrian fatalities across the state between 2003 and 2010.

The path to greater pedestrian safety is found at the local, state, and federal levels. On the local level, people can document dangerous roads and crossings and insist that public officials respond. Local residents can team up to conduct a “walkability audit” of problem areas. GrowSmart Maine recognized the cities of Lewiston and Auburn for their work earlier this year. On the state level, officials can make sure pedestrian safety is built into a project from the start.

The report notes that “as this age group continues to grow, doubling nationally over the next 30 years, street design decisions must accommodate their desire to age in their communities, remain independent and access destinations on foot as well as by car.” These decisions are important for older adults but also for Maine’s economy. The longer individuals can stay in the communities they love, the longer they are supporting local businesses and charities. Not to mention the support they give to the local tax base. Making our streets safer for older adults will also help pedestrians of all ages. After all, a curb-cut designed for a wheelchair can also be used for a baby stroller. A

pendent’ all the time:—I want to do what I want and when I want, I need my independence. We all know that, given our everyday responsibilities, commitments, personalities and finances (to name just a few of the obstacles), being ‘free’ is really just a nice vision. The reality is more complicated. However, that does not mean your independence must be compromised. Independence can be defined as: Not influenced or controlled by others in matters of opinion, conduct, etc.; thinking or acting for oneself: an independent thinker; not subject to another’s authority or jurisdiction. So in essence, one can have no free time, but be totally independent. For the vast majority of us, there is a common variable that allows us to have freedom or independence. Money (I know you thought I was going to say that.) In today’s society, money is only a means to fulfilling our needs. Being financially

the ’80s boom on the Hill from front page

going forward. By January of the following year, the MHHA was lining up sources of funding for the project, and in April ,the Authority submitted its bid to the city for purchase of the buildings. A bit under $2,000,000 in funding from federal, state and city programs, as well as private sources, was in hand by January 1983; most of this would go toward the renovation, with the balance held in an interest-bearing account to help reduce monthly shareholder costs. The conversions of those historic school buildings into condo housing were completed in 1984, the first ever large-scale cooperative housing venture in the state of Maine. We are still looking for copies of the Observer prior to December 1980. If you have any of these early issues we’d love to hear from you! Were you involved with the MHNO in the early years? Do you have stories to tell? If so, we want to hear from you. Please email me at matthew. kennedy@munjoyhill.org or call me at 207-370-1446.

“A community is the mental and spiritual condition of knowing that the place is shared, and that the people who share the place define and limit the possibilities of each other’s lives. It is

By Joel I. Gold

So You Want Your Independence? People talk about wanting to be ‘inde-

Crossing the street should be a matter of stop and go, not life and death. Let’s give pedestrian safety the visibility and strong support it deserves. You can find out more at www.aarp.org/livable.

July 2014

independent leads to other forms of independence. I have to say that, while I give kudos to the younger generation of today for so many things (perhaps another article here), many of them do not seem to understand the importance of money and how it can impact their lives. As we age, we begin to realize this, but many times a late start can cause a heavy burden on our independence, as we try to catch up financially. Unfortunately, there is a price to pay for not beginning to plan early. On the bright side, gaining freedom and independence is very obtainable (even at older ages). So, if this is your goal, take your time, get advice if necessary, but plan for your independence by making sound financial plans. There is another strategy—not to plan, and to hope to get there by default. The only problem with this is that you might not like where you end up.

Natural Insect Repellent Source: http://www.diynatural.com/homemade-insectmosquito-repellent/

Ingredients • 2 tablespoons of one (or a combination of) witch hazel, or vodka; find witch hazel at the pharmacy or online. • 2 tablespoons of one or a combination of the following: grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, olive oil, or neem oil (neem contains natural insecticidal compounds) • 1 teaspoon vodka as preservative (if not already using) • 100-110 drops essential oils (see below for ideas)

Sample Bug-Repelling Essential Oil Blend • 55 drops lemon eucalyptus (reported by the CDC to be a good natural substitution for DEET in repelling insects, but not recommended for use on children under 3 yrs.) • 15 drops cedarwood oil • 15 drops lavender oil • 15 drops rosemary oil Directions: Add carrier liquids to small spray bottle (3 or 4 oz. works well so there is room for shaking). Add essential oils. Shake well before each use. Natural bug repellent will need to be reapplied every few hours for maximum effectiveness.

the knowledge that people have of each other, their concern for each other, their trust in each other, the freedom with which they come and go among themselves.” ~~Wendell Berry

ACROSS 1 Poke 4 Borders MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER 4 July 2014 9 Hits with a stun gun 13 Unit of land 15 Ruth’s Israelite T i p s o n P a r e n t i n g & Rmother-in-law el at i o nsh i ps 16 Fields, Way CPE out By Ross Fields, CPE & Kathleen 17 Authentic 18 Primly reserved 19 “Not guilty,” for We’ve been sitting out on our like he had a schedule that he’d and spontaneity -- when you take deck having morning coffee, so I taken time to put together,one and a family vacation. If your family 20 Figurine think it’s safe to say that summer he was bent on sticking to it. is like most, the “normal” day is Sage thyme is finally here. So nice, and so ap- Again he loudly urged, 22 very structured for all with work “Come on or 23 Foot preciated, after the wicked long boys, hurry up. I don’t want and school. Be easy with yourself to be digits winter we just went through here late for the museum. We and keep asking, “What is the 24have __ toas a fox in Portland (the first Portland). keep moving if we’re going get ofpriority? 26 to Half the What’s the plan?” Is it it all in today.” to see how many things can get diameter And with summer comes the checked off of the list, and how __ grandfather; possibility of a family vacation. As the older boy, 29 probably When adventure calls your many sites can be visited in one Here’s a little story that I hope around 8 years old, passed by us, dad dad’s young ones, why not let the exploration day? Or rather, just having fun unfold at their pace, rather than insist will help you better enjoy your head slightly down, we heard him 34 Dumbhead together, no matter what you’re on following a rigid vacation schedule? family vacation wherever you say half out loud, half to himself, 35 Monicadoing? of Consider allowing yourself, and the child, may go. “I thought it was supposed to tennis some flexibility for the unexpected opit really matter if you don’t be a vacation. Feels more like Will__ portunities that may arise. (Photo above: 36 Inventor A few years ago, Kathleen and work.” see all the sights? Allow yourself Québec’s Citadelle fortress; at right, I were visiting Quebec City. As Whitney http://bubbablueandme.com/2014/05/ to be in the moment. Take adwe were exploring around the With mom and boys in37 tow,Word dad of disgust exploring-ruins-kenilworth-castle/ vantage of unexpected opportuCitadel, located atop Cap Dia- set a quick pace as they38 strode off Soak nities, like spending more time at mant, we noticed a couple with to their next “fun” vacation exThursday’s Puzzle Solved 39 Political party’s a really cool fort. Make vacation two young boys. The kids were in perience. 3 just Unruly child interpretation a fun time and not another heaven, excitedly climbing and As they disappeared around the one 4 Follows 40 “Last in’s a relocated, evaluated, “work” ex-as a jumping off some of the lower corner, Kathleen and I smiled Who knows, with of less result rotten perience. __!” walls, running through trenches at each other realizing what planning and less “work”, you 5 Goes out with 41 Loses one’s and examining the details of the a great lesson we’d just footing been might surprise yourself and have 6 Nanny or billy cannon on display. taught. It appeared that the dad the best vacation ever! 7 Give off fumes 42 Room to All of a sudden we heard dad forgot to switch himself out of Steer clear of maneuver And as always . . .8with patience, shout out, “Come on boys, we “job mode” and into “vacation education, and practice, you 9 Gentlecan wind 43anGoes have to keep moving. We have mode”. He was missing awe- in again become a more confident and rod ef10 Wheel 45 Climbed other things to see and do today.” some opportunity to just be parent. 11 Dock Storm fective center It was obvious the boys hadn’t with his kids, and be46 flexible. 12relationship. Pierce 47 ReachIt’s across yet finished “seeing” the Citadel. He was so intent on completing ALL about the This place was like a dream come his “vacation agenda,”48that he 14 Great joy Sword fight Fields are highly true to them. I mean . . . come was missing the vacation, and Ross & Kathleen21 Praise 51 Mainly Certified Parenting Educators on! It’s a real fort, built high on the fun to be had with56 his Goofs fam25 Brown with an (CPE) and, co-founders of a bluff, with a commanding view ily, particularly his boys. orchestra 57 Sea duck with Results Parenting, LLC, www. of the St. Lawrence River. But the 26 The point here is to be opensoft and down resultsparenting.com.Passenger dad was persistent. It sounded ready, to allow for flexibility -27 Saying 58 Author Bellow 28 Funeral song 60 Frozen waffle (c) 2014 Tribune Content Agency, LLC 29 Marshmallow 61 Cinnamon __; All Rights Reserved. Easter candies tasty pastries 47 Use one’s nose 38 Slumberers 30 Frothy drinks 62 Luau dance 48 Profound 39 Language 31 Neighbor of 63 Lowly laborer heard in Madrid 49 Yen India 64 In __; chic 50 Therefore 41 Pigpen 32 Linda Lavin TV 65 Morning grass 52 Street uprising 42 Sign of an old series blade moisture 53 In a lazy way wound 33 Like a pricey 54 Praise 44 Late Mandela coat’s interior DOWN 55 Christmas 45 Not thickly 1 Mayo container 35 __-crazy; tired 59 Ordinance populated of confinement 2 Highest cards

GrowingTogether

Find crossword puzzle on page 9

Family Vacation Time … Work or Play?

MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

July 2014

the munjoy Hill neighborhood Organization Open Meetings!! The MHNO Board meets every second Monday of each month at 7 pm at the Hill House at 92 Congress St.

~*~ Farewell~*~

Everyone’s Welcome!

We have several MHNO members who will be stepping down from the Board this month. We thank Ralph Carmona, Ross Fields, and Caron Murray, for their dedication and service to the community. We greatly appreciate their energy and enthusiasm, and we wish them the very

Email info@munjoyhill.org. Show your neighborhood pride! Munjoy HilL t-shirts are available: S-XL: $18, XXXL: $18. Tees come in black or white. Or get this bumper sticker! (measures 6”x 4”) $3 per sticker. Buy one and support your Neighborhood group. Send your check to MHNO,92 Congress St, Portland ME 04101.

The Munjoy Hill 35th Anniversary Celebration to be held September 20, 2014!

Special thanks to Cecilia Ziko, a member of our Communications Committee, for To contribute your ideas designing our new logo! and to volunteer, please Thank you! We love it! email info@munjoyhill.org

best in their future endeavors!

Follow the Franklin Street redesign process! Go online to franklinstreet.mindmixer.com

Join the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization

At Home on Munjoy Hill AHOM, A Village for Munjoy Hill By Elaine Mullin Two recent publications have high-

lighted the growing awareness and work going on to help us age in place.

Consumer Reports May 2014 has a wonderful article titled, “Healthy Aging into Your 80s and Beyond, 5 Keys To a Long, Healthful Life” http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/ magazine/2014/06/healthy-aging-intoyour-80s-and-beyond/index.htm. Fernando Torres-Gil, Ph.D., director of the UCLA Center for Policy Research on Aging states ““Whether you’re just starting to think about your golden years or are well into retirement, it turns out that most of us have pretty similar goals: remaining independent, keeping mentally sharp, and staying as mobile as possible.” Those 5 keys to a long healthful life are: 1. Managing your health, 2. keeping your body strong, 3. Staying mentally sharp 4. Living independently, and 5. Moving to an easier home. To support your aging in place, they recommend checking to see if your area is served by a Village, described as “a membership network of people who are ‘aging

in place’ in their own homes with the help of services such as rides to the doctor, home maintenance and repair, computer troubleshooting, social events, and light housekeeping in exchange for a monthly or annual fee.” A 6/12/14 article in Forbes, “3 Innovative Ways to Age in Place,” includes the Village Model, as well as Maine physician Dr Alan Teel’s Full Circle America Model, and Generations of Hope Purpose-Driven Model. All are wonderful examples of the expanding options for being able to stay where we want with the help we need: h t t p : // w w w . f o r b e s . c o m / s i t e s / nextavenue/2014/06/12/3-innovativeways-to-age-in-place/ At Home on Munjoy Hill is a village in your neighborhood. It is grass roots, volunteer and membership led and supported, and is based on what the members identify as services needed. There is a saying in the Village to Village Movement, “If you’ve seen one Village, you’ve seen one Village”. We are creating our Village here on Munjoy Hill and want to hear from you. Tell us what you want, need, and can do. We will be starting with a list of services and supports on the soon-to-be updated MHNO website. Please contact us at any time by email or phone: Elaine Mullin at elaine.mullin@munjoyhill.org or 671-6132.

New Membership

Renewal

Name(s)_ ____________________________________________________________ Street Address________________________________________________________ City________________________________________State_______ Zip___________ Email (for MHNO updates)_____________________________________________ Day Phone (____)________________ Eve Phone (____)______________________

Membership Levels Individual: $10 Family: $20 Business: $35 Additional Donation $25 $50 $75 $100 $250 $500 Other Amount: ($______) wish my gift to be anonymous

Volunteer for a Committee! We need your help to make Munjoy Hill an even better place to live! Get involved by joining one or more of our committees:

Membership & Events Communications Services Safe & Livable Neighborhood Observer

We want all members of our community to join the MHNO regardless of financial circumstances. If you are unable to pay the suggested minimum amount, please pay what you can. If you are able to contribute more, we encourage you to do so. We thank you for your support, and we’re excited to have you on board! Please send this form along with your check to:

MHNO, 92 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101 Questions? Call (207) 775-3050, email info@munjoyhill.org or visit munjoyhill.org Welcome to the MHNO! 07/2014

July 2014

MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

Portland’s 2014 “Stars and Stripes Spectacular” Portland’s “Stars and Stripes Spectacular” will take place on Friday, July 4, 2014 (with a rain date of Saturday, July 5, 2014) at Eastern Promenade Park in Portland, Me. Come join us for a truly spectacular 4th of July! The event is free and open to the public. The July 4th “Stars and Stripes Spectacular” is the largest public event in the State of Maine with over 50,000 attendees every year.

Event Schedule

Thursday, July 3rd, 2014, Street Closure 10:00 PM. East End Boat launch, Cutter Street and parking lots closed to the public

July 4th, 2014 7:00 AM. East End Parking restrictions go into effect. 11:00 AM. Internal street closures (those bordering the Eastern Promenade) 12:00 PM. Vendors open to the public along the Eastern Promenade Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence by former State Rep. Herb Adams and viewing of the Dunlap Broadside copy of the Declaration (1 of 26 surviving copies) at Maine Historical Society, at 489 Congress Street. 4:00 PM. Thames Street Parking lot opens on Commercial Street across from the Ocean Gateway Terminal. 4:30 PM. Narrow Gauge Railroad starts running with pick up at Ocean Gateway. 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. “Scoop for Kids” Ice Cream Fest, Corner of Eastern Prom and Cutter Street. 5:00 PM. VIP tent opens. 5:30 PM. Middlesex County Volunteers Fife and Drum concert in front of City Hall.

6:00 PM. Middlesex County Volunteers march up Congress Street to the Festival. Dinner served by Famous Dave’s BBQ with cash bar. 7:00 PM. “Stars & Stripes Spectacular” Opening Ceremony. 7:40 PM. PSO Patriotic Pops Concert featuring Middlesex County Volunteers, Suzanne Nance and a spectacular fireworks display. 9:20 PM (approx). Fireworks display begins Listen to the broadcast of the “Stars & Stripes Spectacular” on WHOM 94.9

Suggested Viewing Spots

The Eastern Promenade Park – This popular location on Munjoy Hill has extremely limited parking; visitors are advised to arrive early to ensure seating space (Munjoy Hill will be closed to traffic at 4:00 PM). Patriotic Pops begins at 7:40 PM Back Cove/Payson Park – limited parking available at Baxter Boulevard parking lot (across from Hannaford), Payson Park, and the hillside at Cheverus High School. Peaks Island – view the fireworks at the ferry terminal and from various points along the shoreline Casco Bay – Boaters will be able to view the fireworks from the waters of Casco Bay. Questions regarding anchoring restrictions can be directed to the Portland Harbor Master on VHF-FM Channel 16 or 207.807.7156. . For more information: For Parking info see july4thportland.org. For volunteering, sponsoring, or purchasing VIP tickets for the “Stars and Stripes Spectacular” please contact our Event’s Planner Liv Tansley by e-mail at: info@ july4thportland.org.

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MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

July 2014

East End Business Focus

Exciting NEW condos in the heart of the Hill.

The Pepperclub Open for Summer; Old Port Location to Close Come Fall 2014 By Caron Murray The

Pepperclub

Restaurant

which has been an Old Port institution for 25 years, must move to a new location when its lease ends in September. The PepperClub has also been home to breakfast spot, Good Egg Café, whose original location was lost in a fire. The two eateries will move together to a new Portland or South Portland location.

Exciting NEW condos on Munjoy Hill.

Green building/minimal energy costs, garage parking, balcony. MARQUIS LOFT condos. Steps to neighborhood restaurants, short walk to the Eastern Prom waterfront park and to the Old Port shops and nightlife.

Come join the East End Community and make it your home!

$350,000 Murphy Team at Harborview Properties 147 Fore Street, Portland 04101

Richard and Jean Murphy

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The Pepperclub is on a block of Middle Street that I sometimes think of as “Restaurant Row”. Pepperclub’s neighbors include Ribolita, Duckfat, The East Ender, Eventide and Hugo’s. That’s a lot of competition on the same street.

Above, restaurant owner, Melissa Mae Sawyer, in front of the Pepperclub. Photo by Caron Murray.

The Pepperclub and Good Egg Café, have long been popular with the locals, but with a glut of new restaurants opening in Portland, and the arrival of a variety of food trucks servicing the Old Port, the Pepperclub was finding it hard to compete and stay viable. They are looking for a smaller location. Recently co-owners Melissa Mae Sawyer and Mary Ledue Paine updated the menu and closed off one of the rooms to increase efficiency and maintain a high level of quality and good service. “We want people to know we’re a scratch kitchen. Our ingredients are all locally sourced and organic. We have a variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free selections and we are always updating the menu. Our neighbors have all been very supportive. We’re sorry to have to leave this location and our friends here,” said owner, Melissa Mae Sawyer. The menu is delightful and offers delicious appetizers, creative meat, poultry and seafood offerings, soups, salads and tantalizing

desserts, as well as several vegetarian, vegan and gluten free selections. Co-owner, Mary Ledue Paine, was recently offered an opportunity to be caretaker of a small island off the coast of Castine, so Melissa is taking over full responsibility for the restaurant, choosing the new spot and the eventual move. And if that were not enough big changes, “I just got married on Saturday!” said Melissa. “We had our wedding party here in the restaurant.” The Pepperclub is open for supper Sunday through Thursday, 5–9 pm, and Friday and Saturday 5–10 pm. Good Egg Café serves full breakfast six mornings a week, Tuesday through Friday, 7 – 12 noon, and Saturday and Sunday 8 am – 1 pm. Catch them in the Old Port this summer before they move. We will let you know when their new location has been announced! Online at http://pepperclubrestaurant.com/

We Live Where You Live… Work with your neighborhood Realtors! Trevor Coyne

REALTOR, Associate Broker

Joe Piergrossi, Jr.

REALTOR, Associate Broker 2014 Summer Concert Series Schedule

Concerts on Thursday evenings 7:00-8:00 PM Fort Sumner Park on Munjoy Hill

JULY: 3rd Mes Amis – Gypsy Jazz 10th Travis Humphrey & the Honky Tonk Love Machine-Americana 17th Zulu Leprechauns -Rock and World Music 24th Lay-Z-Gait – Americana & Western Swing 31st The Jason Spooner Band – Roots Rock Songwriter, Sponsors

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July 2014

MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER justinalfond.com

Supplemental Budget

For most Mainers, July 1st brings preparations for Fourth

of July celebrations, perhaps a long weekend at camp, and of course, it’s the beginning of tourist season. What most people don’t realize is that July 1st also marks the first day of a new fiscal year. For the State of Maine, this means fiscal year 2015 begins and the supplemental budget we passed earlier this year is now in effect.

Solving our state’s budgetary challenges is one of the most important tasks we face as legislators. This session lawmakers worked together to develop a supplemental budget that revised the two-year budget passed last year. Governor LePage not only became the first governor in Maine’s history who refused to participate in the budget process, but he also vetoed the bipartisan budget the Legislature crafted. But, because this was a bipartisan budget, the Legislature successfully overrode the Governor’s veto. For me, one of the highlights of this budget is our continued in-

vestment in education. A child’s education begins long before the first day of kindergarten,

which is why our budget includes $750,000 for Head Start. Programs like Head Start prepare young children for Kindergarten so they show up to school prepared to learn. We also invested in our oldest citizens by allocating an additional $35 million in state and federal funding for our nursing homes for the next three years through

Gardener’s Dirt

‘The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From the Tree’ By Nini McManamy Munjoy Hill harbors a demure and secretive

band of foragers, who anxiously await their summer bounty in undisclosed locations around the Hill. Favorite pickings include apples, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries, and none will share the primo locations for fear of finding the harvest stripped clean. But local foragers will soon have it easier, thanks to the growing orchard of fruit trees planted around the community and school gardens on North Street. The trees, known as the Mount Joy Orchard, include about three dozen apples, pears, and a peach. The orchard was planted several years ago, as a collaboration between East End teacher, Amy Googins, and City Arborist, Jeff Tarling. Every year, the trees have grown in both number and size. A small amount of fruit is expected this year. “Munjoy Hill has a long history of apple-growing,” says Tarling, “and remnants of old orchards can be seen all around the Hill, for example, below Cutter Street. We know that people on the Hill already forage for raspberries, blueberries, and apples in the neighborhood, and this community orchard will build on that idea.” The Mount Joy orchard is one of several that have been planted around the city. When asked if the community could pick fruit in the new orchard, Tarling points out that there will be a few fruits this year, but that they will be thinned to help the trees put their energy into growth. A more significant harvest should be available next year. The orchard will not provide enough fruit for canning or freezing, but enough for snacking out of hand or a meal’s worth of

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two important legislative bills. This commitment is a first step to help our nursing homes provide the services our seniors need. Our budget will also reduce and eliminate waitlists at the Department of Health and Human Services for individuals with severe disabilities to get the critical home-based services they need. To strengthen our infrastructure, our budget also includes $500,000 to improve our drinking water system. This funding will be matched 5-1 by the federal government and is an important first step to addressing the substantial need to our drinking water infrastructure. Many of the underground facilities for drinking water are more than 100 years old and the ag-

ing infrastructure is not being replaced quickly enough. This investment will help ensure our water is a plentiful resource in our state for years to come. Investments in education, health care, and infrastructure are just some of the programs we strengthened in our budget. And our budget addresses many of the state’s long-term programs and it does so without raising taxes or fees. We were able to find savings and unspent funds in other programs. The result is a strong bipartisan budget that reflects Maine values. As always, please send me your thoughts and comments at Justin@JustinAlfond.com.

“A seed hidden in the heart of an apple is an orchard invisible.” —Welsh Proverb

cooked fruit. A wide variety of apples has been planted—cooking apples, dessert apples, some heirlooms, some diseaseresistant varieties, and some early- and some late-maturing varieties. Tarling plans to label each of the trees, so residents will be able to identify the fruit and its recommended uses. Apple trees are most susceptible to pests and diseases, which are endemic in Maine because of the wide cultivation of apples in the state. Because the city doesn’t have enough staff to do the job, Tarling is looking for tree stewards to take a leadership role in keeping the trees healthy and cared for. He is seeking someone with some knowledge of fruit tree care, who can prune, who will water and weed as necessary, and who has enough familiarity with pests and diseases to alert city staff when treatment is needed. To learn more, contact Jeff at jst@portlandmaine. gov or 874-8820. And please remember your neighbors when you forage this year; take just enough, and leave some fruit behind!

Above, City Arborist, Jeff Tarling, with a fruit tree at the Mount Joy Orchard by the North Street community garden, on the hill opposite the East End Community School. Photo by Nini McManamy.

Writer Nini McManamy is a master gardener with a garden design and consultation business, Gardener’s Dirt (ninimaine@aol.com) Do you want a doctor who takes time to really listen to your concerns?

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MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

From the

Friends of the Eastern Promenade

Where’s the Garden Tour? Many have inquired about the Hidden Gardens of Munjoy Hill Tour and have been understandably disappointed to learn that FoEP will not be hosting a 2014 tour. Rest assured the tour is not lost and our intention is to return the tour, new and improved, for the summer of 2015. The Garden Committee is seeking both volunteers to assist in this fabulous event as well as garden destinations for next year’s tour. Please get in touch with us at EasternPromenade.org if you’d like to help out or know of a wonderful garden.

Save The Date Bicentennial Celebration of Fort Allen Park, Hosted by

Friends of The Eastern Promenade & the City of Portland. Sept. 19 & 20, 2014 (rain date, Sept. 21).

Events are free and open to the public. For info: EasternPromenade.org, and follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ FriendsoftheEasternPromenade

Our 2014 goals are to insure the timely, successful completion, and subsequent celebration, of Portland’s signature landscape: Fort Allen Park. Read below for more info...

Fort Allen Park History Repeats Itself We hope you are enjoying this significant landscape transformation as much as we are. Mid-May brought the return of treelined walkways along the borders of the Park, as well as the historic central walkway leading from the Prom to the bandstand. The grounds have been re-graded, loamed and seeded. The overlook to Casco Bay has been reconstructed, allowing easy access for everyone. It features a new granite staircase. 300 feet of ornamental fencing secures its perimeter, as well as the existing embankment at the end of the Park. At the top of the Park, the enhanced 40 ft entry plaza includes bike racks, additional benches, and large stone planter. New bollard walkway lights illuminate the way for pedestrian’s enjoyment. If all goes according to plan, construction crews will have completed their work before the arrival of Independence Day. Our work is not finished, however. Friends of the Eastern Promenade has now launched the public phase of our Capital Campaign to ensure completion of project For more information on project details, including historical photos, please visit us at EasternPromenade.org

Crossword ACROSS

We would like to welcome our new Marketing and Development Coordinator Jessica Siraco to the Friends of Eastern Promenade community. As a Portland resident, organizational consultant and grant writer she has worked locally and statewide in various nonprofit management roles.

FoEP’s 2014 Summer Concert Series Thursday Nights in July and August 7 ~ 8 pm at Fort Sumner Park on North Street

Hosted By Friends of the Eastern Promenade The 2014 series brought to the Hill by Martin’s Point Health Care, with the generous support of State Theatre, Willey Trust, United Insurance, Smrt, Betty Winterhalder, Stonescapes/Cover All Painting, Coyne Piergrossi Associates Keller Williams Group, Bangor Savings Bank JULY 3: Mes Amis – Gypsy Jazz JULY 10; Travis Humphrey & the Honky-Tonk Love MachineAmericana JULY 17: Zulu Leprechauns - Rock and World Music JULY 24: Lay-Z-Gait – Americana & Western Swing JULY 31: The Jason Spooner Band – Roots Rock Songwriter ~~~~~ AUGUST 7: Jerks of Grass - Progressive Blue Grass AUGUST 14: Tilden Katz – Pop Rock AUGUST 21: Stream Reggae - Reggae AUGUST 28: Chandlers Band – Military Band

“Music in the soul can be heard by the universe.”

Concerts are cancelled for inclement weather.

—Lao Tzu

Portland’s Summer in the Parks Concerts

Jessica is passionate about developing resources, “connecting the dots” and sharing local history to support and promote the mission of local Friends’ groups. You can reach her at: jessica@easternpromenade.org

Dogs on the Prom FRIENDLY REMINDER: Responsible pet ownership includes picking up after your dog and depositing waste in a receptacle. Yes, even when using a biodegradable poop bag, the bag must be thrown into any one of the conveniently located Big Belly or other trash cans! PLEASE, do not toss into the brush (yuck) or our storm drains, as this contaminates the water that feeds our beautiful Casco Bay! For details about areas and times when dogs may be permitted offleash, please see http://easternpromenade.org/rules-regulations/ .

FOR RELEASE JUNE 20, 2014

THE Daily Commuter Puzzle http://www.freep.com/dailycommuter Solution on Page 4

ney 37 Word of disgust 1 Poke 38 Soak 4 Borders 9 Hits with a stun gun 39 Political party’s interpretation 13 Unit of land 40 “Last one in’s a rot15 Ruth’s Israelite ten __!” mother-in-law 41 Loses one’s footing 16 Way out 42 Room to maneuver 17 Authentic 43 Goes in again 18 Primly reserved 19 “Not guilty,” for one 45 Climbed 46 Storm center 20 Figurine 47 Reach across 22 Sage or thyme 48 Sword fight 23 Foot digits 51 Mainly 24 __ as a fox 26 Half of the diameter 56 Goofs 57 Sea duck with soft 29 __ grandfather; down dad’s dad 58 Author Bellow 34 Dumbhead 60 Frozen waffle 35 Monica__ of tennis 61 Cinnamon __; tasty 36 Inventor __ Whit-

pastries 62 Luau dance 63 Lowly laborer 64 In __; chic 65 Morning grass blade moisture

EasternPromenade.org

All shows will be held at Fort Sumner for the 2014 season.

Welcome!

July 2014

25 Brown with an orchestra 26 Passenger 27 Saying 28 Funeral song 29 Marshmallow Easter DOWN candies 1 Mayo container 30 Frothy drinks 2 Highest cards 31 Neighbor of India 3 Unruly child 32 Linda Lavin TV 4 Follows as a result of series 5 Goes out with 33 Like a pricey coat’s 6 Nanny or Billy interior 7 Give off fumes 35 __-crazy; tired of 8 Steer clear of confinement 9 Gentle wind 38 Slumberers 10 Wheel rod 39 Language heard in 11 Dock Madrid 12 Pierce 41 Pigpen 14 Great joy 42 Sign of an old 21 Praise highly wound

by Jacqueline E. Mathews

ACROSS

1 Poke 44 Late Mandela 4 Borders 45 Not thickly popu9 Hits with a stun lated gun 13 land 47Unit Use of one’s nose 15 Ruth’s Israelite 48 Profound mother-in-law 49Way Yen out 16 50Authentic Therefore 17 18 reserved 52Primly Street uprising 19 “Not guilty,” for 53one In a lazy way 54Figurine Praise 20 22 or thyme 55Sage Christmas 23 Foot digits 59__ Ordinance 24 as a fox 26 Half of the diameter 29 __ grandfather; dad’s dad 34 Dumbhead 35 Monica of tennis 36 Inventor __ Whitney 37 Word of disgust 38 Soak 39 Political party’s interpretation 40 “Last one in’s a rotten __!”

The Daily Commuter Puzzle by Jacqueline E. Mathews

3 Unruly child 4 Follows as a result of

Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

July 2014

MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

St. Lawrence Arts

Your neighborhood arts venue is at 76 Congress Street, stlawrencearts.org, 347-7177

Port Veritas Spoken Word Poetry Readings, every Tuesday 7-10 pm, @ Bull Feeney’s 375 Fore St. - 7:30-10pm / All Ages, FMI: Gil Helmick, 400-7543.

Mayo Street Arts

Performances & Classes 10 Mayo Street, mayostreetarts. org —Times vary. Classes: Tango, Belly Dancing, Kids Yoga, Juggling, Zumba and Pilates. Artist Studios, theater, poetry, music and more. Contact 615-3609, or info@mayostreetarts.org

Farmers Markets

Saturdays in Deering Oaks Park, 7 am to 1 pm Wednesdays on Monument Square, 7 am to 1 pm

Maine Senior FarmShare

Know a low-income senior (relative, friend or neighbor) who could benefit from $50 of FRESH, UNPROCESSED, LOCALLY GROWN PRODUCE? To participate, directly contact a local farmer to sign up. Contact your local area agency on aging by calling the ELDERS-1 toll-free number: 1-877-353-3771, for a list of participating FarmShare Farmers, http://www.getrealmaine.com.

Bicyclebene its.org Individuals and organizations decided that their city needed a program which encourages citizens to bike more regularly to more places. They reached out to the businesses community and explained the Bike Benefits program and the benefits of encouraging and rewarding biking to their businesses through an incentive/reward which is awarded to patrons who show up on bike and show their Bike Benefits helmet sticker. Go to Bicyclebenefits.org to learn how you can participate.

Boating Parade of Lights in Casco Bay

This summer, for the first time, Portland Harbor will play host to a boating parade of lights to benefit Toys for Tots. The event will take place on Saturday, July 5, at 9 p.m., with a rain date of July 12. The idea for this “Christmas in July” event was that of Capt. Shawn Welch, a member of the South Portland Lions Club. The goal is to have at least 100 boats muster at Fort Gorges and then make a tour of the harbor from the Eastern Prom over to Willard Beach.

The Portland Observatory

Open daily, May 24 – October 13, 2014. The hours are 10 am – 5 pm. All tours are guided, and the last tour begins at 4:30 pm. Please allow 45 minutes for your tour. http://portlandlandmarks. org/observatory/ 138 Congress Street on Munjoy Hill, (207) 774-5561

Spirits Alive Summer Tours Tours of Eastern Cemetery on Munjoy Hill on Congress Street will continue through October 15 every Wednesday, Sat & Sun at 1:30 PM. All tours are led by trained volunteers. New this year: “Last Saturday Tour” conducted at 11:00 AM. This tour introduces Bartlett Adams, Portland’s first stone carver; from 1800 to 1828,his shop produced more than 700 stones found in Eastern Cemetery. Admission for these tours: Adults $10.00. Students and Seniors (65+) $5.00, Under 12, Free. FMI: sa@spiritsalive.org.

Moxie Festival in Lisbon, Maine , July 12-14, 2013

The Annual Moxie Festival includes a river race, 5K road race, parade, car show, Moxie raffle and more!

Historical Walking Tours of Portland https://www.mainehistory.org/ Maine Historical Society offers historical walking tours of Portland. Walk to the waterfront and be guided through Portland’s evolution. Tours leave from MHS located at 489 Congress St. near Monument Square in Portland. Tours are daily at 1:30 pm and are approximately 60-75 minutes long. Admission: $10 walking tour only; $15 walking tour and Longfellow House tour. Free for children six years old and younger. Recommended for ages 12 and older.

See the Birds

join in guided wildlife tours with the nauralists of the Maine Audubon Society:Just off Rt 1 at 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth, ME 04105 – (207) 781-2330 Maineaudubon.org

Please Join Us for Free Community Meals! FIRST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH ONLY: First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 425 Congress Street • DINNER 5:00-‐6:00pm

MONDAYS:

Woodfords Congregational Church, 202 Woodford Street • LUNCH 12:00-‐1:00pm East End Community School, 195 North Street (Community Room) Dinner for East End Community School students & their families only. • STUDENT & FAMILY DINNER 5:00pm through school year (6/2, 6/9, 6/13)

TUESDAYS: Hope.Gate.Way. United Methodist community center, 185 High Street (corner of Cumberland Ave. one block up from YMCA) • LUNCH 12:00pm Parkside Neighborhood Center, 85 Grant Street (corner of Mellen Street) Seniors (55+) & families with children only. • FAMILY & SENIOR SUPPER 5:30pm

WEDNESDAYS:

My Place Teen Center, sponsored by Trinity Lutheran Church, 755 Main Street, Westbrook • DINNER 5:00-‐6:00pm

THURSDAYS:

Salvation Army Center for Aging, 297 Cumberland Avenue • SENIOR LUNCH 12:00-‐1:00pm Hope.Gate.Way. United Methodist community center, 185 High Street • DINNER 5:30pm Deering Center Community Church, 4 Brentwood Street (corner of Stevens Avenue) • DINNER 5:30-‐6:30pm St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 678 Washington Avenue • DINNER 5:30-‐6:30pm

*Wanted: Extra volunteer help with serving and supervising the meal. Contact Peter Gerard, EECC Recreation Leader, East End School - Portland Recreation 195 North St. Portland, ME 04101 (207)773-8222.

Wayside Food Programs * PO Box 1278 * Portland ME 04104 * 775-‐4939 * www.waysidemaine.org

Cardboard Boat Regatta

Sat, July 19, on Eastern Prom, Compassproject.org. Fun cardboard boat build, races, and waterfront festival. Compete for kids. Have fun. Get wet. 8 am-4 pm. Good times for youth, family, and corporate divisions!

Finally, weekly curbside compost pickup.. garbagetogarden.org

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MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum (Small

Trains, Big Story) http:// www.mainenarrowgauge. org/ —Family Friday Nights: July 18th, July 25th, August 1st, August 8th: Bring the family and enjoy complimentary ice cream as you take a sunset train ride along beautiful Casco Bay!

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July 2014

Peaks to Portland Swim, July 12, 2014

The Annual Peaks to Portland swim race will take place in Casco Bay starting at Peaks Island to East End Beach in Portland ME. The course is 2.4 miles long, minimum age is 16. http://www.imathlete.com/ events/EventOverview. aspx?fEID=18426

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MUNJOY HILL OBSERVER Spotlight on Non-Profits is a regular feature. To have your favorite non-profit profiled here, please contact observer@munjoyhill.org.

Special Foundation For Autism

At right. Stephanie Lay and her son Bryce, challenging the conventional wisdom about autism.

By Andrea Myhaver When Bryce Lay was diagnosed with autism at two and a half, the doctor told his mother Stephanie that he would never be affectionate towards her, never give her eye contact, or be social. Today, Bryce is a 14 year old adolescent, experiencing many of the typical challenges of puberty, and yes, he struggles in social situations. However all it takes is a few scrolls through Stephanie’s Facebook page, where you’ll see pictures of Bryce kissing his mama, videos of their conversations, and a picture of a sweet letter that he recently wrote to a classmate, to realize that Bryce is anything but anti-social.

perfect, Stephanie faces each new obstacle with determination and a refusal to back down until she finds a solution or answer she can work with. The key, she says, is to not be afraid to question, and then question again, when you hear something that doesn’t make sense to you. Stephanie knows that advocating for your child, and navigating through the world of autism is no small feat though, which is why she recently founded the SPECIAL foundation for Autism. SPECIAL stands for “Special Parents Establishing Connections in Autistic Lives”. The goal of the nonprofit foundation is to provide parents of children with autism with practical and tangible assistance. Stephanie, who serves as the (currently unpaid) Executive Director, wants SPECIAL to be a source of empowerment for families living with autism. She wants to use her hard-won knowledge and experience to help other parents find their way. The planned services are varied, and encompass things like; answering questions, providing information about alternatives to anti-psychotic medications, and supplying parents with batteries. “Batteries are a much needed staple, when your child has sensory issues”, Stephanie said, “battery operated toys and games are a lifesaver when your child has autism, and you can go through a package of batteries every two days”. She wants to partner with a business that would be willing to donate unused batteries so that

SPECIAL stands for “Special Parents Establishing Connections in Autistic Lives”

That early interaction with Bryce’s doctor was the first of many occasions when Stephanie listened to what the “experts” had to say about her son, and promptly vowed to prove them wrong. Instead of becoming resigned to a life in which she would not be able to connect with her son, she trusted her heart and followed her instincts, and it turned out to be exactly the right thing to do. In her words, “After he [the doctor] said that, I started hugging and kissing him [Bryce], whether he wanted it or not. I forced him to be affectionate”.

Whether it has been about issues of development, medication, schooling, hospitalization, or the myriad of other challenges that come with raising a child with autism, Stephanie has used the same approach, and it has made all the difference to her and her son. While things aren’t

SPECIAL can begin to provide them to parents in need. SPECIAL is just getting started.Stephanie has invested $4000 of her own money to help ensure its success, but that $4000 will only go so far, so there are plans underway to hold several fundraisers in the near future. The Observer will provide an update about SPECIAL and its activities in a future edition. In the meantime, to learn more, call 207-420-5730, and visit their website at www.specialfoundationforautism.org .