The Portland Daily Sun, Thursday, July 21, 2011

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THURSDAY, JULY 21, 2011

Tale of the morning bus See Bob Higgins’ column on page 4

‘Oz’ staging is a groaner See Michael Tobin’s theater review on page 8

Fenix acts out in Deering Oaks See Calendar, page 14

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First joy, now harsh reality After embracing a new nation, Sudanese hope to raise awareness of violence, genocide

BY DAVID CARKHUFF THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

July 9 was a day of jubilation as thousands celebrated independence for South Sudan. Now harsh reality sets in again for activists and Portland's Sudanese displaced by civil war in their African homeland.

On Friday, protests against continuing genocide in Sudan will include a gathering from noon to 2 p.m. at Monument Square; it's part of a 24-hour hunger strike that will last from Friday at noon to Saturday at noon. At 7 p.m. Friday, the public can meet at the Root Cellar on Washington Avenue in Portland and join a bus trip departing at 8 p.m. en route to Washington, D.C., for a Peace in Sudan Rally at the White House.

Portland is home to the largest community — nearly 100 people — of Fur tribal members of any city in the United States, according to the public education group Fur Cultural Revival (http://sites.google.com/ site/furculturalrevivalme). Darfur, Mariano Mawein, chairman of the Sudanese Community of Maine, stands in the Meg Perry Center Wednesday. A flag from the see SUDAN page 7

new independent nation of South Sudan is in the background. There’s been a celebration of the newly formed nation, but it’s now time to confront continued genocide and violence in the African nation, peace activists say. (DAVID CARKHUFF PHOTO)

City strains as homeless ranks surge

BY CASEY CONLEY THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

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Homeless populations at the Oxford Street Shelter have surged in the past few months to “unprecedented” levels as more refugees and people from outside Portland seek temporary housing, according to a recent city report.

Data from fiscal year 2011, which ended June 30, show double-digit increases in the

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number of people from other Maine towns, other states and other countries in need of services at the city-run shelter. More Portland residents are also seeking assistance at the facility, located in the Bay-

side neighborhood.

To meet demand, Oxford Street has been operating an overflow shelter at Preble Street Resource Center on a regular basis. see SHELTER page 15

Jurors deliberate on Parkside shooting

BY MATTHEW ARCO THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN

Call or visit website for details

“I think it’s a crisis, and it will need to be addressed by the community with a community approach.” — Josh O’Brien, director of Oxford Street Shelter

Closing arguments were made Wednesday in the murder trial against a Portland man accused of gunning down his friend in their Parkside apartment building in Febru-

ary 2010.

State prosecutors accuse Dandoit Butsitsi of staging an ambush attack on his former friend, Serge Mulongo, when they say Butsitsi shot Mulongo six times at close range. Butsitsi's lawyer told jurors that

his client feared for his life the night of the shooting and acted in self defense.

Jurors deliberated for about two hours before a court recess was called by Judge Andrew Horton. Jurors are scheduled to return to Cumberland County

Superior Court this morning.

Leading up to deliberations, prosecutors argued the case is black and white, saying jurors should have no problem returning a guilty verdict on the charge of murder. see JURORS page 7

Page 2 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011

Bachmann: Migraines won’t stop her if elected president WASHINGTON (NY Times) — Representative Michele Bachmann suffers from migraine headaches so intense that she has sometimes sought emergency medical treatment, but the congresswoman said Tuesday that the condition would not preclude her from serving as president if elected.

“Let me be abundantly clear — my ability to function effectively has never been impeded by migraines and will not affect my ability to serve as commander in chief,” Mrs. Bachmann, Republican of Minnesota, said in a statement. She described the headaches as “easily controlled with medication.”

Mrs. Bachmann, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination and was campaigning Tuesday in South Carolina, was responding to a report in The Daily Caller, which published an article about the migraines on its Web site Monday night. It cited unnamed advisers, including one who said the congresswoman “carries and takes all sorts of pills” for migraines that at times rendered her “incapacitated” — an assertion her campaign and family strongly disputed.

“She would not in any respect meet the definition for not having capacity in one of these episodes,” Dr. Lucas Bachmann, the candidate’s son and a medical resident at the University of Connecticut, said in a telephone interview. “She is probably not going to run a mile, but in terms of being able to engage, she can comprehend and assess information — without a doubt.”

The American Migraine Foundation, a nonprofit group devoted to research, says 36 million Americans, or about 12 percent of the population, suffers from migraines, a neurological disorder characterized by severe-to-moderate headaches and often nausea.

The headaches, which the group says can be “extremely disabling for sufferers, painful enough to cause work loss” typically last 24 hours; most people have only a few attacks per month, but chronic sufferers can have many more.

Migraines are three times more common among women than men, the foundation says, adding that those who get the headaches are “more likely” to have depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, other pain conditions and fatigue.

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Talks accelerate on broad federal budget agreement

BY CARL HULSE AND JACKIE CALMES THE NEW YORK TIMES

WASHINGTON — President Obama and Congressional leaders, spurred by a positive response to a new Senate deficitcutting plan, sought on Wednesday to resurrect a broad budget agreement as House members condemned a fall-back proposal taking shape in the Senate.

Officials in both parties said discussions had accelerated about a compromise tied to a debt limit increase that would cut spending, reshape entitlement programs like Medicare and call for a future tax overhaul — a package that would slice trillions of dollars from projected deficits over the next decade. The talks picked up after a bipartisan group of senators unveiled their deficit plan on Tuesday, with House Republicans signaling that they might now be open to a deal that would raise more money

for deficit reduction by closing tax loopholes and eliminating deductions while also reducing tax rates.

Mr. Obama summoned Republican and Democratic leaders to separate White House sessions. And the White House spokesman, Jay Carney, said Mr. Obama would drop his opposition to signing a shortterm increase in the federal debt ceiling, but only for an extension of days and only if the two sides were in agreement on the contours of a deal that raised the ceiling through 2012 and made long-term reductions in federal debt. “There is still time to do something significant if all parties are willing to compromise, because the parameters of what that might look like are well known, especially to the participants in the negotiations the president oversaw last week,” Mr. Carney said.

The search for a solution intensified as House Republi-

cans made clear that they were in no mood to accept a proposal being developed by Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the Republican leader, who has advocated a procedural maneuver to allow a debt increase to clear Congress without Republican votes.

The four top House leaders — Speaker John A. Boehner of Ohio; Representative Eric Cantor of Virginia, the No. 2 House Republican; Representative Nancy Pelosi of California, the Democratic leader; and Representative Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland, the No. 2 Democrat — met privately Wednesday and, according to officials, reviewed problems with the McConnell plan. Putting it in place would require some House Republicans to back the idea, but the concept has met with mounting resistance in the House even as a last-ditch effort.

“If there is a state or condi-

tion worse than death, that’s where it would be,” Representative Trey Gowdy, Republican of South Carolina, said about the McConnell proposal. “I can’t think of one, so we will just go with death for now.”

Senate leaders were still planning to go forward with consideration of the McConnell fallback after considering the “cap, cut and balance” plan that cleared the House on Tuesday but has no chance of passing the Senate, where Democratic leaders assailed it on Wednesday.

“The Republican scheme to cap, cut and kill Medicare is dead on arrival in the Senate,” said Senator Charles E. Schumer of New York, the No. 3 Democrat in the Senate.

“Their plan, which passed the House last night on a virtual party-line vote, would wreak havoc on our country’s seniors, the middle class, military preparedness and our standing in the world.”

British leader defends actions in tabloid hacking case

BY ALAN COWELL THE NEW YORK TIMES

LONDON — Prime Minister David Cameron went before a loud and rowdy session of Parliament on Wednesday to offer a spirited defense of his record in Britain’s phone hacking scandal. For the first time, he seemed to distance himself from a former tabloid editor he had hired to work in 10 Downing Street.

Mr. Cameron’s appearance before a special sitting of the House of Commons offered one more remarkable moment of passion and spectacle, following the appearance Tuesday of Rupert Murdoch, one of the world’s most powerful media moguls, and his son James, who were both questioned by British legislators for nearly three hours.

The Murdochs’ appearance — made yet more dramatic by a protester’s attack on Rupert Murdoch with a plate of shaving cream — did not seem on Wednesday to have come close to answering many of the questions the father and son faced about phone hacking in the British outpost of their media empire in 2002.

Indeed, one of the two parliamentary panels investigating the widening scandal released a scathing report on Wednes-

day accusing Murdoch companies of “deliberate attempts” to thwart its investigations, and said police inquiries had been a “catalog of failures” in investigating the issue.

The events played out against a backdrop of huge public revulsion over the central allegation that The News of the World, the tabloid that Mr. Murdoch closed down earlier this month, had ordered a private investigator to hack the voice mail of Milly Dowler, a 13-year-old girl abducted and murdered in 2002.

The announcement that their company would stop paying the legal fees for that investigator, Glenn Mulcaire, was flashed on television bulletins.

So great is the public’s interest in the whole affair that the BBC devoted live television coverage on Wednesday to what it said was the Murdochs’ executive jet flying out of Luton airport north of London. (Its destination was not announced.)

The gathering of so many emotional issues, laced with big money deals, tabloid scandal and long-running British suspicion of the Murdoch machine, has crystallized into the most serious crisis of credibility and confidence of Mr. Cameron’s 15 months in office — a crisis in which he seemed to be trying on Wednesday to

Prime Minister David Cameron answered questions in the British Parliament on Wednesday (NEW YORK TIMES PHOTO)

regain some of the initiative seized earlier by the Labour opposition leader, Ed Miliband.

On Wednesday, Mr. Cameron switched to the offensive, challenging Mr. Miliband to detail his party’s links and encounters with the Murdoch family, which were widely known under former prime ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown before the Murdochs’ daily tabloid, The Sun, shifted its support to Mr. Cameron before the May 2010 election.

He said all political parties had cozied up to media barons for years, seeking their electoral support. “The clock has stopped on my watch and we need to sort it out,” he said, calling for a new relationships between the

press and politicians.

Mr. Cameron returned home early from an African trade tour late Tuesday to face questions about his own relationships with former senior figures at News International, the British subsidiary of Rupert Murdoch’s global News Corp., particularly his choice of a former Murdoch employee, Andy Coulson, as his director of communications.

Mr. Coulson, who was editor of The News of the World when some of the phone hacking took place, resigned from the prime minister’s office in January and was among 10 people who were arrested in the affair.

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011— Page 3

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Despite cancer risk, many embalmers sticking with Formaldehyde

BY ANDREW MARTIN THE NEW YORK TIMES

With the government declaring formaldehyde a carcinogen, these might be boom times for alternative embalming fluids — if it weren’t for the so-called everlasting effect every funeral director stakes his reputation on.

“Formaldehyde is the perfect product for fixation and short-term preservation,” said Debbie Dodge, the president of the Dodge Company in Cambridge, Mass., which markets embalming fluids to funeral homes. “Formaldehyde will firm up the body tissue more than any of the nonformaldehyde products out there.”

The formaldehyde industry fought the government’s designation for years, arguing that the science was fuzzy on the link between the chemical and certain cancers. Consumer advocates hope a government warning in June will spur increased demand for products with little or no formaldehyde — for items as diverse as plywood, pressed wood, wrinkle-free shirts and hair straighteners.

Among funeral directors? Not likely.

Next to arsenic, which is no longer used, undertakers insist nothing else preserves the body long enough so that it is presentable for public viewing and can be shipped. In embalming rooms across the country, the focus is on limiting exposure while still using enough of the chemical to keep the customer looking as lifelike as possible.

“Family members,” John H. Fitch Jr., senior vice president of advocacy for the National Funeral Directors Association, “have a fairly high expectation.”

Undertakers have been aware of formaldehyde’s dangers for more than a decade — the first workplace restrictions on formaldehyde came in the 1980s — and many have been changing their embalming practices to make the process safer.

“In our new facility, the ventilation is very good,” said Michael J. Lensing, coowner of the Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service, in Iowa City, Iowa. “In our old facility, oh, my God. It was different.” At the Lensing funeral home, roughly 60 percent of the bodies that come in are embalmed.

The array of precautions were on display at the A. A. Rayner & Sons Funeral Home on Chicago’s South Side, where Charles S. Childs Jr. provided a tour this week of a funeral home started in 1947 by his grandfather.

Back then, he said, embalmers went about their work without gloves or masks or much ventilation. Years later, ducts were installed in the ceiling so the fumes wafted in front of their faces as they were sucked out of the room.

But now Mr. Childs’s embalming area is fume-free. There were five bodies lying on gurneys, in various

states of preparation, and a sixth in a harness, prepared to be lowered into a casket. A colleague who was preparing to embalm one of the bodies wore gloves and a protective apron, and planned to add eyewear and a mask once he got started.

Mr. Childs pointed to ventilation ducts installed at table level.

“We have to protect ourselves,” Mr. Childs said.

Various forms of body preservation have been around for eons, including mummification by the ancient Egyptians. During the Civil War, embalmers prepared the remains of soldiers in the battlefield and shipped them back to their family by train or horse and buggy. A high point, in embalming lore, is that President Lincoln’s body traveled by train from Washington to Springfield, Ill., with public viewings of the preserved remains along the way.

At that time, arsenic was one of the primary preservatives. It was eventually replaced by formaldehyde.

Modern-day embalming fluid is a mixture of formaldehyde, other less toxic chemicals and water. The embalming fluid that is injected to the arterial system, to replace blood, is up to 5 percent formaldehyde, while a more concentrated form — up to 50 percent formaldehyde — is injected into the body cavity.

An average embalming requires a minimum of three gallons of the embalming solution, said Melissa Johnson Williams, executive director of the American Society of Embalmers.

Ms. Dodge’s company began selling embalming fluids without formaldehyde a few years ago, and some companies now market “green burials” in which less toxic chemicals are used.

But while the sales of nonformaldehyde products are increasing, she said that as of yet they simply do not work as well and cost nearly three times as much.

The problem is that the new embalming fluids do not give bodies that “everlasting effect,” said Ed Lins, a funeral director at Cross Island Funeral Service, in Flushing, N.Y. “I wouldn’t embalm a body that is being shipped overseas with it,” he said.

Said Isaiah Owens, who owns a funeral home in Harlem, “It may look perfectly well. But it may be smelling.”

The first major safety improvements in the funeral industry’s use of formaldehyde came in the 1980s after the Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration set exposure limits for the chemical in the workplace, including mortuaries. Then, about a decade ago, the National Funeral Directors Association met with chemical companies and urged them to come up with alternatives to formaldehyde, Mr. Fitch, the association’s senior vice president, said.

Two years ago, the association

Isaiah Owens, owner of a funeral home in New York. “I guess there’s a risk associated with any occupation,” he said. “So I’m willing to do what I do and let nature take its course” (Chester Higgins, Jr./ The New York Times).

released a stronger set of recommendations for how its members should deal with formaldehyde. Foremost on the list was installing a proper ventilation system that regularly changes the air in the room and is tested often to make sure it is working properly.

Since formaldehyde is heavier than air, ventilators should be installed below “the breathing zone of the embalmer.”

The association also recommends that embalmers wear respirators and nitrile gloves, rather than latex, because they are more resistant to formaldehyde.

The average funeral home embalms about 150 bodies a year, suggesting that many embalmers are not exposed to formaldehyde throughout the day.

But these days, many funeral homes outsource the embalming to “trade houses” that do many times the average. Among them is Paccione Funeral Directors in Staten Island, which embalms up to 140 bodies a month.

“In our facility, we do a complete air change in the space every four minutes,” said Rocco Paccione, the owner, adding that embalmers wear protective eyewear and suits. “Air flow is

directed in a fashion where it flows to air receptacles that draw formaldehyde from the room.”

Do his employees worry about getting cancer? Studies of workers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde, including embalmers, have found higher incidences of certain types of rare cancers.

But while a few funeral directors said they knew of cancer among some older undertakers, most said they did not know of any colleagues who had developed the rare cancers.

“I just love what I do,” said Mr. Owens, the Harlem funeral director. “I guess there’s a risk associated with any occupation. So I’m willing to do what I do and let nature take its course.” Such attitudes have made Joseph Sehee’s job a tough sell. He is the executive director of the Green Burial Council. “ I can’t tell you how many funeral directors come up to me and say, three generations and no cancer,” he said.

“In this industry, more than any other you’ll come across, there is really an emotional relationship these guys have with the chemical companies and the chemicals themselves.”

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Page 4 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011

––––––––––––– COLUMN –––––––––––––

Portland’s new mayor will not enjoy significant new powers Editor, RE: “New mayor will receive new salary,” (Tuesday, July 19), I don’t know if Matthew Arco is new to Portland or just naive enough to think that the readers of The Portland Daily Sun will take him at his word when he writes about the publicly elected mayor position having authority. He should read a copy of last fall’s ballot Question No. 1 or take a look at Portland’s Charter. Of the 13 “powers and duties” of the postion only one is something that is not currently done by City Councilors or the City Manager.

The new mayor position has been touted as having the power to veto the budget. It takes seven City Councilors voting in favor to pass the annual municipal budget appropriation. It only takes six to override the mayor’s veto. That to me does not constitute authority on the part of this new position. But you say his position is a full-time job. Ask any Councilor if they think of their position as just “part time.” Any at-large Councilor who has served two or more consecutive terms has as much “power and mandate” as the new mayor will have.

But, of course, the mayor will be getting paid nine times what a City Councilor gets paid. Not only is this new mayor’s job set up to severely limit the ability to make positive changes in Portland, it may cause some animosity between City Councilors and the mayor over compensation.

Jay York Portland (Editor’s note: York has taken out a candidate petition to run for mayor.)

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

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

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

Tale of the morning bus Wednesday morning was one of “those” mornings. I awakened late, had to hurriedly search for my pants, and make the swift man-boob- jiggling trot to catch the 6:20 bus at Woodfords corner.

As it turns out, I could have taken my time, and enjoyed a second cup of coffee.

Every once in a while, the Gods of Summer come along and give you some sort of symbol that you should just bag work for the day.

An old boss of mine used to call the phenomenon “calling in well.”

He named it this after one notorious slacker called in one day and said “Boss? I won’t be in, I’m calling in well.” “Don’t you mean sick?” he replied. “Nope, I am WAAAY to good to come to work today!”

I wouldn’t advise such a tactic in this economy, but there it is.

The signs of a good beach day were all there. The weather was boiling hot, the grains of sand practically begging for a cooler of beer and a beach chair. Here came the bus, right on time. Off to work for another day.

Oh, so I thought at first. Getting on the bus, I noticed an unusual aroma, not the usual one of new lifeforms in sneakers. It was a burning sort of electrical smell, a sharp musty ozone-ish

Bob Higgins ––––– Daily Sun Columnist thing. I paid the fare, and headed for the seats in the back, muttering something about something was on fire somewhere.

“Yeah, it’s the wheels of the bus.” said my buddy, Percy. At first, I thought he was kidding, but looking out the window, I could see a thick acrid smoke pouring from the sides and rear wheels of the bus. The driver looked out the window, shut the bus off, and went to go investigate.

Suddenly, with all this talk of fire, and all of us seeing and smelling smoke, the regulars on the morning run sort of stood up and looked at each other with uncertainty. About a minute later, the bus driver came back.

“Folks, we are having a little problem with the bus. I’m going to have to ask you to get off, but I’ll be giving you all emergency transfers. There should be another bus here in 10-15 minutes.” With that, he ushered us off.

Ever inquisitive, I asked what was up. “The brakes. They seem to have locked, and heated up the drums. Maintenance is on the way.” We openly joked about going into the local donut shop to get him a bucket of water to dump on it, but by that time the damage was done.

You see, this is what I mean.

The very act of waking late should have made me abandon the rest of the day in favor of the frigid waters. With dogged determination, I was headed for work. But here came a chance to get away, a mulligan from the “Blessed Saint of Public Transportation,” a sign, a portent, a powerful symbol. The day should be taken off.

Some patiently stood around waiting for the replacement bus, others decided to hoof it into town. After about a half an hour, folks were getting a bit antsy. The maintenance dude had come and unlocked the locked up brakes, deeming it safe for travel.

This isn’t the first time for a glitch in the morning transportation system. Twice in the last few weeks, the coin-box has broken, resulting in stuffing that tiny coinbox at the entry way full. According to the driver at the time, the see HIGGINS page 5

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011— Page 5

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

From Gallipoli to Singapore Right before a clown threw blue shaving cream on Rupert Murdoch and Murdoch’s pink-clad wife threw a roundhouse at the clown, the most powerful media mogul in history was reminiscing about his father.

In a meeting last week in London with the parents of the murdered 13-year-old Milly Dowler, whose cellphone was hacked by his hacks — digital activity that left her family with a hope that she might still be alive — Murdoch said The News of the World had not lived up to the standards of his father and mother.

Now he was talking sentimentally to British members of Parliament investigating the hacking and Scotland Yard bribery scandal about how his father had seen newspapers as a force for good.

“I just wanted to say that I was brought up by a father who was not rich but was a great journalist,” the 80-year-old Murdoch said. “And he, just before he died, bought a small paper specifically saying in his will it had given him the chance to do good.

And I remember what he did and what he was most proud of and for which he was hated by many people in this country for many, many years, which was expose the scandal in Gallipoli, which I remain very, very proud of.”

The late Keith Murdoch, the grandson of two Scottish ministers, was a

Maureen Dowd ––––– The New York Times media baron in Australia who wielded the power to make and break prime ministers, just as his son later would.

And like Rupert, Keith’s heart, or as one Australian writer put it, “what he would have called his heart,” was drawn to brash tabloids.

As a young journalist during World War I, Keith Murdoch became famous when he visited the Gallipoli campaign and broke censorship rules barring any criticism of the conduct of war or tally of casualty figures.

He wrote home to the Australian prime minister, a family friend, and he sneaked off to London to blow the whistle there — in a jingoistic, exaggerated way his son would appreciate — about the incompetence of the British command in charge of the decimation in Turkey, where 120,000 soldiers died, including 8,500 Australian infantry and light horsemen.

Old posters for the brilliant 1981 movie “Gallipoli” give Rupert Murdoch a producing credit. He financed half the movie to show the world why his father had been right.

Rupert wanted to avenge his father with the British establishment, and what sweeter way to do it than to take over the British press, including its most prestigious broadsheet, The Times of London, and help decide who runs Britain.

At Tuesday’s hearing before a parliamentary committee, Murdoch smiled as he admitted that he sometimes had to go in the backdoor of 10 Downing Street to have tea with a grateful prime minister. But even the backdoor may be barred to him now. And, as the scandal creeps up the trellis of British power, who knows now how long it will be David Cameron’s home?

The hunters became the hunted during three hours of riveting testimony in the House of Commons. The News Corporation trio, baked in the bottom-feeding and whatever-it-takes business, seemed coached. They would say whatever it takes. They stuck to a hoary formula for scandals, claiming the cognitive advantage that being on top of the world left them out of touch.

Mistakes were made, but not by the captains of the ship. We deeply regret these things we were in no way involved in. We’re transparent, even though we’re still paying off former employees to keep their mouths shut.

Playing the ruthless mogul reduced to helpless victim, Rupert came across better than his 38-year-old son James, with the Haldeman buzz cut, the

American Harvard dropout accent, the “Mad Men” skinny blue tie, and the ingratiating over-articulateness hiding the arrogant entitlement.

Rebekah Brooks, the 43-year-old former editor of The News of the World and daughter-figure to Rupert, was a prideful pre-Raphaelite Medusa, with a sweet face and soft voice spinning tales of innocence that didn’t quite gel.

At hearings revealing their corruption, the police revealed their incompetence, unable to stop a lame comedian from further victimizing their self-professed victim.

Rupert Murdoch’s tabloids pandered to the lowest common denominator, but, in the end, his sleazy henchmen were lower than the people they pandered to. People had a limit, as it turned out. Citizen Murdoch was brought low, his grip loosened and his myth deflated, by the power of social opprobrium.

His most revealing moment was when he volunteered his admiration of Singapore, calling it the most “open and clear society in the world.” Its leaders are so lavishly paid, he said, that “there’s no temptation, and it is the cleanest society you’d find anywhere.”

It was instructive that Murdoch chose to praise a polished, deeply authoritarian police state. Maybe that’s how corporations would live if they didn’t have to believe in people.

The long retreat of liberalism Though President holes” and ending “tax breaks Obama has run rings for the rich” — were hard and about the Republican specific. Had Boehner accepted Party in the debt-ceiling the deal, he would not have debate, that party can yet survived as speaker. Fully 235 emerge victorious, if it will GOP House members signed a stick to its guns. pledge in 2010 not to vote for Clearly, the Republican any tax increase. strategy was not thought Thus, every day Boehner through, when the party and Cantor departed the chose the debt ceiling as White House, having refused ––––– the legislative terrain on to accept “the deal of the cenCreators which to fight its fiscal war. tury,” the message that went Syndicate The president had out to the nation was that wanted a clean debt-ceilRepublican intransigence, a ing increase, but he seized the GOP refusal to compromise, was blocking challenge with alacrity. He invited historic deficit reduction.

House Speaker John Boehner and Using the White House bully Majority Leader Eric Cantor down pulpit, Obama portrayed himself as to the White House and reportedly bending over backward to do a fair offered $3 trillion in spending cuts deal and being forced, if the GOP for $1 trillion in fresh revenue, in a continued to balk, to stop mailing historic “big deal” to cut the deficit. out Social Security checks.

However, the cuts the president Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke offered were, while attractive, gauzy. warned of a U.S. default on its debts But the revenues — closing “loopif there were no deal. Moody’s and

Pat Buchanan

“Cut, cap and balance” calls for cuts in federal spending to 20 percent of gross domestic product, a cap on federal programs and the enactment of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution, which would crush federal spending to 18 percent of the economy from today’s 25.

Standard & Poor’s warned that the United States was imperiling its AAA credit rating. The big media painted the GOP as a party led by reasonable men who were hostage to fanatics being pandered to by Cantor.

Why did Boehner refuse the Obama temptation?

Had he accepted the deal, his party in the House would have split asunder. Half would have voted “no.”

To force its passage, Boehner would have had to collude with Minority Leader Steny Hoyer, against scores in his own caucus, to get Democratic votes.

Though House Republicans have

been mussed up in the last two weeks, the White House “negotiations” now appear at an end, and a liberated Republican House is about to pass its own deficit-reduction plan.

“Cut, cap and balance” calls for cuts in federal spending to 20 percent of gross domestic product, a cap on federal programs and the enactment of a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution, which would crush federal spending to 18 percent of the economy from today’s 25.

While this may clear the House, it stands little chance in the Senate. see BUCHANAN page 6

The very act of waking late should have made me abandon the rest of the day HIGGINS from page 4

electrical system controlling the box had fried, and he hadn’t hit a big enough bump in the road to reset it yet.

Luckily, some of the potholes from early spring haven’t been filled yet.

Most of us ended up getting back on the same bus

once it was deemed safe for travel. The driver had the mechanic follow us, just in case the wheels did burst into flame.

While the long days of summer start to wane a bit, I’ll have to pay a bit more attention when given signs about just bagging the whole day. Now, those that were on the bus Wednesday morning can show this column to the boss, thereby proving “Hey, see? I

wasn’t lying to you. I was a half an hour late because the wheels on the bus don’t always go round and round like they are supposed to.”

Ah, to be someone’s excuse for being late for work.

Priceless.

(Bob Higgins is a regular contributor to The Portland Daily Sun.)

Page 6 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011

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

Can Greeks become Germans?

Katerina Sokou, 37, a Greek financial journalist at Kathimerini, a daily newspaper, told me this story: A group of German members of the Bavarian Parliament came to Athens shortly after the economic crisis erupted here and met with some Greek politicians, academics, journalists and lawyers at a taverna to evaluate the Greek economy. Sokou said her impression was that the Germans were trying to figure out whether they should be lending money to Greece for a bailout.

It was like one nation interviewing another for a loan. “They were not here as tourists; we were giving data on how many hours we work,” recalled Sokou. “It really felt like we had to persuade them about our values.”

Sokou’s observation reminded me of a point made to me by Dov Seidman, the author of the book “How” and the C.E.O. of LRN, which helps companies build ethical business cultures.

The globalization of markets and people has intensified to a new degree in the last five years, with the emergence of social networking, Skype, derivatives, fast wireless connectivity, cheap smartphones and cloud computing. “When the world is bound together this tightly,” argued Seidman, “everyone’s values and behavior matter more than ever, because they impact so many more people than ever. ...We’ve gone from connected to interconnected to ethically interdependent.”

As it becomes harder to shield your-

subsidies, aid and euros with low interest rates to Athens.

Natural resources create corruption, as groups compete for who controls the tap. That is exactly what happened in Greece when it got access to huge Euro-loans and subsidies. The natural entrepreneurship of Greeks was channeled in the wrong direction — in a competition for government funds and contracts. To be sure, it wasn’t all squandered. Greece had a real modernization spurt in the 1990s. But after 2002, it put its feet up, thinking it had arrived, and too much “Euro-oil” from the European Union went back to financing a corrupt, patrimonial system whereby politicians dispensed government jobs and projects to localities in return for votes. This reinforced a huge welfare state, where young people dreamed of a cushy government job and everyone from cabdrivers to truckers to pharmacists to lawyers was allowed to erect barriers to entry that artificially inflated prices.

European Union membership “was a big opportunity for development, and we wasted it,” explained Dimitris Bourantas, a professor of management at Athens University. “We also did not take advantage of the markets of the [formerly] socialist countries around Greece. And we also did not take advantage of the growth of the global economy. We lost them all because the political system was focused on growing public administration — not on

Thomas Friedman ––––– The New York Times self from the other guy’s irresponsible behavior, added Seidman, both he and you had better behave more responsibly — or you both will suffer the consequences, whether you did anything wrong or not. This is doubly true when two different countries share the same currency but not the same government. That’s why this story is not just about interest rates.

It’s about values. Germans are now telling Greeks: “We’ll loan you more money, provided that you behave like Germans in how you save, how many hours a week you work, how long a vacation you take, and how consistently you pay your taxes.”

Alas, though, these two countries are so culturally different. They remind you of a couple about whom you ask after their divorce: “How did the two of them ever think they could be married?”

Germany is the epitome of a country that made itself rich by making stuff.

Greece, alas, after it joined the European Union in 1981, actually became just another Middle East petro-state — only instead of an oil well, it had Brussels, which steadily pumped out

[fostering] entrepreneurship, competition or industrial strategy or competitive advantages. We created a state with big inefficiencies, corruption and a very large bureaucracy. We were the last Soviet country in Europe.”

That is why, he added, that Greeks, when they move to the U.S., “unleash their skills and entrepreneurship” in ways that enable them to thrive in commerce. But here in Greece, the system encourages just the opposite. Investors here tell you that the red tape involved in starting a new business is overwhelming. It’s crazy; Greece is the only country in the world where Greeks don’t behave like Greeks. Their welfare state, financed

by Euro-oil, has bred it out of them.

With the decline of Beirut and Dubai, Athens should have become the service center of the Eastern Mediterranean. Instead, Cyprus and Istanbul seized that role. Greece must not waste this crisis. While it has instituted some reforms in the last year, Prime Minister George Papandreou said to me, “What is most frustrating is the resistance in the system. How do you produce a change in culture?”

It will take a cultural revolution.

And that can happen only if Greece’s two major parties come together, hold hands, and collectively force through a radical change in the governing culture from the top down. Without that, Greece will never be able to pay back its loans.

As debt swells, across the West, the public sector is under siege BUCHANAN from page 5

But it puts the party on the offensive. It will eat up the clock. It will put the GOP on record as to where it stands and provide the Tea Party Caucus a chance to vote its convictions.

But if the GOP House plan dies in the Senate, how does the GOP win? Again, by simply standing its ground on taxes, and waiting.

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This weekend, Democrats and Republicans, Congress and the White House agreed the debt ceiling will be raised, and Obama accepted the reality that he will not be getting any new revenue.

This means that, at the end of this process, Obama will sign a debt-ceiling increase that involves $2 trillion or $1.5 trillion or $1 trillion in spending cuts, with no new taxes and no new revenues.

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Republicans may have been beaten up for most of July, but come August, Democrats will be asking Barack Obama what exactly he and they got for agreeing to serious cuts in social spending, while the Republican right compromised on nothing and gave up nothing.

Obama won the public relations battle, but the Republicans, if they hold firm on no revenue enhancement and no new taxes, are fated to win the war. And not just this one.

For, from Greece to Ireland to Portugal to Italy, from California to Wisconsin to New Jersey to New York, the crisis of the West is a crisis of liberalism.

Deficits and debts that threaten to wipe out bondholders and banks, destroy currencies, bring down governments and bankrupt nations are everywhere forcing reductions in government payrolls and rollbacks in government programs.

Across the West, the public sector is under siege.

And parties of the left, be they liberal, socialist or Marxist, depend on the public sector increasing its employees, increasing its beneficiaries, increasing its share of the national wealth.

That is what they do. That is how they grow. And that is how they reach and retain power.

Bottom line. Parties of the left are on this earth to grow the government. But the West has entered a period where its economic survival and the prevention of financial collapse mandate constant and deep cuts in the size and sweep of government.

For the left, this is going to be a long decade.

(To find out more about Patrick Buchanan, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate web page at www.creators.com.)

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011— Page 7

Hunger strike, rally aim to draw attention to Sudan SUDAN from page one

an area about the size of Texas, has been particularly hard hit in Sudan's civil war. According to the Fur Cultural Revival website, the Sudanese government campaign against Darfuri civilians has, "through direct violence, disease and starvation, already claimed as many as 400,000 lives."

"In Darfur, we've been crying so loud," said El-Fadel Arbab, secretary, speaker and educator with the nonprofit Fur Cultural Revival.

"Independence, that really gave us hope and opportunity for all Sudan," he said, "and now the government of Sudan, because the South is going away from them, they just want to kill everyone, in Nuba Mountain and in Darfur and in the Abyei area. All the marginalized people in Sudan, in all these areas a lot of violence is going on, and nobody will talk about it. If you talk about it, they will come in there and kill you. That's why everyone is just silent."

On Jan. 9, the people of South Sudan — including refugees in America, including displaced Sudanese in Portland who traveled to Boston — voted to separate themselves from the government of Sudan. This vote followed 22 years of civil war in Sudan.

In accordance with a peace agreement made between the government of Sudan and the people of South Sudan in 2005, the people of South Sudan were offered an opportunity for separation, and this referendum resulted in 98 percent of the vote favoring independence. On July 9, under the terms of the referendum, South Sudan offi-

El-Fadel Arbab, secretary, speaker and educator with the nonprofit Fur Cultural Revival, a group committed to preserving Sudan’s Fur tribal culture, gestures to posters about the genocide in Sudan, while at the Meg Perry Center Wednesday. “All the marginalized people in Sudan, in all these areas a lot of violence is going on, and nobody will talk about it,” he said. “If you talk about it, they will come in there and kill you. That’s why everyone is just silent.” (DAVID CARKHUFF PHOTO)

cially became a new nation.

But July 23 marks a grimmer milestone — the seventh anniversary of the declaration of the Darfur genocide by the U.S. Congress. Organizers of the peace march and hunger strike on Friday and Saturday were candid about the challenges. "Sadly, seven years after the declaration, the protection of civilians remains unattainable as violent attacks against civilians, blockades of humanitarian access, systematic rape, brutal arrests and torture continue in Darfur," states an announcement of the weekend events from Peace Action Maine.

"New violence erupted in South Kordofan, Abyei, and the Nuba Mountain region. Even in Khartoum, the capital, attacks against human rights activists, civil society leaders, and women are increasing," the announcement noted.

Arbab is a survivor of a brutal assault on his village by the Janjaweed, a militia that he said was armed and supported by the government of Sudan in a bid to defeat rebel movements.

"Those guys are criminals," Arbab said, gesturing to posters in the Meg Perry Center, including an image of

Omar al-Bashir, the Sudanese president who has been branded a war criminal in international circles.

Saturday's march in Washington, D.C. seeks to refocus world attention on the plight of the Sudanese, postindependence.

"We will go there and we will send a message to our world leaders and to the United Nations and also to the Congress about what's going on, the genocide should be stopped, so they will put more pressure on the Sudanese government," Arbab said.

Peacekeepers in Africa lack a strong enough mandate to stem the violence, Arbab argued.

"The government of Sudan and militia Janjaweed, they will just come and attack people, rape women and girls, do whatever they want and run away.

We just want a strong mandate," he said.

Mariano Mawein, chairman of the Sudanese Community of Maine, agreed that excitement on July 9 was strong, with more than 1,000 people turning out in Portland to celebrate independence, but he said, "There are a lot of challenges. That's why we felt it was important to send a message out."

Mawein said the State Department can focus on the crisis in Sudan, noting that American foreign policy is at stake.

For more information, contact Arbab by email at elfadel@furculturalrevival.org or at 221-5197 or Niemat Ahmadi via niemat@savedarfur.org, or (202) 556-2101. Also visit the Peace Action Maine website at http://www. peaceactionme.org.

Attorney: ‘One thing that we can’t do is use our emotions’ attacked and thought Mulongo had a gun in his hand, Sineni said.

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"Was it stupid, was it a bad idea for Mr. Butsitsi to go there that night? Yeah. ... (But) he had no intentions of killing Mr. Mulongo."

Police didn't find a gun on Mulongo, but he did have a glass pipe in his left hand.

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The other man arrested in connection with the shooting, Moses Okot, pled guilty to felony murder on July 7.

Okot was accused of driving the getaway vehicle and supplying Butsitsi with the latex gloves. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with all but three years suspended. He will also serve four years on parole.

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JURORS from page one

"This case is about the premeditated execution of 24-year-old Serge Mulongo. ... (It) is about revenge and it is about restitution," Assistant Attorney General Lisa Marchese told jurors.

"He took matters into his own hands and he engaged in vigilante justice," she said during closing arguments, pointing her finger at Butsitsi. "The law is not on his side, the facts are not on his side."

Marchese talked at length about one of the state's witnesses called to testify during the trial, Emmanuel William, who they say was an eyewitness to the shooting. William told jurors last week that he was standing between the accused gunman and victim when Butsitsi allegedly fired off the shots that killed Mulongo from the .45-caliber handgun.

"What happened next would almost be comical if it weren't so tragic," Marchese told the jury, explaining how William saw where the gunman ditched the gun and latex gloves he wore during the shooting.

Defense attorney Anthony Sineni asked jurors to put aside their personal feelings about Butsitsi.

Rather, he asked them to decide whether the state proved beyond any reasonable doubt that his client was not acting in self defense.

"It's not about whether you like Mr. Butsitsi," Sineni said. "One thing that we can't do is use our emotions ... in a case like this."

Sineni argued Butsitsi was at the apartment building at 218 Park Ave. to collect his belongings so he could move out. The relationship between the two men had deteriorated and Sineni said his client was scared of Mulongo.

Butsitsi fired the gun after he was allegedly

Page 8 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011

ARTS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– THEATER REVIEW–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘Oz’ production fails to find the rainbow ‘The Wizard Of Oz’ Arundel Barn Playhouse Anyone who has done summer stock, will tell you how challenging a typical day in the theatre can be. You rehearse all day for two weeks creating one show while performing a totally different one at night (twice a day if you have a matinee) for a small stipend with room and board.

These actors and creative backstage people work very hard and give two hundred percent to their productions.

Having done summer stock myself for 30 years, as both an actor and director, I give these thespians a standing ovation for what they endure. However, that does not excuse a theater for not producing the highest quality, best possible production they can create — especially if you market yourself as a professional summer theater charging $28-$39 per ticket.

Arundel Barn Playhouse, led by Producing Artistic Director Adrienne Wilson Grant, tried unsuccessfully to stage the family classic, “The Wizard

Michael J. Tobin ––––– Theatre Talk of Oz.” The actors worked very hard to make a bad adaptation by Tams Witmark Music Library come to life but got absolutely no creative support from New York director, Josh Penzell.

The entire production was unimaginative and lacked any magic or heart — or in the words of a little girl leaving the theater, “it was wicked boring.”

Four standout performances of the evening were given by Matthew Krob (Tin Woodsman) who embraced the heart of his character both emotionally and physically; Daisy (Toto) who stole every scene she was in; Patrick Heffernan (Gate Keeper) who brought “fun” into every Gate Keeper scene; and Ariel Marcus (Mayor of Munchkinland, Ensemble) whose energy

Arundel Barn Playhouse, led by Producing Artistic Director Adrienne Wilson Grant, tackled the family classic, “The Wizard of Oz.” But no tornado? (COURTESY PHOTO)

and commitment to the show and her many characters was flawless — I couldn’t take my eyes off her, she has that special “something”! Everyone had very good vocal skills but musical director Jeff Van Damme did not utilize them to their potential or bring out any emotional connection to what they were singing.

Brittney Morton (Dorothy) was too old for her role and never captured the youthful heart of a conflicted teenager searching for answers “over the rainbow.” Robert Rice (Scarecrow) had a nice energy. Danny Prather (Cowardly Lion) seemed insecure with his lines and music and had no sense of comedic timing. Unfortunately, there was no connection between any of the “three friends” and Dorothy, which took away any emotional involvement from the audience, especially at the end.

Grace Caudle (Glinda, Aunt Em) did not have the endearing qualities needed but played it flat and unfeeling. Kelly Morris (Wicked Witch/ Miss Gultch) played it for the laughs instead of the frightening presence

that gave us nightmares as a kid. Rick Nadeau (Professor Marvel/Wizard of Oz) had no character(s), no timing.

The local Munchkins had the appropriate cuteness. Everyone had potential if only they had been given any sense of direction.

Technically, the show had only one special effect when the witch melted, although you could plainly hear the trap door being opened. The set was bland and uninspired although I did like the Witch’s castle and the OZ face. Lighting, which is supposed to enhance the set and support the action and intent on stage, was basically too bright throughout and seemed to have no design other than “light the stage.” Costumes (listed as “by Arundel Design Team”) were laughable.

Dorothy’s costumes looked like square dancing dresses, wrong period and above the knee. The Tin Man looked like (as a young boy behind me said) “a robot” — not distressing at all for someone who has been rusting outside for so long. The Cowardly Lion’s head piece looked like a bad drag queen. see TOBIN page 9

Portland Improv Comedy Festival set DAILY SUN STAFF REPORT Maine comedians are organizing the second annual Portland Improv Comedy Festival for the week of Aug. 11-14. All shows will start at 8 p.m. at Lucid Stage.

“Improvisational Comedy is a fastgrowing form of entertainment in which the performers make up comedy scenes based primarily on suggestions and interactions with the audience,” states a press release from festival organizers. “The performances are not

scripted and cause the comedians to create dialog, setting, characters and plot ‘on the spot.’”

“This is a fun and funny way to support the local economy,” said Rachel Flehinger, one of the organizers of the event. “It was such a success last year, this year we hope to draw the attention of even more tourists and local businesses.”

Tickets cost $10 in advance, $12 at the door, and $25 for a four-day pass.

For details, visit www.portlandimprovfestival.com.

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011— Page 9

Sgt. Alonzo P. Stinson and the start of the Civil War remembered Ceremonies on Saturday marked the 150th anniversary of the death of the first Portlander to die in the Civil War. Sgt. Alonzo P. Stinson was just 19 when he was killed in July 1861 at the Battle of Bull Run, Virginia, the first major battle of the Civil War, and a major defeat for Northern forces, noted local historian Herb Adams, an organizer of Saturday’s event. Ceremonies were conducted at Portland’s Eastern Cemetery on Congress Street.

The 150th anniversary event featured speakers including Maine State Historian Earle Shettleworth of Augusta, an director Kim MacIssac of the 5th Maine Regimental Memorial on Peaks Island. Here, Joseph Donahue of Augusta poses in Civil War garb as a re-enactor with the 3rd Maine Regiment.

Donahue will attend the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Bull Run this week in Virginia.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Empty House Party & Lobster Bake Wednesday, Aug. 3 DAILY SUN STAFF REPORT The evening before a group of the area’s top interior designers begin the process of redesigning an historic Portland Tudor for the 2011 Portland Symphony Orchestra Designers’ Show House, the public is invited to tour the empty house and feast at a festive lobster bake presented by Bernie’s Foreside. The Empty House Party & Lobster Bake is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and costs $40 per person. The 2011 Designers’ Show House is located at 149 Western Promenade in Portland.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling the PSO at 7736128, ext. 311, or emailing events@portlandsymphony.org.

The event is the first, last, and only opportunity the public has to view the “before” of the house prior to the Show House’s opening, completed, on Sept. 10.

The designers will redecorate nearly the entire house beginning on Aug. 4, working over the course of the five weeks between the Empty House Party and the Gala Preview Party on Sept. 9.

The Show House is the major fundraiser for the PSO. Admission to the Show House is limited to adults and children over age 10.

In the words of a little girl leaving the theater, ‘it was wicked boring’ TOBIN from page 8

The Ensemble looked like a potpourri of “whatever they could find in storage.”

Other obvious misfortunes were an out-of-tune piano (no excuse — it’s a musical!); instead of a basket to take Toto in, they used a nylon zippered backpack; inconsistent accents; too much was done presentationally, delivered directly to the audience (especially Glinda); techies being seen on stage before the lights came down; talking and singing about things that don’t even happen and so much more ... and this was supposed to be opening night?!

I have said this many times, just because someone is from New York City, does not make them an expert in the arts, on or off stage. We have enormous talent right here in Maine that could have exploded on stage with the kind of OZ the audience deserved.

With all of Mr. Penzell’s directing credits, you have to ask, “What happened?!” And Producing Artistic Director Adrienne Wilson Grant should have asked, “What happened?!” and then insisted she find someway or someone to fix it. The audience deserved that, especially the children — and especially the adults who spent their hard earned money to support your theater. And to say, “it will get better” is not fair to the people who have already paid their money and experienced it.

“The Wizard of Oz” is an easy show to put up in two weeks (I’ve done it myself a few times over the years) if you have a director with imagination.

It does not need a big budget, just some creativity.

To stage this with no special effects, no magic, no heart and — to my horror — no tornado, is inexcusable. These actors work so hard and deserved to have had better creative and artistic support from top to bottom — especially since they’re the ones on that stage in front of an audience. I know that Arundel Barn Playhouse had done some excellent work in the past and I know not every show can be flawless, but it makes me angry when the possibilities are endless (even with a short rehearsal time and small budget) and you’re paying up to $39 per ticket

for what is billed as professional theatre — this was not professional theatre and I can not recommend it. However, regardless of my review and knowing the kind of work Adrienne and Arundel Barn can (and has) produced, I look forward to their upcoming shows and encourage you to experience a “Barn” show this summer!

Arundel Barn Playhouse, 53 Old Post Road, Arundel, Maine. Box Office 985-5552. Coming soon, “A Taffeta Wedding,” Aug 9-20 and “I Left My Heart —

A Salute To Tony Bennett,” Aug 23-Sept 3.

(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.)

DAILY CROSSWORD TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

by Lynn Johnston

By Holiday Mathis SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). All the things you (SET ITAL) should (END ITAL) do seem even more boring, tedious and ordinary than the things you (SET ITAL) have (END ITAL) to do. So you’ll likely rebel and do only what you really want to do. Let the chips fall where they may!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21).

Sometimes familiarity makes it harder for you to see someone how he or she really is. You compensate for this by actively looking for something positive about a loved one.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19).

You’ll take an artistic approach to your daily business. For instance, you arrange your table like you’re going to paint a still-life picture of it. You’ll bask in appreciation tonight.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). It’s hard to say why exactly, but your selfimprovement efforts may annoy other people. You’re better off keeping it on the down low for now, except with your most supportive loved ones.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20).

There’s a situation that is just getting old to you. You won’t have to make a move to change the game, though. This will happen naturally. The problem will simply disappear.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (July 21). A free and easygoing feeling permeates your personal atmosphere. Obstacles are lifted in August. November kicks off a series of accomplishments. Share your good fortune with others in September, and teach what you know, too.

An investment pays off in May. Physical activities bring vitality and success.

Capricorn and Pisces people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 50, 7, 28, 49 and 16.

by Paul Gilligan

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You may wake up in a lazy, unfocused mood, but you can prevent this from occurring two days in a row. Write a concrete plan for tomorrow, and you’ll wake up in the right frame of mind for major productivity.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20).

Unchecked speech causes problems.

Thoughtlessness is dangerous, and so is a distracted mind. Do what you have to do to get centered before you express yourself.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). When you are truly a newcomer to a scene, you need things broken down to the most basic elements. Ask questions.

Anyone who makes you feel silly for doing so is the wrong teacher for you.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). As any good dancer knows, opposing sides can still cooperate with each other. When they do, the result can be more interesting than what comes from people cooperating with others who are already on the same side.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Even when something is completely unfamiliar to you, you are still able to open your mind to the possibility that it exists somewhere in the universe. You’ll thrive creatively because this is how you are.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’re interested in a bigger income because it will allow you more choices. Instead of desiring money, shift your focus. It will make you wealthier when you desire to provide a great value to others.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You don’t have to make drastic changes to improve the quality of your life in a big way. You’ll de-clutter some small part of your world -- like a drawer or closet -- and it will be the gesture that brings good fortune to you.

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, July 21, 2011

ACROSS 1 __ off; annoyed 5 Of no __; worthless 10 Unconscious state 14 Luau dance 15 Demean; lower 16 Wonder-struck 17 Extremely dry 18 Like a neutral nation 20 At this time 21 Helper 22 Takes a break 23 “__ makes waste” 25 Man’s title 26 Like a difficult problem 28 Spread rumors 31 Vows 32 Ms. Winfrey 34 Scottish denial 36 Facial spots 37 Move stealthily 38 Jewish wedding dance 39 Billy __ Williams

40 Like cheap hamburger 41 Worth & Knox 42 Energetic one 44 Suggestive of the forest 45 Skating surface 46 “Aida” composer 47 Seaweeds 50 Actor Jack __ 51 Bow the head 54 Make effective once again 57 Cradle rocker, often 58 African nation 59 Fine tablecloth material 60 Article 61 Reach across 62 Fewest 63 Cozy rooms

1 2

DOWN “Better late __ never” Lira replacer

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 19 21 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 32 33 35 37

Cotton gin inventor Papa Conceitedness Dwelling Pathway Neighbor of Canada: abbr.

Sushi dish Basketball players Possesses Encounter Tallies up Dubliners et al.

Invites Yearn; long Saturate Frog’s cousin Ran quickly Hair color, eventually Excessive Hair divisions Climb __; mount Gerbil or kitten Uncomplicated Identical

38 40 41 43

Part of a parka Gem surface Henry or Glenn Vitamin B complex acid 44 “And as if that __ enough...”

46 Casts a ballot 47 Weapons

48 49 50 52 53 55 56 57

Jump Celebration Actress Turner Ill-fated sign Water barriers Sick Compete Prefix for night or wife

Yesterday’s Answer

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011— Page 11

Today is Thursday, July 21, the 202nd day of 2011. There are 163 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: On July 21, 1861, during the Civil War, the first Battle of Bull Run was fought at Manassas, Va., resulting in a Confederate victory.

On this date: In 1899, author Ernest Hemingway was born in Oak Park, Ill.; poet Hart Crane was born in Garrettsville, Ohio.

In 1911, Canadian communications theorist Marshall McLuhan, who coined such expressions as “The medium is the message,” was born in Edmonton.

In 1925, the so-called “Monkey Trial” ended in Dayton, Tenn., with John T. Scopes convicted of violating state law for teaching Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.

In 1930, President Herbert Hoover signed an executive order establishing the Veterans Administration.

In 1944, American forces landed on Guam during World War II. In 1949, the U.S. Senate ratified the North Atlantic Treaty.

In 1959, the NS Savannah, the first nuclear-powered merchant ship, was christened by first lady Mamie Eisenhower at Camden, N.J. In 1961, Capt. Virgil “Gus” Grissom became the second American to rocket into a sub-orbital pattern around the Earth, flying aboard the Liberty Bell 7.

In 1969, Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin blasted off from the moon aboard the ascent stage of the lunar module for docking with the command module.

In 1980, draft registration began in the United States for 19- and 20-year-old men.

One year ago: A triumphant President Barack Obama signed into law the most sweeping overhaul of U.S. lending and high finance rules since the 1930s.

Today’s Birthdays: Singer Kay Starr is 89. Movie director Norman Jewison is 85.

Former Attorney General Janet Reno is 73.

Actress Patricia Elliott is 69. Actor David Downing is 68. Actor Wendell Burton is 64.

Actor Art Hindle is 63. Singer Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens) is 63. Cartoonist Garry Trudeau is 63. Comedian-actor Robin Williams is 60. Comedian Jon Lovitz is 54.

Actor Lance Guest is 51. Comedian Greg Behrendt is 48. Rock singer Emerson Hart is 42. Country singer Paul Brandt is 39.

Actress Ali Landry is 38. Actor Justin Bartha is 33. Actor Josh Hartnett is 33. Actress Sprague Grayden is 33. Reggae singer Damian Marley is 33. Country singer Brad Mates (Emerson Drive) is 33. MLB All-Star pitcher CC Sabathia is 31. Singer Blake Lewis (“American Idol”) is 30. Rock musician Johan Carlsson (Carolina Liar) is 27.

Actress Vanessa Lengies is 26. Actor Jamie Waylett (“Harry Potter” films) is 22.

THURSDAY PRIME TIME 8:00

Dial 5 6

8:30

9:00

9:30

10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30

CTN 5 Community Bulletin Board WCSH

7

WPFO

8

WMTW

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MPBN

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WENH

Community Parks and (In Stereo) Recreation Å Å So You Think You Can Dance Eliminations; Blush and Snoop Dogg.

Wipeout The contestants face a baby food buffet.

(N) Å Maine Robert Watch Hamilton

The Office 30 Rock “PDA” Å Avery goes into labor.

Glee “Rumours” April comes back to Lima. (In Stereo) Å Expedition Impossible Wading through treacherous river canyon. (N) Doc Martin “Happily Ever After” Replacement vicar. Å Roadside Windows Blue Realm Tiger Stories Å to the Wild sharks; salmon shark in Hiking N.H. Alaska. Å The Vampire Diaries Plain Jane Transforming “Katerina” Elena looks a shy, messy woman. Å into Katherine’s past.

The Big Rules of Big Brother Elimination; Bang Engage- household competition.

Theory ment Å (N) Å Without a Trace Å Without a Trace Å

12

WPXT

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WGME

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WPME

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25

FAM Goonies

26

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27 28 30 31 33

JULY 21, 2011 Love Bites “Modern News Tonight Plagues” Bedbugs threatShow With en domestic bliss.

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Curb Saver

Alaskan Monster Hunt Sons of Guns Å

Alaskan Monster Hunt

Movie: ››› “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”

The 700 Club (N) Å

Suits “Bail Out” (N)

Covert Affairs Å

NESN Minor League Baseball: IronPigs at Red Sox

Daily

Dennis

Daily

CSNE MLS Soccer: Revolution at United

Sports

SportsNet Farm

ESPN Softball

Baseball Tonight (N)

SportsCenter (N) Å

ESPN2 2011 Home Run Derby Å

Softball

SportsNation Å

ION

Criminal Minds Å

Burn Notice (N) Å

The Space Age: NASA’s Story “Tragedy” (In Stereo) Å Extra (N) Punk’d (In (In Stereo) Stereo) Å Å WGME Late Show News 13 at With David 11:00 Letterman Late Night Star Trek

Criminal Minds Å

Criminal Minds Å

Daily Sports

Criminal Minds Å

34

DISN Good Luck Shake It

Movie: ›››› “WALL-E” (2008)

35

TOON Regular

King-Hill

King-Hill

Amer. Dad Amer. Dad Fam. Guy

Lopez

Lopez

’70s Show ’70s Show ’70s Show ’70s Show

36 37

MAD

NICK BrainSurge My Wife MSNBC The Last Word

Fish

ANT Farm Vampire

Rachel Maddow Show The Ed Show (N)

38

CNN In the Arena (N)

Piers Morgan Tonight

40

CNBC Marijuana: Pot Industry CNBC Titans (N)

Fam. Guy

The Last Word

Anderson Cooper 360 (N) CNBC Titans

Mad Money

41

FNC

The O’Reilly Factor (N) Hannity (N)

Greta Van Susteren

The O’Reilly Factor

43

TNT

Bones (In Stereo) Å

Bones (In Stereo) Å

CSI: NY “Risk” Å

44

LIFE Project Runway Å

NY Ink “Think Again”

Bones (In Stereo) Å

Project Runway Å NY Ink (In Stereo) Å

YFTAF

NY Ink (N) Å

©2011 Tribune Media Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

NY Ink (In Stereo) Å

TLC

47

AMC Movie: ››‡ “Conan the Barbarian” (1982) Arnold Schwarzenegger.

48

HGTV First Place Selling NY Selling NY Novogratz House

49

TRAV Man, Food Man, Food Man, Food Man, Food Man, Food Man, Food Man, Food Man, Food

50

A&E The First 48 Å

52

BRAVO Housewives/NYC

Housewives/NYC

“Conan the Barbarian” Hunters

First 48: Missing

House

Hunters

Housewives/NYC

Happens

NYC

Frasier

Frasier

Frasier

HALL Little House on Prairie Frasier

56

SYFY “Captain America II”

Movie: ›‡ “Captain America” (1990)

“Captain America”

57

ANIM River Monsters

To Be Announced

River Monsters

HIST Swamp People Å

Swamp People (N)

BET

61

COM South Park South Park Futurama

62 67 68 76

Frasier

To Be Announced

Futurama

Two Men

Two Men

Wilfred (N) Louie (N)

TVLND All-Family All-Family Raymond

Raymond

Raymond

Everybody-Raymond

Fam. Guy

Fam. Guy

TBS

Two Men

Two Men

Movie: “Journey to the Center of the Earth”

SPIKE Jail (N)

Jail (N)

Louie Raymond

Snapped Å

DAILY CROSSWORD 1 5 9 14

15 16 17 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 30 31 32

Snapped Å

Answer here:

Conan (N)

Snapped Å

OXY Snapped Å

TCM Movie: ›› “Drums of Africa” (1963, Action)

BY WAYNE ROBERT WILLIAMS

Wilfred

Deadliest Warrior Å

78

Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

Ugly Amer Daily Show Colbert

iMPACT Wrestling (N) (In Stereo) Å

146

LEWFOL

The Mo’Nique Show

Futurama

FX

SCETOL

Ancient Aliens Investigating aliens. Å

Movie: ››‡ “Lean on Me” (1989, Docudrama) Morgan Freeman. Å

60

ELDWL

First 48: Missing

55

58

Frasier

by David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek

Hef’s Runaway Bride

46

The First 48 Å

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME

Unscramble these four Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form four ordinary words.

Yesterday’s

Movie: ››‡ “Harum Scarum” (1965) Å

ACROSS Italian sauce Follow orders Carries a tune “Blackboard Jungle” author Hunter Innermost section Adversary Artificial treat?

Egyptian dam Declares to be true Comic Boosler Candy containing fruit or nuts Hersey’s bell town Bay windows Down Under capital Has a wearying effect Distinctive atmospheres “One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest” author Kesey

33 Cloyingly sentimental 34 Some choir voices 35 __-bitty 36 Yale man 37 __ Gurley Brown 38 Scatter around 39 Submitter for approval 41 “The Last of __” 42 Oats or barley 43 Precipitously 44 Cause 46 “Butterfield 8” writer 47 Overhead 48 Somber voice?

52 Courting man 53 Pinnacle 54 Cain’s nephew 55 Offers to buyers 56 Zoom by 57 Word with water or pop

1 2

DOWN OED’s category Gardner of

Sign Up for the IAFLOFCI (OFFICIAL) Jumble Facebook fan club

––––––– ALMANAC –––––––

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 18 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 31

“Mogambo” Guy’s partner In a risky manner Groups of eight Wild pigs Makes a wrong turn Up until this time Underwater research facilities Deranged Big Apple vacation?

Crimebuster “Auld Lang __” Atrocities Best and Ferber Office machine Delphi prognosticator Piece of dairy farm equipment?

Slugger Henry Even more adorable Pass on a rumor Regardless “Sleeper” director

(Answers tomorrow) Jumbles: GLORY TENTH FINISH INSIST Answer: When she asked the flight attendant to change seats, she was told to do this — SIT TIGHT

Woody Eagle’s residence Repeats Throwers Stock amount Hogwash Doesn’t grow a beard 43 Transparent fakes 44 Carnivores’ 34 35 37 38 40 41

mouths 45 Orchestral reed 46 Large marine predator 48 Disparity 49 Yoko’s maiden name 50 Dip of one’s head 51 NASA’s ISS partner

Yesterday’s Answer

THE

Page 12 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS • CALL 699-5807

Furniture

Yard Sale

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

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

AMAZING! Beautiful Queen or Full Mattress Set. Luxury firm European pillow-top. New in plastic, costs $1,095 sell $249. Can deliver.

603-315-3480.

CAPE Elizabeth, 7/23, 13 Pleasant Ave., 9-2pm. Furniture, household, CDs, books, collectibles, BBQ. Two family.

Announcement

For Rent

For Rent

UNITY CENTER FOR SACRED LIVING is an open interfaith, Oneness oriented spiritual community. We hope you will come join us for our alternative services on Sundays at 10am at the Williston-West Church, Memorial Hall (2nd fl), 32 Thomas St., Portland, ME (207)221-0727.

PORTLAND- Danforth Street, 1 bedroom, heated, newly painted, hardwood floors. Modern eat-in kitchen. $850.

(207)773-1814.

WESTBROOK large room eff. furnished, utilities pd includes cable. Non-smokers only. No pets. $195/wkly (207)318-5443.

Autos 1966 Galaxy 500 XL convertible, red w/ black interior. Call Bill for details (207)697-3645.

ALWAYS cash! Ramsey Services- Dead or alive! Cash for cars, running or not. Up to $500.

(207)615-6092.

BUYING all unwanted metals. $800 for large loads. Cars, trucks, heavy equipment. Free removal. (207)776-3051.

PORTLAND- Maine MedicalStudio, 1/ 2 bedroom. Heated, off street parking, newly renovated. $475-$875.

(207)773-1814.

PORTLAND- Munjoy Hill- 3 bedrooms, newly renovated.

Heated, $1275/mo. Call Kay (207)773-1814.

PORTLAND- Woodford’s area. 1 bedroom heated. Newly installed oak floor, just painted. $675/mo. (207)773-1814.

STANDISH- Sunny spacious 4 bedroom house to share. Furnished, w/d, all utilities, 11x13 bedroom, storage available. $650/mo. (207)642-2210.

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

For Sale EDISON Diamond disc tall phonograph with records, reasonable (207)767-5552.

HAND painted blades on carved stag bone handles, 10 pieces in case made in Germany, resonable offer (207)767-5552.

TWO railroad lanterns Arlington, NJ, ISA $250 each or reasonable offer (207)767-5552.

For Sale RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT LIQUIDATION Most just 1 years old.

Chest freezer 49 c.f. 2 door True reach-in Soft serve/shake machine Stove with ovens & griddle Ice maker Espresso machine Bunn coffee maker Furniture Sinks Much more….

TABLA drums $150 or reasonable offer (207)767-5552.

WILL swap Iguana 10 speed man’s bike for woman’s bike, excellent condition (207)767-5552.

and dedicated his life to me. All that he asked in return were rigorous belly rubs, the occasional treat and the ability to cuddle between my wife and me on the couch.

Lucky and I were inseparable, and now that he is gone, I feel as if a part of me has died, too. I miss him terribly, and I can’t imagine this hole in my heart ever being filled. Please tell your readers to give their pets an extra hug when they get home from work this evening and every evening, because one day, it might be too late. -- Missing My Best Friend Dear Missing: Our condolences on the loss of Lucky. You have a lot of love to give, and we hope you will consider adopting another dog. It not only can help fill that hole in your heart, but will also provide a stable home for an animal that surely needs one.

Dear Annie: This is in response to the letter from Erik D. Olson advocating healthier meals in school. I thought your readers might enjoy a student’s perspective.

I go to a suburban high school and am disgusted by our cafeteria food. I try to eat healthy, but it’s hard because our choices don’t include much in the way of fruits or vegetables, and many students pick fries over an apple. My school offers main dishes that I don’t think qualify -- like nachos, cheese fries and mozzarella cheese sticks. Also, there is the ever-popular chicken patty, slathered in mayonnaise or ranch dressing and accompanied, of course, by French fries. When I brought blackberries to school, several friends asked, “What are those?”

I hope our lunches improve, but I cannot accomplish it on my own. Tell your readers to make sure to educate their children and teach them that certain foods are better for their bodies than others. Maybe if we work together, we can improve school lunches across the nation. -- Megan

Annie’s Mailbox is written by Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar, longtime editors of the Ann Landers column. Please e-mail your questions to: anniesmailbox@comcast.net, or write to: Annie’s Mailbox, c/o Creators Syndicate, 5777 W. Century Blvd., Ste. 700, Los Angeles, CA 90045.

Prickly City

IMMANUEL Church Yard SaleSaturday 7/23, 9-1pm, Corner of High and Deering, Portland, in the back parking lot.

DB Discount Lawncare- Lawn mowing, brush removal, dump runs, lowest price, neatest yard.

(207)232-9478.

SOUTH Portland Coin/ Marble Show- 7/23/11, American Legion Post 25, 413 Broadway, 8-2pm.

(802)266-8179. Free admission.

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

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

YARD SALE- Saint Paul's Church on Congress near India.

Saturday, July 23 9am-2pm lunch available.

Yard Sale Special

Wanted To Buy I buy broken and unwanted laptops for cash, today. Highest prices paid. (207)233-5381.

15 words or less for 3 days

$5.00

603-986-2990

ANNIE’S MAILBOX Dear Annie: I am worried about my 79-year-old father. My mother died two years ago, and my brother and I regularly see Dad and invite him for dinner and to other events. But he’s still lonely for female companionship.

Six months ago, Dad began a relationship with “Corina,” a 33-year-old ex-prostitute with a toddler. Dad says they are in love. We want him to be happy, but we’re worried. Last week, Corina got drunk and hit my father. She’s already been in jail for other reasons in the past, and Dad didn’t want to turn her in.

Dad bought Corina a car and let her move in with him. She doesn’t have a job. She’s home with her child all day. Meanwhile, my parents’ house is a mess, and we’ve found cigarette ashes and wine bottles all over.

We have spoken to law enforcement and Dad’s doctor. No one can do anything because Dad is in sound mental health, and he refuses to press charges, so no laws are being broken.

He’s already given her most of his savings, and now we’re worried he’ll lose his home. What can we do? -- Panicked Siblings Dear Siblings: Draining someone’s bank account can qualify as elder abuse. Try the National Center on Elder Abuse at ncea.aoa.gov or the Eldercare Locator (www.eldercare.gov) at 1-800-677-1116 for assistance and suggestions. You and your brother may also want to talk to a lawyer to see if there is a way to transfer ownership of the house and any remaining money to a trust in order to prevent Corina from getting her hands on it.

Dear Annie: I recently buried my best friend -- my dog, “Lucky.” But I was the lucky one who was blessed to have this wonderful animal in my life.

More than 10 years ago, I saved Lucky from an abusive household, and he never forgot it. This perfect mutt loved

Services

by Scott Stantis

HEAT SERVICE TECH We are currently in need to fill one position for our heat division. Individual must have a min of 5 years exp.

Oil, gas, FHW, FHA, hot water Commercial & Residential Must provide resume & proper licenses, NH/ME. We service NH & Western ME.

Call for interview & ask for David Boyd, Svc. Mgr. at 1-800-924-5826.

Federal Piping Company Inc. Monday - Friday, 8:30AM to 4:30PM

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011— Page 13

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

Thursday, July 21 Enter The Haggis, Carbon Leaf come The Landing at Pine Point in Scarborough 7 p.m. Enter The Haggis comes to Scarborough, The Landing at Pine Point (all ages, $17.50-$22.50) w/ Carbon Leaf opening. “After spending much of April and May in the studio working on a new album, Toronto-based Celtic rock outfit Enter The Haggis kicked off the festival season this month with performances at the annual Boston Irish Fest and Celtic Fling. Club and festival performances continue throughout the summer, where fans can expect the band to play some new material that it will be testing out on audiences.” www.thelandingatpinepoint.com

Friday, July 22 Tricky Britches at Freeport 7:30 p.m. Tricky Britches at Freeport Factory Stage, 5 Depot St. Tricky Britches is a high-energy string band hailing from Portland, Maine. From their roots of playing heelstomping old time fiddle tunes they have progressed into a fusion of classic bluegrass, country and folk rock. www. freeportfactory.com

Coyote Grace and Sam James and Lloyd Thayer 8 p.m. An eclectic and entertaining double bill starting with the “radically progressive and unashamedly nostalgic” multi-instrumental roots combo known as Coyote Grace (formerly seen opening for Po’ Girl here) and leading into another super song-swapping session from our own local treasure, songsmith, singer and raconteur Samuel James and his good friend, Boston-based street performer and man of many instruments Lloyd Thayer. This will be a special evening of roots-based, traditionally influenced, carefully crafted original songs and camaraderie. One Longfellow Square. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Saturday, July 23 The Delta Generators 8 p.m. As their name implies, The Delta Generators combine the urgency and soulfulness of delta blues with the power and energy of early rock ‘n’ roll. While, in the broader sense, they could be classified as a blues band, there is room on that big blue canvas for brush strokes of Memphis soul, Louisiana funk, and classic rock ‘n’ roll. One Longfellow Square. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Thursday, July 28 Wiz Khalifa at the Maine State Pier 7 p.m. “Being out in front of people and just being ‘The Man’” might sound like a vague and ridiculous dream to have, but for Cameron Thomaz it might be the most appropriate thought to cross any mind. Better known as Wiz Khalifa, the son of two military parents has always had his eye on being a new standard by which cool is measured.

Rapping since the third grade and starting to record music at 14 was pr...obably a step in the right direction. The next best move? Inking a deal to Rostrum Records after a meeting with Benjy Grinberg. ... He and his Rostrum team hit the ground running in 2009 and released three highly acclaimed mixtapes: “Flight School,” “How Fly,” a collaborative mixtape with New Orleans rapper Curren$y, and “Burn After Rolling.” The album “Deal Or No Deal” followed in the Fall and debuted at the top of the iTunes “Hip-Hop” chart, and has remained in the top 50 to date.” Special Guests Big Sean & Chevy Woods. Commercial St./Franklin Arterial. $32 advance and day of show.

PORTopera at Merrill 7:30 p.m. PORTopera, Maine’s only opera company performing fully staged operas with nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, will present the opera comique, “The Daughter of the Regiment” (La Fille du R~giment) in two performances on Thursday, July 28 and Saturday, July 30 at Portland’s Merrill Auditorium. Both performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Bangor native Ashley Emerson will fill the title role. www.portopera.org

Elvis Costello & the Imposters; The Revolver Tour 7:30 p.m. Elvis Costello & the Imposters is SOLD OUT. State Theatre. Elvis Costello and the Imposters announced that they will be bringing the Spectacular Spinning Songbook to most of their dates during June and July, including their July 28 date at the State Theatre. www.statetheatreportland.com

Shemekia Copeland at The Landing 8 p.m. Shemekia Copeland at The Landing at Pine Point, Scarborough. “Her powerhouse single ‘Never Coming Back to Memphis’ may apply to Tenn. but not to Pine Point as

we are again hosting this absolute phenom, Shemekia Copeland and her smokin’ band right here at The Landing.” http://shemekiacopeland.com

The Wailin’ Jennys in Brownfield 8 p.m. Stone Mountain Arts Center in Brownfield presents The Wailin’ Jennys in concert in support of their highly anticipated new studio album “Bright Morning Stars.” Tickets: $55. 935-7292 http://www. stonemountainartscenter.com/ArtsCenter/ Wailin-Jennys.html.

Grupo Mofongo 8 p.m. A Latin Dance Party featuring traditional Afro-Cuban music from Andres Espinoza (percussion), Rafael Freyre (tres, vocals), Gary Wittner (guitar, vocals), and Nate Therrien. One Longfellow Square. www. onelongfellowsquare.com

Friday, July 29 Occidental Gypsy 8 p.m. Occidental Gypsy has pioneered the sound of American gypsy pop. The sound of this ensemble is reflected in their very diverse backgrounds. Scottie (Pop Boy), Jeff (Old Man Rocker), Brett (Djangodinger) and Juls (Jazzolin) are all immersed in this fresh and exhilarating new approach to the classic Gypsy repertoire which serves as the foundation for the band’s originals. One Longfellow Square. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Beirut at the State 8 p.m. Beirut with Lady Lamb The Beekeeper.

State Theatre. While it may sound like an entire Balkan orchestra playing modern songs as mournful ballads and upbeat marches, Beirut is largely the work of one New Mexico native, Zach Condon. Lady Lamb the Beekeeper is the musical moniker of Aly Spaltro. Now based Shemekia Copeland will perform at The Landing at Pine Point on July 28. (Photo courin Maine, Lady Lamb the Beekeeper writes tesy of Shemekia Copeland/Carol Friedman) sprawling, lyric and melody-based songs. www.statetheatreportland.com album. 2003’s Sunrise Over Sea was the first independently released album to reach number one in Australia. www.staSaturday, July 30 tetheatreportland.com

Emmylou Harris at the State 8 p.m. The Civil Wars. State Theatre. “Born in Alabama, raised in Virginia, a longtime resident of California and then of Nashville, Ms. Harris has transformed her music repeatedly. During the 1970s and ‘80s, through a string of gold albums, she sang honky-tonk, rockabilly, bluegrass and country-folk as a sly traditionalist; she could illuminate country standards, yet also make a pop song from the Beatles or Donna Summer seem to sprout Southern roots. When she shared harmonies with two other country-rooted, popsavvy women — Linda Ronstadt and Dolly Parton — on the 1987 album ‘Trio,’ it sold a million copies.” $61/$51/$41 reserved seating.

Barry McGuire and John York: Trippin’ the ’60s 8 p.m. Trippin’ The Sixties is not a cover show. It starts where Barry started; writing and recording his first Gold record “Green Green” with The New Christy Minstrels. Then come all the stories about the people and songs of the 60s, people he hung out with, people he recorded, partied and performed with. Itís a hand-clapping, foot-stomping, high-energy, sing-along show that never fails to take the audience on an emotional rollercoaster ride, leaving them spinning, weeping, laughing, dancing, and coming back night after night for more. One Longfellow Square. www. onelongfellowsquare.com

Sunday, July 31 Saltwater Celtic Music Festival noon. The Saltwater Celtic Music Festival will occur on, at Thomas Point Beach in Brunswick, and at satellite locations on the days prior to July 31. 1 p.m. — The Maine Celtic Scene. 2 p.m. — The Screaming Orphans. 3 p.m. — Karan Casey, John Doyle, Buille. 4 p.m. — The Prodigals. 5p.m. — The Dublin City Ramblers. 6 p.m. —Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul. SATELLITE EVENTS, Separate Ticket Required.

The Bb Sisters, July 29, Gritty’s, Portland. www.saltwaterfest.com/info.html

WCLZ Presents: John Butler Trio 7:30 p.m. John Butler Trio with Mama Kin. State Theatre.

Butler owns and operates his own record label- Jarrah Records— which has released John Butler Trio’s last three studio albums and two live albums and his first self titled

Thursday, Aug. 4 Dweezil Zappa Plays Zappa 8 p.m. Dweezil Zappa Plays Zappa at the State Theatre.

Dweezil Zappa is becoming more proactive in the continued public display of his father’s music for years to come.

Zappa Plays Zappa is a seven-person-strong ensemble dedicated to keeping Frank Zappa’s music (aesthetically eight to 10 years ahead of whatever copyright date was printed on the records in the first place) very much alive. www.statetheatreportland.com

The Spinning Leaves and Matt the Electrician 8 p.m. “Matt the Electrician” quit his job as an electrician to spend more time writing and playing songs. His music is Rootsy, Quirky, Acoustic Pop...”liquid vocals reminiscent of a young Paul Simon wrapped around a Tom Waits heart.”

The Spinning Leaves has proven to be an unmistakable part of the new folk phenomenon in Philadelphia and beyond.

One Longfellow Square. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Friday, Aug. 5 Carrie Elkin, Anthony da Costa & Jonathan Byrd 8 p.m. Come join us for a great triple bill of songwriters when Carrie Elkin, Anthony da Costa & Jonathan Byrd grace the stage at One Longfellow Square. Their variety of talents will create a night of exceptional music making. One Longfellow Square. www.onelongfellowsquare.com

Saturday, Aug. 6 Guster, Ra Ra Riot on the waterfront 7 p.m. State Theatre Presents at Concerts On The Waterfront at Ocean Gateway: Guster, Ra Ra Riot. Guster has became one of the most successful bands to hit the U.S. East Coast scene — through relentless touring and humorous stage banter with the crowd, the band has developed a strong grass-roots fan base which spread rapidly with a strong presence on the Internet. To observe Ra Ra Riot on stage is to observe a joyful experience in progress, somehow both intensely fun and just plain intense. $32.50 advance/$35.50 day of show. www.statetheatreportland.com

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Thursday, July 21 ‘Recession to Recovery’ noon to 1:30 p.m. The Maine Heritage Policy Center presents “Recession to Recovery: A Budget That Gets Maine Working” presented by Richard Rosen, member of the Maine Senate. DiMillo’s On the Water, 25 Long Wharf, Portland. MHPC Member: $17 per person. Non-member: $22 per person. For additional information, please contact Amanda Clark at 321-2550 or aclark@mainepolicy.org.

Hot Water Bath Canning 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension in Cumberland County is offering workshops locally on (Pickling and Freezing), (Drying Fruits, Herbs and Vegetables) and (Fermenting pickles). Also, a workshop on low sugar blueberry jam workshop in Lisbon Falls. Next up: Falmouth workshop on Hot Water Bath Canning Pickles and Freezing Fruit and Vegetables. UMaine Regional Learning Center, 75 Clearwater Dr., Falmouth. Time: Cost: $10 (Scholarships are available). Instructor is Kate McCarty, Food Preservation Program Aide, and Master Food Preserver Volunteers. For more information: call 781.6099 or email Lois at lois.elwell@maine.edu. “If you are looking for ways to preserve your food from the garden, now is the time to sign up for one of these workshops. For more classes go to: www.extension.umaine.edu.

Little Red Riding Hood reimagined 4 p.m. This summer, Little Red Riding Hood and her grandmother find themselves facing not just one wolf, but two!

The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine kicks off its 2011-2012 theatre season with Little Red Riding Hood (or Grandmother Slyboots), a twist on the well-worn tale of a flighty girl and conniving wolf. In this story, Little Red’s nemesis, the wolf, is an arrogant young prankster. A sage older wolf advises him to give up his foolish impersonations of humans and just be the best wolf he can be. The Children’s Museum & Theatre’s Dress Up Theatre has been home to more than a dozen productions since 2008, but the staging for Little Red Riding Hood will offer audiences a uniquely immersive experience: the show will take place in the center of the room, with rows of seating (some elevated) along two opposite walls. A troupe of nine young actors ages 8 to 16 have spent the not-so-lazy days of summer rehearsing almost daily. The cast features newcomers in the roles of Little Red Riding Hood (Phoebe Little, 13, of South Portland) and Young Wolf (Even Laukli, 13 of Yarmouth).

The show runs for two weekends, July 21-31: Thursdays and Fridays at 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are $9 each ($8 for members) and can be reserved at the front desk (142 Free St.), at kitetails.org or by calling 828-1234, ext. 231. Advance reservations are encouraged.

Alive at Five free outdoor concert 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The much anticipated Alive at Five free outdoor concerts kick is taking place each Thursday in Monument Square. “What better way to spend a summer night than to kick back, listen to free music in the summer sun and enjoy a cold drink in the beer garden, presented by Sebago Brewing Company.” July 21 — The Fogcutters Big Band (Big Band/Swing) and Sly-Chi (Funk/Soul/Jazz); July 28 — Marion Grace (Singer-Songwriters) and Gypsy Tailwind (Americana /Roots); Aug. 4 — The Modest Proposal (MAMM SLAM High School Band Winners) and The Kenya Hall Band (Rhythm and Blues). For more information and a full schedule of free summer events, visit portlandmaine. com or call 772.6828.

Capisic Pond Park discussion 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Portland Department of Public Services and City Councilor Ed Suslovic will host an informational meeting to discuss next steps for Capisic Pond Park following the completion of work for the West Side Sewer Interceptor project. The public will get an overview of the sewer separation project, learn about the Capisic Brook Watershed Study, currently underway, and park restoration work completed to date. Following presentations, a discussion of potential next steps for the wetlands and pond will be led by a panel of city staff and officials, consultants, and experts on natural spaces. Deering High School Cafeteria, 370 Stevens Ave.

Concert at Fort Allen Park: Chandler’s Band 7 p.m. “We’re putting the band back in the bandstand at Fort Allen Park!” In July and August, Friends of the Eastern Promenade scheduled seven Thursday evening concerts. Chandler’s Band (Big Band Era), sponsored by the Willey Trust. Other concerts: Thursday, July 28 — Sean Mencher and his Rhythm Kings (Rockabilly), sponsorship in memory of Betty Winterhalder. Thursday, Aug. 4 — Big Chief (Rhythm & Roots Music). Sponsored by Coyne Piergrossi Associates, Keller Williams Realty. Thursday, Aug. 11 — The McCarthys (Country Rock). Sponsored by Kemp Goldberg Partners. Thursday, Aug. 18 — Banda di Nepi

Leonard W. Cummings, president of the Committee to Restore the Abyssinian Meeting House, talks about the progress of restoration efforts with a group of students from King Middle School. The next meeting of the Committee to Restore the Abyssinian Meeting House will be an open house from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3 . (DAVID CARKHUFF FILE PHOTO) (Community Band from Italy). Sponsored by the Italian Heritage Center.

Friday, July 22 Jimmy Fund/Deering High School Classic 10:30 a.m. The Jimmy Fund/Deering High School Classic to benefit the Deering High School Golf Team and the Jimmy Fund will be held July 22, at Riverside Golf Club in Portland.

This tournament is part of the Jimmy Fund Golf Program.

The Jimmy Fund Golf Program is one of the oldest and largest charity golf programs in the country. Now in its 29th year, The Jimmy Fund Golf Program has raised more than $80 million for life-saving cancer research and treatment for adults and children at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The 2011 presenting sponsors for this year’s program include American Airlines, Callaway Golf, Dunkin’ Donuts, Forty Seven Brand, HomeGoods, the International Golf Club, and GateHouse Media New England. Registration Time: 10:30 a.m. Shotgun Time: noon. Registration Fee: $100 per golfer.

For more information, visit www.jimmyfundgolf.org or call 866-521-4653.

Little Red Riding Hood reimagined 4 p.m. This summer, Little Red Riding Hood and her grandmother find themselves facing not just one wolf, but two!

The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine kicks off its 2011-2012 theatre season with Little Red Riding Hood (or Grandmother Slyboots), a twist on the well-worn tale of a flighty girl and conniving wolf. In this story, Little Red’s nemesis, the wolf, is an arrogant young prankster. A sage older wolf advises him to give up his foolish impersonations of humans and just be the best wolf he can be. The Children’s Museum & Theatre’s Dress Up Theatre has been home to more than a dozen productions since 2008, but the staging for Little Red Riding Hood will offer audiences a uniquely immersive experience: the show will take place in the center of the room, with rows of seating (some elevated) along two opposite walls.

A troupe of nine young actors ages 8 to 16 have spent the not-so-lazy days of summer rehearsing almost daily. The cast features newcomers in the roles of Little Red Riding Hood (Phoebe Little, 13, of South Portland) and Young Wolf (Even Laukli, 13 of Yarmouth). The show runs for two weekends, July 21-31: Thursdays and Fridays at 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are $9 each ($8 for members) and can be reserved at the front desk (142 Free St.), at kitetails.org or by calling 828-1234, ext. 231. Advance reservations are encouraged.

‘Yoga and Walking Meditation on the Fore River’ 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. “Yoga and Walking Meditation on the Fore River.” Rebecca Stephans leads a yoga walk on the Fore River Trail. Beginning with gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and yoga postures the walk will con-

tinue with a walking meditation. The walk will end with a closing meditation and check-in. No yoga experience necessary, and all levels of fitness are welcome. Meet at the Fore River Trail head on Hobart Street off outer Congress Street. Parking is available along Hobart Street. Free for Portland Trails members, $5 suggested donation for nonmembers ($5 can go toward new or renewed membership.)

Reservations suggested. Call Portland Trails: 775-2411.

For a full schedule of Portland Trails Discovery Treks, visit http://trails.org/events.html

SPACE screens ‘Hobo With A Shotgun’ 10 p.m. “Celebrating the classic American ‘Grindhouse’ genre, ‘Hobo With A Shotgun’ is the product of a trailer competition held by Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriquez for the making of their collaborative film ‘Grindhouse.’ A hobo (played by Rutger Hauer) rolls into town hoping for a fresh start but instead finds himself trapped in an urban hell ruled by a murderous crime boss and his sadistic sons. As the brutality rages around him, the hobo realizes the only way to make a difference in this town is with a pawnshop shotgun in his hands. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.” $7/$5 for SPACE Gallery Members, 18 plus.

Saturday, July 23 Philosophy at the Edge conference in Camden 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Camden Philosophical Society will hold its fifth annual Philosophy at the Edge conference in Camden, “on one of the hottest new topics in the field — Experimental Philosophy — and will be featuring some of the stars of the new movement, while also questioning whether this is the best way of tackling all the age-old issues that constitute philosophy. The regular meetings of the society are hosted by the Camden Public Library throughout the year, but the Experimental Philosophy Conference will be at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Camden.” www.librarycamden.org/

Psychic/Paranormal Faire 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A popular event returns to Fort Knox when the second Psychic/Paranormal Faire kicks off Saturday and Sunday, July 23 and 24. The Faire will feature renowned cryptozoologist Loren Coleman, TV personality and author of “Mysterious America”. Joining Coleman will be author of “Ghosts of Acadia”, Marcus LiBrizzi, East Coast Ghost Trackers paranormal investigation group, UFOologists, and psychic, Sky Taylor. Visitors to the Faire will also be able to consult various psychics that will be on site for the event.

The Friends work in partnership with the Maine Department of Conservation’s Bureau of Parks and Lands for the benefit of Fort Knox. fortknox.maineguide.com. see next page

THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011— Page 15

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A Tribute to the Music of Kermit Goell

from preceding page

8 p.m. Maine Singers Atelier (MSA), directed by Julie Goell, will present “My Love Serenade: A Tribute to the Music of Kermit Goell,” at the 5th Maine Regi11 a.m. to 3 p.m. What About ment Center (http://www.fifthmainemuWhales? presented by the seum.org/). Between 1940 and 1980, Children’s Museum & Theatre Kermit Goell wrote the lyrics to over of Maine at Brackett Memo200 songs, including the hit, “Near rial United Methodist Church, You.” His songs have been recorded 9 Church St., Peaks Island. by a wide range of artists from Johnny “Istar, the life-size inflatable Cash, Andy Williams and Frank Sinatra whale model that lives in the to the Andrews Sisters, Sarah Vaughan Children’s Museum & Theatre and Barbara Streisand. Some have of Maine, wows thousands of appeared in the soundtracks of movies, visitors each year when they including “Mask” and “Practical Magic,” climb inside her and discover and on TV shows, including “Six Feet just how massive humpbacks Under” and “The Sopranos.” Kermit Goell are. On July 23, Istar will visit also happens to be the father of MSA Peaks Island to wow islanddirector Julie Goell. Tickets to the event ers and travelers alike. Guided are available at the door for $10. Maine trips inside the whale will take Singers Atelier (www.juliegoell.com/singplace on the hour from 1-3 ing.php) is a lab-style workshop held in p.m.” Istar’s voyage is part of Portland. The workshop is directed by Science at Sea, a program creperformer, singer and director Julie Goell ated by the Children’s Museum (http://www.juliegoell.com/). & Theatre of Maine and funded by the Peaks Island Fund of the Maine Community FounSunday July 24 dation. The program was created to increase islanders’ Old Port Half Marathon access to science programming and educate Casco Bay Fenix Theatre Company is a group of artists dedicated to staging the classics of theater in the most compelling and relevant & 5K Road Race residents about their ocean- manner for the audience of today. Next up: “Waiting for Godot,” 6:30 p.m. Saturday by the bridge in Deering Oaks. (COURTESY 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. In its first year, this dwelling neighbors. This event PHOTO) event is organized by GiddyUp Producis the concluding celebration tions. The expected number of runners 2011-2012 theatre season with Little Red Riding Hood (or of a series of educational science programs in Peaks Island overall this year is 700, according to a city agenda item.

Grandmother Slyboots), a twist on the well-worn tale of a schools and preschools. The Brackett Memorial United Proceeds from the races benefit Habitat for Humanity and flighty girl and conniving wolf. In this story, Little Red’s nemMethodist Church is located at 9 Church Street, a half-mile Independent Transportation Network. The race will start on esis, the wolf, is an arrogant young prankster. A sage older walk from the ferry. the Eastern Prom and finish at the Maine State Pier. The half wolf advises him to give up his foolish impersonations of marathon starts first at 8 a.m. The 5K race starts at 8:15 humans and just be the best wolf he can be. The Children’s Breakwater Creative Arts camp film screening a.m. www.oldporthalfmarathon.com Museum & Theatre’s Dress Up Theatre has been home to more 12:30 p.m. “Tova Kemmerer is not your typical eight-yearthan a dozen productions since 2008, but the staging for Little old summer camper. Sure, she can weave a friendship Sunday Shindig on the Bay Red Riding Hood will offer audiences a uniquely immersive bracelet and play a mean game of Duck Duck Goose, but 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Diamond’s Edge Restaurant, Great experience: the show will take place in the center of the room, at Breakwater Creative Arts (BCA) summer camp, Tova Diamond Island. A large group of land conservation pracwith rows of seating (some elevated) along two opposite walls. also gets to make movies. In fact, three films that she and titioners, supporters and families will gather at Diamond’s The show runs for two weekends, July 21-31: Thursdays and her Cinematic Storytelling class made last summer at BCA Edge Restaurant to celebrate 25 years of land conservation in Fridays at 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. have been selected for viewing at the 34th Maine Student the Casco Bay region at the Sunday Shindig on the Bay. Some Tickets are $9 each ($8 for members) and can be reserved at Film and Video Festival, held in conjunction with the Maine of the protected properties of these land trusts include Basket the front desk (142 Free St.), at kitetails.org or by calling 828International Film Festival, in Waterville,” the arts program Island, Daveis Cove on Peaks, Rines Forest in Cumberland, 1234, ext. 231. Advance reservations are encouraged. announced. The three narrative works — “Rhonda’s Pillow Blackstrap Hill Preserve in Falmouth, Higgins Farm on CheAdventure,” “The Pencil Dilemma” and “Mystery Shack” — beague Island, The Bluffs on Cliff Island, Wreck Cove on Long Fenix Theatre Company will be screened on July 23 at 12:30 p.m. at the Railroad Island and many more. The board members of the three land 6:30 p.m. By the bridge in Deering Oaks. “Fenix Theatre Cinema in Waterville. The films were conceived, developed, trusts are coordinating inter-island transport enabling islandCompany exists to provide the southern Maine commuacted, filmed and directed entirely by students in grades ers to travel from Long, Cliff, Chebeague, Peaks and Cushnity access to free classical theater in the beauty of DeerK-6. Located in Portland, Breakwater is an independent day ing Island directly. Names and numbers can be found by ing Oaks. We thrive on the unique collaboration between school and after-school enrichment center for students, calling 699-2989 for more information. Portlanders can take audience and performer found in outdoor theater.” Next pre-K through grade 8. the 1:15 ferry from Casco Bay Lines to arrive at Diamond’s up: “Waiting for Godot.” “‘Waiting for Godot’ is an absurdly Edge at 1:35. Charter sponsors are Bayside Print Services, hilarious and starkly beautiful study on how we exist in the Little Red Riding Hood reimagined Diamond’s Edge Restaurant, JWA Holdings, Casco Bay world. It is Samuel Beckett’s dramatic masterpiece. As 1 p.m. This summer, Little Red Riding Hood and her grandIsland Development Association, and the David Banks always bring your own seat and some food, drink, etc.” mother find themselves facing not just one wolf, but two!

Team of Remax by the Bay. www.fenixtheatre.com The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine kicks off its

What About Whales? on Peaks Island

Portland officials assign a refugee services staffer to the shelter SHELTER from page one

“We’re full pretty much every night,” said Josh O’Brien, director of Oxford Street. He added that overall shelter numbers are as high as they've ever been.

“I think it's a crisis, and it will need to be addressed by the community with a community approach,” he said. “Currently, we are managing it, but the current situation of a full shelter, with a busy and nearfull overflow shelter, is not a long-term solution.”

Portland’s homeless population typically spikes in the late summer or early fall, but given the recent increases, some city officals are anxious about what the future might bring.

“What concerns me the most right now is that the number of folks who find themselves homeless on any given night is at an unprecedented level for us,” said Doug Gardner, the city’s director of Health and Human Services.

“We would typically see these high numbers later in the summer or early in the fall,” he continued.

“So if we have reset to a place where, this is where we are starting from, I am very concerned where we

will be in the next six to eight weeks.”

In the year ending June 30, there were 468 intakes involving Portland residents, 453 from Maine towns other than Portland and 453 from other states.

Those figures represent 17 percent, 22 percent and 38 percent increases, respectively, over the same period a year earlier.

The vast majority of shelter clients stayed between one day and 60 days, and about 21 percent of the overall intakes reported being homeless for the first time, the report shows. Nearly 40 percent are battling substance abuse issues.

More striking, city officials say, is the number of people from other countries staying at the shelter.

In the year ending June 30, 86 people spent at least one night there, compared with 10 the prior year — a 760 percent increase.

That new reality at the shelter is testing city services. The city has assigned a refugee services staffer to the shelter several nights a week, but Gardner admits there are challenges to serving a homeless immigrant population.

Aside from language and cultural barriers, many refugees seeking asylum won't immediately qualify

for assistance programs.

“These folks are either coming to Portland as a secondary-migrant refugee or coming in to the country on a visa,” Gardner said. “In that capacity, they are not eligible for any assistance until they have completed their asylum applications.”

The city has no firm data explaining why more homeless refugees are ending up in Portland.

Secondary refugees, immigrants who settled elsewhere in the U.S. before moving to Portland, are often drawn here because friends or relatives live here, said Nicole Clegg, the city's spokesperson.

Meanwhile, sustained high unemployment and the sour economy is a major factor in why more Mainers are homeless, Gardner said. He believes the same factors are drawing people here from other states.

While the figures change nightly, O’Brien said 190 people, including 29 women, were housed by Oxford Street on Tuesday night. That includes 46 people in overflow space at Preble Street.

Florence House, the women’s shelter, also operating at capacity, which has required Oxford Street see OVERFLOW page 16

Page 16 — THE PORTLAND DAILY SUN, Thursday, July 21, 2011

‘There may be some folks that get lost in the cracks’ OVERFLOW from page 15

to set aside a separate space for women — a situation officials say is not ideal.

Oxford Street Shelter can accommodate up to 154 people, while at least 50 more can sleep on the floor in the Preble Street day shelter when needed.

The city has a longstanding policy to provide a shelter bed for anybody who needs one.

Shelter staff works closely with clients, especially newly homeless clients, to find permanent housing. But the city's increasingly tight rental market is making that process more difficult.

These days, many landlords who typically work with the shelter are reporting no vacant apartments, or fewer vacancies. The city is still finding placements, but Gardner said it’s getting tougher.

Shelter workers are also struggling to keep up with demand.

“We are not able to connect with folks as quickly as we like to,” Gardner said, adding, "There may be some folks that get lost in the cracks."

Jim Holmes with Lock, Stock and Barrel locksmiths repairs a door at the day room of Oxford Street Shelter Wednesday. One resident of the shelter, who preferred not to be identified, said the shelter is overflowing. “It’s packed,” this resident said. “It fills up every night.” Sometimes the overflow of people ends up on cots in the day room, and others are moved to Preble Street Resource Center, he said. (DAVID CARKHUFF PHOTO)

Summer lunch program kicks off at schools The Portland Public Schools district is working with the Wayside Community Food Program, Salvation Army, Ocean Avenue Summer School, the City of Hope and Preble Street Maine Hunger Initiative to offer a free summer meals program through Aug. 26 at the following sites: • Salvation Army — 297 Cumberland Ave.: breakfast 8:30 a.m., lunch at noon, Monday-Friday.

• City of Hope — 97 Allen Ave.: lunch at 12:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.

• Ocean Avenue Elementary School — 152 Ocean Ave.: breakfast at 8 a.m., lunch at 11:45 a.m., Tuesday-Friday until Aug. 12.

• Presumpscot Elementary School — 69 Presumpscot St.: dinner from 5-6 p.m., Monday-Thursday until Aug. 18.

Meals will be provided to all children 18 years and younger to be eaten at the site. The program also will offer activities at each location from full summer day camps to short activities just at the meal time.

Funding for the program is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Food Service Program, with substantial support from Wayside Food Program.

— Staff Report