DECEMBER 2021.VOL. 21, NO. 12. PORTLAND, MAINE.
Our first interview with city councilorelect Tori Pelletier Voters in Portland’s 2nd District elected Tori Pelletier to fill the seat vacated by Spencer Thibodeau. Here’s what she has to say on… Housing… “I would love to do a comprehensive review and get rid of single-family housing zoning…” Shelters… “…a 200-bed shelter doesn't feel like the city is investing in people.” Process… “We still live in an area where the loudest voices are people with the most privilege…” Read the interview by Liz Trice in this month’s PelotonPosts, Page 8.
Portland Municipal Election Recap Portland’s ranked-choice election for city council makes history with a tie, a drawing of lots, and a recount. Read the recap on Page 4.
PORTLAND’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER. FREE!
Time For Shop Local Policy
Featured Analysis: Shopping local is a great idea, but Portland needs policies that support local, independent businesses, too. wages and benefits, local charitable giving, and - although generosity has little to do For most, holiday shopping, or any with it - they tend to pay more in local kind of shopping, is not a conscious po- taxes. litical act. But where we choose to spend And economics is just one reason to our money does have an impact. And this month Americans are out shopping, pan- support local businesses. There are social demic or no. In fact, last year amid the reasons, as well. Here is a look at five ways pandemic shoppers spent at an unexpect- local, independent businesses build strong edly high 8.3 percent over the same peri- communities. The list is from the Institute od in 2019 to $789.4 billion, according to for Local Self-Reliance, a national research and advocacy organization with offices in the National Retail Federation. Portland. And Portlanders are sure to be no different. In fact, finance website Wallethub 1. Local small businesses are linked suggests a holiday budget of $1283 for the to higher incomes and less inequalaverage Portlander in a “comfortable” fi- ity. In 2013, an economist at the Federal nancial position. They based this on our Reserve Bank of Atlanta found that counaverage income, age, and debt. But what- ties with larger shares of local small busiever our budgets may be, shifting even a nesses have stronger per capita income small amount of our money to local busi- growth, faster employment growth, and lower poverty rates. nesses can have an outside impact. By Tony Zeli
According to Portland Buy Local’s posters that seem ubiquitous around downtown this time of year, 76% more of your money stays in the local community when you shop -PBL Poster local. This is because local businesses overall - of course there are individual examples to the contrary - are more generous with
Old Port. -WEN file photo
Additionally, their concentration in denser neighborhoods also means less use of public services. 4. Local businesses foster community cohesion and well-being. Kid you not, there have been studies demonstrating that communities with a greater concentration of small businesses have improved health outcomes. But that is just a start. They also have an easier time retaining residents (especially those with college degrees) and higher levels of civic engagement.
2. Entrepreneurship fuels job creation. Cities that achieve higher rates of entrepreneurship and new business creation than the national average are better off. In fact, they generate more jobs, which in turn lifts wages. And it doesn’t have to 5. Community-scaled businesses be all about tech startups. In Maine, we’d reduce pollution and improve enbe wise to look at other sectors from ag- vironmental sustainability. It makes riculture to outdoor recreation. sense. People who live in walkable neigh3. Independent businesses gener- borhoods, near small stores, walk more ate more tax revenue at lower pub- and drive less.They also are more likely to lic cost. Businesses in dense, mixed-use use public transit. These factors combined commercial districts generate more tax with a compact, urban core and a thriving revenue than sprawling shopping centers. Cont'd on Page 6
Page 5
Page 7
Page 12
Page 17
Letters from readers in praise of activities at Reiche
Tips for Shopping Locally by Portland Buy Local
Layne's Wine Gig Presents A Holiday Wine Gift Guide
Bright Ideas has a book recommendation to inspire
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
DECEMBER EDITION 2021 INSIDE THIS EDITION
These beautiful evergreen wreaths, created at both Broadway Gardens locations, combine Noble Fir, Incense Cedar & Blue Rug Juniper greens. Christmas begins when the wreaths are hung!
Published by Zeli Enterprises, LLC 795 Congress Street Portland, Maine 04102 thewestendnews@gmail.com Tony Zeli, Publisher & Editor Rick Ness, Sales
Shop our well-lit lots and choose from thousands of PREMIUM FRASER & BALSAM FIRS from 5’ - 18’ Nice Economy Priced Trees $29.99 and up Table Top Trees $16.99 and up
VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTORS Nancy Dorrans, Travel & Adventure Rosanne Graef, LaVida&Words'n Words Susana Hancock, Citizens'ClimateLobby Mary Alice Scott, Portland Buy Local Ben Taylor, Best Worst Trivia Liz Trice, PelotonPosts Layne Witherell, Layne's Wine Gig
Thank you for contributions from: Northern Light Mercy Hospital & Portland Climate Action Team Printed in Maine by Lincoln County Publishing Co.
ALL SALES INQUIRIES Contact Rick Ness 207-577-7025 rickthewestendnews@gmail.com
Business & Community.............................6-8 Climate Justice.............................................17 Commentary...................................................5 Events.............................................................18 Health & Wellness.........................................9 Layne's Wine Gig...................................12-13 Letters to the Editor.....................................5 Map...........................................................10-11 Neighborhood News................................3-4 Puzzles.....................................................15-16 Travel..............................................................14
SUBMISSIONS WEN is a community newspaper and we need your voice! Share your submissions with thewestendnews@gmail.com or send to: The West End News Attn: Editor 795 Congress Street Portland, Maine 04102 • Letters to the editor should be no more than 300 words. Include your name and town or neighborhood. • Op-eds should be no more than 750 words and include a brief biography of 1-2 sentences. • WEN also accepts poetry, cartoons, and photo submissions. Deadline for publication is the fourth Friday of every month. Our column space is very limited, publication is not guaranteed, and submissions may be edited for length and content. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in our pages belong solely to the authors and not necessarily to the publication.
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
PCM Holds POLICE BEAT Ribbon Cutting Pellet Gun Shootings On Monday, November 22nd at
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The Portland Conservatory of Music officially opened their new home in the West End on November 18th. PCM held the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony at 28 Neal Street, where for the first time they have their very own space.
about 9:40 p.m., Portland Police Officers responded to a report of a vehicle’s windows being destroyed while a driver was operating it. The driver reported that while traveling northbound near 673 Stevens Avenue, another vehicle passed by in the southbound lane. As the ve“Having our own building is a game hicle passed by, a passenger window in changer for us. It will allow us to expand the reporting driver’s vehicle shattered. our programming to better meet the needs of the community and the wonWhile responding, a similar incident was derful acoustics in the performance hall reported to dispatchers near 1375 Forest provides us with a first-class performance Avenue. A taxi driver reported that two space,” said executive director Jean Muwindows shattered in the vehicle he was rachanian. driving as another vehicle passed by; the The purchase of the new location at driver suffered a laceration from the shat28 Neal Street was made possible through tering glass. an anonymous $1 million donation. This In a separate incident, on October gift was the cornerstone of PCM’s current 31st, two people riding a tandem bike Building Harmony Capital Campaign.Their were shot at with pellets while traveling goal is to raise $2.5 million to cover the on Congress Street; one of the riders purchase of the new building, necessary was hit and suffered minor injuries. It’s renovations, and new programming. unknown if these incidents are related. Police are seeking help from any potential witnesses, who may call (207) 874-8575.
Pedestrian Killed by Car
28 Neal St. -Courtesy of PCM
On Sunday, November 7th at 1:20 a.m., a 68-year-old Portland man was fatally injured when he was struck by a motor vehicle. The vehicle was being driven by a 51-year-old Livermore Falls resident. The collision occurred in the area of 555 Commercial Street. The victim was taken to Maine Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. No charges have been filed as of print.
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Municipal Election Recap
cil - although the official result remained unchanged. The 45 ballots contained 20 votes for Mazer, 11 votes for Rodriguez, Portland’s ranked-choice election for city council makes history and 14 exhausted ballots. (Exhausted balwith a tie, a drawing of lots, and a recount. lots do not rank a continuing candidate or By Tony Zeli the official winner. The final recount totals contain an overvote.) As such, the Clerk’s were 8,549 for Rodriguez and 8,514 for analysis suggests that the uncounted auxPortland made history when the Mazer. iliary ballots would not have affected the ranked-choice instant runoff ballot tabuoutcome of the election. But there was another discrepancy. lation for the city council at-large seat reOf course, finding those 45 auxilsulted in a numeric tie. Candidates Bran- The number of municipal votes entered iary ballots does not solve the discrepand counted on Election Day (21,287) don Mazer and Roberto Rodriguez each ancy. Now, there is a 9-vote undercount and the number of paper municipal ballots received 8,529 votes on Election Day. Acon Election Day. From City Clerk Jones’ hand counted during the recount (21,251) cording to state election laws the City had memo to the city council on the election differed by -36 votes. Despite being unable to declare a winner before either candiresults: to change the official results—Mazer had date could request a recount.This initiated an unusual process - but one required by already conceded and the results were t this stage, it is not possible to the city charter - where the clerk drew certified—the City Clerk searched for an definitively determine the baanswer. After all, it appeared possible that lots to determine the winner. sis for that 9 ballot difference. The Clerk the recount had missed 36 votes. has, however, been able to attribute most Portland City Clerk Kathy Jones conof it to a single district and recount team On Tuesday, November 16th, two ducted the drawing of lots in public at City which tabulated 8 votes more than were Hall Plaza at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Novem- weeks after Election Day, the Clerk diselectronically tabulated on Election Day. ber 4th. Mazer won the draw, and shortly covered 45 auxiliary ballots that never Though it is not clear why the discrepthereafter Rodriguez requested a recount. made it to the hand recount. Auxiliary ancy exists, we are comforted to know ballots are those that include write-ins or that to the extent it is the result of unThe City conducted the recount at are marked in a way that cannot be read dercounting on Election Day, the recount Ocean Gateway beginning on Tuesday, No- by the scanner. Election officials process process caught the omission and 9 balvember 9th and concluded on Wednesday, these ballots manually and then add them lots that were not originally included in November 10th at approximately 1 p.m., to the computer totals. the City’s tabulation were counted by the when Brandon Mazer conceded. According to the Clerk, election campaign’s recount teams. In that way, Discrepancies in Vote Totals workers manually entered the ballots the recount served its intended purpose into the electronic records and set aside and helped to ensure and confirm the Between the days of November 9th in an envelope per procedure. They were accuracy of the election results. and 10th there was a discrepancy of 26 included in the computer totals on Elecvotes according to Mazer’s recount team. tion Day. But the envelope of ballots nev- District 2 - Victoria Pelletier Wins However, the 26-vote discrepancy was er made it to the recount. The candidates’ Here are the City’s official results from a preliminary, unofficial count that recount teams never tallied these auxilfrom November 3rd. Victoria Pelletier included a double-entry.The City had later iary ballots. The reason for this error is won with 56% of the vote against Jon corrected the error, but Mazer’s team had unknown. Hinck with 38%. Pelletier will become not updated their own count. Both candidates certified the final hand count tabulaThe Clerk provided the results of the next city councilor-elect for the West tion on November 10th, and Rodriguez is the 45 auxiliary ballots to City Coun- End, Parkside, St. John-Valley, and Oakdale
"A
neighborhoods when sworn in this December.The seat is currently vacant. Spencer Thibodeau stepped down to pursue a position in the Biden administration. Other Municipal Election Results Anna Trevorrow won District 1 City Council with 50% of vote against Sarah Michniewicz who received 41% of the vote. Abusana Bondo won school board District 1 with 70% of the vote in an unopposed race. Similarly, Emily Figdor won reelection to District 2 school board with 72% in an unopposed race. For school board at-large, Nyalat Billiew won with 43% of the vote against Sara Thompson with 39%. The incumbent and a former chair of the board, Thompson publicly withdrew from the race but she could not withdraw her name from the ballot. Referendum on Portland Shelters Portland’s local referendum question on homeless shelters - and how big they should be - pitted three options against each other. Option A, the amendment to city code that all shelters provide shelter for no more than 50 people, failed. This citizen-initiated proposal received only 31% of the vote. However, Question C, the council proposal to cap beds at 150 also failed with only 28% of the vote.With the most support (41%), Option C not to amend city code passed. This clears the way for the City to build a large shelter of 200-plus beds on the outskirts town, as previously approved. Tony Zeli is publisher and editor. Reach him at thewestendnews@gmail.com.
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OPINION
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Praise for Monday Events at Reiche Community Center Dear West End Community:
Death Education
Now that the Reiche community I was fortunate to have attended a Center is thankfully open I have been en- presentation on death education at Rejoying a variety of Monday night events. iche Community Center. The essence was I look forward to these activities each to get the audience comfortable about the week, especially during the dark cold eve- experience of preparing for that eventunings of winter. Plus as a bonus, there is no ality we all will face someday. The topics ranged from help during the dying process, charge. Light refreshments provided. through some of the options available for From lectures, international films/ dealing with the deceased after the patient art films/classic films, Maine book/reading has died. Discussions were held about the group, family film night, and speed debat- legal requirements and various methods ing. There is something for everyone. to complete the process. I’m being entertained, educated, and Leona Oceania, the presenter was energized. very knowledgeable, articulate, responsive to all questions, and successful in her efFor example: The 3rd Monday of the forts to generate a very positive attitude month from 6:30 - 8 p.m. is a fascinating about a difficult subject we all face in our program, The Memento Mori Death Edufuture. I would like to pass on my apprecation Series facilitated by Death Educaciation for Leona’s enlightenment and tion Specialist, Leona Oceania. recommend everyone attend this type of For further information please check awareness lecture if they have the opporout the West End Neighborhood Associ- tunity. Thank you, Leona! ation website: www.wenamaine.org/re-Paul Brahms, South Portland sources/community-center. -Penny Rich, West End
THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
La Vida Local: Irregular Notes on West End Life
Peace on Earth & Peace in Portland By Rosanne Graef ’Tis the season when we once more turn hopeful that maybe, just maybe, this year, will be when peace, goodwill, and love triumph and our warm wishes for the holiday season come true. For that to have a chance of happening, let’s apply to peace, goodwill, and love the old adage about charity beginning at home. The near constant uncertainties and pressures of the pandemic and partisan politics of all stripes and at all levels seem to have reached a fever pitch and caused society to become unhitched from its civil moorings. Way too many people are walking an emotional knife edge with ecstatic euphoria on one side and unrestrained rage on the other. Hysteria, hyperbole, and hatefulness are being stoked 24/7 by those who seek to profit in some way by playing on people’s fears and misfortunes. Snarky comebacks, zingers, exaggerations, and downright lies may be fine for in-person yakking with your pals, but now they’re electronically shared with the general public deliberately or accidentally. These utterances cause pain for uncounted numbers of innocent people in ways the clever originators never imagined.
Editor’s Note: On Memento Mori Death Education Series at the Reiche Room, this is an ongoing Morning Exercise Class Community series that anyone can join at any time. I enthusiastically want to encourage It takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the It’s impossible to constantly live at the and invite you to participate in the morn- third Monday of the month (not on hol- extremes. You know those surveys where ing exercise class at Reiche Community idays). Free. Donations are gratefully ac- you’re asked if you “Strongly Disagree cepted. Useful for all ages. School. Disagree - Don’t Know - Agree - Strongly Agree” with a statement? Or how about It’s free, it’s one hour, it’s four days Editor's Note: See the full schedule of merely liking or disliking something being a week, 7:45 ‘til 8:45 a.m. Come once a Monday events at Reiche Community interpreted as being passionate or phobic week or all four days, it doesn’t matter, Room on Page 18. about it? Just as being whipped up too high entirely up to you. Format is informal. for too long leads individuals to snap, it On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays has the same consequences for societies. we watch a CD and follow instructions Overpopulation on strengthening, balancing, and stretchAlbert Einstein wrote, “A human beMany problems on our planet may ing. Sometimes we sit, sometimes we be caused by too many people. The pop- ing is part of the whole, called by us ‘unistand. On Fridays, we try TaiChi. ulation has risen from 3.6 billion to 7.8 verse,’ a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and We are all at various states of fit- billion from 1970 to 2020. 4.2 billion feelings, as something separate from the ness. No judgement, no competition, no extra people in 50 years is straining our resources resulting in too many polluting rest—a kind of optical delusion of conbaloney. Just a friendly easy place. vehicles, overcrowding of transportation sciousness. This delusion is a kind of prisMasks are required and a three foot infrastructures, drastic climate change, on for us, restricting us to our personal distance is maintained. Sign ins are re- lack of food/jobs/housing, constant wars, desires and to affection for a few persons quired for contact tracing. Enter the build- and mass immigrations. We need to slow nearest to us. Our task must be to free ing at the Clark Street Entrance and pro- down our world population growth or life ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all ceed to the second floor. will get worse. living creatures and the whole of nature We are a friendly group looking to -Peter Ferrante, Portland in its beauty.” share a routine that feels great. I sincerely hope that if you are at all interested you will give this a try.
“Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” Email me at shunt2951@gmail.com if you have any questions. -Suzanne Hunt, West End
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“A
human being is part of the whole, called by us ‘universe,’ a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings, as something separate from the rest…. This delusion is a kind of prison for us…. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion...” -Albert Einstein Years ago, a chipmunk lived near me. I enticed Chipchan with peanuts in the shell which he would take, scurry away with, and hide for future meals. Chipchan got to the point where if I sat on a rock with “his” peanuts in my pants pocket, he would burrow into my pocket, dig around for a while, and then emerge with his cheeks fully stuffed with nuts. The feeling of having this tiny, trusting, vulnerable individual rummage in my pocket was a mystical moment that sometimes happens in life. We all need these moments, maybe now more than ever. My wish for you is that you go out in the cold, quiet dark of a winter night, look up at the stars and hold these thoughts in your mind: • You are a tiny speck in all that vastness. • Your existence is an exceptional occurrence. • You are no more of a miracle than any other living being. Be like Chipchan - trust others and look for the good peanuts. Rosanne Graef lives in the West End and is a regular volunteer contributor. Email her at lavidalocalwen@ gmail.com.
How to Support Community News 1. Read local news. 2.Visit our advertisers. 3. Tell them you saw their ad. Thank you for reading!
AM Exercise at Reiche. -File photo
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
Shop Local Policy Cont'd from Pg. 1
City Providing Free City & Tandem Masks for Portland Mobility Search for Small Businesses Bike Share Sponsor
business district, compared to a sprawling suburban supercenter setup, is better for the environment. But, shopping local is just the first step in the process. To really build the diverse, highly livable neighborhoods that we all presumably desire, we need policies from our city to match. No matter how much we spend locally, other factors like rising rents and labor shortages can sink a small business. To that end, many years ago Portland Buy Local released a report with policy goals to support local, independent businesses. At the time, it got little attention from policymakers or the media. In it, a vision is shared to make Portland one of the friendliest cities in the nation for independent businesses. Policy ideas in the “Why Local” report include: A cap on the size of stores in certain neighborhoods. Chain stores often require large footprints to meet their goals. Caps on the square footage of stores help to keep a diversity of businesses in a neighborhood. Actually, Portland already makes use of square footage caps in some of its business zoning. Incentivize property owners to rent to local, independent businesses. There is a mix of policy tools that can help to achieve this goal, such as property tax credits or fines for unleased space.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Image: Cover of Portland Buy Local's "Why Local" report.
already used along the Portland waterfront. Other cities have used conditional use zoning on formula businesses. These are the Walmart’s and McDonalds of the world, businesses that utilize a “formula” or model from location to location that includes the same logo and offerings. Formula businesses could be required to prove their need within a certain neighborhood before being granted zoning approval. Conditional use zoning would mean increased community feedback in the process when deciding which businesses get to dot our streets. Currently, Portland’s Department of Planning and Urban Development is working on the Recode Portland effort, reviewing and rewriting the city’s land use codes. It would be smart business to look at the “Why Local” report. It is time to adopt policies that support Portland’s independent business culture.
Increase the number of businesses that own real estate. When local business owners own their building, Tony Zeli is publisher and editor. Reach it means stability for the business and the him at thewestendnews@gmail.com. neighborhood. He was a board member of Portland Make formula businesses a con- Buy Local when the “Why Local” reditional use. Certainly the most con- port was created and played a role in troversial idea, conditional use zoning is drafting it.
E L I Z A B E T H
P R I O R
The Gold Standard for Gold & Silver Jewelry www.epriordesign.com
Recognizing that small businesses continue to incur costs associated with providing masks to customers, the City of Portland is offering support by providing City marketing free supplies of facecampaign masks to small businesses in Portland that physically interact with the public. Portland officials want to help everyone continue to protect each other while the pandemic remains with us. Maine is doing a great job at slowing the spread of COVID-19. Together, we can work to keep it that way.
The City of Portland has entered into an agreement with Tandem Mobility, a bike share company with national experience, to launch a bike sharing system by the summer of 2022. Key to launching the system, the City, Tandem Mobility, and other partners are in search of a title bike share sponsor.
Learn more about Portland’s Public Health Campaign at StayTheCourse.me
The City of Portland selected Tandem Mobility in August 2021. Organizations involved and supportive of the bike share initiative include Portland Downtown, Greater Portland Chamber of Commerce, Greater Portland Metro, and the Bicycle On Wednesday, December 8th, Port- Coalition of Maine. land small businesses are welcome to stop Like many bike sharing programs by City Hall anytime from 8:30 to 10:30 across the country, Portland’s system a.m. or 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. to pick up masks. will focus on providing more sustainable Each business may take up to three (3) transportation choices, improving the boxes of disposable masks (50/box) and quality of life for residents, and enhancing two (2) packages of reusable masks (5/ the experience of Portland’s visitors. package) for as long as they last. Having a title sponsor will help to enMasks are required to be worn at sure that the cost of the bike share sysCity Hall and visitors should enter on the tem is affordable to users and on par with Myrtle Street side entrance (Merrill Audipublic transit fares. The sponsorship protorium side). Business reps will be asked vides an opportunity for a private sector to sign in with your business name, adpartner to play a central role in bringing a dress, and email. Please bring a bag with more sustainable transportation option to you to carry out the masks. Portland, one that has positive benefits on Any questions can be emailed to ljn@ the health and wellness of residents and portlandmaine.gov. visitors.
SPONSOR A SMALL BUSINESS
Independently-owned shops and restaurants help our city thrive. As we all face the ecnomic disruptions brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, we at The West End News want to do our part by offering a new way to support local business!
GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE SPONSOR A SMALL BUSINESS is a program of The West End News designed to promote locally-owned businesses AND support local journalism.
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At Burundi Star Coffee: “On essaie de toujours faire mieux!” Bonnes Fêtes de Fin d’Année. Thanks for your patronage.
Help your favorite local businesses advertise — in The West End News at discounted rates — so they can let customers know when they’re open and what their customer conduct rules are.
HOW IT WORKS 1. Call Rick Ness of WEN Sales with the local business(es) you would like to donate advertising space to. 2. Rick will contact the business on your behalf to create the ad to run in a select issue in 2020.
Costs are as little as $100 to support a local business you love!
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
Tips for Shopping Locally... and Why a Local Gift is a Merry Gift!
THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
businesses, it would generate an addition- local business that suits the wishes al $127 million in local economic activity of the giftee, you can demonstrate This is the month in which the “buy and generate an additional 874 jobs. thoughtfulness and caring - for local” message gets discussed the most your loved one and for our local and with good reason. For many retailers, When you support a local business, business community! this is the busiest month of the year. For you’re doing more than supporting your some, this is the time of year to make sure neighbor’s dream and livelihood—you’re Finally, here are our tips for that bills are paid and to tide them over strengthening our whole community. shopping locally and supportuntil the seasons change once again. Check out our gift guide in this copy of ing our local business comThe West End News to view dozens of munity this holiday season: Shift Local - Just 10% changes local gift options and get inspired! The on1. Buy directly from a local busieverything line version (www.portlandgiftguide.com) ness and make your purchashas a few extra gift ideas, so be sure to es SOON to help reduce holDid you know that 76% more of your visit it, too! iday shopping (and shipping!) money stays right here in our community bottlenecks. when you buy from a locally owned, inde- If you’re shopping for gifts at the last minute, we recommend local gift pendent business? 2. Be merry! Staff at local busicards! nesses are stretched thin In fact, if everyone in Cumberland these days. So be kind and The gift card is sometimes seen as a County shifted just 10% of their purchaspatient. They’ll really apprecies from national chains to locally owned careless gift, but by giving a gift card to a ate it!
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By Mary Alice Scott
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PRI NTI NG
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3. Show your support! Sharing information about the local businesses you love is a great way to help those businesses connect with new customers. Or just like and share their posts on their social media pages! We all hope that the coming year will be easier - in every way - than the last 18 months have been. But for now, the crisis continues for local businesses. The challenges they face today look very different than they did in the spring of 2020, but local businesses still need your support to get by.
Find the Buy Local Gift Guide inside select copies of The West End News and online at www.portlandgiftguide.com.
T
hank you for shopping local and continuing to support the local businesses that give our community its unique flavor! -Mary Alice Scott, Portland Buy Local Executive Director
The West End News is a Portland Buy Local member and media partner.
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY
THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
Housing Coalition, because they’re run by young people and people who have been unhoused.
Tori Pelletier: This Is Everyone’s
District 2
Every month PelotonLabs co-founder Liz Trice interviews a local community member. This month, Liz caught up with Tori Pelletier, who just got elected to the Portland City Council. Why did you want to be on the city council?
issues. I’m also interested in the shelter issue and hiring the new city manager.
Being on the council was not my plan, but people started asking me when the seat opened, and I started thinking about it. A lot of the work I do is getting people involved in local politics and understanding that they have a role to play. Our city is changing a lot and I want to be part of the conversation.
What are your ideas around affordable housing?
What are your top priorities for your time on the council?
We don’t have enough housing in Portland. Personally, I’m always worried about how much longer I’ll be able to live here - my rent keeps going up. I already live in one of the most affordable areas of Parkside - a place that is primarily black and brown and lower income. I don’t think a $1,500 per month rent is affordable.
We’re at a crossroads in Portland. We’re starting to be a real city, and we need to decide what we want to become. Are we going to be inclusive and affordable? Are we prioritizing building affordable homes or luxury condos? I want to look out for working class, under-resourced, and lower income people. I don’t think it’s going to be as hard as it would have been a few years ago, because so much of the council cares about these
We need to look at the zoning laws, single family housing, and Airbnb. I know from canvassing that there are blocks and blocks of homes that are now just Airbnb. We need to make sure that we have enough staff to enforce the current rules, and I’d like to ban non-owner occupied Airbnb’s. This was the most common concern when I was canvassing door to door - people are worried about Airbnb’s and getting priced out of their neighborhood.
What’s your background? I grew up in Brunswick and did the “boomerang” thing - I left to go to Albany, New York and then came back. I loved Albany, but my parents are still here... as I get older I want to be around my family, so Portland was perfect: I get to be close to my family and have some city. I got involved in community advocacy work both on my own and through my position at the GPCOG [Greater Portland CounVictoria Pelletier. -Courtesy photo cil of Governments]. Last summer when George Floyd was murdered a lot of us I would love to do a comprehensive black organizers were able to organize toreview and get rid of single-family hous- gether in a new way. ing zoning – we can’t say we’re welcoming people to Portland if we’re not making You left your job at GPCOG room for people to put down roots and before the election. What start families and be among their neigh- were you doing there and bors. Exclusionary zoning laws also add what’s next for you? to the segregation already happening in The Greater Portland Council of Portland. Governments serves over thirty cities and towns, and my work was around raWhat are your thoughts on cial equity and economic development. the shelter referendum? We worked with town managers and I work with others that are working elected officials to advance racial equity. In to find long-term homes for people, and a Falmouth, for example, the town manager 200-bed shelter doesn’t feel like the city got really involved, and they hired a person is investing in people. The smaller shel- [Dustin Ward, a racial equity and reconcilters referendum question [Option A] was iation advocate] to work long-term with supported by a lot of people who work the town. As a result, the entire front-line directly with unhoused people, including staff completed equity and system racism the People’s Housing Coalition, who were training. The trainer did ride-alongs with against Option C. police officers and had conversations with I think we should talk about smaller them, and he’s still working with the town. shelters. It’s a privilege to be able to talk It’s a great model. about this and go to our own homes at I also managed our Community Denight. There’s going to be a lot of discus- velopment Block Grant program, which sion now that Option C passed to talk gave forgivable grants to low to moderabout privacy, safety, and location. ate income businesses to help them get through the pandemic. I think I was the It was hard to see different first black person GPCOG ever hired.
groups of advocates for unhoused people on opposite sides during the referendum. How can we have a better process?
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Public conversations are always messy and emotional. I’m looking forward to working with the council to make it a place where everyone’s voices are heard. It’s going to be a rocky road, but we can do it. We still live in an area where the loudest voices are people with the most privilege and resources. So when there are two sides clashing, it’s really important to make space for the less privileged voices. We still have issues with systemic oppression, racism, and classism. So it’s important to hear what people have to say. We need to make sure we’re bringing people who are unhoused to the conversations. Sometimes the conflict isn’t even the issue at hand; it’s that we’re coming from two different places of privilege. Many of us have roofs over our heads. How do we make sure we’re making space for people who don’t? I really value the People’s
Now I’m contracted with Integrative Inquiries to do equity training with organizations and companies that hire us. The conversations are around racial equity, but also about how can we tackle issues when it comes to class and race, but also fair wages, harassment... How can we dismantle these dynamics that exist and make sure that we’re looking at everything through an equity lens? A lot of people want their businesses to be more equitable and inclusive and aren’t sure how to do it.
How can people connect with you? I look forward to having conversations – on the stoop, at a coffee shop, on Zoom.The city council works for the people of Portland – we are lowest on the totem pole, and we need to be available. This is not Tori’s District 2; this is everyone’s District 2. It should be fun! Connect with city councilor-elect Tori Pelletier at https://www.vote2victoria. org.
Content Provided By PelotonLabs is a coworking space in the West End of Portland, Maine with a mission to connect and encourage people working on their own to manifest their visions without fear. PelotonPosts is created by PelotonLabs and WEN provides column space without charge. WEN publisher and editor Tony Zeli is a coworking member at PelotonLabs.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
Mills Northern Light Health News Briefs Governor Statement on Providing Covid-19 booster doses to eligible adults age 18+
The Maine CDC announced on November 17th that “effective immediately, all Mainers age 18 years or older who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine are eligible for a booster dose at least six months after the second dose of their primary series. Those who received the single-dose J&J vaccine remain eligible for a booster dose at least two months after their initial dose.” While this is the official approval needed to begin administering these doses across Maine, please refer to the information below regarding registering to receive a vaccination through Northern Light Health. For many Mainers it has been nearly a year since they were first vaccinated, and since that time new Covid-19 variants (like Delta) have developed and, for some groups, new strains are more likely to cause breakthrough infections. While breakthrough infections tend to be milder and are less likely to result in hospitalization or transmission to others, they are still a risk. We encourage all Mainers to get a booster shot as soon as they are eligible.
community members may schedule a booster appointment using the scheduling tool. If they do not have access to a smart phone or computer, they should call 207204-8551 to make an appointment. If they are having trouble getting an appointment at a Northern Light Health facility, they should visit the full list of Covid-19 vaccination sites at https://www.maine.gov/ covid19/vaccines/vaccination-sites. Or call the Maine Covid-19 Community Vaccination Line at 1-888-445-4111.
verifiers portably and securely.
Boosters
“Omicron has not been detected in Maine or the United States as of now. Our partnership with The Jackson Laboratory, which continues to conduct genomic sequencing of positive tests to determine Northern Light Mercy Hospital ad- the presence of variants in Maine, posiministered nearly 300 vaccinations to tions us well to detect this new variant. “We will also remain in close conthose aged 5 to 11 during a clinic held on its Fore River Parkway campus on No- tact with our hospital systems and other health care providers to assess their cavember 13th. pacity and work with them to ensure that Hundreds of parents brought their Maine people have access to quality health children to be vaccinated, and Maine CDC care. Director Dr. Nirav Shah stopped by for a “The emergence of Omicron once visit. Mercy’s clinic was the final stop for again underscores the importance of Dr. Shah, who had visited several other taking commonsense steps like wearing clinics being held across the state earlier masks when inside at public places, and, in the day. most importantly, getting vaccinated, inThe mood at the cluding now getting your booster if you clinic was upbeat, with can. Vaccination remains the best and the hospital’s Mercy most effective way to protect your health Bear mascot welcomand that of your loved ones, and we coning families and posing tinue to strongly urge Maine people to get for photos throughout their shot, regardless of whether it’s your the day. first or your third.”
Northern Light Health SMART Health Cards meet US and global efforts to define a digital vaccination card standard. To learn more about the development of these standards, please visit the VCI voluntary coalition webpage, VCI. org. Community members who were vaccinated through Northern Light Health can access their SMART Health Card by logging into their patient portal at https:// northernlighthealth.org/myNorthernInformation on “Mix-and-Match” LightHealth/Home. While any initial, two dose vaccine series must be with the same vaccine, you may mix-and match vaccine types for your booster.Those who have had more severe side effects from their first two doses may benefit from trying a different vaccine for their booster. Mixing and matching has also been shown in early studies to provide an enhanced immunity response, particularly for those who initially received Johnson & Johnson as their initial vaccination.
Launching SMART Health digital vaccine card Northern Light Health announces
Registering to Receive a Booster that Covid-19 vaccination records are Online registration for booster vaccines is available on the Northern Light Health vaccine scheduling tool (https:// covid.northernlighthealth.org/). Eligible
9
now available as SMART Health Cards through our patient portal website and app. Our SMART Health Card feature allows patients to share limited amounts of information, such as a vaccine record, with
Mercy hosts Covid-19 vaccine clinic for ages 5-11
Covid-19 Omicron Governor Janet Mills released the following statement regarding the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.529, also known as the Omicron variant: “I have asked the Maine Department of Health and Human Services and the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention to closely track the new Omicron variant, particularly its severity, transmissibility, and its potential impact on Maine people and our health care systems.
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
FOOD & DRINK
LAYNE'S WINE GIG PRESENTS
HOLIDAY WINE GIFT GUIDE By Layne V. Witherell By Layne V. Witherell For those of you who follow my stuff, you know that it can, at times, be straightforward, but at other times it can be totally tongue in cheek. This month is about removing some of the pain of actual shopping. Searching “Wine holiday gifts” on your phone will find you in the biosphere of curated internet adorableness: the same gifts, one sommelier at a time, chosen for you… but actually not. Zalto glasses, Riedel decanters and stemware, including wine clubs that are sketchy choices at best. Instead, let’s go local!
GRIPPY TANNINS: A COOL HANG 16 Middle Street, Portland, Maine Open Mon.-Sat. 1p-6p
You want to know what a “grippy tannin” is? Just throw down a glass of 3-yearold Barolo and your mouth will explode. Welcome to the essence of grippy tannins. This adorable tasting lounge named after that sensation is known for their décor (an Instagram photo treat), bachelorette parties, and “curated wine lists.” While I despise the word “curated,” Lindsay, the owner, moves from strength to bigger strength in her selections of by the glass and bottle offerings.
Lindsay is straightforward in her descriptions, recommendations, and choices. There are no “cosmic forces in the soil” voodoo here, no whack job charisma biodynamics, just brilliantly selected wines. She is no idealogue breathing down your neck, simply an informed source.
This is the kind of wine adventure that makes your year.
Treat yourself to booking an event for your besties, or just hang out on the leather couch with her remarkable little wine list. You won’t be disappointed. Wear your best tiara and throw some confetti in The problem (or selling point) is that honor of the bachelorettes. many of her wines are pursued and purchased as “one offs”- now you see them, NEW YORK TIMES YEARLY and then they’re gone. We don’t get a lot SUBSCRIPTION (price varies of masterpieces in Maine. Enjoy the mo- by zip code) ment. Her list is always made of solid I like the fact that you don’t have to choices that range the gamut from never seen Greek grapes to the tried-and-true look for local restaurants anymore - The new world with her recently discovered New York Times will do it for you. Recently, my wife and I were sitting at one producers. of the four tables of Cong Tu Bot, a Viet2021 Grippy Tannins Faves namese restaurant in Portland, waiting for our order when a photographer hovered Evesham Wood Pinot Noir, 2018, over one of the tables, snapping adorable Eola-Hills, Oregon, $11.00 a glass, $39.00 food and people photos. The restaurant bottle. Classic Oregon Pinot Noir defined appeared the next week as a nationwide by a taste of strawberry, truffles, and cur- top 50 New York Times pick for 2021. rants. This is what I call the trickle-down She then poured us a rarity. This is theory of local dining, with locals now what a good wine shop is expected to do having the opportunity of waiting behind if you are adventuresome. Abbott Claim lines of even more tourists in our overrun Chardonnay, a top vineyard from New- little city. berg, Oregon, $16.00 a glass and $70.00 a bottle. My #1 best wine in 2021 by far.The That publication is certain to list their definition of elegance and energized live- three top Vietnamese restaurants in New liness. Worth the money and much more. York City. Let’s rent ten busses for our
Abbott Claim Chardonnay. “My #1 best wine in 2021 by far. The definition of elegance and energized liveliness.” -Layne Witherell
own invasion of a “table take over” and show ‘em what’s what.
LOBSTER WEEK (book well in advance) It is with great sadness that the Maine legislature didn’t choose to consider a bill to make our revered lobster roll the state sandwich. We certainly support it on the West End a bite at a time. Between J’s Oyster, The Porthole, Boone’s, The Portland Lobster Company, Becky’s Diner, and countless others, my wife and I have more than consumed our fair share to qualify to put a referendum on the ballot. We found one event during Lobster Week to be above and beyond the call of lobster duty and felt obliged to report on it. Purchase as a gift card and make a reservation for next year before the trickle-down restaurant people in New York get wind of it. Cont'd on Next Page...
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FOOD & DRINK
THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
WINE GIFT GUIDE Cont'd from Pg. 12 PETITE JACQUELINE LOBSTER WEEK 3-COURSE DINNER
For wine we need to slip down to the Cotes du Rhone region of France. Reds comprise the vast percentage of wines grown here. They resemble the Grenache • First Course: Lobster Bisque (creamy grape crashing a hamburger party. But… lobster bisque, Maine lobster, coral there is a seldom seen white that will do the trick with our last two dishes. tuile)
Cotes du Rhone Blanc, Jean Luc • Second Course: Surf and Turf Tartar (beef tartar topped with a tempura Colombo, $43.00 bottle. It invigorates the dishes with an unnerving combo of battered lobster claw) grapes, leaving both “Surf and Turf” ren• Third Course: Lobster Gnocchi (Pa- dered as equal sensations. Those several risian gnocchi, Maine lobster, tomato, mysterious grapes in the Cotes du Rhone red onion, tequila cream sauce, lem- Blanc include Roussanne and Marsanne, on, nutmeg and watercress) combine to work miracles of flavors on both the tartare and intense gnocchi with The dinner is $65.00 for 3 courses. lobster. There are only two words to deNow, on to shop. scribe a potential wine pairing as they usually offer suggested choices, but toBUY LOCAL night, they just didn’t. Those words are “Far Out.” You must do a virtual out of Ben Coombs is known body wine thought experience to make for those fabulous glass loball three courses work as a gastronomic ster buoys in the lobbies of treat. Portland hotels, but he also creates wine glasses (see right) The thick, ultra-creamy Lobster at about $100 each. They are Bisque calls for a palate cleansing white. masterful, handblown, one-ofDom. Drouhin St. Veran White Bura-kind works of art (that you gundy (Chardonnay) $12.00 glass. This can drink from). You can suplighter next-door neighbor of Pouilly port both a local artist and a Fuisse is ideal as a refreshing, sturdy foil of local store. satiny, creamy flavors alongside the bisque. Maine Craft Portland at 521 ConThe Surf and Turf appearance on a gress Street is open Monday through Satmenu sends chills through my body. These urday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays are not good chills, as the mere mention from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. of “Surf and Turf” recalls the chef following the patron as the ultimate amateur Drop by and see their current show when it comes to wine. There are two and support local art. Say “hi” to Maria things happening here: a tartare and a Wolfe, manager, and take a tour through a lobster, both in their own way are great. wonderland of great locally made art that Followed by a lobster gnocchi? A parade you can wear, drink from, or just sit back of richness. and admire.
PORTLAND-FLEA-FOR-ALL 585 Congress St., Portland Open Friday 11a - 5p & Sat 10a-5p
A cut crystal decanter is the kind of serendipitous find that will appear in this, our favorite, always surprising store full of vintage, antique, well made, and well-loved objects. For decades, the wine decanter was so woefully out of fashion that cut crystal masterpieces would turn up at yard sales for next to nothing.This eclectic store turns items frequently. When shopping here say “hi” to Erin and Nathaniel, the owners. The decanter originally was used to “decant” older wines of the sediment that formed as the bottle aged gracefully in your cellar. Today, the average consumption of a bottle you just purchased isn’t thirty years, it is more like three hours. Why a decanter? Because it is just downright awesome to serve wine from. Period. They aerate and liven up both the wine and you. Get off your phone, buy local, and Happy Holidays!
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A decanter was originally used to “decant” older wines of sediment formed over many years of aging. Today, a decanter is still an awesome gift for those who want to liven up their wine. -All photos courtesy of Layne Witherell
Layne has been a professional in the wine business for many decades as a teacher, importer, writer, competition judge, and winery CEO. He was awarded the Master Knight of the Vine for his pioneering work in the Oregon wine industry. He can be reached at: lvwitherell@gmail.com.
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
There are brighter, longer days ahead... By Nancy Dorrans December is the longest, darkest month in Maine. It is also when the tides turn and the days begin to lengthen! This is what we celebrate. It is the true spirit of the holidays! There are brighter days ahead!
Earlier this fall I had attended several virtual events on Adventure Travel. The first being “Discover the Route of Parks of Chilean Patagonia,” an online event held September 9th, 2021. This event was organized by the Route of Parks, Chile, and the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA).
We all can look forward to these brighter, longer days as we look back on a year+ of years. Each person has their own stories. While worldwide travel and my business have been hibernating due to the pandemic, we in the travel industry are gearing up for a huge awakening!
I haven’t been to Patagonia, but it is high on my list. Here was an opportunity to learn as much as I could about the Chilean National Park routes and make some connections with tour operators in these regions. I participated in networking sessions with the industry partners and Recently the president of the Maine learned from all the engaging speakers. I Outdoor Adventure Club (MOAC) asked was inspired! me to speak to the members at the NoNext was the 2021 Adventure Travel vember monthly meeting about the “State Trade World Summit. This event was origof Travel Worldwide.” He said, “I want inally scheduled to be held in Hokkaido, to go somewhere real bad, Nancy. And I Japan, in late September, but like many think a lot of people do, too! I want to others, it was changed to a virtual meetknow what I need to know!” ing. This gave many more people (includHe also wanted to hold the meeting outside (in November) in the amphitheater under the Main Street Bridge in Yarmouth. I hesitated. While flattered, the topic was quite broad and it overwhelmed me. Plus, I didn’t think the members would want to sit on the cold granite steps of the amphitheater in November. I suggested that we hold the meeting on Zoom as we had done for much of 2020. He said he was sick and tired of Zoom meetings and so was everyone. I had an idea...
ing myself) the opportunity to participate. I met with representatives from Japan and tour operators/friends from Ireland, Italy, Greece, Chile, Argentina, Australia, Scotland, Sweden, Manitoba, and Peru!
“D
eep rooted traditions and culture, food delicacies of the region, and a beautiful landscape worth discovering; Japan is the perfect adventure destination. At the 2021 ATWS Virtual event, Japan suppliers showed off their rugged yet peaceful destination with tours in Hokkaido mountains, up and down the coastlines, and into the vibrant valleys with opportunities
Nancy Dorrans has been a MOAC member for over 20 years. She is a past president of the club (multiple times) and is always ready to step forward when something needs to be done. She is a professional travel expert and founded Adventure Marketplace in 2014. (Below: Greeley Pond Trail, NH) -Photos courtesy of Nancy Dorrans I reached out and within a week six different presenters had agreed to participate in our Zoom MOAC Meeting.
for hiking, kayaking, biking, tasting, and exploring. Japan suppliers have developed tours that expose Japan’s beauty and rich culture, making Japan a newly desired, adventure travel destination.” -ATWS Japan 2021 | Adventure Travel Trade Association
The invite read: “When, where, how can we plan our global adventures as the world recovers? Many countries are reopening their borders to travelers, or at least planning for it after more than a year of lockdowns due to Covid-19… Join Nancy Dorrans, longtime MOAC member and experienced travel professional, along with several of her international adventurous colleagues to discuss their destinations, the latest updates, and restrictions. Then they will take your questions.”
The Hokkaido region had now PRESENTER SCHEDULE jumped way up on my future adventures • Introductions - Eva from ATTA bucket list! • Sole & Nano from Authentica Salta, I called the MOAC president back. My Argentina idea was to invite a few of the adventur- • Rafa from BirdsChile (Chile) ous colleagues I had recently connected • Roberta Moore of Italyscape and Siva with from around the world to participate (Italy/Greece) in this online meeting.There were and still • Erika Gustafson - Quest Travel Adare a lot of questions and ever-changing ventures (Azores, Madeira, Canary rules regarding overseas travel during Islands) Covid: open borders; lockdowns; vaccina- • Morgan - Easia Travel - Thailand and tion rates, requirements, and testing. SE Asia The meeting was a huge success and While the topic was big, it was timely. went overtime! We are all eager to get On November 1st the countries of Chile traveling again. So many questions were and Argentina had opened their borasked and answered. ders. Other countries including our own
were close behind. All the rules and reguIf you would like the link to the relations are different and evolving... But we cording, please email nancy@advenare getting ready! ture-marketplace.com.
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“wise trees stand sleeping in the cold” -from Winter Trees by William Carlos Williams GOLD = 150 words | SILVER = 125 words | BRONZE = 100 words MASTER LEVEL STARS = 300 words | SUN = 250 words | MOON = 200 words
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1. The Latin word for the winter solstice gave us the root of the name of what biological process found in bears, bats, and rodents? 2. At sunset, the great trilithon, the horseshoe, the heel stone, and the embanked avenue of what prehistoric monument all line up with the sun? 3. At the moment of the solstice, the sun will be directly above what imaginary line? 4. 2012’s winter solstice corresponded to the date 13.0.0.0.0 in the Mesoamerican Long Count calender, marking the end of a 5,126-year cycle marked out by what civilization?
Mondays @ Lazzari Tuesdays @ Ri Ra Find out more on Facebook and Instagram: @bestworsttrivia
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CLIMATE JUSTICE
THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
17
We’re All in This Together: Climate Solutions Beyond Your Backyard
COP26 to the UN: A Climate Activist Reflects By Susana Hancock I’m on the train from Glasgow to Geneva, from COP26 to the UN, where I am expected to speak on the deepening climate crisis. My thoughts are organized like a game of 52 Pick-Up. Was COP26 a chest-beating, self-aggrandizing facade to veil continued planetary rape? How could I understand the pavilions of champagne flutes clinking to futuristic net-zero slogans that hinge on not-yet-invented technology? I watched as the UK accredited more than 500 oil lobbyists, reaffirmed plans with the Gulf States to increase petroleum trade, axed taxes on domestic flights, and pushed a new coal. I watched as Jeff Bezos, allegedly enlightened to save the Earth after last summer’s suborbital flight, held a press conference in which he pledged $2 billion over ten years – a fraction of what he paid for that inspiring three-minute joyride. I watched as the US all but admitted 1.5°C was a pipedream while President Biden jetted off to finalize an oil lease sale in the Gulf of Mexico. I watched as I had a panic attack, not unconvinced of my need for an AED. I’m not ready to deem COP26 a failure. For the first time, this conference was not a niche political chinwag. Academics and business leaders grimaced together as Tuvaluan Foreign Minister Simon Kofe
joined over video standing knee-deep in the rising Pacific. More than 100,000 activists took to the street after Palauan President Surangel Whipps responded to inaction with, “You might as well bomb us.” Declarations on land use finally acknowledge the centrality of nature in this crisis. However, in an era of cheap talk and missed deadlines, it’s hard not to dismiss the sincerity of closing pledges in which countries agreed to return with stronger plans next year. Until then, its greatest accomplishment is not its outcomes but in highlighting the elitism and dominance of the Global North in a process designed to bring nations together. We don’t need to steam full throttle toward the iceberg, we can admit we’re off course. Of course, admitting would require action. Real action. Now. We’re beginning to mobilize, but are we ready? Susana Hancock is an international climate specialist who has been an invited participant at international TED events, UN conferences, and other global fora. As a member of the Steering Committee for Citizens’ Climate Lobby, she urges everyone to call Senator King and ask for a price on carbon.
A TIME FOR BOLDNESS Responding adequately to the climate crisis requires all hands on deck with noholds-barred approaches. Every possible solution must be explored, come online, and be deployed as quickly as possible.
BRIGHT IDEA: Use electric or battery-operated lawn equipment.
tipping points involves the collapse of the West Antarctic ice sheet which, alone, holds enough ice to raise sea levels worldwide by about eleven feet. Unprecedented Transition. Making big changes together to stop climate change in ways not seen before.
Abrupt change. Something that happens much faster than it normally A 2011 study of would. two-stroke gasoline powered leaf blow- BRIGHT IDEA: Get inspired ers found that they from hopeful visions. spew out more pollution in a half hour than a 6,200-pound Ford F-150 pickup truck driven 3,900 miles from Texas to Alaska. Combined with other lawn-care machines, they’re responsible for about 10% of all mobile hydrocarbon emissions in the country. And the noise they create is enough to cause tinnitus and hearing loss. More than one hundred cities have passed regulations to ban or restrict gas powered leaf blowers. If you want a manicured lawn, opt for electric equipment that is quieter, greener, and healthier. Read Kim Stanley Robinson’s novel, “The Ministry for the Future.” It contains a wealth of ideas for bold approaches to In the wake of COP26, it’s useful to the climate crisis and is a good story to know what some of the most frequently boot. Publishers Weekly describes it as, “A sweeping, optimistic portrait of humanity’s used terms really mean. ability to cooperate in the face of disasMitigation. Stopping climate change ter.” Consider this brief excerpt: from getting worse. Mitigation promotes hey spoke enthusiastically of carprotecting forests, planting trees, and usbon-negative agriculture, clean ing alternative sources of energy rather energy, fleets of sailing ships, fleets of than fossil fuels. airships, carbon-based materials created Adaptation. Making changes to live from CO2 sucked out of the air and rewith the impacts of climate change already placing concrete… cheap clean desalihappening, such as planting trees to stay nation, clean water, 3-D printed houses, cooler or building sea walls to protect 3-D printed toilets and sewage, universal against floods. education… landscape restoration, habitat corridors. Carbon Neutral. Putting no ad-
BRIGHT IDEA: Get a better handle on the jargon.
T
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ditional CO2 into the atmosphere or, if Bright Ideas is brought to you by you do, compensate by taking the same Portland Climate Action Team, amount out via some other means. who meet on the fourth ThursTipping Point. When it’s already day of the month, 6-7:30 p.m. too late to stop the effects of climate All are welcome to join. FMI: portlandchange. One of the more talked-about climateaction@gmail.com.
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
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WHAT'S GOING ON
COMMUNITY EVENTS DEC. 2021
A Musical from the book by Leo Lionni. Book by Suzanne Maynard Miller. Music and Lyrics by Sarah Durkee and Paul Jacobs. Dramatic Publishing Company.
International Open Mic Returns
Meet City Councilor Tori Pelletier
Friday, Dec. 3 / 7 pm / Mayo Street Arts / General Admission - Free / Pref. Seats - $22
Annual District Meeting for D2
Wednesday, Dec. 15 / 6:30 pm / via Zoom
After a 2-year hiatus due to the panThe City of Portland’s annual District demic, Portland’s International Open Mic Meeting for District 2, hosted by Councilis back in business to bring you a wide or-elect Victoria Pelletier, will be held on range of songs, poetry, and beyond! Wednesday, December 15th at 6:30 p.m. The greater Portland area is one of via Zoom video conference. Mayor Snythe most linguistically diverse regions in der, City Councilors, Interim City Managthe entire United States. Join Mayo Street er Danielle West, and key department staff Arts, Jenny Van West Music, International will be available to discuss neighborhood Music Connection, and the Maine Acad- issues and answer questions from the emy of Modern Music for an evening of public. traditional and innovative performances The annual District Meeting is an opfrom some of Portland’s performing stars portunity to meet the district councilor, and up-and-comers from the international Mayor, and representatives from the varicommunity that is our Portland, Maine. ous departments within the city. Due to covid restrictions, perforOnce again, due to the pandemic, the mance slots are limited and advance sig- district meeting will be held using Zoom. nup for the open mic is required: jenny- The public can participate via a computer, vanwestmusic@gmail.com. smart phone, or by dialing in on the phone. Friday, December 3rd at 7:00 p.m, For more information, email: info@portwith doors opening at 6:30 p.m. General landmaine.gov. admission is free of charge, with preferred To see the agenda and access the seats available for $22. Reserve seats at Zoom link, visit portlandmaine.gov/Dismayostreetart.org. trictMeetings.
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THE WEST END NEWS | DECEMBER 2021
19
THE DUMPSTER
WHERE WE THROW ALL THE LEFTOVERS WE DIDN’T HAVE ROOM FOR…
WENA meets in-person again now that the Reiche Community Room is open… Portland may be only one year away from starting a bike share program that we expected in Spring 2018… Gov. Mills issues “relief payments” of $285 to 524,754 Mainers who worked during the pandemic… In holiday news… Students at St. Brigid School parade around Park Danforth to wave to residents in windows before Thanksgiving… Speculation abounds as to whether Maine’s favorite actress Anna Kendrick spent the holiday in Portland… Otters in Evergreen Cemetery make a splash with spectators and local media… In election recaps… Ranked-choice voting spreads to Westbrook municipal elections as voters approve RCV by a large margin (63%)… In business news… Boone’s Fish House is highlighted on Sirved as a Top 5 seafood restaurant in Maine… If you’re planning to be a snowbird, you should know… Sarasota has 130 home-care facilities per 100,000 residents making it the most densely packed home-care community in Florida… In unnecessary list news… Portland is named the 8th Best City for Singles for the second year running thanks to a high share of singles and percentage of residents who are fully vaccinated…
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Down Back in my Woods By Fred Cheney Down back in my woods, there’s a lot of room. And I get my rest and feel my best on the trails that I groom. Down back in my woods. Down back in my woods, there’s an old stone wall The foxes run it and the deer they jump it from spring to fall. Down back in my woods. Down back in my woods, sometimes every year, I can tell by the spoor and a whole lot more, I get visited by a bear Down back in my woods. Down back in my woods, there’s a natural spring, Clay taste in the water and my grand daughter thinks it’s a magical thing Down back in my woods. Down back in my woods, where it’s dark and deep, There’s an old post road and a cellar hole and the secrets they keep. Down back in my woods.
We Publish Poetry Please keep sending your poetry submissions. The WEN Poetry Corner publishes reader submissions when space permits. Please send to thewestendnews@gmail.com or write to:The West End News, 795 Congress St., Portland, ME 04102.
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CRMA’s: $25.00/hr. CNA’s & PSS’s: $20.00/hr. Housekeeping/Laundry Associate: $17.00/hr. Dining Services Associate: $17.00/hr. Environmental Services Director: $25.00/hr. Environmental Services Associate: $20.00/hr. Generous Shift Differentials Apply on Top of the Above Wages! Yes, it goes without saying that we offer Medical & Dental benefits as well as generous earned time program, free Short Term Disability, Life Insurance and more, but gaze at these... Up to $25.00/month Gasoline Allowance Quarterly Retention Bonus* Your Birthday off - with pay* $20.00/month Wellness Benefit Employee Referral Bonus Program A Thanksgiving Gift Card A Dec. 2021 Holiday Gift Card
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DECEMBER EDITION 2021
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