The house I grew up in is nearly empty inside. Movers are coming to haul away what remains. Paperwork will soon make official what cardboard boxes have already established: the Marshalls have left the building. My parents lived in the same house for more than 30 years. I was 4 when we first plopped an […]
Portland Forecaster
City-wide news from The Forecaster.
The Universal Notebook: Dedication makes McAuley 'all-stars' shine
In the wake of Catherine McAuley High School’s fourth straight Class A girls’ basketball state championship, veteran Portland sportswriter Steve Solloway wrote a rather snarky column in which he praised the McAuley Lions for “Playing just for joy, not a future.” The thesis of the column was that the McAuley girls were “playing for joy” […]
Policy Wonk: State or towns should buy Maine's beaches, before it's too late
More than 25 years ago, I wrote a law review article urging the state and/or Maine towns with sandy beaches to “Buy the Foreshore — NOW.” Though my urging was largely ignored, it was a good idea then, and it’s a good idea now. Then and now, the cost of acquiring this property will never […]
Forecaster Forum: Irish nun an inspiration for St. Patrick's Day and beyond
As an Irish American, I always look forward to St. Patrick’s Day as an opportunity to celebrate the culture and resilience of my relatives and ancestors. This year will be especially meaningful as an Irish Catholic, thanks to the selection of Pope Francis, a man who has instilled great pride in my family through his […]
Forecaster Forum: Portland can be the gateway to green Maine
Mounting incidents of incivility throughout Portland’s parks threaten to undermine our “life’s good here” brand. This could be mitigated if the city budget supported at least one year-round park ranger. It could also mark a new path toward sustainable economic growth rooted in physical and public health. The city currently employs four seasonal rangers during […]
Is Barbie a good Girl Scout role model?
Two consumer groups launch a petition drive urging Girl Scouts of the USA to end a partnership with toymaker Mattel.
Portland, McAuley celebrate championships
The Portland High School boys’ basketball team unleashes a celebration 10 years in the making after beating Hampden Academy, 54-40, to win the Class A state title Saturday evening, March 1, at the Cumberland County Civic Center. Catherine McAuley High School seniors Allie Clement, left, and Olivia Smith let the world know that the Lions […]
Referendum on tighter control of Portland parks set for June 10
PORTLAND — Voters on June 10 will decide the fate of a referendum designed by supporters to protect city parks, but city councilors may yet enact their own ordinance before the election. By a unanimous vote Monday night, councilors declined to enact the citizen’s initiative that would add 35 properties to the city land bank and […]
Developer gets Portland easements for Jetport DHHS office
PORTLAND — Precedent defeated principle, at least in the eyes of Mayor Michael Brennan, when city councilors on Monday approved easements needed to start construction of a new state office building near the Portland International Jetport. “Has there ever been an easement that will have negative effect, and harm thousands of residents for decades?” Brennan […]
Portland schools extend superintendent's contract
PORTLAND — The annual process of contract renewals and new hires is in full swing at the Portland Public Schools. Last week, the School Department announced an extended contract for Superintendent of Schools Emmanuel Caulk, the hiring of new directors for transportation and adult education, and contract renewals for all school principals. On Feb. 25, […]