Researching and documenting some of the interesting people of our community’s past is a satisfying endeavor in itself, but we are also sometimes hoping that putting stories out there will help us to find additional information. It is a wonderful day when we hear from a descendant or someone else who has found the story […]
Amy Canfield
Mainewhile: Curious minds just may find solution for ospreys
Dang it. If there is one thing I really hate, it is having a perfectly good rant ruined by facts. That is so profoundly annoying. I pass through Bath just about every day. For years and years I have loved watching the osprey that nest atop the power pole. Then, earlier this spring – the […]
Through My Lens: Bittersweet memories of very real culture shock
You often hear the term “culture shock” when immigrants and native Mainers meet. It is one of my favorite topics, provoking bittersweet memories of my arrival in Maine and how I adapted. Merriam-Webster defines culture shock as “a sense of confusion and uncertainty sometimes with feelings of anxiety that may affect people exposed to an […]
A Window on the Past: Joshua Brackett – Knightville shoemaker, postmaster and Civil War veteran
We were recently visited by South Portland residents Bob and Ann Morrill, who brought in a few treasures to donate to the collections of the South Portland Historical Society. One item was a certificate from the state of Maine, signed by then-Gov. Joshua Chamberlain, testifying that Joshua Brackett had served honorably as a volunteer during […]
Our Sustainable City: Events to plan for the future of our waterfront
Casco Bay is a defining feature of our community, economy and culture. As we continue to see the impacts of climate change, we are also seeing renewed community interest in how to plan for our changing coastline. With the current update of South Portland’s Comprehensive Plan in process, there is growing recognition that climate risks […]
In the Know: After thorough review, council passes budget for new year
On May 15, the Scarborough Town Council passed the municipal and school budget at a 4.21% increase, below their 5% goal. This equates to a 1.47% tax rate increase in a non-revaluation year, compared to 3.77% last year. The budget was initially presented by the town manager in late March and has undergone extensive Finance […]
Letter: Reelect Abbott, a proven leader for Yarmouth
As a Yarmouth resident deeply interested in how our community prepares for a vibrant and healthy future, I will be voting to reelect Heather Abbott for Yarmouth Town Council. Heather is a proven leader with a clear vision for moving us forward. Heather actively creates space for all voices to be heard. Her push to […]
Letter: State rep endorses Abbott for Yarmouth council
I wholeheartedly endorse Heather Abbott for reelection to the Yarmouth Town Council on June 11. Heather’s unwavering commitment and inclusive approach have significantly contributed to our community’s progress on important issues like affordable housing and passing a Climate Action Plan. I especially appreciate Heather’s support on an issue that is near to my heart, restoring […]
A Window on the Past: Gideon Burbank, veteran and longtime resident of the Willard neighborhood
We covered Ezekiel Wescott last week, captain of Company I of the 25th Maine Volunteer Infantry. Let’s take a look this week at local resident Gideon Burbank, who served in Wescott’s company during the Civil War. Gideon Hatch Burbank was born in Hiram, Maine, in 1825 or 1826, the son of Israel and Rhoda Hatch […]
Council Corner: Balancing and prioritizing Scarborough’s priorities
“Prioritizing the priorities” is a phrase that I’m starting to hear more and more frequently. It’s reflective of a general concern that perhaps the town and its leadership are trying to do too much at one time. I think it’s a fair criticism – it can be difficult to determine what the priorities are when […]