June 10, 2009

U.S. Senator Collins in Blue at the Center, Mayor Jill Duson To Her Right and Councilor Donoghue in Blue in the Forefront

By Carol McCracken

Saturday, June 6th was a double whamy!  Not only was it National Trails Day, but it was the  ground breaking for the Bayside Trail.  The event was held from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. behind Planet Dog on Marginal Way.  It is hoped that construction will begin this fall.

Jim Gooch served as host of the event and said:  “This ground-breaking marks the culmination of 10 years of community effort.  This greenway will be the foundatin for the revitaliation of Portland’s Bayside neighborhoold.  Gooch is project coordinator with The Trust for Public Land.

The keynote address was given by U. S. Senator Susan Collins who said:  “The “Bayside Promenade Project is a shining example of what makes Portland a great and livable city.  This world-class greenway, with its parks, gardens, and gathering areas will enhance the time-honored traditions of neighbors meeting neighbors and of welcoming visits.  I was pleased to secure federal funding for the Bayside Trail and I congratulate all of the project’s partners for what they have accomplished.” First, however, she greeted everyone in the crowd on “This beautiful Maine day!”

Mayor Jill Duson addressed the crowd in attendance as well as  did Councilor Kevin Donoghue.

Share on Facebook

By Carol McCracken

One of the best kept secrets in the area is the series of public lectures hosted by the Gulf of Maine Research Institute located at 350 Commercial Street on the Portland waterfront.  And the admission is free!

The last lecture in the current series is tomorrow evening, Thursday, June 11th.  It’s “Where Land Meets Sea:  Diversity Along our Shores,” and the lecturer is Dr. Tom Trott, of Suffolk University.  Seating is limited so reservations are necessary.  Please call Patty Collins at 228-1625 or email her at lectures@gmri.org.

The next series of Sea State lectures is called “Ocean Wind: Charting A Course for Maine’s Energy Future.”  The first in the new series is scheduled for July 9 – “The Gulf of Maine Is The Saudi Arabia of Wind,” by former Governor Angus King.  The same reservation rules as above apply.

Share on Facebook

By Carol McCracken

The City has already begun preparations for its annual 4th of July fireworks and celebration on the Eastern Promenade.   The E. Promenade has historically been the best place to view the fireworks.  It’s recommended that the public arrive by 8:00 p.m. in order to ensure seating for the spectacular.  The show usually starts between 9:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Grucci’s of New York will present the fireworks this year.  The twenty-five  minute program will feature a Broadway Curtain Call Opening, scenes of color and special effects, Grucci Grand Illuminations and the Milky Way Grand Finale.  Previously, Grucci’s has been responsible for fireworks programs in Salt Lake, Athens and Beijing Olympics.

Vendors will be open to the public along the Eastern Promenade at noon.  At 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. the Hill will be closed to traffic.

Share on Facebook