Maine Red Claws unveil logo

The NBA Development League's Maine Red Claws, whose inaugural season will begin in the fall of 2009, unveiled their primary logo today. The team's logo was revealed at a press conference outside of the Portland Exposition Building, the Red Claws new home. The team's official colors will be green, white, red and black.

Vignola Celebrates Moms with Festive Mother's Day Brunch

What: Mother's Day Brunch at Vignola

Where: Vignola, 10 Dana Street, Portland

When: Sunday, May 10 - 10am - 4:30pm

Cost: Three course prix fixe menu, $20 per person / a la carte also available

Reservations and Information: (207) 772-1330 or www.vignolamaine.com



Menu: Mother's Day Brunch at Vignola

Tuscan melon fruit amuse, ham and cheese gougere (with prix fixe)

First Course (Choose One)

Vignola Cured Salmon, potato horseradish cakes, frisee, mustard dressing

Crab Stuffed Deviled Eggs, smoked paprika

Spring Pea Soup with smoked ham

Panache of seasonal fruits

Laughing Stock Farms Organic Mista Greens, radish, trebbiano vinaigrette

Prosciutto and melon

Pizzetta del giorno

Main Course (Choose One)

Eggs and fresh roasted ham, glaze, Vignola potatoes

Poached Eggs, asparagus, polenta and basil hollandaise

Ricotta Pancakes, strawberries and Grand Marnier, Vignola breakfast sausage

Brisket Hash and Eggs, smoked pepper hollandaise

Shirred Eggs, bruschetta, tomato pesto, house made pancetta and basil cream

Crispy trout fillet, smoked bacon and fried eggs, Vignola potatoes

Dolce (Choose One)

Formaggio # Morbier, Chiantino, Tuada, Fruit mostarda

Sweet Mascarpone Cheesecake -- Meyer Lemon Curd, Blackberry Coulis, Jelly Beans

Vanilla Pizzelle "Basket" -- Chocolate Mousse, Espresso Cream filled Chocolate Egg

Sorbet Trio -- Strawberry, Pineapple and Peach with Easter Sugar Cookies

White Chocolate Pound Cake -- Whipped Strawberry Topping, House Made Peeps

Sides
Panettone Toast & Jam
Vignola Potatoes
Bacon
Maple & Sage Pork Sausage
Crispy Polenta, asparagus, basil hollandaise

Cumberland Farmers Market Association Announces Opening Dates for Cumberland and Falmouth Locations

Fiddle Heads are in, Seedlings are ready and you can find them both on Opening Day. Spring is in the air and the members of the Cumberland Farmers Market Association (CFMA) are busy getting ready for the opening of two of their market locations.

The Falmouth location will begin on Wednesday May 6 with NEW TIMES from noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Wal-Mart Shopping Plaza in front of the Regal Cinema's parking lot. Cumberland will open: Saturday, May 9, our regular times from 8:30 a.m. # noon at the Cumberland Town Office Building located at 290 Tuttle Road.

The CFMA has 39 vendors this year offering a variety of products including locally grown organic and all natural produce, grass fed-meats, ranged chicken, fresh fish and seafood, farm fresh eggs, hand crafted cheeses, perennials and annuals, knit items, custom herbal and spice blends, honey, maple syrup, teas, soap, soy wax candles and other exceptional Maine products. To celebrate the beginning of the season, opening day visitors can sign up for a free drawing to win a "market basket" filled with products and/or gift certificates from every vendor.

The Cumberland Farmers Market Association will have a presence in five communities this year including Cumberland, Falmouth, Yarmouth, Freeport, and Gray. To reflect the depth and breadth of offerings, the market has developed a new slogan: Out Standing In Our Fields.

"The CFMA members represent 23 towns in six counties and provide local products that benefit the communities in which we market," said Leslie Fitzgerald, CFMA market manager. "We serve 110,000 community members residing in the five towns where we market. Our 40 members return to the 23 home towns where they live at the end of every market day and spend their earnings in those communities, helping to support the local economy. The Cumberland Farmers Market Association impacts nearly one quarter of the entire Maine population!"

Please visit the CFMA website at www.cumberlandfarmersmarket.org for a list of market locations, dates, and times. The website also includes a list of vendors, their products, and which markets they plan to attend.

Fiddle Heads are in, Seedlings are ready and you can find them both on Opening Day. Spring is in the air and the members of the Cumberland Farmers Market Association (CFMA) are busy getting ready for the opening of two of their market locations.

The Falmouth location will begin on Wednesday May 6 with NEW TIMES from noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Wal-Mart Shopping Plaza in front of the Regal Cinema's parking lot. Cumberland will open: Saturday, May 9, our regular times from 8:30 a.m. # noon at the Cumberland Town Office Building located at 290 Tuttle Road.

The CFMA has 39 vendors this year offering a variety of products including locally grown organic and all natural produce, grass fed-meats, ranged chicken, fresh fish and seafood, farm fresh eggs, hand crafted cheeses, perennials and annuals, knit items, custom herbal and spice blends, honey, maple syrup, teas, soap, soy wax candles and other exceptional Maine products. To celebrate the beginning of the season, opening day visitors can sign up for a free drawing to win a "market basket" filled with products and/or gift certificates from every vendor.

The Cumberland Farmers Market Association will have a presence in five communities this year including Cumberland, Falmouth, Yarmouth, Freeport, and Gray. To reflect the depth and breadth of offerings, the market has developed a new slogan: Out Standing In Our Fields.

"The CFMA members represent 23 towns in six counties and provide local products that benefit the communities in which we market," said Leslie Fitzgerald, CFMA market manager. "We serve 110,000 community members residing in the five towns where we market. Our 40 members return to the 23 home towns where they live at the end of every market day and spend their earnings in those communities, helping to support the local economy. The Cumberland Farmers Market Association impacts nearly one quarter of the entire Maine population!"

Please visit the CFMA website at www.cumberlandfarmersmarket.org for a list of market locations, dates, and times. The website also includes a list of vendors, their products, and which markets they plan to attend.

Shipyard releases Pugsley's Signature Series XXXX IPA

Shipyard Brewing Company announces the release of a new beer in its Pugsley's Signature Series line. IPA will be available in mid-May exclusively in 22 oz. bottles and on draft. This is a "big beer" with 9.25% alcohol by volume. XXXX IPA draws its name from the British brewing convention of using X's to denote strength.

Win a weekend getaway to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park from Oakhurst Dairy

OAKHURST DAIRY ANNOUNCES THE NATURAL GOODNESS OF MAINE SPRING SWEEPSTAKES

Oakhurst Dairy announced today they are offering a weekend getaway to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park as part of their The Natural Goodness of Maine Spring Sweepstakes. The Spring Sweepstakes is the first of four that will occur throughout 2009 as Oakhurst Dairy's way of sharing the Natural Goodness of Maine in another way.

"Oakhurst Dairy was started here by my grandfather in 1921. We are your neighbors - my family, our employees and the Northern New England farms that produce our milk. Oakhurst Milk is the truly local brand of milk," said Stan Bennett, third generation President and Owner of Oakhurst Dairy. "We are strong supporters of our customers and our communities. We couldn't think of a better way of showing our appreciation for their loyalty than offering participants the chance to visit some of the wonderful places that make our home here in Maine so special."

The contest will be promoted throughout April and May on Oakhurst Dairy's website, on specially marked gallons of Oakhurst milk and with radio, online and newspaper advertising. Consumers 18 years and older can enter The Natural Goodness of Maine Spring Sweepstakes at www.oakhurstdairy.com anytime from until May 31, 2009. There will be three other chances to win fabulous weekend getaways to a variety of Maine's treasures throughout the year.

Oakhurst is Northern New England's largest, independent dairy company, with three generations of commitment to the health and wellbeing of the community and the environment. For 88 years, the Bennett family has stood behind every glass of milk, just another reason to choose the Natural Goodness of Maine. Oakhurst contributes 10% of profits to organizations that promote healthy kids and a healthy environment. For more information visit www.oakhurstdairy.com

Colby Museum Announces Online Searchable Art Database

The Colby College Museum of Art announces the launch of its new Web Kiosk, a searchable online database. The kiosk features information about more than 6,000 objects from the permanent collection, almost 2,500 of which include digital images. Highlights include the majority of works from The Alex Katz Collection, The Lunder Collection (including the Whistler and Colville Collections), The John Marin Collection and the Terry Winters Collection.

The online database allows the museum to greatly expand its viewing population -- from local to international audiences. Visitors can explore the depth of individual collections beyond what is possible during just one museum visit. Visitors will be able to examine works that are in storage or that are otherwise not currently on display. One of the many dynamic features, a zoom tool, allows users to study individual works in great detail.

"This tool will enrich the experience of scholars, teachers and members of the general public," said the museum's Mirken Curator of Education Lauren Lessing. "I hope it will encourage greater visitation to the museum, foster scholarly discussions around the collection and help teachers prepare students for field trips."

The kiosk is part of the museum's recently redesigned Web site, which contains information on exhibitions, public programs and events, educational resources, membership information and press releases. The new Web site allows visitors to schedule a visit, become a member, and to preview upcoming exhibitions and museum events. The site also includes an archive of past exhibitions and events.

Funding for the project was provided by Michael and Sally Gordon, with digitization of the Lunder Collection supported by Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Abedon, Mr. and Mrs. Allan J. Landau, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sage, and the Hon. and Mrs. David B. Slater.

Founded in 1959, the Colby College Museum of Art has built a significant permanent collection, with a focus on American and contemporary art. Selections from this collection are displayed in the museum's 28,000 square feet of exhibition space -- one of the largest museums in Maine.

The collection includes areas of extraordinary depth. Major works by American artists John Singleton Copley, Gilbert Stuart, Winslow Homer, Albert Bierstadt, James McNeill Whistler, and William Merritt Chase form part of the historical collection. The modern movement is represented by important works by John Marin, Marsden Hartley, Georgia O'Keeffe, George Bellows, and Rockwell Kent. The museum also features a significant contemporary collection, including works by Chuck Close, Richard Serra, Agnes Martin, Sol LeWitt, Dan Flavin, Kara Walker, Elizabeth Murray, Alex Katz, and Terry Winters. Other areas of the collection include Greek and Roman antiquities, European prints and drawings, American folk art, and early Chinese art.

The Colby College Museum of Art is open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free and the museum is accessible to people with disabilities. For additional information about the Colby College Museum of Art or to browse the new Web Kiosk, visit www.colby.edu/museum.

Want to dance for the Red Claws?

The Maine Red Claws will hold auditions for their inaugural dance team at the Portland Expo Building on June 6 at 8 am. Dancers interested in auditioning can access applications for the 2009-2010 Red Claws
Dancers at www.nbamaine.com, which includes information on the auditions and team requirements.

Pay what you can/Community Campaign at Portland Yoga

The Portland Yoga Studio (PYS) is launching a Community Campaign this
month. The year-long campaign features monthly "pay what you can"
community yoga classes, three of which will benefit Portland area
non-profit organizations.

Our lives are interconnected. In small cities like Portland, we feel
and experience these connections. Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy
founded PYS in 1989. Since then, PYS has kept the needs of the
community in mind.

Elaine says, "Francis and I are very grateful for the past and for the
continuation of Portland Yoga Studio's trademark tradition, that is, a
tradition of commitment to excellence and of dedication to its
students' enhanced good health."

Stephanie Abrams, teacher and current owner of PYS says, "The
Community Campaign is a celebration of 20 years in business. It's a
great chance for our students to see how connected we all are to our
local community by participating in the benefit classes, and for new
students$perhaps staff, organization members, or beneficiaries of the
non-profits$to see how yoga might help them. Also, it's a way to
highlight some non-profits in Portland that are doing tremendous work
to support our community."

The word yoga stems from the Sanskrit word yuj$which means to yoke, or
to unite. As yoga practitioners develop a dedicated practice "on the
mat", they gain energy, good health, and clarity.

Abrams continues, "Our hope in practicing and teaching yoga is that we
begin to awaken to the connections between us all. The Community
Campaign is aligned with these hopes."

"I was looking for a way to highlight the inter-connectedness of our
community, as well as a way to reach a larger audience. Yoga is so
beneficial for our whole being: physical, emotional, mental and
spiritual."

The Community Campaign will kick off with a party on Friday, April 24.

The first non-profit partner to benefit from this program will be
Preble Street. Elena Schmidt of Preble Street says, "The work of
Preble Street depends on connections. We connect people struggling
with homelessness, hunger, and poverty to resources that can help them
move beyond their problems. And getting to those solutions depends on
connections$neighbor helping neighbor. Whether it's serving a meal or
collecting clothing or writing a check each of us can contribute to
the well-being of women, youth, and families in our communities."

Preble Street's benefit class will be held Friday, May 8. Habitat
for Humanity and WINI (Women in Need Industries) are the other
organizations selected to partner with PYS.

The months when benefit classes are not being held, PYS will offer
Community Classes. These classes are "pay what you can", and are
offered as a way to honor and build community.

"Especially during stressful times, it is important that we find a way
to connect$with ourselves and with others in our community," says
Abrams.

Friday, April 24 Community Class (pay what you can) 5:45-7:00 pm
Friday, April 24 Community Campaign Kick-Off/ 20th Anniversary Party
(free, all are welcome) 7:00-9:00 pm
Friday, May 8 Benefit Class for Preble Street ($1-500) 5:45-7:30 pm
Friday, June 12 Community Class (pay what you can) 5:45-7:00 pm
Friday, July 10 Community Class (pay what you can) 5:45-7:00 pm
Friday, August 21 Community Class (pay what you can) 5:45-7:00 pm
Friday, September 11 Benefit Class for Habitat for Humanity ($1-500)
5:45-7:30 pm\
Friday, October 9 Benefit Class for WINI ($1-500) 5:45-7:30 pm
Friday, November 13 Community Class (pay what you can) 5:45-7:00 pm
Friday, December 11 Community Class (pay what you can) 5:45-7:00 pm

Anthony's Dinner Theater Presents Anthony's Idol

Join us at Anthony's Italian Kitchen at 151 Middle Street in Portland on Saturdays in May as ten local singers will perform for your votes to try to win $500.00!

Congratulations to our top ten contestants:Cherrita Robertson, Megan Leddy, Peg Murphy-Mooers, Karen Tarleton, Faye Perry, Iris Downey, Christina "Birdie" Siravo, Christina Sterling, Hannah Rowell, and Lindsay Roberge.

"Everyone in my family has always loved music because it speaks to your soul and can lift your spirits. We wanted to do something exciting to help people out of the dreary winter", states Julie Fournier, daughter of owner, Anthony and co-manages the restaurant with her brother and sister. "We think coming together to enjoy a delicious meal and to see an entertaining show is a great way to stay connected with friends and family which is so important in times like these...you still have to have some fun in your life" she adds.

Tickets are $39.95 for a sit-down Italian dinner, one bottle of wine per couple, and a voting ballot. It's up to you to determine Greater Portland's most popular singer!
For more information and to make reservations call 221-2267.

Ellsworth band wins Rock-Off 25

ENTROPY, a neo-classic rock quintet from Ellsworth HS, earned the title of Best Young Band in the State of Maine Sunday when Reindeer Records presented its 25th -- and final-Annual Rock-Off competition at McAuley Performing Arts Center in Portland.

An enthusiastic crowd of about 300 fans, friends and family members of all sizes and ages were on hand to show their support for this year's finalists that also included CROSSED OUT (Gorham HS), AUXILIARY (Massabesic HS), DYSFUNKTIONAL MAYHEM (Deering, Casco Bay, Portland, Cheverus and Lake Region), INTRODUCING... (Windham HS) and SINGLE HANDED (Bonny Eagle).

The show kicked off with a guest performance by Jordan Stowell of IN THE AUDIENCE, a whimsical rock act from Portland, and concluded with a crowd-pleasing appearance by THE SHAMS, a band that competed in Rock-Offs 21 and 22. THE SHAMS reunited just for the historic finale, paying tribute to the stage that helped launch their popularity.

Rock-Off Master of Ceremonies Ryan Woodbury, a senior from Gray-New Gloucester HS, entertained the audience mid-way with his brand of acoustic pop.

The Annual Rock-Off Awards Presentation provided an opportunity to recognize many bands and individual musicians for outstanding efforts in numerous categories. [Complete list is attached].

Presenting ENTROPY with the last-ever Rock-Off title was David Ames, a well-known local working musician who was a member of the Bonny Eagle HS band AMBUSH, the very first Rock-Off winners in 1983.

ENTROPY formed several years ago when its founding members were in the 8th grade. Five years later, they would go on to win the Ellsworth Grand Theater Battle of the Bands, defeating many bands that had been signed to a record label. The band currently plays shows, but all the members are eager for something bigger. The band dreams of cutting an album, and becoming more than just a "local band."

Band members include: Brendon Bouchard - bass/vocals; Justin Chamberlain - lead guitar/vocals; John Keefe - guitar; Spencer Small - lead vocals; and Tyler Small - drums.

Complete details about this year's event can be found at www.mainetoday.com/rockoff.

CMCA invites craft artists to join Work of the Hand 2009

The Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA) in Rockport announces a final call to artists to submit work for its annual Work of the Hand crafts show and sale, to run from Oct. 10#18.

Two familiar guest bands to mark final Rock-Off

On Sunday, April 19, Reindeer Records will present the 25th Annual Rock-Off Finals at McAuley Performing Arts Center in Portland, starting at 2 PM. The show will mark the end of Reindeer's flagship event that for a quarter of a century has given exposure to literally thousands of high school musicians and hundreds of high school rock bands.

Two well-known local bands that have been a big part of recent Rock-Off events, as well as the local music scene, will once again return to the RO stage to help celebrate the historic finale for the long-running competition: BETTER THAN and THE SHAMS.

BETTER THAN played in the Rock-Off for three years, representing Gray-New Gloucester High School in RO 22, 23 and 24. The power pop-punk trio has been a constant name on the local music scene and has recently released their first CD. Bandmembers include J.D. Raines (Guitar/Vocals), Zach Chaffee (Drums) and Joe Wright (Bass, Vocals). Visit www.myspace.com/betterthanmusic for more info.

THE SHAMS made it into the Finals in Rock-Offs 21 and 22. The band formed in 2004 and quickly become a regular support act for successful local acts like The Killing Moon and Sparks The Rescue. In 2007, they called it quits to pursue their own separate paths. Now, after a long hiatus, The Shams are reuniting for their legendary Rock-Off guest appearance, to once again play the stage that made them. Bandmembers include Marcus Bagala (Guitar, Lead Vocals, Violin), Sam Bagala (Keyboards, Vocals), Haydn Deal (Guitar, Vocals), Andrew Deal (Bass), Peter Eckstein (Cello), Sky Critchfield (Drums). Visit www.myspace.com/theshams for more info.

The Finals are open to all ages. Tickets are $10/advance, $12 at the door. For complete Rock-Off info, visit www.mainetoday.com/rockoff.

Honor mom this May with a customized bail-out package

Nominate Mom for Captain Lord Mansion's "Mother of the Year" award and accompany her on a special junket to Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport, ME (4-13-09)- While CEOs are getting bailouts and bonuses, America's estimated 82.5 million moms continue working 24-7 and are typically far more successful at maintaining their workplaces. Whether single moms, soccer moms, working moms, stay-at-home moms, urban moms, or hybrid moms, no one is giving them bonuses…until now. Kennebunkport, Maine's Captain Lord Mansion is stepping up to the plate to give Mom the bonus she deserves # the chance to bail out of responsibilities at home and enjoy a pampered getaway. One lucky Mom will be treated to a complimentary two day stimulus package that's sure to recharge Mom's economic and domestic spirit (value: up to $1,000).

Simply send an essay nominating the special Mom in your life (perhaps your wife, your mom or YOU!) to be Captain Lord Mansion's "Mother of the Year". Explain why your nominee deserves her own special junket, free of corporate or media criticism. One lucky Mom will be chosen from entries sent to Captain Lord Mansion for a complimentary two-night stimulus package including luxury accommodations, daily breakfast, a pampering spa experience and a special gift. Captain Lord Mansion will choose a winner to be notified on Mother's Day. Her complimentary stay, with one guest, will be offered on a space available basis at a mutually convenient date before December 31, 2009. Simply send your nomination by email to innkeeper@CaptainLord.com or by postal mail no later than Monday, May 4, 2009 to:
Mother of the Year Award
Captain Lord Mansion
PO Box 800
Kennebunkport, ME 04046-0800

At a loss for how to honor Mom this Mother's Day? Consider a special getaway to the Captain Lord Mansion, where Mom can bail out of dishes, laundry, cooking, bathroom cleaning and she can luxuriate in one of the over-the-top bathrooms at the Captain Lord Mansion, even if it is for just a little while. She will find luxurious bathrooms with multi-jet showers, deep double whirlpool tubs, heated floors, and also, distinctively decorated guest rooms, toasty gas fireplaces, gourmet breakfasts, and a special gift to take home. These treats await all Moms at the Captain Lord Mansion throughout the year. Gift certificates for Mom's Bail Out can still be purchased in plenty of time for Mother's Day.

The Captain Lord Mansion is a premier bed & breakfast inn located in the heart of Kennebunkport, Maine. Combining luxury amenities with spa services, an extensive gift shop, beautifully appointed guest rooms and haute hospitality, all within Southern Maine's extensive beaches and recreation, Captain Lord Mansion takes its place among Maine's most distinctive inns. For more information on Captain Lord Mansion, visit www.captainlord.com or call 800-522-3141 to order your Mother's Day gift certificate.

Free BikeMaine event calendar now available

The Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM) has produced a free, comprehensive calendar of 2009 Maine bicycle events. The calendar is available at bicycle shops and sports stores throughout Maine. An online version may be found at www.BikeMaine.org.

Sea Dog SoPo Mug Club memberships available

In May, Sea Dog Brewing Company will open a restaurant at 125 Western Ave., South Portland. Mug club memberships for this new location are now available to purchase online. An annual mug club membership is $50 and includes a membership card, personal numbered mug, special "club only" pricing, exclusive t-shirt and free lunch on your birthday.

Fetch's $4M Idea Contest Ends April 15, 2009

1st Prize:
A year's supply of Fetch's Featured Dog or Cat Food of the Month for one dog or cat, worth up to a $60 per month

2nd Prize:
A year's worth of free self-serve dog washes, one per month, worth up to $15 per month

A local internet & catalog company with a name similar to ours, also located in Portland, recently raised another $4 million in venture capital to fund expansion of the company. As a result, there's been a lot more confusion between Fetch and this other company with the similar name, which we think is kind of funny.... Fetch is a local independent business that started on credit cards and a Downtown Portland Corporation loan in 2000....us, with 4 million dollars in venture capital?! Even some of our customers and old friends have congratulated us, thinking that we were the other company. Seemed like an irresistible opportunity to contrast what a small, independent Portland animal-focused cat & dog supply store would do to impact local animals & our pet-loving customers if we did have four million, v. what a big corporation in the same industry would do with it.

So we've invited the public to help us spend our 'virtual $4M in vc".....how could $4M make a difference in the quality of life for animals and their humans in our community?

Propose your $4M Idea and you could win a year's supply of dog or cat food for one pet, or a year of free self-serve dog washes....contest has been extended, but ends on April 15, 2009. An objective panel of professionals in the pet industry in the Portland area will be asked to weigh in on the entries. Should be interesting!

See contest rules for detailed info, but in plain English, anyone is welcome to enter and no purchase is necessary.

More contest info

Free Tax Day Truffle

Escape from tax returns to get some fresh air and some chocolate. Dean'sSweets, maker of hand-dipped dark chocolate truffles, is offering a free truffle to anyone that comes into their store between now and Tax Day, April 15, 2009. No purchase is necessary; just mention the Tax Day truffle offer.

Dean'sSweets is known for their artisanal hand-dipped chocolate truffles and their unusually fine flavors. For this Tax Day offer, choose from any of 18 Dean'sSweets flavors from traditional rum to spicy cayenne. Other truffle options include Maine maple, blueberry, single-malt Scotch, Tequila lime, or hot coffee.

Dean'sSweets truffles are made in small batches in Portland, without any preservatives. Those with nut allergies can also rest assured that there are no nuts or nut products in any of Dean'sSweets truffles.
To get your free truffle, head to Dean'sSweets at 82 Middle Street in Portland.

To get more information, go to www.deanssweets.com
or call 207.899.3664.

Dean'sSweets
82 Middle Street
Portland, ME 04101
207.899.3664
www.deanssweets.com

'Growler' bill gets committee approval

By Susan Cover, Press Herald Staff Writer

A bill to allow brew pubs to sell half-gallon containers of beer earned unanimous committee approval on Wednesday, according to the House Majority Office.

Rep. Nancy Smith, D-Monmouth, sponsored the bill to allow Maine brewers who operate brew pubs to sell growlers filled by bartenders from the taps.

Growlers, which are reusable and often made of glass, would have to be sealed by the bartender and could not be sold after 10 p.m. There would be no limit on how many growlers could be purchased at one time.

Current law allows brew pubs to sell growlers, but only from a second entrance.

"This legislation opens up a new product line for Maine's small brewers," Smith said in a statement. "With appropriate restrictions to address public safety concerns, Maine's brew pubs will be able to provide to their customers with their quality products for off-premises consumption. This is a big success."

The Legal and Veterans Affairs Committee will review its final amended language before sending the bill on to the Legislature for consideration.

It's coming soon, the 2nd Annual Ad Club of Maine's Online Auction

Online bidding will begin Monday, May 18 at noon and will run through 10 p.m. on Monday, June 8.

Last year more than 30 area-companies donated services ranging from free copy writing and photography to full advertising/marketing packages valued at $5,000.

More than 500 non-profits and small businesses will be bidding on donations. Proceeds from this year's auction will benefit the Club and its Tuition Scholarship Fund. We're working toward our financial goal to award this scholarship to any Maine college or university student majoring in marketing, advertising, design or a related field.

Visit maineadclub.cmarket.com to donate or bid on items.

2009 PMA Biennial prize winners

At the members' opening reception for the 2009 Portland Museum of Art Biennial on April 7, four prizes were awarded to artists in the exhibition.

Want to get Lost in Yonkers?

The Community Little Theatre in Auburn will be auditioning for its June show "Lost In Yonkers" on April 13 and 14 at 7 pm. Get to Great Falls Performing Arts Center, 30 Academy St., Auburn to get in the show.

Walk-Fit Bootcamp - Dogs Welcomed!

Walk-Fit Bootcamp (60 Minutes) Dogs Welcomed!
$35.00/Month
Wednesday Nights 6:20-7:20

Increase your (and your dog's) fitness level no matter where you are
starting from for ! This class will begin at the Oak Street entrance of The
Landing. A walk through the city of Portland will warm you up. We will take
one of 3 different routes to area parks that have their own unique obstacles
such as, park bench, stairs, step ups, hills etc., where we will focus on
strength training. (resistance bands will be provided) You will then have
20 minutes to make the journey back to The Landing (mapped routes for
walkers, joggers and runners) for a guided stretch. Please feel free to
bring your dog, they will enjoy it as much as you will! Please be prompt,
we leave at 6:20 pm, rain or shine.

http://www.thelandingcenter.com/

Share your fresh interior design ideas with angela adams fans + win!

Share your fresh interior design ideas with other fans + win!

angela adams will select 3 favorites + award winners with a 3x5 or Runner of their choice.

Step 1: Become a fan of angela adams on Facebook.

Step 2: Attend the Rooms Re-Imagined event + upload a photograph of an angela adams rug in your house that helped inspire the room. You can also submit a creative plan of your room inspired by the angela adams rug on your wish list. Describe your inspiration in the caption. All entries are due by 4/19/09.*

Step 3: Check the angela adams Facebook fan page on 4/24/09 to see if you've won and to pick up your 20% coupon code just for entering.

*See Facebook for details, terms and conditions.

www.angelaadams.com

Artists, crafters sought for Mollyocket Day in July

MAHOOSUC ARTS COUNCIL ACCEPTING VENDOR APPLICATIONS FOR 2009 MOLLYOCKET DAY # JULY 18

Calling all artists, crafters, and food vendors! It is not too late to apply for a booth at Mollyocket Day 2009, July 18. The Mahoosuc Arts Council is currently accepting applications for arts and crafts, food and community organization vendors.

Mollyocket Day is an annual community festival sponsored by the Mahoosuc Arts Council (MAC) - a nonprofit organization serving to support and promote the arts in the greater Bethel Area through visual, performing and community arts activities. Held on the historic Bethel Common, Mollyocket Day has drawn thousands of residents and vacationers of all ages, tastes and interests since 1960. In addition to a large variety of vendors, festival features a parade, a road race and a duck race, live entertainment, a frog jumping contest and fireworks at dusk.

Booth sizes are 10 feet by 10 feet. The cost for an arts and crafts booth is $60. The cost for a retail food booth is $200 for a multiple-item vendor or $100 for a single-item vendor. The cost for a nonprofit food vendor booth is $100 for a multiple-item vendor and $50 for a single-item vendor. The cost for community booths for information distribution or demonstration with no sales is $30. Community booths with sales is $60 space. Community organizations are eligible for a discounted or free registration with their pledge of volunteer support for the event.

All vendor selection will be made on the basis of providing a variety of products for the audience. The MAC does not grant vendors exclusive rights to sell any particular item. Duplication of items will be avoided, but is not guaranteed. Vendors may not share booth space. Each crafter or business must apply for booth space separately.

The deadline for all applications is April 17, 2009. You will be notified you if you are selected by April 24, 2009. Contract and paid booth fees will be due from each vendor on May 8, 2009. Booth space number notification is July 1, 2009. Vendors can set up Friday, July 17 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturday, July 18 from 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM.

The Mahoosuc Arts Council (MAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which has worked to support and advance the arts and humanities in the adult communities and school systems of the Greater Bethel Area since 1986. FMI: go to www.mahosucarts.org or call 207-824-3575.

Call to artists for public sculpture request for proposal (RFP)

Biddeford is an old mill city of 22,000, and is one of the few remaining ungentrified communities on the southern Maine coast. Although the textile industry has all but left, the historic mill structures remain, with many finally beginning to see renovation and reinvestment.

The Heart of Biddeford (HoB), formed in 2004, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Biddeford, Maine, devoted to revitalizing downtown Biddeford. In partnership with the City of Biddeford, the business community, property owners, and residents, fosters economic development and improves the downtown and quality of life within its boundaries by supporting existing businesses, attracting new businesses, promoting the downtown through events and working to beautify the urban core.

The HoB is currently seeking a one-time competitive grant of between $1,000 and $20,000 to be used for a project that promotes the quality of public spaces through the creation of artwork that is sculptural in nature. With that grant, the HoB is seeking artists to create public sculpture in the city of Biddeford, Maine. Reflecting the history of the city, the sculpture would utilize and incorporate mill machinery, recycled, or found materials in the sculpture. The artist should be prepared to define how the project is intended to relate to the public and the environment. The artist should also show an understanding of the City of Biddeford and explain how their concept piece would honor the history and the current revitalization of the city. This project would be a visible presentation in an area to be determined.

Interested people should submit the following, no later than April 30, 2009, to Rachael Weyand, Executive Director, Heart of Biddeford, 205 Main Street, Biddeford, Maine 04005.

1. Current concise resume

2. Up to five digital images of work by the artist(s) or designers(s) involved with the project

3. A completed narrative form describing what you plan to do and how you plan to do it.

4. A budget breakdown considering all aspects of design, fabrication, transportation, collaboration, promotion, and installation.

Interviews with finalists will be conducted during the month of May, and selection by May 30, 2009.

City of Portland Volunteer Opportunities

Board and Commissions

Board of Assessment Review # 2 Alternate positions

Responsibilities: The Board has power to grant property tax abatements pursuant to state law and to determine the tax exempt status of real and personal property. It functions in a quasi- judicial capacity and members must be able to hold public hearings, make findings of fact and conclusions of law in accordance with state law, and issue written decisions setting forth their findings and conclusions.

Qualifications: Members need the background necessary to be able to determine the value of real and personal property. Members should be familiar with the several geographical areas of the City, e.g. the waterfront, downtown, Munjoy Hill, Deering, etc.

Civil Service Commission - 1 position

The Employment Subcommittee has three Commissioners and one alternate. The Employment Subcommittee approves written examinations for police and fire Civil Service testing and other elements of the testing process such as fitness and medical and job suitability exams, participates in oral interviews with candidates, and may hold hearings on discipline cases.
Qualifications: A resident of Portland and a person of good moral character. Although a familiarity with employment practices and the legal process would be helpful, they are not required. What is necessary is a desire to be involved in a critical but background role, a capacity for objective judgments, and good communication skills.
Disqualifications: Anyone who is or has been a City employee or City Councilor or anyone who is a relative of a present member of the Police or Fire departments.

Friends of the Parks # 4 positions

This Commission serves as an advisory group to help promote parks and recreation in the City. Meets monthly to review projects, proposals and receive citizen input to provide recommendations to the Department and the City Council.

Historic Preservation Board # 2 positions

Responsibilities: The Historic Preservation Board has jurisdiction to review and approve applications for a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior alterations, site improvements and new construction affecting Portland's designated landmarks, buildings and sites within historic districts and historic landscape districts. The Board also makes recommendations to the Planning Board and City Council concerning amendments to the historic preservation ordinance and the designation of additional landmarks, historic districts, and historic landscape districts.
Qualifications: Members shall have demonstrated interest, knowledge, ability, experience, or expertise in restoration, rehabilitation, or neighborhood conservation or revitalization and shall be residents of the City of Portland.
Terms: Members are appointed for terms of 3 years and may serve a maximum of three consecutive terms.
Meetings: The Historic Preservation Board meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 5:00.

Landbank # 3 positions

The Land Bank Commission is responsible for identifying and protecting open space resources within the City of Portland. The Commission seeks to preserve a balance between development and conservation of open space important for wildlife, ecological, environmental, scenic or outdoor recreational values. The Commission responsibilities include: working for the acquisition and conservation of open space within the City; recommending to the City Council on a priority basis acquisition or conservation of significant properties; and the pursuit of gifts and funds from private and public sources for the acquisition of open space as approved by the City Council. The Commission has developed an inventory of open space resources within the City. It is engaged in an ongoing effort to proactively protect properties from development through easement, deed restriction, or acquisition.

Responsibilities: Pursue funding resources for the acquisition of open space; create an inventory of
open space property in the city and make recommendations for the protection and/or acquisition of open space that is environmentally significant. Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:00 P.M.

Portland Fish Exchange A # 1 position

Portland Housing Authority # 2 positions

The Portland Housing Authority was established in 1943 to provide decent, safe, and sanitary housing for low-income citizens of the Greater Portland area. Today, it owns and manages twelve housing developments totaling 1,038 units, serving families, elderly, and persons with disabilities. This locally owned program operates with an annual $7.5 million dollar budget. In addition, the Authority administers the HUD Leased Housing Program that provides rent subsidies in the private market for qualified applicants. This program currently provides approximately 2,000 certificates or vouchers to low-income residents and operates with an annual contract authority over $14.5 million dollars. Together these programs provide assistance to over 6,000 residents, which equal roughly 10% of Portland"s population. The Authority employs over 90 people to manage and operate these programs.

Portland Public Art # 4 positions

The Portland Public Art Committee is responsible for administering the Public Art Program to preserve, restore and enhance the City-owned public art collection. The Committee develops and presents to the City Council an Annual Art Plan that recommends expenditures from the municipal percent-for-art allocation, reviews potential gifts of art to the City's collection according the Guidelines for the Public Art Ordinance, seeks private donations to care for the public art collection, and recommends appropriate locations for the installation of permanent public art. Members must live or work in Portland. Experience, training or expertise in one of the following disciplines is desirable: architecture or landscape architecture, accomplishment as an artist, art curator, commercial real estate or development, and/or experience with foundations and development. Members are appointed to three-year terms.

Additional information is available in the City Clerk's office, on the City's website at www.portlandmaine.gov or at 874-8677.

Deadline for submission is May 1, 2009. Please send a resume and cover letter to Appointments Committee Chairman, c/o Linda C. Cohen, City Clerk, 389 Congress Street, Portland ME 04101 or lcc@portlandmaine.gov. Applicants will be contacted for interviews.

NBA D-League team will be Maine Red Claws

NBA Maine of the NBA Development League today announced that the team, which will begin play in the 2009-10 season will be called the Maine Red Claws, as determined by a fan vote. After one month of voting, 2,943 fans submitted their vote and selected the Red Claws as the team's name.