The Museum of African Culture Upcoming Events

Friday March 27th
Friends of Africa With Deb Locke
Slide Show and discussion
6:30 pm $5.00 donation
To Timbuctou and Back:
Among the Many Cultures of Mali & Burkina Faso
April First Friday Art Walk with Marta Morse
Photography Exhibit "Dryness Across Sub-Saharan Africa

ANNUAL EBUNE CELEBRATION!!!!
March 30 - April 3
Public mask making for Ebune Parade
4-7 pm Baxter building 619 Congress Street
The Art Education Department of Maine College of Art will be holding public workshops and invites any and all of the public that are interested in learning about the Ebune Festival to be a part of the celebration. The workshops will include puppet, mask and banner making activities for all levels that can be carried in the Ebune Parade. No charge, donations welcome.

April 3
Public lecture with Oscar Mokeme
4-7 pm Baxter Building 619 Congress Street
Featuring Ebune

Sunday April 5
Annual Ebune Parade
Celebration of Spring
Starts in front of MECA 12 noon, celebration at Eastern Promenade
On Sunday April 5th, the Procession lines up at 11:30 a.m. in front of MECA’s. At noon we process down Congress Street to the Eastern Promenade. Anyone with a ram-themed puppet, mask, or instrument can join. In addition, volunteers are needed to help carry banners and animate puppets or masks. Volunteers are encouraged to contact us in advance, but can also show up at 11 a.m. on the day of the event.
Celebration and food at the Eastern Promenade.

Ebune has been generously sponsored by the United Way, Maine Humanities Council, Maine Arts Commission, and Artists and Craftsman Supply

Real Bad Credit And The Statute of Limitations

Tips for Dealing with Creditors and Collectors
The Internal Revenue Service is the king of all creditors and collectors. Tax debt takes priority over almost everything else when you're filing bankruptcy or coming up with a payment plan.


Statute of Limitations and negotiating with creditors
Just like the criminal justice system, your credit accounts are also subject to a statute of limitations. What this means is there is a maximum number of years a creditor has to sue you if your debt goes unpaid. When this statute of limitations has expired, it means the creditor can no longer sue you for the unpaid balance.
An open account is simply one that has not been closed. You can still owe money on an open account—creditors leave accounts open so that if they are able to catch up with the debtor along the line, they can still try to get payment on that account. The statute of limitations on open accounts varies from state to state, but if a creditor has not sued you within that time period, you can avoid judgments and other legal actions.


Don't think that the statute of limitations means you can run up debt, not pay it, and have it disappear after the statute of limitations has expired and be free from responsibility. You still owe the debt, and it won't be wiped off your credit report. BUT if a creditor attempts to bring suit against you after the statute of limitations has expired, you do have some options.
If a consumer defaults on a debt, a creditor can still monitor that person's credit file. If activity starts to show up on that file, the creditor may try to bring suit against the consumer to get payment. If the statute of limitations has expired, the consumer cannot (in most cases) be sued or have a judgment placed against them.


Be sure you have evidence to back you up! Get a copy of your credit file and be sure the information is correct. If a creditor sues you and you're not able to prove the statute of limitations had expired on that account, you will not fare well.


Be proactive. Get a copy of your credit report from one of the credit bureaus and contact the collection agency(s) for your overdue account(s). Send a certified letter to the agency stating that the statute of limitations has expired on your account and ask for confirmation. This does NOT make you immune from other collection action they may take against you, but it's a good thing to have on record.


Research the statute of limitations rules in your state! Don't assume anything—go to the library, look on the Internet—be sure you have the correct information before doing anything.
Making partial payments may postpone the statute of limitations on the account. If a creditor tells you that, ask them for proof so you are sure they're correct.


Some mortgage companies will overlook a collection account or charge-off if the statute of limitations has expired. If a creditor is not able to put a lien on the property you're financing, some mortgage companies will be more lenient.


Since collectors only collect a small percentage of the accounts they pursue, you may be able to negotiate a payoff for a lesser amount than the original debt. This can show up on your credit report as a "paid collection" or "paid charge-off," which may reassure future lenders or creditors that you're dedicated to paying off your debts rather than file bankruptcy. You may want to consult with a lender first to find out how much and what type of negative information on your credit report will keep you from qualifying for a loan.


Never send a post-dated check, or a check you know you can't cover, to a creditor or collector. If you don't have the money in your account, don't let anyone talk you into sending a post-dated check. If you don't have the funds in your account by the date on the check, you could be subject to overdraft charges and other penalties from your bank.


If you negotiate a settlement with a creditor on a collection account for less money than is actually owed, you could end up owing taxes on that unpaid amount! If the amount you actually paid is $600 less than the amount owed, you need a 1099 from the creditor and you may have to declare that amount on your tax return. Be sure to check out the tax ramifications of any settlement before you make it.

Please make sure you give this letter to someone who is in need of credit help and pass along my name. I would appreciate the referral.

First Choice Home Loans / Melissa Cooledge
20 Glendale Circle
Scarborough, ME 04074
207-883-4400

The Red Sox & The Downeaster Train Packages

June Red Sox Packages

The Amtrak Downeaster and Our Tickets and Tours are teaming to bring you some special Red Sox Trips for the month of June.

The Red Sox take on the Texas Rangers on Friday and Saturday, June 5th and June 6th, with prices starting at just $95 per person for your sold out game ticket and round trip transportation to Boston on the Downeaster.

Next up are the Florida Marlins for a weekday series, from June 16th to June 18th. Prices for this inter- league match up are $95 to $105 per person.

The Atlanta Braves visit Fenway Park for a weekend inter-league series, June 19th through the 21st, and you can get in the game starting at just $95 to $105 per person.

All prices quoted are for Bleacher seats, but upgrades seats are available at an additional cost.

These specials will go on sale on Friday, March 27th, 2009 at 10:00 AM. Seats are limited, so call 787-3184 on Friday or submit your request anytime earlier at www.ourtickets.net . We also have a very limited number of seats remaining for our April and May Red Sox Trips. Spring and baseball are in the air and the Downeaster with Our Tickets and Tours, can get you there! Please note that tickets for our packages are purchased in excess of face value.

The Downeaster
Amtrak Downeaster
Email: info@nnepra.com
Phone: 1-800-USA-RAIL
Web: http://amtrakdowneaster.com

Upcoming Events from Maine Biz

TuesdayPacific Institute hosts a seminar, "Investment in excellence," from 8-5 p.m. at the Portland Country Club in Falmouth. (913) 208-6357.

WednesdayTechMaine hosts a seminar, "MaineJUG: Intro to SEAM," from 6-8 p.m. at its office in Westbrook. 857-3003.

ThursdayThe Women's Business Center hosts a women's business owners' networking event from 5-7 p.m. at Coastal Enterprise in Portland. 772-5356.

The Small Business Annex hosts a seminar, "Work at home? Get out of the house!," from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at its office in Portland. 776-3071.

FridayBrown and Meyers hosts a breakfast workshop, "Learn how to stop the paper chase with Brown and Meyers," form 8:30-10:00 a.m. at the Portland Chamber of Commerce in Portland. 846-3826.

MondayThe University of Maine School of Law hosts a symposium, "The economy the courts and the way foward: Maine's court system in 2014," from 3-5 p.m. at the University of Maine's Abromson Center in Portland. 623-2661.

Maine State Pier Public Meetings Next Week

Discussions will focus on the Maine State Pier, today's marine economy and locals usesWhat: Next week, the City of Portland will hold two meetings as a part of its public process to get input on key issues that relate to the future of the Maine State Pier. The meetings are designed to inform the public on the history, policies and development goals for the pier, gather input from the public on a variety of key issues, and convey this information to the City Council. Members of the public interested in the Maine State Pier and its future uses are encouraged to attend these meetings.

The second meeting in the series, Today's Marine Economy and the Maine State Pier, will be held next Wednesday. The meeting will feature a panel discussion with Charles Colgan, economist at the Muskie School of Public Services, John Henshaw, Director of the Maine Port Authority, and Morris Fisher of Boulos Property Management. Jennifer Litteral of the Island Institute will serve as moderator for the discussion and will facilitate questions from the public. The panelists will address a number of topics including how the Maine State Pier can best contribute to the local economy and what paths to consider for redevelopment of the pier and surrounding area.

On Thursday, the third meeting in the series, Understanding the Local Needs and Uses for the Maine State Pier, will be held at Ocean Gateway. The meeting will feature a discussion with Jack Humeniuk, ILA Local #861, Executive Director of Portland Trails Nan Cummings, Jenna Renee Vendill of the League of Young Voters, and former Port of Portland Director Tom Valleau. Greg Kesich of the Portland Press Herald will moderate the conversation and facilitate comment from the public.

The meeting will include a discussion of how to maximize the benefits for redeveloping the Maine State Pier for the public including islanders, neighborhoods and businesses. Following these meetings, the city will host a community design workshop on April 11, 2009, Creating a Pier for Portland's Future, during which the public will tackle questions as they relate to the future of the Maine State Pier utilizing the information gathered during the previous meetings. Members of the public will be broken up into groups and taken through a facilitated conversation as they address the topics of future use and investment for the pier. Registration at the city's website, www.portlandmaine.gov, for the workshop is strongly encouraged. Finally, the public will be invited to a presentation of the results from the community workshop to the City Council April 29, 2009.

Credit 101 Part 5

Facts about the FACT Act
The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions (FACT) Act was signed into law in December 2003. This law incorporates new privacy regulations, identity theft protections dispute procedures and the distribution of free annual consumer disclosures. This means that you can request a free copy of your consumer disclosure every 12 months from TransUnion, Equifax and Experian.

Mortgage preparation made simple
Buying a home is probably the single largest investment most people make in a lifetime. By preparing yourself and your credit profile before a home purchase, you can ensure a smooth finance process and can potentially save thousands on your loan.
To get the best possible mortgage rate, make sure your credit history is healthy and accurate. Aim to raise your credit score above 680 in order to qualify for most prime loans.
If your credit score is not quite 680, focus your efforts on paying bills on time, reducing your debt balances, avoiding new inquiries and clearing negative inaccuracies from your credit report. It is possible to improve your credit score quite a bit over a few months.
Make sure the information on your credit report is correct and fix any problems you discover. Give yourself 30-90 days for correcting inaccuracies.
Found an error while reviewing your credit with the lender? Ask about the “rapid rescoring” process where your lender can submit a dispute and potentially improve your credit score in 72 hours.

When you have accomplished the above task please make sure you give this letter to someone who is in need of credit help and pass along my name. I would appreciate the referral.

Melissa Cooledge, Loan Officer
First Choice Home Loans
20 Glendale Circle
Scarborough, Me 04074
Cell - 207-749-4588
E-Fax -866-449-3403
Apply online @www.firstchoicehomeloans.org

Credit 101 Part 4

Keeping Your Credit our of the ICU

Unpaid medical bills can cause surprising and serious damage to your credit report.
It’s often a plain and simple case of miscommunication. Your insurance company and your medical provider are in negotiations over paying a recent hospital bill. You think it has been paid, or at least should have been, because you have insurance. The bill is delinquent and then overdue and then sent to collections. All of the sudden you are stuck with a collections record on your credit report for 7 years. Not your fault?…Think again.

Medical collections are becoming increasingly common in this era of red-tape insurance companies and giant health care corporations. If you are injured and your insurance company doesn’t pay, you can often be legally stuck with responsibility for the bill. That collections account can stay on your credit report for up to seven years if you don’t prove that it was a factual error. How can you be sure your credit doesn’t end up with a scar? Follow these tips for keeping your credit out of harm’s way:

Prevention
Emergency reserve – It’s important to have enough money saved to cover your living expenses for a few months in case you lose your job or unexpectedly land in the hospital. Medical bills can sometimes add up to unbelievable amounts, so you may want to also keep a credit card with a high limit reserved for emergency use.

Power of attorney – If things get really sticky, having a trusted spouse or family member with legal power of attorney can help. When you are sick in the hospital, you may not be able to wrestle with the insurance companies and billing offices on your own. Talk to a financial planner or lawyer to have these papers drawn up. Be sure that this person understands the responsibilities and has a copy of your medical insurance policy.

Get the facts – If you receive a bill you thought was covered, go through your insurance policy with a fine tooth comb to see what you are really responsible for paying. These documents can also outline the best procedures for cutting through the red tape in the billing office. You’ll also want to contact the insurance company and the medical office for more information as soon as you suspect something is wrong with your bill.

Settle your bills – Even if your insurance company is at fault, you will probably be better off paying the medical bill yourself before it’s sent to collections rather than continuing to deny the charge. Paying the bill doesn’t mean you have to stop negotiating with your insurance company over the amount, it just means that you won’t also have to negotiate over a collection account on your credit report.

Righting the wrongs – If the account was sent to collections, avoid “settling” the bill and try to pay off the amount in full. A fully paid collections account is slightly better for your credit than an unpaid or settled account. If your medical bill was sent to collections in error, you still have options. You can dispute the record on your credit report if you can prove that the bill was sent to collections unlawfully (for example – if you were never billed directly for the amount before it was sent to collections).

Melissa Cooledge
First Choice Home Loans
20 Glendale Circle
Scarborough, Me 04074
Cell - 207-749-4588
E-Fax -866-449-3403
Apply online @www.firstchoicehomeloans.org

Credit 101 Part 3

Credit Warning Signs

Keeping your finances running smoothly is simple when you know about possible detours that lie ahead. The five danger signs described here are the top reasons for credit report troubles. Spot them early and you can avoid any bumps in your financial journey.

Strange data – Not sure where that credit card came from? Unauthorized account or address changes could be a sign that a thief is using your identity. If you find a credit card or loan that you don't remember opening, call the creditor immediately to investigate. If it turns out to be a case of identity theft, have the account closed and follow the fraud resolution procedures outlined in the identity theft section of the Credit Learning Center.
Maxed-out credit cards – High balances on credit cards are common but that extra debt could be bringing your credit score down significantly. Reducing your balances to below 35% of your credit limits helps improve your creditworthiness and can save you a bundle on interest charges.
Late payments – Paying your debts late not only costs you a fee but also damages your credit. If you have had trouble making your payments on time lately, evaluate what is causing the problem. Ask your creditor to move your due date to a different time of the month or sign up for online bill payment service that can be programmed to remind you before the due date.

Mistaken identity – With over 290 million people in the United States, a few crossed credit records can be expected from time to time. Finding someone else's credit data on your report is especially widespread for people with common or shared family names like "Joe Smith Jr." If you find something that does not belong on your report, contact the credit reporting agencies to have your data corrected.

Credit score differences – A dramatic difference in one of your three credit scores can point to a potential error on that report. If one of your scores is 50 points lower than your other two scores, it is a good idea to look closely at that score's credit report for inaccuracies or signs of identity theft.

Credit 101 Part 2

Top 5 credit misconceptions

We have all heard the rumors…from neighbors, relatives or friends. There are a wide variety of myths floating around about what you should and shouldn’t do to improve your credit reports and credit scores. The buck stops here! TrueCredit has exposed these urban legends to provide you and your informers with the truth about credit:

1. Your score will drop if you check your credit – Fortunately, this one is definitely not true. Checking your own report and score is counted as a "soft inquiry" and doesn't harm your credit at all. Only "hard inquiries" from a lender or creditor, made when you apply for credit, can bring your credit score down a few points. Worried about damaging your credit while shopping around for a loan? Multiple inquiries for the same purpose within a short amount of time (a few weeks) are grouped together into a less damaging period of inquiry.

2. Closing old accounts will improve your credit score – To close or not to close, that is the question. Many people advocate closing old and inactive accounts as a way for improving your credit. In most cases, closing accounts will actually have the opposite effect. Canceling old credit accounts can lower your credit score by making your credit history appear shorter. Think twice before closing the oldest account on your credit report. If you want to reduce your levels of available credit, ask for your credit limits to be lowered or close newer accounts instead.

3. Once you pay off a negative record, it is removed from your credit report – Negative records such as collection accounts, bankruptcies and late payments will remain on your credit report for 7-10 years. Paying off the account before the end of the set term doesn’t remove it from your credit report, but will cause the account to be marked as “paid.” It is still a good idea to pay your debts, it can improve your credit score, but the major improvement will come when the record expires.

4. Being a co-signer doesn’t make you responsible for the account – When you open a joint account or co-sign on a loan, you are taking on legal responsibility for the account. Any activity on these shared accounts, good or bad, will show up on both people’s credit reports. If you co-sign for a friend’s auto loan and they don’t make the payments, your credit profile will be hurt by their actions and visa versa. The only way to stop this double reporting is to refinance the loan or to have the creditor officially remove you from the account.

Paying off a debt will add 50 points to your credit score – Your credit score is calculated using a complex algorithm that takes into account hundreds of factors and values. It is very hard to predict how many points you can gain by changing one factor. For a person with a high credit score, just one late payment can cause a significant drop. If a person has a low credit score, it may not cause a large drop at all. There is no magic way to improve your credit score, just keep paying your bills on time, reducing your debts and removing negative inaccuracies from your credit report. Good financial behavior and time are the two most important factors for your credit score.

Melissa Cooledge
First Choice Home Loans
20 Glendale Circle
Scarborough, Me 04074
Cell - 207-749-4588
E-Fax -866-449-3403
Apply online @www.firstchoicehomeloans.org

Credit 101 Part 1

Let's take on the fundamentals of the credit reporting system. From the big three credit bureaus, TransUnion, Equifax and Experian, to your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, this series of posts will help you navigate the credit report maze.

The credit reporting agencies – TransUnion, Equifax and Experian (formerly TRW) are the three national credit reporting agencies that keep records on consumers. The reporting agencies work with lenders, creditors, insurers and employers to update and distribute your information to the appropriate institutions. Here's an example of how the system works:

1. When you apply for a new credit card the creditor requests a copy of your financial history from the reporting agencies. This causes a “hard inquiry” to be recorded on your credit report.

2. The creditor uses your credit reports and scores along with income and debt information to determine what rates to offer.

3. You start to use the new credit card and the creditor reports your activities to the credit reporting agencies about every 30 days.

4. The credit reporting agencies update your credit report as they receive new information from creditors or lenders.

Your credit report – Your credit report is divided into six main sections: consumer information (address, birthday and employment), consumer statement, account histories, public records, inquiries and creditor contacts. When you open a new account, miss a payment or move, these sections are updated with new information. Old negative records will stay on your credit report for 7-10 years. Positive records can remain on your credit report longer. Not all creditors report to all three agencies and the agencies obtain their data independently so your reports from TransUnion, Equifax and Experian could be substantially different from each other. That's why it's important to check your three credit reports every 6-12 months to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Correcting inaccuracies – Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, consumers are protected from having inaccurate information on their credit reports. If you find an inaccurate record on your report, try contacting the creditor or lender associated with the mark first. These companies can usually correct the mistake and send an update to the credit reporting agencies. If you can't make progress this way, you can also dispute the inaccuracy directly with the credit reporting agencies.

Working the system – Keeping your credit reports healthy will improve your credit scores and help get you the best rates on major purchases. We recommend that you check your credit reports every 6-12 months or at least 3 months before a major purchase in order to guard against damaging inaccuracies and identity theft. Routine check-ups along with paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances below 35% of their limits and correcting any negative inaccuracies will help you maintain a healthy credit profile.

Melissa Cooledge
First Choice Home Loans
20 Glendale Circle
Scarborough, Me 04074
Cell - 207-749-4588
E-Fax -866-449-3403
Apply online @www.firstchoicehomeloans.org

Quick Tips To Rebuilding Credit

Rebuilding your credit quickly and smart for a better loan opportunity


The first step, get copies of your credit reports from all three bureaus and make any corrections. Remove outdated information, especially if it's negative.


Once you've taken care of that, you can try one of these tactics for rebuilding your credit:


Ask a friend or family member to loan you collateral for a loan

Make all payments on time or early, refund the collateral, and check your credit report for the correct payment information.
Use your own assets as collateral for a loan - Same as above-make the payments on time or early and that loan will go a long way to improving your credit rating.
Get a secured credit card

A secured credit card is backed up by a savings account, so the creditor has collateral.

Be sure to use the card and pay it on time.

Getting one of these cards and paying responsibly can also help you improve your credit file.
Apply for credit from less particular creditors Convenience stores, gas stations, and other businesses are sometimes more lenient in their credit requirements.


Ask a family member to open a joint account with you

Suggest you start with a low limit, like $500.

Use the credit card and be sure to pay it on time and you can use that account to help rebuild your credit.
Auto Loans help build your credit worthiness for a home loan
Auto loans are fairly easy to get, even if your credit is less than desirable.

If you have poor credit, you may end up paying more interest and finance charges.

If you do get a vehicle loan, be sure you can afford it and be sure to pay it on time every month. Shop around for the best rate you can get and remember that the way to improve the rates you get is to improve your credit rating.


Whatever you do, don't lose hope. You CAN rebuild your credit rating with patience and commitment!



When you have accomplished the above task please make sure you give this letter to someone who is in need of credit help and pass along my name. I would appreciate the referral.

Melissa Cooledge

First Choice Home Loans
20 Glendale Circle
Scarborough, ME 04074
207-883-4400

Cell - 207-749-4588 E-Fax -866-449-3403

Apply online @www.firstchoicehomeloans.org

Email: firstchoice@maine.rr.com

Consumer Alert!

BEFORE YOU APPLY FOR A MORTGAGE OR HOME EQUITY LINE

The major credit bureaus, Experian, Trans union and Equifax are now selling lists to Lenders.
Your name is on the list as soon as you apply for any type of mortgage.
This information contains detailed consumer data and is sent to Lenders as soon as you apply for a mortgage and have your credit checked. Those other Lenders will then contact you and try to sell you a mortgage loan. These loans are typically costly ones.

If you don’t want unsolicited Mortgage Lenders to contact you, there is good news. You can protect yourself and your information by Opting Out of this new process. In one simple phone call, you can be removed for a period of five years, or permanently ,whichever you choose.

At least 24 hours before you apply for any mortgage (purchase, refinance or equity line)
Call 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1888-567-8688) and provide the requested information to enable this service.
In addition to being removed from lenders lists, you’ll also be able to eliminate annoying pre-approved credit card offers from coming in the mail where they can be stolen by thieves.


If you haven’t already, you can also register with the National Do Not Call Registry by logging on to http://www.donotcall.gov/ This will stop annoying phone calls from telemarketers.


So if your thinking about any home PURCHASE or REFINANCE in the future, MAKE THESE CALLS FIRST. Then call me for a mortgage quote or if there is anything else I can help with now or in the future.



Melissa Cooledge

First Choice Home Loans

20 Glendale Circle, Scarborough, Me 04074

Cell - 207-749-4588

E-Fax -866-449-3403

Apply online @www.firstchoicehomeloans.org

Email: firstchoice@maine.rr.com

The latest Interest Rates in Maine

If you are on the fence about buying a home, these rates should certainly get you off the fence! I can assure you, nobody beats our rates, closing costs and service.

• 30 Year Fixed Conventional ~ 4.75
• 30 Year Fixed FHA/VA ~ 5.0
• 15 Year Fixed Conventional ~ 4.5
• 20 Year Fixed Conventional ~ 4.75
• 10 Year Fixed Conventional ~ 4.25

No Points! Rates subject to credit, income, debt ratios, loan size, use of property, and loan to value
Lowest Fixed 30 Year Rates in 50 Years!

Call any other lender and see if they can come close-we will beat ANY Good Faith Estimate we see and nobody beats our rates!

Loni Graiver, President

Cumberland County Mortgage & Preferred Closing Services

*OVER 1/2 A BILLION IN CLOSED LOANS SINCE 1999!

324 Gray Rd.

Falmouth, ME 04105

Phone 207.878.8882

Fax 207.878.8883

lonig@maine.rr.com

Jeff's BEST BUY's!

104 Neal Street Portland @$848,500.This is rare brick single family home, with almost 3300 SF of meticulously maintained living space in the heart of the West End. Highlights include a Great Room addition off the kitchen overlooking a large, tranquil yard, off-street parking, 4 to 5 bedrooms (including a wonderful guest or nanny suite), and period detail throughout. This home hasn’t been on the market for over 25 years! MLS#: 924856 (Listed by John Hatcher, Keller Williams Realty, 207-775-2121)

1 St. Lawrence Street unit B-1 @ 319,000. How often can you find harbor and Casco Bay views from a 3 bedroom 2 bath condo with off street parking at this price on the East End? MLS#: 858334 (Listed by Jeff Flynn, Flynn & Co., 207-767-0022)

72 Mitchell Hill Road Scarborough @ $219,900. This will probably be gone by the time you read about it. The 8 year old ranch sits back from the road, has an enormous 2 car garage, is well landscaped and offers 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. MLS#: 880916 (Listed by Rhonda Mitchell, ERA Today Realty, 207-831-7791)

16 Pope Road Windham @ 119,900. Historic brick school house converted to a home c.1940's. Hardwood floors and original Southern yellow pine moldings, transom lights,& coat hooks still remain. It is nestled on a peaceful 1.6 acre setting, yet less than 20 minutes to downtown Portland. This would be an ideal opportunity to use the FHA 203(K) purchase plus improvement loan program. Ask me about how that works! (Listed by Linda Griffin, Pleasant River Properties, 207-650-7484)

Jeff Lunt
The Hatcher Group
Keller Williams Realty
6 Deering Street
Portland, Me. 04101

Office: 207 775 2121 x4
Fax: 207 775 2122

E-Mail: jclunt@kw.com

The Big Read Project at the Victoria Mansion

Victoria Mansion to Read and Celebrate The Age of Innocence during The Big Read Project.
Portland, Maine's Victoria Mansion is pleased to announce that it has received a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to host The Big Read in the Greater Portland Area and that it is the only Maine organization hosting The Big Read. Victoria Mansion is one of 208 libraries, municipalities, and arts, culture, higher education, and science organizations to receive a grant to host The Big Read from September 2008-June 2009. The Big Read gives communities the opportunity to come together to read, discuss, and celebrate one of 23 selections from American and world literature. The Big Read in Portland will focus on The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton. Activities will take place beginning in March 2009.For a complete listing of Big Read events in the Greater Portland area, please visit our community calendar on

The Big Read website at:http://www.neabigread.org/events.php?mode=communityCalendar&communityID=2840

The Big Read is an intiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services designed to revitalize the role of literature in American culture and bring the transformative power of literature into the lives of its citizens. The Big Read brings together partners across the country to encourage citizens to read for pleasure and enlightenment.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

It's St. Patrick's Day! Time to wear a shamrock, go green, get jiggy and spread some Paddy magic. We hope your St. Patrick's Day is very special for you & your friends, family, near and dear ones. The Hatcher Group wishes you a pot of good luck and a lot of good cheer and we hope we have added some more smiles to your St. Patrick's Day!

New Listing ~ 69 State St, Portland

Fundraiser for the St. Lawrence Arts Center

Send us a photo of your pet and $5 in cash or check to St. Lawrence Arts Center, plus the following info:
1. Your name & phone or e-mail
2. Your pet's name
2. You pet's species or breed
3. One or two fun facts about your pet

Photos shouldn't exceed 600 x 600 in a jpg to:liz@stlawrencearts.org
or 5" x 8" in a print to:St. Lawrence Arts Center
76 Congress St.
Portland, Me. 04101

We will post them on our bulletin board thru April 30th, and each pet will then be awarded a small prize!
More info on the St. Lawrence Arts Center at: www.stlawrencearts.org

Forclosure list for Maine

If you would like a list of forclosures for a town not on the list, please email me & I will send you more properties. Thanks, John E-mail: John@johnhatcher.us or call my office: 207-775-2121

Forclosure list for Cumberland County, Maine ~ March 2009

Cumberland County Forclosures
212 Senator Black Rd, Baldwin ~ 32500 ~ 906015
456 Pequaket Trail, Baldwin ~ 105000 ~ HUD
272 Bangor Road, Benton ~ Auction ~ Tranzon
57 Madeline Dr, Brunswick ~ 135500 ~ 912572
57 Madeline Dr, Brunswick ~ 135500 ~ Fannie Mae
16 Meredith Dr., Brunswick ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
10 Water St, Brunswick ~ Auction ~ Tranzon
5 Schoduk Ln , Brunswick ~ 277900 ~ Res.net
73 Harpswell Road, Brunswick ~ 115900 ~ Res.net
7 Misty Lane, Cape Elizabeth ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
7 Misty Lane, Cape Elizabeth ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
64 Ocean House Rd, Cape Elizabeth ~ 215000 ~ ReoTrans
64 Ocean House Road , Cape Elizabeth ~ 215000 ~ Res.net
183 State Park, Casco ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
1661 Evergreen Way, Casco ~ 175900 ~ ReoTrans
33 Woodside Dr, Cumberland ~ 232000 ~ 913327
91 Orchard Rd, Cumberland ~ Auction ~ Keenan
1 Forest Lane , Cumberland ~ 159977 ~ Res.net
93 Orchard Rd, Cumberland Center ~ 174500 ~ Fannie Mae
33 Woodside Dr, Cumberland Center ~ 227500 ~ Fannie Mae
84 Leighton Rd, Falmouth ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
7 Juniper Lane, Falmouth ~ TBD ~ PAS
5 Shady Ln , Falmouth ~ 195500 ~ ReoExperts
23 Daniel Street , Gorham ~ 149900 ~ Res.net
136 W Gray Rd, Gray ~ 155000 ~ Fannie Mae
309 West Gray Rd, Gray ~ Auction ~ Keenan
11 Portland Rd, Gray ~ 104500 ~ PAS
268 Portland Rd, Gray ~ TBD ~ ReoExperts
866 Maple Ridge Rd, Harrison ~ 297500 ~ 900118
866 Maple Ridge Rd, Harrison ~ 297500 ~ Fannie Mae
431 Edes Falls Rd, Harrison ~ 69900 ~ ReoSource
1005 Island Ave, Long Island ~ 119900 ~ ReoTrans
1838 Roosevelt Trail, Naples ~ 115900 ~ 917051
6 Alder Rd, Naples ~ 81500 ~ ReoTrans
1838 Roosevelt Trail, Naples ~ 115900 ~ ReoTrans
45 Shaw Rd, New Gloucester ~ 129000 ~ 918032
Henry Rd, North Yarmouth ~ Auction ~ Keenan
75 Verrill St, Portland ~ 195000 ~ Fannie Mae
412 Ocean ave, Portland ~ 219000 ~ Fannie Mae
17 Pine Crest Rd., Portland ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
25 Broadway, Portland ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
485 Saint John St., Portland ~ 199900 ~ Ocwen
20 Colonial Rd, Portland ~ 131750 ~ ReoExperts
35 Mayo St, Portland ~ 54900 ~ ReoTrans
57 Glenridge Unity 57, Portland ~ 144000 ~ ReoTrans
825 Hallowell Rd, Pownal ~ 168750 ~ ReoSource
92 Webbs Mills Rd, Raymond ~ 25000 ~ ReoExperts
11 Independence Way, Scarborough ~ 284750 ~ ReoExperts
1 Sarah Liberty Ln, Scarborough ~ 446500 ~ ReoExperts
158 Broadturn Rd, Scarborough ~ 84900 ~ ReoTrans
190 Pine Point Rd, Scarborough ~ 309900 ~ ReoTrans
1165 Sebago Rd, Sebago ~ 134900 ~ 923059
74 Hawkes Rd, Sebago ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
2 hawks Rd, Sebago ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
320 CONVENE ROAD, Sebago ~ 119000 ~ Homesteps
321 Highland Ave, South Portland ~ 143500 ~ Fannie Mae
62 Fillmore Ave., South Portland ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
291 Sawyer St , South Portland ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
1783 Broadway, South Portland ~ 78500 ~ ReoExperts
118 Main St, South Portland ~ 139900 ~ ReoTrans
57 Lucky's Run, Standish ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
3 Woodland Road, , Standish ~ 100000 ~ Rural Development
700 Cape Road , Standish ~ 214900 ~ Res.net
212 Senator Black Rd, West Baldwin ~ 32500 ~ ReoExperts
212 Senator Black Rd, West Baldwin ~ 32500 ~ ReoTrans
28 Chestnut St, Westbrook ~ 192000 ~ Fannie Mae
72 High St., Westbrook ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
7 Woodmont St., Westbrook ~ Auction ~ Fine Atty
92 West Pleasant St, Westbrook ~ 197900 ~ ReoTrans
102 Mckinley Ave, Westbrook ~ 159900 ~ Res.net
56 Sargent St, Westbrook ~ 145900 ~ Res.net
21 Declaration Drive, Westbrook ~ 162500 ~ Res.net
20 Baker Mountain Dr, Windham ~ 214900 ~ ReoExperts
37 Swan Rd, Windham ~ 152900 ~ ReoTrans
82 Falmouth Rd, Windham ~ 165000 ~ Fannie Mae
12 Basin Rd, Windham ~ 179900 ~ Fannie Mae
33 Tenney St, Yarmouth ~ 160000 ~ ReoTrans
129 East Main St, Yarmouth ~ 269900 ~ ReoTrans

WEBSITES FOR FORECLOSURES

WEBSITES FOR FORECLOSURES

These sites are all free and direct. Some of the “free foreclosure searches” are NOT free and they download from the original sites. (so information may not be up to date)

HUD www.citysidecorp.com
VA www.ocwen.com
Fannie Mae www.fanniemae.com
Freddie Mac (aka homesteps) www.homesteps.com
Reo Network www.reo.com
REO www.reo.com
Premiere Asset Services www.pasreo.com
Keenan Auction www.keenanauction.com
Tranzon Auction www.tranzon.com
Rural Development www.resales.usda.gov
US Marshalls Office www.usdoj.gov/marshals/assets/nsl.htm
Customs www.treas.gov/auctions/customs/realprop.html
IRS www.treas.gov/auctions/irs/cat_Real7.htm
RESNET www.res.net
REOSOURCE www.reosource.com
REOTRANS www.reotrans.com
REOEXPERTS www.reoexperts.net
METROPOLITAN Legal Center, P.A. www.fineattorney.com

Other websites with several links are:

www.homesales.gov
www.hud.gov

February 2009 Foreclosure List of homes

Hello,

Below is the February 2009 Foreclosure List of homes.

With the lower interest rates it is the time to BUY!!!!

7 Fowler St, Bridgton ~ $140,000 ~ 912045
7 Fowler St, Bridgton ~ $140,000 ~ Fannie Mae
57 Madeline Dr, Brunswick ~ $135,500 ~ 912572
4 Jonathan St., Brunswick ~ $169,900 ~ 919967
57 Madeline Dr, Brunswick ~ $135,500 ~ Fannie Mae
16 Meredith Dr., Brunswick ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
4 Jonathan St., Brunswick ~ $169,900 ~ Reotrans
80-82 Union St., Brunswick ~ $80,000 ~ Reotrans
209 Pleasant, Brunswick ~ Auction ~ Tranzon
10 Water, Brunswick ~ Auction ~ Tranzon
64 Ocean House Rd., Cape Elizabeth ~ $209,900 ~ Reotrans
64 Ocean House, Cape Elizabeth ~ $209,900 ~ Res.net
183 State Park Rd., Casco ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
33 Woodside Dr, Cumberland ~ $232,000 ~ 913327
91 Orchard, Cumberland ~ Auction ~ Keenan
33 Woodside Dr, Cumberland Center ~ $227,500 ~ Fannie Mae
93 Orchard Rd, Cumberland Center ~ $174,500 ~ Fannie Mae
7 Juniper Ln, Falmouth ~ $300,000 ~ PAS
5 Shady Ln- Title, Falmouth ~ $195,500 ~ ReoExperts
5 Shady Ln , Falmouth ~ Auction ~ Williams
68 Little River, Gorham ~ Auction ~ Tranzon
9 Taylor Ln, Gray ~ $136,500 ~ 921057
136 W Gray Rd, Gray ~ $155,000 ~ Fannie Mae
9 Taylor, Gray ~ $136,500 ~ Homesteps
11 Portland Rd, Gray ~ $100,000 ~ PAS
268 Portland Rd., Gray ~ TBD ~ ReoExperts
29 Eggemoggin Rd, Harpswell ~ $283,000 ~ 921129
29 Eggemoggin, Harpswell ~ $283,000 ~ USArmy
29 Eggemoggin, Harpswell ~ $283,000 ~ USArmy
866 Maple Ridge Rd, Harrison ~ $292,900 ~ Fannie Mae
431 Edes Falls Rd, Harrison ~ $69,900 ~ ReoSource
6 Balsam Lane, Naples ~ $64,000 ~ HUD
4 Escott, Naples ~ Auction ~ Keenan
8 lots-Old SogoLocks, Naples ~ Auction ~ Keenan
189 Harrison Rd., Naples ~ $89,900 ~ Reotrans
25 Stepping Stone Ln, Portland ~ $275,000 ~ 894185
485 St John Rd, Portland ~ $170,000 ~ 915331
23 Commonwealth Dr, Portland ~ $158,000 ~ 918538
412 Ocean Ave, Portland ~ $219,000 ~ Fannie Mae
75 Verrill St, Portland ~ $190,900 ~ Fannie Mae
25 Broadway, Portland ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
180 High, Portland ~ Auction ~ Keenan
485 Saint John Street, Portland ~ $170,000 ~ Ocwen
90 92 Pine St, Portland ~ TBD ~ PAS
31-33 Alder St, Portland ~ $167,500 ~ PAS
918 Forest Ave, Portland ~ $130,000 ~ PAS
161 Brighton Ave, Portland ~ $234,900 ~ PAS
20 Colonial Rd., Portland ~ $131,750 ~ ReoExperts
35 Mayo St., Portland ~ $54,900 ~ Reotrans
57 Glenridge Unit 57, Portland ~ $144,000 ~ Reotrans
736 Forest, Portland ~ Auction ~ Tranzon
20 Colonial Rd., Portland ~ Auction ~ Williams
7 Cottage Ln, Raymond ~ $137,750 ~ 905180
7 Cottage Ln, Raymond ~ $137,750 ~ PAS
92 Webbs Milld Rd., Raymond ~ $25,000 ~ ReoExperts
291 Sawyer St., S. Portland ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
62 Fillmore Ave., S. Portland ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
50 Broadturn Rd, Scarborough ~ $90,000 ~ Fannie Mae
1 Sarah Liberty Ln, Scarborough ~ $446,500 ~ ReoExperts
15 Hearn Rd., Scarborough ~ $150,000 ~ Reotrans
190 Pine Point Rd., Scarborough ~ $297,500 ~ Reotrans
2 Hawks Rd., Sebago ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
Lot 2, Peaked mountain, Sebago ~ $131,000 ~ Homesteps
357 Long Hill, Sebago ~ $69,900 ~ PAS
74 George St, South Portland ~ $149,900 ~ 917524
204 Stanford St, South Portland ~ $60,000 ~ 918541
321 Highland Ave, South Portland ~ $138,000 ~ Fannie Mae
1302 Broadway , South Portland ~ $210,000 ~ Fannie Mae
1783 Broadway, South Portland ~ $78,500 ~ ReoExperts
197 Blake Rd, Standish ~ $159,900 ~ 916457
35 Sandy Cove Rd., Standish ~ $199,900 ~ 920273
715 Oak Hill Rd, Standish ~ $215,000 ~ Fannie Mae
57 Lucky's Run, Standish ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
700 Cape Rd, Standish ~ $119,900 ~ PAS
35 Sandy Cove Rd., Standish ~ $199,900 ~ Reotrans
3 Woodland, Standish ~ $100,000 ~ USDA
3 Woodland, Standish ~ $100,000 ~ USDA
1212 Senator Black Rd., West Baldwin ~ $24,900 ~ ReoExperts
28 Chestnut St, Westbrook ~ $192,000 ~ Fannie Mae
72 High St.., Westbrook ~ Auction ~ FineAtty
67 N St, Westbrook ~ $199,900 ~ PAS
92 West Pleasant St., Westbrook ~ $159,900 ~ Reotrans
20 Winslow, Westbrook ~ $124,900 ~ Res.net
12 Basin Rd, Windham ~ $175,000 ~ Fannie Mae
20 Baker Mountain Drive, Windham ~ $214,900 ~ ReoExperts
37 Swan Rd., Windham ~ $141,500 ~ Reotrans
1229 E. Main St., Yarmouth ~ $253,500 ~ Reotrans


Important Disclaimer
The data contained herein is a compilation of Foreclosure Property data available from sources found in the World Wide Web. The editors of this report and Market Street Settlement Group, LLC, its affiliated businesses and parent companies, make no representation as to the comprehensiveness or accuracy of the information thus obtained. This report is compiled by the editors for the purpose of gathering a representative list of properties under foreclosure for education or discussion but no claim or guarantee is given, intended or implied that this data lists all or substantially all of the properties in foreclosure at any time or the current status of any property identified herein. Reliance upon this information for any action, purpose, or plan is solely at the risk and discretion of the user and the editors disclaim any liability for damage, risk or misfortune incurred as a result of such reliance. Receipt of this compilation report and disclaimer constitute acceptance of these terms.

FHA vs. MSHA (Maine State Housing Authority)

Why you should use FHA vs. MSHA; see the hi-lights below.

FHA is the product of choice!!!!

Sample MSHA Rate is 6.35% with 0 points

Low to Moderate Income Sample FHA Rate is 5.50% with 0 points
Sample FHA Rate is 6.00% with 0 points

They both have a 3% down payment

MSHA monthly PMI cost is .94% of the loan amount
FHA monthly PMI cost is .55% of the loan amount

MSHA has a recapture tax
FHA has no recapture tax

MSHA requires 3% of their own savings
FHA can use gift funds for down payment and closing costs

MSHA tighter credit standards
FHA relaxed credit

Purchase price $250,000
3% down payment

FHA (low to moderate income) MSHA

P&I 1,400.97 1,508.92
Taxes 233.33 233.33
Insurance 37.50 37.50
PMI 113.09 189.96
Total Payment 1,784.89 1,969.71

A savings of $184.82 a month

Let me know if you have any questions about the above information!
Kelly Hodgkins
Vice President
Senior Mortgage Loan Officer
TD Banknorth, Mortgage
449 Forest Avenue
Portland, Maine 04101
Telephone: 207-772-1648
Fax: 207-253-5291
Kelly.Hodgkins@TDBanknorth.com

www.KHodgkins.com Rates and apply online

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

"The bill provides for a $8,000 tax credit that would be available to first-time home buyers for the purchase of a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009.

The credit does not require repayment.

Most of the mechanics of the credit will be the same as under the 2008 rules:

the credit will be claimed on a tax return to reduce the purchaser's income tax liability.

If any credit amount remains unused, then the unused amount will be refunded as a check to the purchaser".

Note: There is a recapture if you sell your home within 3 years, at which the credit will be recaptured upon the sale. This only applies to folks who purchase in 2009, as the changes to the stimulus bill are effective January 1, 2009.

As a First-Time Home Buyer, if you purchased a home on or after April 9, 2008, and before January 1, 2009, you may be eligible for a $7,500 tax credit as the result of the passage of The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (under President Bush).

For more details and to answer specific questions you may have click the following link for First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Frequently Asked Questions -

www.mainerealtors.com/First-TimeHomebuyerTaxCreditFAQ.pdf

Please consult with your tax professional for any tax advice pertaining to tax credits and whether you are eligible.

Today's Mortgage Rates in Maine

Just need to notify you that we have had a great day for rates:

15 year @ 4.875 with zero points
30 year@ 5.00 with one point

These rates may hold until tomorrow morning.
So, if you are looking to refinance, act quickly!
I can run numbers for you.

Liz Monaghan
Monaghan Mortgage & Finance
207.761.0100
lizloans@maine.rr.com

FRIDAY NIGHTS IN MARCH AT THE MUSEUM OF AFRICAN CULTURE

3/6
First Friday
Marta Morse
Photography Exhibit
Contemporary Art Gallery
"Dryness Across the Sub-saharan Africa

3/13
The Artist's Story
A talk with Marta Morse
Travels through Sub- saharan Africa
Current Exhibitioner in Contemporary Art Gallery

3/27
Friends of Africa
With Deb Locke
Slide Show and discussion
To Timbuctou and Back:
Among the Many Cultures of Mali & Burkina Faso
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Museum of African Culture
13 Brown Street
Portland, ME
(207)871-7188
www.museumafricanculture.org
africart@museumafricanculture.org

The Gallery at Harmons and Bartons - 1st Friday Art Walk

The Gallery at

Presents
Portland in Vivid Color
With
Photographer
Stephanie Hatz enbuehler

Artist’s Reception
Friday, March 6th , 5 -8 pm
Exhibiting through March 31st

Peaks Island Ferry, digital print, 8 x 10

New Shoes, digital print

Stephanie Hatzenbuehler is a local photographer who finds inspiration in light and place. Raised in the Rocky Mountains and now living in Portland, Stephanie continues to develop a unique point of view focused on the intimate details of environment, culture, and individual expression. Her work is a collection of digital prints, primarily in color, which has been described as moody and vivid, intimate and bold. Each print is a study in texture, light, movement, and feeling. Please join Stephanie and our floral designers as we celebrate the intensity, depth and passion of color in the world around us!

584 Congress Street - 2nd floor
(207)774 5948

2009 Portland Flower Show!

Experience
The 2009
Portland Flower Show
With us!

“From the Mountains
to the Sea”

Gala Opening and Awards Night
Wednesday, March 11th, 6-9 pm

Daily Festivities
Thursday, March 12th – Sunday, March 15th
10 am – 6 pm

Tickets available at

Harmon’s & Barton’s (207)774 5946 or
Sawyer & Company (207)775 2303 for
Advance Tickets and Information

Join the Celebration –
Our annual rite of Spring!

The 2009
Portland Flower Show
The only Flower Show in
Northern New England!

March 11 – 15

Gala Opening Awards Night
Lecture Series
Landscape / Nursery Exhibitors
Flower and Fine Gift Vendors
Plant Auction
Special Guest Lector, Bob Crowley,
Survivor Gabon winner,
Scientist and teacher

Jeff's Best Buy List

Jeff Lunt's BEST BUY LIST

• 904534 - 176 Neal Portland MMC West End $149,995 2 BR condo w/off-street parking (Listed by Richard Tourigny, Johnson Realty, 207-774-9303)

907727 - 100 Glenwood Ave, Portland Deering Center $259,000 5 BR SF 2 car garage, large fenced yard (Listed By The Hatcher Group, Keller Williams Realty, 207-775-2121)

908462 - 10 Kendall Portland Windsor Heights $289,000 4 BR SF equity builder with views of Casco Bay to die for. (Listed by Tom Carter, Reali Realty, 207-838-8043)


















912176 - 1 Carroll St, Portland's West End $595,000 5 BR SF or nanny apt. 2 car garage (Listed by Tish Wipple, Town and Shore Assoc., 207-773-0262)

913203 - 2 Lighthouse Pt. Rd. Cape Elizabeth $699,000 3+ BR SF with spectacular ocean views (Listed by Elisabeth Bostwick, Bostwick and Co., 207-767-2224)

To set up a private showing of any of these properties or if you would like more in formation, Please contact Jeff Lunt, Exclusive Buyer's Agent, The Hatcher Group of Keller Williams Realty, 207-671-7627 or Email: jclunt@kw.com

How about some good news for a change?

By Judi Hutzler - Mortgage Network

In 2008 you could use FHA financing for a single-family property in the Portland MSA up to $337,500 for a base loan amount.

Come the dawn of 2009 that limit was rolled back to the low $270k's, which meant that there were a whole lot of buyers/borrowers out there not able to use FHA financing.

(Wait, the good news is coming.)

Why did that matter? FHA offers several advantages to the buyer/borrower:

*Borrowers can get into a property for as little as 3.5% down payment*

*100% of the down payment can be a gift from a family member*

*Sellers are allowed to pay up to 6% to closing costs and prepaids*

*FHA is more lenient on credit history*

*Multi-unit properties can be financed with 3.5% down payment*

*FHA loans can be assumable*

*FHA has loan programs for 'purchase plus improvement*

*Base loan amounts to $649,050 for 4-unit properties*

*FHA allows non-occupant co-borrowers*

The good news is that FHA has restored the 2008 loan limits, at least until the end of 2009! Use the information to your advantage.

This news is not 'on the street' yet so you are reading it before the papers know about it.

It's my job to know what's happening in the industry so that I can pass it along to you.

Best,

John

You can reach Judi Hutzler - Mortgage Network @ 207.791.2786 (direct), 207.233.1998 (cell), and e-mail .

WENA Meeting

The next West End Neighborhood Association monthly meeting is March 11, 2009 - 6 :30 p.m. at the Reiche Community Center.

2 Big issues for West End residents

Two big issues are coming up which may be of interest to many: the future the Maine State Pier and redesign of the Franklin Street Arterial. Pasted below are two City press releases re: meetings on these subjects, in case you want to engage in the process! Thanks to Anne Pringle
from the West End Neighborhood Association & WPNA City Liaison

(on the web at: http://www.wenamaine.org/ )

Maine State Pier Public Meetings
Later this month, the City of Portland will host a series of public meetings to get input on key issues that relate to the future of the Maine State Pier. The meetings are designed to inform the public on the history, policies and development goals for the pier, gather input from the public on a variety of key issues, and convey this information to the City Council. Members of the public interested in the Maine State Pier and its future uses are encouraged to attend these meetings.First, the city will host a briefing on Wednesday, March 11, 2009, The Maine State Pier * Building on the Past, to review the history, recent planning efforts, current policies that impact the waterfront and physical conditions. This meeting will be followed by Today's Marine Economy and the Maine State Pier on Wednesday, March 25, 2009. Regional economic and marine industry experts will participate in a panel discussion of the marine economy and the role the Maine State Pier has to play. On the following evening, the third meeting, Understanding the Local Need and Uses for the Maine State Pier, will include a panel discussion of local business and civic leaders. Both panel discussions will include questions from the public. Following these meetings, the city will host a community design workshop on April 11, 2009, Creating a Pier for Portland's Future, during which the public will tackle questions as they relate to the future of the Maine State Pier utilizing the information gathered during the previous meetings. Members of the public will be broken up into groups and taken through a facilitated conversation as they address the topic. Registration at the city's website, www.portlandmaine.gov, for the workshop is strongly encouraged and will be open to the public next week. Finally, the public will be invited to a presentation of the results from the community workshop to the City Council April 29, 2009.
The Maine State Pier * Building on the Past March 11, 2009 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Ocean Gateway Terminal, 14 Ocean Gateway Pier
Today's Marine Economy and the Maine State Pier March 25, 2009 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Ocean Gateway Terminal, 14 Ocean Gateway Pier
Understanding the Local Need and Uses for the Maine State Pier March 26, 2009 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Ocean Gateway Terminal, 14 Ocean Gateway Pier Community Design Workshops * Creating a Pier for Portland's Future April 11, 2009 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM Ocean Gateway Terminal, 14 Ocean Gateway Pier
City Council Presentation April 29, 2009 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM City Council Chambers, City Hall
For those interested in attending the meetings but do not have access to the internet or for more information, contact the City Planning Division at 874-8719. You can also visit the city's website at www.portlandmaine.gov for periodic updates.

Franklin Street Arterial Study
Tomorrow,3/4/09, the City of Portland and members of the Franklin Street Arterial Study Committee will host a meeting with local property owners and businesses to discuss the study and gather input and their perspective for how Franklin Arterial could better serve their property or business. 6:00-7:00PM Where: State of Maine Room, City Hall, 2nd Floor.
A workshop with the public at-large is planned for April 1st at Ocean Gateway 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM.
The Franklin Arterial Study was initiated in 2008 to identify improvement opportunities to benefit all users of the road, neighboring communities, businesses and the city as a whole. The study is based upon the view that Franklin Street Arterial can play a greater role in the development and enhancement of the East End, the Waterfront, Bayside and Back Cove. The Committee has been charged with developing concepts for a future Franklin Street area that maximize opportunities for commercial development, creation or improvement of open space, automobile and pedestrian safety and place-making for this important gateway to the city. The Committee plans to make its recommendations on preferred corridor improvements by early summer.

Nicole Clegg
Director of Communications
City of Portland
389 Congress Street, Room 208
Portland, ME 04101
office: 207-756-8173
cell: 207-272-4477

Housing numbers for the last quarter of 2008

As reported in today's Maine Biz...
By the numbers
The Maine Association of Realtors last week released housing data for January. In January 2009, there were 17.6% fewer homes sold in the state than in January 2008. The statewide median sales price for single family homes was $152,250 in January, a 17.7% decrease from one year ago.

Here's a look at the five counties that saw the largest decrease in home sales during the three-month period between November and January.