Portland Trails has provided a national model for community-based trail-building that provides neighborhood connections to residents and visitors to the Greater Portland area. What's next as we think about the future of trails, active transportation, and an increasing population and economic development base? One thing we know for sure, our partners, supporters and trail users will be front and center in future activities!
Jon Kachmar is currently the Executive Director for Portland Trails, which has developed 70 miles of trails in Portland and Westbrook that connect neighborhoods. His background includes directing programs in multiple New England states focused on coastal and marine habitats, land conservation, recreational trails, and urban greening and sustainability strategies with a focus on bringing the benefits of nature to people. Jon has worked on coastal habitat restoration projects from Long Island, New York to Cape Sable, Nova Scotia including salt marsh restoration, dam removal and river realignment projects. His efforts have included several opportunities to build programs from inception, and he has extensive experience facilitating diverse and invigorating partnerships and collaborations.
Jon has an undergraduate degree in Marine Affairs from the University of Rhode Island, and a master's degree in Public Policy and Management from the Muskie School of Public Service. He has been a licensed merchant mariner for 30 years and holds certifications in avalanche rescue. He is currently a City of Portland Land Bank Commissioner. In his spare time, he enjoys fly fishing, backcountry skiing, hiking/biking, and just about any other outdoor pursuit.
Bits and Pieces
RECOVERY TEAM WORK
Bruce Moore and Jan Chapman participated in Journey Magazine's popup recovery resource event in Congress Square Park on 9/2 to kick off Recovery Month. New Rotarian, Niki Curtis, organized the event. Our booth promoted Rotary's support of community efforts to reduce stigma and support those in recovery. Keep getting the word out!
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC -
Would you like to go?
Our International Committee is making plans for our next visit to the Dominican Republic, January 6-13, 2024. Pictured here, Paula Vincenzi, Patty Byers, and Amy Chipman met with Liz Fagan on September 15th to discuss details on this important service venture. Specifically, the goals of the trip are evaluation and treatment of hearing loss, fitting prosthetic limbs using 3D printing, and providing the gift of clean water and solar lights to sugar cane workers and their families. For more information, please email Erik Greven or Roger Fagan.
WALK THE BRIDGE TO END POLIO
Mark your calendars for October 19th for the 2nd Annual "Bridge The Gap To End Polio" Walk and Social. Once again we'll hoof it across the Casco Bay Bridge and then enjoy some "Pints For Polio" social time at a local establishment. Details are coming! World Polio Day is on October 24th, and we will be highlighting Rotary's efforts to eradicate this crippling disease. We are in the planning stages, so stay tuned for details from Patty Byers!
Membership Applications:
Second Notice: Michael "Bakchos" Mihailos of Portland, Maine has been sponsored for membership by Niki Curtis. Michael is an Associate Broker/Notary with eXp Realty. After this publication, his application will be voted on by the Board of Directors.
Speaker Schedule
September 29 - Charlie Hewitt- Artist and Sculptor & "Hopeful Symbol"
October 6 - Marty Helman - Rotary Peace Centers
October 13 - Victor Tom "The Speed of a Baseball"
October 19 Thursday - Club Social -
October 20 - No Meeting
October 27 - Graviel Nuel Jacobo - Dominican Republic - Centro de Protesis
Club Executives President Dick Hall President Elect Patty Byers Vice President John Thompson TreasurerDick Hall Secretary Tom Nickerson Board of Directors Bruce Jones,
Ben Millick, Quinn Slayton, Zachary Newell,
David Ertz, Maggie McGauley Sergeant-At-ArmsJake Bourdeau
The Windjammer is published online by
The Rotary Club of Portland, Maine.
Contributing Editors Jake Bourdeau, Erik Jorgensen,
Julie L’Heureux, Ben Lowry,
Zach Newell, Bruce Moore,
Tom Nickerson, Dave Patterson,
Tom Talbott, Laura Young
Program Chair Doreen Rockstrom Managing Editor Tom Talbott
Portland Trails - 2023 and Beyond 
RECOVERY TEAM WORK
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