Maine News for Friday, February 1, 2008

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD:
State urged to set rules for new-home energy efficiency
Maine is the only New England state without mandatory energy-efficiency standards for new homes, but that may change soon as lawmakers take up two proposals aimed at reducing the financial and environmental costs of heating houses.

New border rules, few problems
Despite tighter rules on documents to come into the U.S. from Canada, traffic flows smoothly.

Paul likes his Maine prospects
Republicans caucus this weekend, and unenrolled voters can play an important role.

EDITORIAL: Widen I-295 only after exhausting alternatives
It's especially important that the Maine Turnpike Authority change its toll scheme.

EDITORIAL: Natural resource agency merger plan is in trouble
A strong group of opponents has lined up to fight a policy that would save money.

MAINE VOICES: Ban smoking in homes with kids
Worries about a 'slippery slope' ignore the dangers that secondhand smoke presents to the young.

LTE: Assessing progress in Iraq
Candidate Sen. Hillary Clinton was interviewed by Tim Russert on "Meet the Press" on Jan 13. Mr. Russert stated that the surge in Iraq was showing signs of progress and that the Iraqi Parliament had approved a law that allows Sunnis to resume jobs within the new government.

LTE: Include food-stamp boost in current stimulus plan
As the economic stimulus bill moves to the Senate, it's important that it add a boost in food stamps, an unemployment compensation extension and state fiscal relief.

LTE: Change laws pertaining to sexual abuse of children
I am writing in response to the article about the assistant principal admitting to the sexual abuse of a 15-year-old ("Assistant principal admits sexual abuse," Jan. 23).


BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
Average high school tuition rate up $421
AUGUSTA, Maine — The state Department of Education has set the dollar amounts school districts can charge for nonresidents to attend their high schools, and most schools now can charge more.

Proposed budget cuts threaten state's pool of foster, adoptive parents
ORONO, Maine - Some longtime foster parents are threatening to stop taking displaced children into their homes if Maine lawmakers adopt proposed cuts in the stipends they receive.

Access No. 1 on Maine bar to-do list
ROCKLAND, Maine — Access to legal services hasn't changed much in the past 17½ years, lawyers attending the annual meeting of the Maine Bar Association on Thursday were told. Just one in five of the poor people who qualify for legal aid are able to get legal assistance because there simply aren't enough providers, an 18-month-long study concluded.

Collins, Allen fundraising nears record
The general election is still more than nine months away, but the combined fundraising total for the candidates running for Susan Collins' U.S. Senate seat already is closing in on the record set six years ago.

Editorial: A better stimulus bill
By adding an extension of unemployment benefits and including more low-income people in its tax rebate, the stimulus package passed by the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday will do more to boost the economy than the plan passed by the House of Representatives.

Michael Eckardt: Invest in research, development, our future
Maine has a lot to be proud of in its recent investments in research and development, and the message is clear that the state must maintain its momentum in this area in order to best help its residents. That's why now, more than ever, Maine policymakers must look at the strategic research and development priorities they have set and ensure that they make the most sense for the residents they are charged to serve and protect.

Jane Irving: Mainers should stick to values during crisis
The national news is replete with stories about low consumer confidence and the subprime mortgage crisis. But the local story isn't quite so bleak.


MORNING SENTINEL:
Bridge engineer deems Maine spans safe
AUGUSTA -- Few Maine bridges will see intensive review in the wake of investigations ordered after a major interstate bridge collapse in Minnesota last year, Maine's top bridge engineer said.

GOP CAUCUS Underdog may have a shot in Maine
AUGUSTA -- With a band of highly motivated supporters and a natural appeal to a mass of like-minded independents, Ron Paul's prospects at this weekend's Maine Republican caucuses are rated very high by party officials and other political observers.

COLUMN: Everyone wants change, we don't agree on how to do it
I listened to the State of the Union address and the Democratic reply. I listened to Sen. Ted Kennedy's (D-Mass) raucous endorsement of Sen. Barack Obama. And I have listened endlessly to candidates' calls for "change," and their assertions that they are the real change agents.

PROSPERITY COMMITTEE REPORT Legislative panel takes its vision beyond Brookings
Maine needs a compelling and comprehensive vision for the future if it is to realize its full potential. An inspiring vision can serve both as a call to action and as a foundation for the strategies needed to realize a better, more prosperous future.

LTE: Has the surge in Iraq really been a success?
How can anyone believe that the president's surge in Iraq has been a success?

LTE: To heal, America must turn from Republicans
As the approval ratings of President Bush continue to slide, threatening to dip below those of Richard Nixon at the height of Watergate, Republicans in Maine and nationally are calling for bipartisanship. In Maine, Republicans are urging voters to "consider the individual, not the party."

LTE: Where's tax rebate for Maine's small businesses?
It was wonderful to see that the toothpick factory is being converted to one in which wood pellets are being manufactured.

LTE: Brief thoughts about Maine topics of interest


KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
CONSOLIDATION New district prompting creativity
READFIELD -- When Maranacook Schools lost its full-time transportation director, Winthrop offered its transportation director's services.

LTE: Let's try consolidation in a few school districts first
I would like to suggest that all Regional Planning Committees (RPCs) working on school consolidation cease operations until we know whether we have the support of a majority of Maine citizens.

LTE: Video incident example of anti-Iran propaganda
Your Another View "Monkey's tricks in Persian Gulf not funny" (Jan. 17) managed to miss the real story. Someone in the Pentagon made a conscious decision to have an inflammatory audio track of unknown origin spliced to an edited video shot by the U.S. Navy which showed Iranian speedboats near American ships.


MPBN:
Effort Aimed At Promoting Unused Tax Credits
Each year thousands of Mainers fail to receive sizeable checks from the federal government simply because they do not apply for earned income tax credits. This Saturday, the Internal Revenue Service, the governor's office and a coalition of agencies are promoting a statewide earned income tax credit awareness program at various locations across the state. Free tax preparation services will be offered along with information about how to apply for the tax credit benefits. As A.J. Higgins reports, it a deal that many Mainers can't afford to pass up.

Lawmakers Consider Pay Raise For Regulatory Board Members
They're the volunteer members of what could easily be called Maine's largest planning and zoning board. Lately their workload has been immense. And now some say it's time that the seven members of the Land Use Regulation Commission get a pay raise. As Susan Sharon reports, a legislative committee is considering granting the citizen members of both LURC and the Board of Environmental Protection a per diem rate increase for their regulatory efforts, and so far, there's no organized opposition.

Report Offers Help To Mainers Who Represent Themselves In Court
A growing number of Mainers aren't getting access to the legal help they need. That's the conclusion of a report released today at the annual Maine Bar Association meeting at the Samoset Resort in Rockport. Among the report's recommendations--increasing funding for legal aid, expanding so-called "pro-bono" service, and providing more help for Mainers who represent themselves in court. Keith Shortall has more.

More Mainers Turning To Alternative Fuel For Home Heat
Four in five Maine homes use oil as a primary heating source. But as oil prices rise, many Mainers are searching for alternatives. As Murray Carpenter reports, a new twist on an age-old heat source is getting lots of attention.


SUN JOURNAL:
Acadia park bill moves forward
PORTLAND (AP) - The full U.S. Senate is poised to take up a bill that Maine's two senators say would set the stage for improvements to Acadia National Park.

Democrats slate presidential caucus
AUBURN - The Auburn City Democratic Committee will hold its presidential caucus at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, at Auburn Middle School. Doors will open at noon for the city's registered Democrats to check in.

COLUMN: What nation needs is a leader, not a politician

LTE: Who controls whom?
There appears to be a small group that has the idea that common people have limited vision and even more limited minds, and, therefore, need to be "guided." Members of that group are expert at playing psychological games.


TIMES RECORD:
BREAKING NEWS: Labor department antes $2 million for BNAS workers
BRUNSWICK — The U.S. Department of Labor announced this afternoon that $2 million in National Emergency Grant Funds has been designated to help workers displaced by the 2011 closure of Brunswick Naval Air Station.

Federal aid curbs looming
AUGUSTA — Changes in Medicaid rules coming out of Washington could mean a cut of $186 million in federal funds used for services provided to the elderly, special needs students and people with mental and physical disabilities in Maine.

Local supporters of Kenyan orphanage watch with horror
DURHAM — An orphan care center in Kakamega, Kenya funded, in part, by a local Quaker group, remains in jeopardy today amid politically charged violence in the developing Afri-can nation.

COMMENTARY: Maine's turbulent utility market
As it turns out, the takeover by FairPoint Communications of the old New England Telephone system that's been neglected by Verizon may be as good a deal as we'll get.

LTE: Don't blame Bush
There are a slew of ridiculous comments in the Jan. 22 editorial ("Recession, rhetoric vs. reality") that are just plain wrong. Whoever wrote this ought to go back to school and get an education in economics.

LTE: Reject liberal fascism
In the midst of all of the furor and confusion surrounding this presidential election, it would be wise to stop and analyze the dangerous direction that all of the candidates except one are pointing.


PORTSMOUTH HERALD:
Seniors who volunteer may be taxed less
KITTERY, Maine — Legislative leaders recently approved for consideration by the full Legislature a bill proposed by Rep. Walter Wheeler, D-Kittery, to provide property tax relief to senior citizens in town.

Department of Labor awards grants to help displaced workers
PORTLAND — The U.S. Department of Labor has awarded $2 million in emergency grants to help workers who will lose their jobs when the Brunswick Naval Air Station shuts down.


keepMEcurrent:
'I'm terrified' - Fear grips seniors threatened by cuts to services
WELD (Jan 31, 2008): In the three years that Don Bodin has lived at Larrabee Village in Westbrook, the 88-year-old has had two close encounters with death.


CQPOLITICS:
Senate Candidates Show Strength Through Dollars
Mark Warner is living up to his billing as a formidable Senate candidate by raising $2.7 million in the last three months of the year to succeed the retiring John W. Warner , R-Va (no relation). The former Democratic governor's campaign announced raising $3.8 million total in 2007 after getting into the race in September, with $2.9 million cash on hand.



BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: Snowe Adds Disabled Vet Rebate Checks to Stimulus Pkg
The Senate Finance Committee voted 14-7 Wednesday to send a roughly $157 billion economic stimulus package to the floor, adding tax breaks for alternative energies and homebuilders and disqualifying upper-income taxpayers -- including members of Congress -- from getting rebate checks.

As Maine Goes: Adam Cote on Education, Illegal Immigration, Stem Cells
Cote...wants to go to Congress to...fight for increased funding to create smaller class-size ratios, a federal fund to make it easier for children to attend quality preschool, for better availability of Pell grants to college-bound students in middle-class families.

As Maine Goes: Karl Rove: The New Rules of Politics
In the aftermath of the Florida primary, some new rules for winning the nomination have emerged and some old rules have been ratified. As we head toward the 23 contests next Tuesday, it's worth considering a few of them.

As Maine Goes: Live/Work in ME after Graduation - Get a $55K Tax Credit
PORTLAND — Beginning on Feb. 1, any student attending a Maine college can sign-up for the Opportunity Maine Program by visiting www.opportunitymaine.org, or their financial aid office and completing a simple contract. By signing up, anyone who lives and works in Maine after graduation will receive a tax credit – as much as $55,000 for some students over 10 years — to help pay their student loans.

As Maine Goes: Sen. Smith Tries Again with Parental Consent Bill
I know that most of you have been following the circuitous path of this bill in the Maine State Legislature. If you are not familiar with it, please visit our website. Click here to read the original "action alert" .

Maine Web Report: Charlie Summers campaign update
Here's a campaign update from the Charlie Summers for Congress campaign:

Turn Maine Blue: Fed to cut State share of Medicare by $45M
Thousands of Maine children, disabled adults and entire communities will feel the sting of pending federal changes in Medicaid rules. The new rules could also expand a projected gap in the current state budget by another $45 million dollars. Commissioners of the Education and Health and Human Services departments met with reporters this morning to outline the effect of the changes on state programs and services. Congressional efforts are underway to postpone the federal action. But as AJ Higgins reports, in the absence of intervention, the outlook from the state capitol is bleak

Politico: Collins Gets Chummy With Rove
Last weekend, the prestigious black-tie, closed-to-press Alfalfa Club dinner featured former Secretary of State Colin Powell, D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, a host of members of Congress and, of course, President Bush. But we hear it wasn't the campaign digs of Sen. Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.) that raised eyebrows, but rather Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and her chumminess with GOP Svengali Karl Rove.

Senate Guru: Massive Thursday Rundown
Maine: And one last item on Q4-2007. We see another tight fundraising quarter between Democratic Congressman Tom Allen and Republican Susan Collins. Allen brought in $813,000 while Collins brought in $963,000. Meanwhile, Susan Collins and Karl Rove really are thick as thieves:

Collins Watch: Old Friends
Last weekend, the prestigious black-tie, closed-to-press Alfalfa Club dinner featured former Secretary of State Colin Powell, D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, a host of members of Congress and, of course, President Bush. But we hear it wasn't the campaign digs of Sen. Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.) that raised eyebrows, but rather Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and her chumminess with GOP Svengali Karl Rove.

Maine News: By Senator Collins on The Hill's Congress Blog - White House Failure to Appoint New Board Unacceptable (Sen. Susan Collins)
"The White House's failure to move forward with appointing the new board is unacceptable, and I call on the Administration to do so as quickly as possible to prevent a gap in this vital mission."

How Senator Collins Got Her Groove Back? - By Alex Hammer
Update: It's probably obvious, but just to clarify, title of this post references film title of similar name (I've always thought the title was pretty catchy) but not any content from the film (I haven't seen the film).

Blog4President: John McCain 2008 Announces Maine Leadership Team
US Senators Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins will serve as co-chairs, former Governor John McKernan as Honorary Chair, and State Representative Josh Tardy as Vice-Chair of John McCain's growing grassroots organization in the Pine Tree ...

MAINE OWL: Susan Collins on patrol
With some fine spade work begun by Gerald at Turn Maine Blue, Senator Collins's reputation as Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs is getting some well-deserved detailed scrutiny. Thanks to Gerald for the link-back to the piece I posted a few weeks ago on the double standard held by Collins concerning Iraq corruption in the U.S./CPA versus in the U.N. Oil-for-Food program.


BOSTON GLOBE:
Tighter border threatens to distance US, Canadian towns
HOULTON, Maine - Canadians are among the best customers in this small town on the Canadian border, where Interstate 95 links to the Trans Canada Highway. On frequent visits fueled by a stronger Canadian dollar, they fill up their tanks at gas stations near the highway and pile their shopping carts high with milk and butter at the local IGA grocery.


WASHINGTON POST:
Fences, Sensors and Money
"Properly managing and overseeing such a complex technology development effort requires that DHS have a sufficient number of skilled acquisition and oversight personnel," said the letter signed by Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Joe Lieberman (ID-Conn.), ranking member Susan Collins (R-Me.), Sen.r Daniel Akaka, (D-HI) and Sen. George Voinovich (R-OH).

Maine News for Thursday, January 31, 2008

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD:
Senate race nears spending record
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The two candidates in Maine's U.S. Senate race moved closer to the state's campaign spending record, raising a combined total of close to $7.5 million through the end of December.

Narrowing of field excites GOP in Maine
Election 2008: State Republicans will caucus this weekend as their party's presidential race tightens.

Crowd criticizes I-295 widening
Most who attended a Portland meeting also want more invested in public transportation.

Natural resource merger plan opposed
Several lawmakers, a lobstermen's group and dozens of others express their concerns.

State officials warn of cuts in funds for health care
Changes in federal Medicaid rules will affect the elderly, children and people with mental illness.

Cribbage players: State oversight not necessary
They tell a legislative committee that they play a game of skill, not of chance.

Portland school committee maps out goals
Members hope to achieve three objectives in three years, including better finances and enrollment.

EDITORIAL: Ready or not, here comes a higher deficit
Congress and the president appear determined to spend money they don't have.

EDITORIAL: A Republican-only primary win bodes well for McCain
Support from the party's core and his appeal to independents will make him tough to beat.

MAINE VOICES: Between new trains or buses, tires win
Yes, roads are subsidized, but it would only take a modest expense to add more buses.

LTE: Is rebate in our best interest?


BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
Federal cuts could cost Maine millions
AUGUSTA - Baldacci administration officials said Wednesday pending federal changes in Medicaid rules could cost the state of Maine $45 million through the next 16 months. They also said community losses, including for nonprofit health care providers and schools, could total $141 million over the same period.

Controversial cold lunch plan hard to swallow
MADAWASKA - A proposal that would have given an alternative meal of jelly sandwiches, milk and fruit to students in the Madawaska School Department whose lunch accounts are delinquent has inflamed the community.

Bangor: Records, transport businesses expanding to southern Maine
BANGOR, Maine - In Maine, business expansions traditionally run northward. A Bangor-based entrepreneur, however, is bucking that trend with an expansion south to Auburn.

Stimulus boost a possible bust for Maine
AUGUSTA - Mainers are not likely to get the full immediate benefit of the federal stimulus package passed by the U.S. House because of the cost to the state of going along with tax changes that are aimed at boosting business investments.

Collins, Snowe seek fuel funds
WASHINGTON - Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, is helping lead the fight in the Senate to amend the economic stimulus package passed by the House on Tuesday to include up to $1.5 billion to help low-income people pay their home heating bills.

EDITORIAL: Republican Choices
When Maine Republicans begin caucusing Friday, they will have distinct choices to make. Many may argue that with the public, and the Republican Party, frustrated by the failures of the Bush administration, they should choose a candidate who stands in sharp contrast to President Bush. More important than their differences from or similarities to President Bush, are the candidates' alignment with the party's principles.

EDITORIAL: The Unkindest Cut
At a time when Congress is deciding how best to stimulate the sagging economy, the Bush administration is pushing ahead with cuts in Medicaid funding that will further strain state and local budgets and reduce services to children and people with chronic illness and disabilities.

Brenda M. Harvey: Adjustments necessary to sustain care system
Like states across the country, Maine is facing difficult budget times. Gov. John Baldacci has submitted his approach to addressing a $95 million revenue downturn to the Legislature. But just as the work on those plans has begun in earnest, the state's economic forecasters are warning of more bad news ahead.

LTE: Money for kids; Huckabee is consistent; Statesmen needed; Republicans are no help


MORNING SENTINEL:
State officials decry changes to Medicaid
AUGUSTA -- Baldacci administration officials said Wednesday pending federal changes in Medicaid rules could cost the state of Maine $45 million through the next 16 months.

Fuel prices retreat from upward trend
Central Maine residents this week were encouraged by a price drop in home heating fuel from as high as $3.43 a gallon last week, to being in the $3.20 range Wednesday.

EDITORIAL: Philosopher would smile at jail compromise
Long ago, in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, there lived a German philosopher by the name of Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel.

COLUMN: Budget shortfall a serious challenge that means real cuts
The state budget is a complex series of documents and difficult choices. Only a handful of legislators really understand how it is put together and what all of it means.

COLUMN: Foster parent pay cuts not as worrisome as prevention service cuts
Like Chip Moors and his wife, I was a therapeutic foster parent when the cuts came to reimbursement for us. I am an adoptive parent now and the cuts to adoption subsidy affect me now.

COLUMN: 1st District Democratic candidates focusing on illogical issue Do they really believe Cheney impeachment Mainers' primary concern?
Take heart, everyone, we are about to enter a new phase of the election season, when we all get a rest from the round-the-clock demands on our attention by the presidential races.

LTE: 'Mainer' easy label, but 'people of Maine' classier

LTE: Home for profoundly retarded kids in danger
We are concerned about the recent news that the Elizabeth Levinson Center will be privatized by July 1.

LTE: It's time for Maine to recognize Independents
What happened to Maine? There is no registration card for Independents because we are told Maine doesn't have a third party. Is this democracy?


KENNEBEC JOURNAL:
Randolph plans war memorial
RANDOLPH -- A committee has been formed to raise money to establish a new memorial to the community's war veterans, organizers said this week.

LTE: Ron Paul only candidate true to his beliefs
The media has tried their best to ignore him, ridicule him, or at times lie about him. In the debates, he's usually not given much time. When he is asked questions, many are nonissues and intend to make him look bad. The other Republican candidates laugh at him and/or ridicule him. They sling mud and he does not.


SUN JOURNAL:
Baldacci plan draws additional opposition
AUGUSTA - Agricultural and forestry organizations joined groups of outdoorsmen Wednesday to register opposition to a still developing plan by Gov. John Baldacci to consolidate natural resource agencies in Maine.

Medicaid changes could spike costs for special education
LEWISTON - Pending Medicaid rule changes could result in higher property taxes to school districts with sizable special education student populations, Lewiston's director of special education said Wednesday.

LTE: Rumford realism
It's budget time in Rumford. Unfortunately, there is a potential for a rise in local property taxes if spending isn't reduced in the budget. The town faces economic decline, but large municipal expenditures are in the news (new library, new public safety building, new MedCare building, Region 9 building expansion, municipal building upgrades). Residents must acknowledge the economic facts to move forward as a vibrant society.

COLUMN: Rich bear heaviest burden of federal income tax
Should non-taxpayers get a tax rebate? That had been the revealing sticking point in the Washington debate over an economic stimulus package.


TIMES RECORD:
Watson pushing bill that would require boater safety training
AUGUSTA — A proposal to require mandatory boating safety classes for those who operate motorboats in Maine is being amended to address concerns that it could discourage young people from getting out on the water.

School consolidation foes miss petition deadline
AUGUSTA — The group collecting petition signatures to overturn the school consolidation law officially missed the deadline Monday to get the repeal question on the November ballot, but vowed it will keep up the effort.


YORK COUNTY COAST STAR:
Oil prices take toll on Wells' general assiatance program
WELLS — The winter's cold weather and soaring oil prices have combined to put the squeeze on many household budgets this year. As an extension of that, the Town of Wells is feeling the pinch on its general assistance budget and is looking to the community for help.


MAINE COAST NOW:
Governor issues statement on proposed changes to Medicaid rules and the impact on Maine
AUGUSTA — Gov. John E. Baldacci today released the following statement regarding proposed federal rule changes for Medicaid. The changes will reduce federal funding for significant programs for the elderly, persons with developmental disabilities, school-aged children and persons with mental illness.

LTE: Losing jobs in Camden
We hope it is just a coincidence that we have two front-page stories this week about businesses in Camden either moving, or looking to move, out of town.

LTE: We support the shield law
We would like to thank Rep. Jon Hinck, D-Portland, for sponsoring the proposed journalist "shield law" that would protect journalists from being forced to reveal their confidential sources.

EDITORIAL: George Bush's Keynes Mutiny
When George W. Bush ran for the presidency in 2000, he promised to bring back the economic policies of Ronald Reagan. At multiple campaign stops, Bush said his administration would "reduce tax rates for everyone in every bracket." And in 2003 Congress passed a plan that lowered taxes, relief from the so-called "marriage penalty," and an increase in the child tax credit, among other initiatives.


LINCOLN COUNTY NEWS:
LIHEAP Official Grilled by South Bristol Selectman
Midcoast Maine Community Action Program Executive Director Jessica Tyson hadn't expected to be on the hot seat before the South Bristol selectmen and budget committee on Thurs., Jan. 24, when she appeared to request $350 in municipal support.

State Growth Amendment Pits Coastal Legislators Against Service Center Reps
Proponents of an amendment that would leave it up to local voters to decide if they want to opt out of a new law, requiring big-box stores to do an economic impact study before they can get permission to build, hope the appeal of home rule will trump concerns about chain stories coming in and taking away business from the locals.

Two Clamming Bills Endorsed by Committee
Three bills sponsored by Rep. Stan Gerzofsky, D-Brunswick, and Rep. David Webster, D-Freeport, and supported by the Maine Clammers Association (MCA) were discussed on Monday by the Legislature's Marine Resources Committee.

Commentary -- Downeaster: Stay the Course, or Cut and Run
An aggressive lobbying campaign has begun for Maine's Legislature to appropriate up to $8-million annually to replace an expiring federal subsidy for the Downeaster rail passenger service between Portland and Boston. The same elected officials are charged with overcoming a projected $95-million budget deficit, raising public passions pro and con.


FOSTER'S DAILY DEMOCRAT:
Collins, Allen raise a combined $7.5 million for Senate race
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The two leading candidates in Maine's U.S. Senate race have raised a combined total of about $7.5 million, putting them on track to set a state record for campaign spending.


WMTW:
Allen, Michaud Favor Economic Stimulus Package
WASHINGTON -- Maine's two Democratic congressmen have voted in favor of a $146 billion economic stimulus package that passed Tuesday in the House of Representatives.


MPBN:
Medicaid Services Jeopardized Under Federal Rules Changes
Thousands of Maine children, disabled adults and entire communities will feel the sting of pending federal changes in Medicaid rules. The new rules could also expand a projected gap in the current state budget by another $45 million dollars. Commissioners of the Education and Health and Human Services departments met with reporters this morning to outline the effect of the changes on state programs and services. Congressional efforts are underway to postpone the federal action. But as AJ Higgins reports, in the absence of intervention, the outlook from the state capitol is bleak.

Advocates Worry About Effects of Medicaid Cuts On Kids
The federal Medicaid cuts will affect health care services for the elderly, people with developmental disabilities, people with mental illness, but especially children. Exactly how many is still unclear, but children's advocates say the breadth and depth of the new Medicaid rules will cause personal suffering and further erode Maine's economy. Susan Sharon reports.

State Task Force Wrestles With Wind Siting Process
Governor John Baldacci has made it a priority: dramatically increase the amount of renewable energy the state has to offer. Now a state task force has come up with a blueprint for reaching that goal by streamlining the wind siting process. But as Barbara Cariddi reports, even the group's members disagree on some core principles.


THE ELLSWORTH AMERICAN:
Sinking Rope: Scant Hope
BLUE HILL — Lobster fishermen from Stonington, Deer Isle, Brooklin and Cape Rosier met with U.S. Rep. Tom Allen (D-Maine) Saturday morning to ask for his help in dealing with new whale protection rules that go into effect in October.

Zapped Again
ELLSWORTH — Maine's increasing reliance upon natural gas and oil as fuels for generating electricity is driving up the cost of electricity, yet again.

Blueberry Season Yields Bumper Crop
ELLSWORTH — Maine's 2007 blueberry season yielded 3 percent more berries than the abundant 2006 harvest.

EDITORIAL: Economics 101
Republicans and Democrats in Washington were extolling the virtues of cooperation last week after coming to agreement on what they call a fiscal stimulus package designed to boost the slumping U.S. economy. "Remarkable" was the word used by some to describe the fast-paced negotiations and quickly achieved compromise.

EDITORIAL: Whacking Hospitals Again
All Maine citizens are sympathetic to the plight facing Governor John Baldacci and other authority figures in Augusta as they search for ways to address the state's budget shortfall. Everyone understands that, to a great extent, they are between the proverbial rock and a hard place. But the reality is that some of the proposals emanating from the Statehouse may result in more, rather than less, harm to Maine citizens. The $20-million cut in Medicaid reimbursement to hospital-based doctors, a component of the Governor's supplemental budget, is a case in point.

EDITORIAL: Preserve the Unions
Keeping local control, particularly at the elementary school level, has been the focus of much of the opposition to the current school district consolidation process in Maine.

COMMENTARY: It's Time to Demand Better Health Care
We hear a lot these days from the leading candidates for president concerning our heath care mess. Each has a panacea for making it all well again. However, all of their plans are still involved with the insurance companies. Only Dennis Kucinich opts for a single-payer plan, but he hasn't a chance of being elected because he hasn't managed to get enough of the big money backing from the big corporations (insurance?) (pharmaceuticals?) to be able to buy a presidency. I don't see how we can ever extricate ourselves from these odious twins, the monstrous big pharma and the criminally greedy insurance industry. Sad that not one of the leading candidates on either side of the aisle has had the guts to simply say "enough" and stand strong for a single-payer system like most of the rest of the civilized world enjoys.

COMMENTARY: State Must Step Up on Renewable Energy
Greetings from the tugboat Jean Turecamo, stationed in Narragansett Bay. My new assignment is shuttling one of the largest bulk barges on the East Coast back and forth between coal ships in the lower bay to the Brayton Point Dominion Energy Power Plant across from Fall River, Mass. The coal that fills our barge comes from everywhere but the U.S., as domestic coal is too expensive. Last night we had a hard time tying up to a ship because none of the Croatian crew could understand our line commands.

LTE: A Call for Common Sense
We are in the midst of an election year, a year that could be pivotal to the direction of this country and the world. The world environment is in crisis with global warming. The war in Iraq could possibly expand into Iran. There is the crisis in Darfur. The Palestine/Israeli ongoing tragedy continues. The economic situation in the United States. Gasoline prices and the record high prices of crude oil. The high cost of health care and the percentage of Americans without any real coverage. The cost of higher education (college) and the fact that fewer can afford it. The list is long and not encouraging.

LTE: A Wood-be Solution to High Heating Costs
Cut our heating bills in half, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, create jobs here in Maine, heat with renewable resources, reduce our carbon footprint.

LTE: We Need Paper Ballots in 2008
The New York Times has called for Congress to fund paper ballots before the 2008 election. If you want to sign a petition calling for paper ballots, go to moveon.org. Or, call our congressional delegation — Senators Olympia Snowe (800-432-1599) and Susan Collins (202-224-2523) and Representatives Tom Allen (202-225-6116) and Mike Michaud (202-225-6306).


BRAVE NEW FILMS:
Walk a Day in My Shoes: Tom Allen/Mishkin
On Monday, U.S. Senate candidate Rep. Tom Allen "walked a day in the shoes" of family child care provider Kay Mishkin in Maine. After an early morning preparing Mishkin's home for four babies and infants, Allen assisted Mishkin in caring for the children when they arrived—ensuring they were fed, took their naps, exercised, and other activities.


BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: My Special Interest Wants to Raise ME's Alcohol Tax
Malory Shaughnessy: Maine needs higher alcohol taxes

Turn Maine Blue: About those other hearings: what Collins did investigate
This got me to thinking: what were some of these "dozens of hearings" that were held. And our government still being somewhat transparent (despite the efforts of Dick Cheney), I found myself at the website for the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, which has this handy page listing all of them.

Turn Maine Blue: Open Thread
Rep. Tom Allen, D-Maine, is putting up fried clams against a case of wine in a friendly Super Bowl wager with Rep. Tim Bishop, D-New York.

Collins Watch: Collins Q4: $963K
The junior senator raised slightly under $1 million in the fourth quarter of 2007, compared to $813,000 for Rep. Allen.

MAINE NEWS: Tom Allen and Susan Collins FEC Reports (Through 9/30/07)


THE PROVIDENCE JOURNAL:
Heating aid sought
WASHINGTON — As Senate tax-writers rushed to expand the scope of anti-recessionary tax cuts, Sen. Jack Reed proposed yesterday to speed another jolt of spending into the economy — $3.62 billion worth of emergency aid for home heating oil and other energy needs of poor people.

WASHINGTON POST:
$146 Billion Stimulus Plan Passes House
"I understand [McConnell's] point that we don't want to somehow derail the package, but on the other hand, some of the changes the Finance Committee is looking at would make the House package better," said Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine).

Maine News for Wednesday, January 30, 2008

PRESS HERALD:
Senate expands stimulus package
But the additions could slow down passage of the time-sensitive legislation.

Republicans zero in on goal for caucusing
Events are scheduled in 372 Maine communities, within reach of the target of 400, set a year ago.

Jail agreement worries Sagadahoc
County officials say they'll resist if the state tries to give their new jail a mental health focus.

N.C. company to open Pittsfield call center
The center could employ up to 200 people in this town, where a shoe plant is scheduled to close soon.

EDITORIAL: Bush to stay true to Bush in final year
The president's final State of the Union address signals no change in his views.

EDITORIAL: Halt violence in Kenya before a civil war begins
A disputed election has led to a month of rapidly escalating attacks on rival groups.

COLUMN: I-295 too crowded? Why not get rid of the highway?
There may be better ways to meet transportation needs than endlessly expanding our roads.

MAINE VOICES: Small businesses need one big thing
Health plans targeted to this group, where most jobs are located, could do wonders for their success.

LTE: Foster parents deserve respect
I am writing this letter with deep concern for the recent cuts in the services available to the children in state custody and the proposed cuts to the people who care for them.


BANGOR DAILY NEWS:
Car-smoking ban clears legislative panel
A proposed statewide ban on smoking in cars with children present moved a step closer to becoming law Tuesday with the near-unanimous approval of the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee. The amended measure, which already has touched off sparks among Maine lawmakers, now will move to the full House and Senate for additional debate.

Weak housing market forces County sawmill closures
Wanda Campbell of Washburn is losing her job of eight months at the Fraser-owned sawmill at Masardis. It's not closing, but a worker from the Ashland mill slated for closure has seniority and will take her job. Her husband, Ron, works at the same mill and may get bumped from his job too.

State accused of shortchanging poor kids
GUILFORD - While school district consolidation grabs headlines, school and state officials say a little touted plan tucked in Gov. John Baldacci's supplemental budget will greatly affect schools with large populations of disadvantaged children.

Governor presents medals to 15 veterans
AUGUSTA - Gov. John E. Baldacci Tuesday presented State of Maine Silver Star Honorable Service Medals to 15 veterans in a Hall of Flags ceremony. The medal was first awarded to Maine veterans in August 2006 and is presented to those who have been wounded while serving their country.

House approves rebates
WASHINGTON - The House, seizing a rare moment of bipartisanship to respond to the economy's slump, overwhelmingly passed a $146 billion aid package Tuesday that would speed rebates of $600-$1,200 to most taxpayers.

Republicans near caucus participation goal of 80%
AUGUSTA - Maine Republicans were moving closer Tuesday to their goal of having party members from 80 percent of the state's towns participate in this weekend's presidential preference caucuses.

EDITORIAL: The Problems Left Behind
Despite seven years of failed policies and missed opportunities, President George W. Bush used his final State of the Union address Monday night to alternately admonish and threaten Congress, issue stern warnings to the leaders of Iraq and to take credit for ephemeral successes in Iraq.

EDITORIAL: Breakfast Club
A bill before the Legislature that would have the state pay for breakfast for more poor children ought to be approved. The bill highlights the need for, and role of, a social safety net, which is often a target in highly charged times such as these, as state government faces a funding shortfall and the economy slows.

Malory Shaughnessy: Maine needs higher alcohol taxes
The Jan. 14 editorial "Is Alcohol Undertaxed?" was right on the money. It is time to think about increasing the alcohol tax in Maine.

LTEs: Eliminate tourism office; Global warming a myth


MORNING SENTINEL:
FREEDOM EPA sees cleanup progress Waste is taken from Skidgel Lane site
FREEDOM -- The Environmental Protection Agency's cleanup at the site of a former salvage business has already netted more than three tractor-trailer loads of hazardous waste, with at least a month left to go in the project.

Snowe, Collins seek delay of new border-crossing requirements
WASHINGTON -- Republican Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins urged Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff this week to delay plans that would require citizens to present a birth certificate when crossing from Canada into the U.S.

EDITORIAL: Border-crossing ID change more bad than good
Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff pulled off a stunning feat recently when he managed to tick off even more Republican senators than Democratic ones. He accomplished this by defying a law passed late last year with strong bipartisan support to delay until June 2009 stiffer border-crossing identification requirements.

EDITORIAL: Bush speech unveils his only weapon
With the economy in trouble, the Iraq war bleeding taxpayer dollars, Congress no longer under Republican control, the national home-building industry in the dumps, the mortgage industry in disrepute and disrepair, a dangerously degraded transportation infrastructure and the major policy goals of his second term moldering in the compost heap of history, just what initiatives might President George Bush have announced in his State of the Union speech this week?

COLUMN: In case you haven't noticed, security wall is closing in on us Right to privacy a joke, freedoms vanishing by leaps and bounds
The land of the free and the home of the brave has become a nervous nation whose weak-kneed citizens stand silently while their freedoms are taken in the name of security. Our founding fathers would be ashamed of us.

LTE: Greenville area crying for economic help
By the end of the very long day, there were at least 120 testimonials, far more than his tally at noon. Most unfortunately, he totally failed to capture the basic message of the meeting presented by local residents

LTE: OK, planet is warming up, but so what? No biggie
Global warming. Some say it's a threat to our environment, and some think "no biggie." It's here we have a debate. Global warming as a threat -- melting ice. Some say OK, the Earth has been warming, but what does that have to do with us?

LTE: Poor, underpaid not second-class citizens
If Martin Luther King Jr. were still alive, he would be horrified by the lack of human advancement.

LTE: Democrats have tried to cripple Bush White House
We have been entertained in the letters column for the past seven years by a constant tirade spewed by one Robert Vitolo and his ilk, about the dastardly actions of one George Bush, and the Republican party.


MPBN:
Shoemakers Prepare For Factory Shutdown
The central Maine town of Pittsfield experienced first-hand the ups and downs of economic life today. The announcement of the closure of the town's shoe factory was followed by news of job creation elsewhere. Tom Porter has the story.

Review Board Proposed To Study Crimes by the Mentally Ill
Too many Mainers with mental illness have become consumed in a cycle of community-based care options that frequently includes hospitalization, out-patient treatment and incarceration at county jails. Members of the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee are convinced that cycle could be broken if the factors and conditions that link mental illness and violence were better understood. The panel is considering legislation to create a review board that will study the best ways to prevent those with mental illness from committing homicides or serious personal injuries. A.J. Higgins reports.

Truck Weights A Concern of Safety Coalition
Last week Governor John Baldacci signed temporary legislation that would allow trucks hauling forest products to exceed state weight limits. The intention is to enable truckers to consolidate loads and save fuel costs. A coalition of safety advocates says a weight increase is dangerous when Maine's highways and bridges are already crumbling, an allegation Maine highway officials deny. Keith McKeen reports.

Report Recommends Schools Boost Physical Fitness
As Maine battles a fast-growing obesity problem, some lawmakers are hoping schools will help battle the bulge. A new report recommends increasing physical activity and physical education for all elementary and middle school students. Today, lawmakers and representatives of the American Heart Association made their case at a State House press conference. Murray Carpenter reports.


SUN JOURNAL:
Family gives $1.3 million to hospital
LEWISTON - A local family has donated $1.3 million to St. Mary's Regional Medical Center for a new emergency room, the largest single donation in the hospital's history.

As Maine caucuses go . . . so goes the nation?
Will Maine's caucuses predict each party's nominee? It's possible.

Dems wager on Super Bowl result
PORTLAND (AP) - Congressman Tom Allen of Maine is putting up fried clams against a case of wine in a friendly Super Bowl wager with Congressman Tim Bishop of New York.

LTE: The will to change
This is in response to an Associated Press article in the Sun Journal Jan. 23 about a study that showed how President Bush and his administration intentionally misled the United States into war with Iraq. The study included details about how many times Bush and his administration lied about weapons of mass destruction, and the connection between Iraq and the Taliban.


TIMES RECORD:
Not the time for meddling
The Legislative Council used its authority appropriately last Thursday when it blocked consideration of a bill by Sen. Doug Smith, R-Dover-Foxcroft, to require parental consent for minors to receive prescription birth control.

Caucusing to choose a candidate: Tight races will enhance process for Democrats
FREEPORT — Wayne Hollingworth will serve as caucus convener at the town Democratic presidential caucus and will back a candidate. But he can't stand in two spots, so he will help with proceedings without going to a certain area for his candidate, former Sen. John Edwards. Rather than have a balloting, people who support particular candidates in caucuses will stand in different areas of a gymnasium to be counted.

Caucusing to choose a candidate: The Republicans go first in Maine's election method
Susan Collins will also make the rounds to caucus sites. "Don't be afraid to ask questions and don't let them avoid your questions," Pearson said. .


PORTSMOUTH HERALD:
Consolidation repeal won't be on the ballot this year
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Supporters of a citizen initiative to repeal Maine's school consolidation law will have to wait until next year to send their proposal to voters.


CNN:
Senators hone revisions to economic stimulus package
"Many of these additions have bipartisan support, and I hope that the president will recognize that the White House needs to negotiate with the Senate as well as the House," said Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who backs both the rebates for seniors and the unemployment extension.


NBC: WLBZ-2 Bangor
How Much Are You Willing To Bet For A Patriot's Win?
Maine (AP)-- Congressman Tom Allen is willing to wager 2 quarts of fried Maine Clams against Congressman Tim Bishop of New York's case of Long Island wine.


WMTW: Channel 8 Portland
Maine Delegation Gives Views On Bush Speech
AUGUSTA, Maine -- Members of Maine's congressional delegation are glad President George W. Bush stressed the need for action to heal the economy in his State of the Union speech last night. But they offered criticism on other points.


FORBES
House passes stimulus bill, Senate changes expected
Senator Susan Collins, a Maine Republican, said today she likes the Senate bill and wants to add money to it that would provide a home-heating oil subsidy ...


BLOGS:
As Maine Goes: U.S. Senate Confirms Agriculture Secretary
Several members of the panel encouraged him to work with Congress to smooth stalled talks on the $286 billion farm bill passed by both the House and Senate last year.

As Maine Goes: Snowe: A Dollar Spent on UI Adds $1.64 to the GDP
Senator Snowe noted a recent economic study cited in a report by the Congressional Budget Office indicating the near-term economic stimulus of extending Unemployment Insurance is much higher than most other proposals under consideration – for every $1 the federal government spends on UI now, it adds $1.64 to national GDP.

As Maine Goes: House Passes Econ Aid Package; Allen/Michaud Vote YEA
WASHINGTON — The House voted overwhelmingly Tuesday afternoon to approve a $146 billion fiscal stimulus package, hoping to quickly seal a fast-paced deal with the Bush administration. But Senate Democrats forged ahead with their own, more expensive plan despite a rising chorus of warnings from the White House and Speaker Nancy Pelosi that they risk delaying much-needed help for the economy and could plunge the nation too far in debt.

As Maine Goes: VT Bill to Give Illegal Farm Workers Health Insurance
The immigrant workers on Vermont dairy farms rarely get even the most basic health care. They don't have health insurance - and they're all but invisible to most Vermonters.

As Maine Goes: Arcadian Health Plan Expanding Into Maine
Arcadian Health Plan, Inc., a leading provider of Medicare Advantage health plans for Medicare beneficiaries, has enhanced its benefits for 2008 and further expanded into Maine.

Turn Maine Bleu: Bush/Cheney Sign Away Congressional Oversight
Tom Allen introduced the amendment that would have created the Commission had Bush, as directed by Dick Cheney, had not - by whim - determined that he didn't think it was a good idea. Allen didn't think to highly of this:

Senate Guru: Maine:
Back on January 8, David Offer, the former executive editor of the Kennebec Journal, put out an op-ed highlighting his discontent with waste and mismanagement in Iraq.

Senate Guru: An Open E-mail to Jen Burita, Press Secretary to Susan Collins
Maine: With considerable discussion recently over how aggressive Susan Collins really was in investigating waste and mismanagement in Iraq, I figured it would be worthwhile to go right to the source. I will keep readers apprised to any response.

News of Maine: Pittsfield shoe factory to close - Mainebiz
The factory will close because demand for the kind of shoes it makes – ones with hand-stitching and harder, glossy leather – have declined in recent years, Janice Thomson, an SAS spokesperson, told Mainebiz this morning."

News of Maine: Eight Maine economists tell us what's in store for 2008 - Mainebiz

POLITICKER ME: Clams, pride at stake in Super Bowl
If the Patriots lose Sunday in the Super Bowl, U.S. Rep. Tom Allen's reputation in Congress could be at stake.