Maine News for Friday, February 29, 2008

Portland Press Herald

Maine bucks national prison trends
The national incarceration rate has hit 1 percent of all adults, but Maine's rate is lowest of the 50 states.

Legislators told of need to track toxic chemicals
State House: Lawmakers are urged to protect kids by adopting new rules for household products.

Domestic violence programs may face budget cutbacks
The $1.2 million annual state subsidy is part of $34 million in cuts proposed by DHHS.

Report shows many Maine kids live in poverty
Poverty rates range from 12 percent in Cumberland County to 28 percent in Washington County.

Mitchell, Curtis to sit with N.Y., Fla.
Maine is now down to eight superdelegates at the Democratic National Convention this summer.

Column: M.D. Harmon If liberals have been offended, this agency could help
They need an office like this to offer relief when a conservative who doesn't know his place speaks out.

Column: John Coyne Straw poll on new school important
Portlanders will have a chance to register their opinions Monday night on a $19 million project.

LTE: Bush increased U.S. vulnerability

LTE: Close borders to protect our country's civilization

LTE: Senators' telecom votes damage our civil liberties Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe voted to provide retroactive immunity to telecom companies who were engaged in domestic surveillance of…

Bangor Daily News

Maine law may expand license requirements
Friday, February 29, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Lawmakers may expand proposed legislation that would require proof of Maine residency to get a driver's license to include a requirement that applicants also prove they are in the country legally.

Group backs bill against chemicals in toys
Friday, February 29, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Concerned parents joined health and environmental organizations Thursday in urging state lawmakers to approve legislation aimed at removing potentially toxic chemicals from children's toys and other household products.

Proposal designates land for lynx habitat
Friday, February 29, 2008
More than 10,000 square miles of timberland in northern Maine again is included in a revised federal proposal designating areas in six states as critical habitat for the threatened Canada lynx.

Opinion: Matthew Dunlap: Feds complicate state residency rules
In his opinion piece "Maine license proposal inadequate" (BDN, Feb. 26), Robert Casimiro vents his frustration that it has been six long years since the Sept. 11 attacks and here we are still issuing driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.

Opinion: Sharon Tisher: Give Obama 'super' support
Gov. John Baldacci and Maine's other Democratic superdelegates should respect the popular Maine vote and cast their support to Barack Obama.

Kennebec Journal

Survey: 1 in 5 Mainers under 5 in poverty
AUGUSTA -- A report released Thursday shows one in five Maine children under the age of five live in poverty, a problem made worse by a lack of federal money, child advocates said.

UMF to cut $1M from its budget
FARMINGTON -- The University of Maine at Farmington announced Thursday that it will cut $1 million from its $28 million annual budget by laying off support staff, shifting faculty assignments and reducing adjunct teaching staff.

BEYOND HIGHWAYS: Officials look for ideas for Augusta-Lewiston corridor
Regional planners want travelers between Augusta and Lewiston to think beyond U.S. Route 202.

Opinion: Collins should be accountable for fiery video
That was amply demonstrated this past month when Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins' campaign produced a particularly pungent video for use in fund raising against her Democratic challenger, Rep. Tom Allen.

Sun Journal

Baldacci supports effort targeting poisons in toys
AUGUSTA (AP) - The Baldacci administration Thursday joined others in support of legislation to more closely regulate toxic chemicals used in toys and other children's products, saying the federal government has fallen short on the job.

Lawmakers turn attention to energy
AUGUSTA - Maine legislators focused on energy conservation and regulation during several public hearings Thursday.

Our View: Homegrown economic stimulus
Maine's economy is slowing, ala the national economy, and revenue forecasters this week again predicted doom. The state budget deficit is now estimated at $200 million, because economic uncertainty will reduce tax collections.

LTE: Taxed to death
My wife and I are retired teachers, living on a fixed income. We work two days a week so that we can pay our property tax (which doubled), subsidize oil companies while paying for heat and gasoline, health insurance, home insurance, car insurance, plus the basic necessities.

MPBN

"Kids Count" Survey: Poverty A Problem In Maine

The annual report on quality of life indicators for Maine children finds good news and bad news. Based on census data from 2005, the Maine Children's Alliance survey released today shows that one out of every five preschool children in Maine lives in poverty, along with 17 percent of those under age 18. But the report also finds declines in substance abuse among Maine's high school students. A.J. Higgins reports.

Regulators Warn Of Phone Scam

The impending merger of Verizon and Fairpoint has led Maine's telecoms watchdog to issue a warning: beware of phone scams. As Tom Porter explains, unscrupulous telemarketers are tapping into the confusion surrounding the sale of Verizon's land lines in Northern New England.

Portsmouth Herald

Report: Many Maine kids living in poverty - 2/29/2008 AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Twenty percent of Maine's preschool children and 17 percent of those under 18 were living in poverty in 2005, a report released Thursday said. Elected officials said the nation's souring economy has likely kept the...

As Maine Goes

Feds Want 42,753 Square Miles Canada Lynx Critical Habitat That's over 20 times the 1,841 square miles in three states the agency designated in late 2006.

LURC: March 14 Deadline for Plum Creek Comments

Geo. Mitchell/Ken Curtis Ineligible as Super Delegates The DNC defines legal residency through voter registration. Neither Mitchell/Curtis is registered to vote in Maine.

Strimling: First Dem to Collect Signatures to Get on Ballot

Collins Watch

Better Late

After three weeks of near-silence, credit Jonathan Kaplan for being the first member of the Maine press corps to delve into the Collins fundraising smear story.

Turn Maine Blue

Clinton loses a Maine superdelegate

Yesterday the Ellsworth American reported that Maine was going to lose two of their superdelegates because they were no longer registered to vote in Maine.

Open Thread

Tom Allen was the author of the provision to ban the construction of permanent bases in Iraq. The Portland Press Herald has finally thought the despicable web-based smear ad was worthy of coverage; Jonathan Kaplan wrote the article, ...

Chellie's Story

I have always admired my mother. She's smart, thoughtful, funny, and completely dedicated to her community and family. I want people to hear her voice, meet her friends and neighbors, and learn a little more about where she came from, and what motivates her to serve in Congress…

Maine Voice

Tom Allen - Pawn of MoveOn.Org Congressman Tom Allen (D-ME), who is challenging Republican Senator Susan Collins this fall, is in the pockets of the MoveOn.org crowd. He’s reaching deep too - to the tune of $250000. According to the National Republican Senatorial ...

Politicker Maine

Curtis, Mitchell moved from Maine delegation: In Florida, Curtis’ vote in question

Two Democratic super delegates from Maine have been moved to other state delegations. The Democratic National Committee was notified this week that Former U.S. Sen. George J. Mitchell and former Maine Governor Kenneth Curtis are no longer registered to vote in the state. Therefore Curtis has been moved to the Florida delegation and Mitchell has been moved to the New York delegation, the states where they respectively reside, said Damien LaVera, a spokesman for the Democratic National Committee.

Michaud picks up NADO award Today, Congressman Mike Michaud picked up the National Association of Development Organization’s (NADO) Leadership Award.

Stump Lane

Comment on Dear Representative, by Tom Allen ... in Maine. Please be assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind as Congress continues to consider these measures. Again, thank you for contacting me. Please continue to do so on issues important to you. Sincerely,. Tom Allen

Maine News for Thursday, February, 28, 2008

Portland Press Herald

Board sets timeline for search
Portland School Committee will start discussing its criteria for a new superintendent April 9.

Collins targets MoveOn.org
Election 2008: The Maine Republican uses a Web fundraiser to knock the group's support of Allen.

House candidates agree to debates
Charlie Summers should be back from Iraq in May, giving two Republicans time for three face-offs.

State rules casino plan can go on Nov. 4 ballot
The Legislature must either enact the Oxford County proposal exactly as written or send it to voters.

Homes, E-ZPass top toll plaza queries
Residents want to know the impact a new York site will have.

Editorial: School unions a step toward higher taxes
Gov. Baldacci should veto any bill that would undermine school consolidation in this way.

Editorial: Hold the disco ball, stagflation fears premature
However, a repeat of the 1970s is not out of the question by any means.

Commentary: It's not that we need a black or female president, but one who will begin anew
Thus, whoever gets elected must repair the errors of the past and build for the future.

Commentary: New buildings should be energy-efficient
That’s why the law should be changed to make minimum standards mandatory statewide.

LTE: Legislature destroying our economy

LTE: Animals need better protection from abuse

LTE: Clean Election Act gives candidate new opportunity

LTE: VingTech should get warm welcome for coming here

LTE: Allocate resources to those in greatest need of help

Bangor Daily News

Study: Child poverty a concern; teen drug, alcohol use decreases
The 2008 Maine Kids Count Data Book will be released today, with the usual mix of good and bad news to relate.

Casino proposal approved for ballot
AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine election officials ruled Wednesday that a referendum proposal to allow a casino in Oxford County can appear on November's ballot.

House eyes school law changes
Thursday, February 28, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine — House Democrats and Republicans are set to begin the formal debate today on the proposed amendments to the school consolidation law.

Sheriff rescinds ban on working with MDEA
MACHIAS, Maine — Washington County’s top law enforcement official has rescinded his order to his department not to cooperate with Maine Drug Enforcement Agency.

Lawmaker defends energy drink proposal
The sponsor of a proposal to outlaw the sale of so-called "energy drinks" to minors has been surprised at the vigorous response it has generated.

Editorial: Kids, by the numbers
As lawmakers in Augusta deal with the state's growing budget shortfall, this year's Kids Count data book offers useful, but sobering, information about the value of state and federal programs that support children and families.

Editorial: Stimulus, round two?
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Having failed to finish the job the first time, members of Congress are now talking of a second stimulus package to nudge the country away from recession.

Opinion: Deborah Burger and Maureen Caristi: Guaranteed health care, not just insurance
Anyone who thinks forcing people to buy insurance as "universal health care" ought to talk to Susan Siens of Unity.

Opinion: George Will: McCain grasping for power
Certain kinds of conservatives, distrusting Richard Nixon’s ideological elasticity, rejected him — until 1973. Although it had become clear his administration was a crime wave, they embraced him because the media were his tormentors.

Thursday's Letters to the Editor

Kennebec Journal

STATEHOUSE: Lawmakers prepare for another round of budget reductions
AUGUSTA -- Democrats and Republicans said Wednesday they want to look to more spending cuts to balance the $190 million hole in the state budget, with some Democrats saying they will consider tax increases if necessary.

AUGUSTA Schools could partner with Georgetown
AUGUSTA -- The school superintendent's office here may contract to provide some services to the tiny school system in the coastal community of Georgetown, maybe even sharing the superintendent herself.

Architectural fees make up bulk of increase in Jefferson school budget
JEFFERSON -- A substantial portion of the $146,033 increase in school expenses for 2008-09 is the result of architectural fees for a new school.

Editorial: Don't sacrifice long-term goals to fix budget gap
State lawmakers have a difficult task before them. In the face of an almost $200 million budget shortfall, they must cut spending now but, at the same time, maintain crucial investments in Maine's economy that will help the state and its citizens prosper in the long run.

Column: Nader runs because he can No threat as a spoiler, but good incentive to initiate instant runoff voting Ralph Nader is back, running for president for the umpteenth time with no prospects of mounting a serious competition for votes or even of enlarging the debate over issues of significance.

Morning Sentinel

Collins' camp launches video attacking Allen
WASHINGTON -- Maine Sen. Susan Collins is hoping a provocative video of flag-burning war protesters will turn her Democratic opponent's support from an anti-war advocacy group into cash for her own campaign.

Column: Laws strangle individual insurance market
Maine needs to save the individual insurance market.

Column: Term limits grievously handicap Legislature
The state Legislature is a fascinating institution, made up of 186 people who represent the best (sometimes) and the worst (sometimes) of the people who elected them. The Legislature is a separate branch of the government of Maine, equal to the Executive and Judicial branches.

LTE: 'Rainy day fund' should bridge gap before election
Concerning these horrendous and unconscionable cuts in health, housing and public assistance, is there no way for the governor and Legislature to take "judicial notice" that a national election is about to occur that will roll back the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy, reduce the war spending, reinstate reasonable capital gains taxes, and thus reverse the causes of all these shortfalls?

LTE: Skowhegan snow policy seems discrimintory
For those citizens of Skowhegan who were unable to attend the Feb. 12 selectmen's meeting, the road commissioner made a statement that was not reported by the Morning Sentinel and which I feel deserves attention.

LTE: Domestic programs could have used deficit money
Our $7 trillion deficit would have bought us unimaginable benefits regarding domestic programs.

Sun Journal

Oxford County casino vote set
AUGUSTA - Maine voters will again get to decide whether they want a private casino in the Pine Tree State.

Baldacci: No tax on rebate checks
AUGUSTA (AP) - Despite Maine's budget problems, the state won't try to tax the federal rebate checks aimed at stimulating the economy.

2 Maine super delegates ineligible
ELLSWORTH - Two of the eight prominent Democrats appointed by the Democratic National Committee to represent Maine as super delegates at the Democratic National Convention aren't eligible to do so under the DNC's own residency requirements.

Super delegates powerful, but what are they?
In response to Georgia Gov. Jimmy Carter winning his party's presidential nomination in 1976, the Democratic National Committee created so-called "super delegates" in 1982 to restore some of the power over the nomination process to party insiders.

Times Record

Maine's economy receives mixed reviews in report...(full story) AUGUSTA — The state got its annual report card Tuesday on fostering a vibrant and sustainable economy and received four failing grades for its business climate.

MPBN

Maine Voters To Decide New Casino Proposal

Maine voters are likely to be weighing the merits of another gambling initiative this fall. A group proposing to build a casino-resort somewhere in Oxford County has collected enough valid signatures to get the issue on the November ballot, according to Maine Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap. Barbara Cariddi reports.

Windows

State's Tax On Planes Too High For Critics

Maine's high-flying state tax policy could be in for a little turbulence, as lawmakers consider the repeal of a tax on the sale of certain aircraft, and airplane parts and services. The Legislature's Taxation Committee is being asked to make Maine fall in line with other New England states by removing the tax, which critics say sends an unwelcoming message. AJ Higgins reports.

Windows

Maine Considers New Statewide Building Code Standards

With no end in sight to the Maine winter, this is a good time perhaps to discuss home insulation. Lawmakers tomorrow will be hearing a bill that aims to establish state-wide energy efficiency standards for new homes and businesses. Tom Porter has more.

Windows

Portsmouth Herald

House passes $18B tax on oil firms

WASHINGTON ‑‑ The House approved $18 billion in new taxes on the largest oil companies Wednesday as Democrats cited record oil prices and rising gasoline costs in a time of economic troubles.

Housing market showdown is looming

WASHINGTON — A key Democratic congressman is planning a push to expand the federal government's role in stabilizing the housing market, setting up a showdown with a White House that has largely looked for private-sector solutions.

Fed pledges to cut rates again

WASHINGTON — The Federal Reserve is ready to lower interest rates again to brace the wobbly economy even as zooming oil prices spread inflation, Chairman Ben Bernanke signaled to Congress on Wednesday.

Maine weaknesses outlined

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — A report released by a study panel shows persistent weaknesses in Maine's economy in the areas of income, transportation costs and taxes. The Maine Economic Growth Council's report on Tuesday also issues "red flags" for...

York County Coast Star

York toll plaza options announced

The Maine Turnpike Authority has narrowed the options for a new York toll plaza to four sites. The authority identified four sites, all incrementally north of the current toll plaza at Mile 7 in York. After obtaining public input, the four options...

Score: David 1, Goliath 0

KENNEBUNK — One step closer. That's where 1,500 residents of Kennebunk currently served by CMP find themselves in their battle to change their electric provider.

8 is enough for Kennebunk

KENNEBUNK — Voter turnout may have been low, but those who did turn out must have been in a benevolent mood as all eight referendum questions on the ballot last week passed.

Chase criticizes disposition of parental consent bill

WELLS — Rep. Kathy Chase (R — Wells) took exception to the manner in which a particular piece of legislation was handled in the legislature recently. The legislation was an effort by Sen. Douglas Smith (R — Dover-Foxcroft) to...

Senate candidate calls for Bush's arrest Dobson wants Port to indict Pres. Bush, VP Cheney KENNEBUNKPORT — Calling President George Bush "the worst president in the history of the United States," Independent U.S. Senate candidate Laurie Dobson stood on the steps of town hall here...

Ellsworth American

Defibtech Donates Defibrillators to Maine Schools Jay Bradshaw, director of Maine Emergency Medical Services (left), U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Dr. Glenn Laub, CEO of Connecticut-based Defibtech, pose in Carmel with some of the automated external defibrillators the company has donated to several schools around Maine. Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School and the Cranberry Island School are among the schools that were selected to receive the life-saving devices.

Tax Deadlines Are Approaching ELLSWORTH — April 1 is the deadline for several tax exemptions, including the veterans exemption and Homestead exemption and the business equipment tax exemption among others.

Trenton, MDOT Iron Out Acadia Gateway Welcome Center Issues

TRENTON — At a private meeting closed to the public, town officials, Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) managers and elected representatives came together last week to iron out several issues regarding the proposed Acadia Gateway Welcome Center.

Collins Says Time Is Now For Health Care Reform ELLSWORTH — U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) wants her Senate colleagues to devote their undivided attention to the political and economic complexities of reforming America’s health care delivery system.

Sen. Collins Lands Grant For MCMH ELLSWORTH — U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) Wednesday announced a $143,000 federal grant to help with construction of a new emergency department at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital.

Lobster Landings Drop Downeast ELLSWORTH — It appears that 2007 was a tough year for Hancock County’s lobster fishermen.

Snowe, Senate Panel, Hear Lobstermen’s Concerns BREWER — Lobstermen on Tuesday expressed frustration with controversial new federal regulations that will force most Maine lobstermen to replace the rope connecting their traps, called groundlines, with new sinking rope.

Brooklin’s Knutson Named a Super Delegate to Democratic Convention
Despite Obama winning 60 percent support among Maine Democrats participating in the Feb. 10 statewide caucus to Clinton’s 40 ...

Maine Today

Collins scrutinizes Army contractors
Susan Collins told Army officials on Tuesday that the US government did not have sufficient control or oversight of private security contractors. ...

As Maine Goes

Baldacci: Let's Talk. Then We'll Raise Taxes

‘I know many people are asking about higher taxes. I believe we must first have a comprehensive discussion about spending and our priorities as a State. We must be cautious about adding to the burden that Maine people and businesses must carry.’

Scontras Stands Out at Portland Constitutional Forum

Whether you agree with Dean or not this was the best PR he could have scored for the event.

Summers 1st GOP Candidate to File Petitions for 1st CD Run

The campaign's grassroots efforts and its network of volunteers is a testament to the organization in place.’

Maine News

Nine Page Maine News Interview With U.S. Maine Senate Candidate Tom Ledue

Tom Ledue: I am the best candidate because of the quality and strength of both who I am and of my message, its scope, reach, and ideas. The plans and ideas that I present are fresh and strong, aimed at changing the political status quo, built upon principles that will help us reclaim our greatness as state and as a nation:

Politicker Maine

Superdelegate Stevens backing Obama On Wednesday, Maine Democratic Vice Chair Marianne Stevens, a Superdelegate, is announcing her support for Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Opening statements: Lawrence and Pingree Congressional candidates Mark Lawrence and Chellie Pingree give opening statements at Tuesday night's debate. The debate, hosted by the Maine Campaign to Impeach, focused on Constitutional issues and impeachment.

Oxford County Casino project takes another step, CasinosNO! prepares for fight

The Oxford County Casino citizen’s initiative will move forward, the Secretary of State’s office determined today.

Scontras takes stage in liberal forum

Dean Scontras, a Republican candidate for the First Congressional District, took the stage Tuesday with four Democrats vying for the CD1 seat. It was a forum put on by two leftist groups, and a crowd of mostly liberals.

Summers files signatures

The Summers for Congress campaign announced that it has filed its candidacy petitions with the Secretary of State's office.

Strimling files petitions to appear on June ballot

Ethan Strimling, a Democratic candidate for Congress in the 1st District announced that he will file the number of signatures needed to appear on the June Primary ballot with the Secretary of State's Office this morning.

Scontras proposes Republican debates

In an open letter to the campaign of First Congressional District candidate Charlie Summers, fellow GOP hopeful Dean Scontras’ campaign manager Michael Pajak has proposed a series of public debates prior to the Republican primary.

Turn Maine Blue

Senate votes to debate Feingold's withdrawal bill

In a surprise move, 46 GOP senators joined 26 of their Democratic colleagues and voted to send a bill sponsored by Russ Feingold (D-WI) to the floor for "debate." (I wrote about this bill that would cut funding for the occupation and mandate a time of troop withdrawal here.)

Maine News for Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Portland Press Herald

Tire with retractable studs gains support
State House: A businessman asks lawmakers to partially lift Maine's ban on using studded tires year-round.

Big project begs big questions
Developers believe that if they build a complex with high-end retailers in Westbrook, plenty of people will come.

Maine to consider tracking toxins in toys, products
Two bills would require manufacturers to flag the use of certain chemicals.

Scontras says waterboarding is justified
The Republican candidate for Congress says he struggles with it morally, but we're in 'a new world.'

Baldacci: New taxes would be last resort

Portland District Court

State strains to pay lawyers
To cover the court-appointed lawyer program's $1.2 million deficit, Maine may limit courts' hours or close courthouses.

Big project begs big questions
Developers believe that if they build a complex with high-end retailers in Westbrook, plenty of people will come.

Candidate seeks to 'indict' Bush, Cheney
A Senate hopeful wants fellow Kennebunkport residents to weigh having them arrested if either is in town.

Snowe, Collins agree to Senate Iraq debate
Republicans, thwarting a Democratic strategy, plan to highlight military progress in the country.

Editorial: Delegates should not get cash from candidates
Clinton and Obama have donated $904,200 to the people who could decide their race.

Editorial: Officials offer warnings on energy-efficient bulbs
While they remain a wise choice for many, their use should not be made mandatory.

Column: Transit policy: If you lived here you'd be home now
More housing options on the Portland peninsula would help ease road congestion elsewhere.

Column: Picking Obama keeps faith with youth
Democrats need to rein in their superdelegates' power and respect the will of the people.

Column: Clinton would forestall reprise of Carter
Democrats know what an inexperienced candidate leads to, so they should choose Hillary instead.

LTE: Don't expect Mideast peace soon

LTE: Putting inmates to work productive, meaningful

LTE: Superdelegates should support voters' preference

Bangor Daily News

Bills tackle new school districts’ budgets
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine — Proposed legislation dealing with the budgetary process for consolidated regional school units received a mixed reception at public hearings Tuesday.

Senate OKs bill for Indian health care
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
WASHINGTON - The Senate on Tuesday passed an act aimed at improving health care programs and facilities for American Indians, bringing help to more than 7,000 in Maine alone.

Voice of the students
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Ellsworth High School students Kara Beal and Dominique Keefe concede they don't know everything about the state's school consolidation plan, but as students who stand to be affected, they wonder why their input wasn't solicited.

Mainers still paying for N-plant
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - More than a decade after Maine Yankee stopped generating power, Mainers are still paying for storage of the nuclear waste generated at the plant - and will likely continue doing so for years to come.

Patient protection bill, hospital spending discussed
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine residents would be protected against hospital charges for care related to medical errors, complications or accidents under the provisions of a proposal under consideration in the Legislature.

Bill eyes change in dental care for rural areas
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine — In some parts of Aroostook County, residents must drive 50 miles or more for dental care, Rep. Patricia Sutherland said Tuesday.

Editorial: CFLs and safety
OK, so you've finally decided to make a go of being green. First on the to-do list is substantially limiting your carbon footprint. So you purchase compact fluorescent light bulbs, or CFLs, and put them in your most used light fixtures.

Editorial: Stormy economic forecast
The report Monday from the state’s Revenue Forecasting Committee confirmed what had long been feared: State revenue collections are expected to continue to lag through 2009.

Opinion: George Smith: Governor, keep your hands off DIF&W
The road to consolidation of natural resource agencies is paved with broken promises. The Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine asked this question in its 2006 gubernatorial candidate survey: Will you oppose any proposal to merge the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife into a large natural resource department?

Opinion: Kathleen Parker: Promises of the Church of Obama
Much has been made of the religious tenor of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign. Reports of women weeping and swooning — even of an audience applauding when The One cleared his proboscis (blew his nose, for you mortals) — have become frequent events in the heavenly realm of Obi-Wan Obama.

Wednesday's Letters to the Editor

Kennebec Journal

VERIZON-FAIRPOINT DEAL Union says opposition made for better future

Report warns of major economic challenges for Maine
AUGUSTA -- A group that follows economic trends in Maine raised red flags in five areas Tuesday, including per capita income and tax burden.

Providing justice for all puts added fiscal strain on state
BIDDEFORD -- He doesn't want to be here, in this small office in District Court, clutching the paperwork that will determine whether that old American promise -- justice for all -- applies to a guy with only $14 in his checking account.

Waterville schools seek alternative to consolidation talks
WATERVILLE -- School Superintendent Eric Haley envisions a school system that shares costs with other schools, without having to be part of a regional school unit.

Editorial: Allowing phone, Web wine buys good for Maine
Unlike the Maine State Police, we're not all hot and bothered about a proposal to allow Mainers to buy wine directly from out-of-state wineries.

Columns: Maine can't afford not to offer tax breaks for businesses
Maine has lost 35,000 manufacturing jobs since 1990; 44,000 since 1970. Our economic-development programs have been ineffective, with poor accountability. Our business climate is regularly rated among the worst in the nation.

LTE: 2008 election simply about damage control
As a fellow Democrat, I have to disagree with the basic assumption behind Buddy Doyle's debut column in the Feb. 20 issue of the newspaper.

LTE: Candidate Nader
I want to thank George Trask for his recent compliment to my leadership in a letter (Feb. 3) to this paper, as he was asking us to think about the city's accomplishments while I was mayor.

LTE: Money for Iraq war should be spent in U.S.
I work for the Department of Health and Human Services and receive weekly e-mails from our commissioner about the budget crunch and how it will affect citizens of the state of Maine. We are facing cuts in services to economically deprived Mainers and job layoffs are forthcoming.

LTE: Nuclear energy not viable power option for Maine
Larry Davis (letters, Feb. 17) suggests that we turn to nuclear power here in Maine to lower energy costs.

LTE: Parental rights are lost when they're not asserted
Parents have the right and responsibility to know what prescription drugs are given to their child. The Senate agreed, twice, to send a parental consent bill sponsored by Sen. Doug Smith, R-Dover-Foxcroft, to committee to hear from parents and others in the community.

LTE: No added teen drinkers in direct to consumer sales
The direct to consumer wine shipping bill is once more being debated in Maine, and I would like to emphasize to the state police and others who oppose this legislation that it does not increase underage drinking.

LTE: MoveOn members regular people, not anarchists
The recent attack ad being run by Susan Collins attempts to score some cheap points with Maine voters by grossly mischaracterizing who is a member of MoveOn, the group that has been supporting Tom Allen.

LTE: No rights for Americans without responsibility
Woman's rights, men's rights, equal rights and inalienable rights!

Morning Sentinel

Law enforcement, health officials decry planned cuts
FARMINGTON -- A forum Tuesday at Franklin Memorial Hospital gave the community, medical providers and social service agencies a chance to tell state officials what they think of the proposed cuts in services.

LTE: Embden voting process inspires absentee ballots
My mother always said "It only takes a few rotten apples to make the whole barrel spoil."

Sun Journal

Baldacci resistant to new taxes
AUGUSTA (AP) - One day after nudging open the door to new taxes, Gov. John Baldacci returned Tuesday to his standard line of emphasis in saying that generating new revenue to help cover a widening state budget gap would be only a last resort.

Report lists red flags in Maine economy
AUGUSTA (AP) - A report released by a study panel shows persistent weaknesses in Maine's economy in the areas of income, transportation costs and taxes.

Revenue projections take 2nd big hit
AUGUSTA (AP) - With an existing budget gap already set at $95 million, a state panel Monday affirmed another $95 million downward revenue adjustment.

Mayors: Urban centers need to combine forces
AUBURN - When it comes to telling their stories, Maine's big communities have taken a back seat to their rural cousins.

$1M on its way to New Beginnings
LEWISTON - A local agency that helps young people live on their own has received a million-dollar grant, money it worried might never come.

CMP plans massive line update, property purchases
Central Maine Power has started asking Lewiston-area property owners to sell pieces of their land so the electric company can complete a massive update to its power lines and equipment - the backbone of the system that supplies power to CMP's entire service area.

Mill No. 5 panel told to find options
LEWISTON - Two options are not enough for the Bates Mill building No. 5, task force members were told Tuesday night.

City Council hears 'rain tax' complaints
LEWISTON - If the city continues assessing its storm water fee, Robert Gladu figures he'll be forced to sell his properties.

The Times Record

Alewife harvesters fighting against recommendations for closures...(full story)

School merger law changes approved in Senate...(full story)

Revenue forecast deepens budget gap...(full story)

Proposed Arleigh Burke life span extension good news for BIW...(full story)

Commentary: If Americans don't unite, we'll fail...(full story)

Portsmouth Herald

Campaign 2008 news brief

CLEVELAND (AP) — Sen. Christopher Dodd endorsed one-time presidential rival Barack Obama on Tuesday and said it is time for Democrats to join forces to defeat the Republicans in the fall campaign.

Memorial Bridge to close April 21

KITTERY, Maine — Town Manager Jon Carter said dates for the anticipated closure of the Memorial Bridge over the Piscataqua River have been set for April.

Editorial: Flap over surveillance mainly about politics There is plenty to criticize Congress about these days, but here's one issue we hope most Seacoast residents — and other Americans — can agree on: We shouldn't be stampeded into bad legislation just because the Bush administration says...

KeepMECurrent.com

State must climb out of $190M budget hole

Sex-offender registry law could be modified

House holds fate of school merger amendment

Maine gets mixed grades on economic report card

As Maine Goes

Bob Stone: What Budget Cuts?

This biennium's spending increase: $450 million. Estimated shortfall: $200 million. Net increase in spending: $250 million.

WSJ Editors Vindicating Treasurer Lamoine?

Why were the bond insurers facing downgrades? In part because they believed faulty ratings S&P/Moody's once assigned to mortgage-backed securities.

Medicare Spending Double by 2017?

Two main factors are driving up costs: the aging population -- especially baby boomers -- and the rising price of new drugs and medical technology.

House Speaker Cummings to Maine House Dems: Blame Everyone Else, No

‘The combination of high energy prices, a mismanaged national economy, and devastating Medicaid cuts by the Bush Administration are crippling state revenues here and all across the country.’

Baldacci Lightbulbs Hurt Kids' Brains, Nervous Systems

So we have Ethan Strimling, state/fed government mandating lightbulbs while advising against using the lightbulbs near children?

ME's $10M for Wildlife/Fish Restore/Hunter Education FY08

Maine News

Governor Baldacci is Incompetent

Governor Baldacci is Incompetent - By Alex Hammer

Maine Owl

Haynes resigns

Judicial nominee once was deemed so provocative even the Democrats blocked him, to return to Cardassia

Senate Guru

Who Helps Democratic Senate Candidates More - Obama or Clinton?

It appears to me that Barack Obama will offer significantly longer coattails to Democratic Senate candidates around the country than Hillary Clinton will.

Turn Maine Blue

The Green Nanny State

Yesterday's Bangor Daily News had this opinion piece by Jon Reisman about two bills before the Legislature that would requires manufacturers to dixclose toxic chemicals in their products, and in some cases, remove them (LD 2210 by Rep. Ted Koffman, and LD 2048 by Rep. Hannah Pingree).

Pentagon & Senate to investigate 2 yr delay in the fielding of blast-resistant vehicles.

In a Jan. 22 internal report, Franz Gayl, a civilian Marine Corps official, accused the service of "gross mismanagement" that delayed deliveries of the mine-resistant, ambush-protected trucks.

Senate: It's time to end the occupation

"While the administration is discussing a 'pause' in its drawdown of troops from Iraq, Americans are continuing their call for an end to this war," Feingold said. "Congress needs to end the president's failed strategy in Iraq, so that we can focus on improving our homeland security and denying al Qaeda a safe haven in Pakistan, Afghanistan and elsewhere."

White Noise Insanity

Even Rep. Stephanie Tubb-Jones (D-OH) is smearing Barack Obama

Was Rep. Stephanie Tubb-Jones the one who released the photo of Barack Obama in Somalian clothing? I’m starting to think so.

Senator Chris Dodd to support Barack Obama!

Yep, the guy who is a champion of the US Constitution and who supports the rights of Americans to not be wiretapped illegally by the Bush Regime or any other Regime is coming out in support of Barack Obama.