Maine News for Friday, November 21, 2008

Portland Press Herald
By 2010, unemployment in Maine and three other New England states could top 8%

Benefits extended as joblessness grows
About 1.2 million Americans whose assistance is running out will get a reprieve under the $5.7 billion legislation.

Big Three to provide a plan for survival
Democrats won't weigh a bailout until automakers show how they'll use the aid to rebuild the industry.

Services escape brunt of cutbacks ordered at DHHS
Day One, which combats youth substance abuse, is one of the agencies dealing with a rollback.

Standish councilors condemn sign
Councilors take a stand against the anti-Obama sign posted recently at the Oak Hill General Store.

Lewiston signs on for federal aid

Gas prices drop below $2 a gallon in 23 states
Oil prices, too, are at a three-year low, but the prices come at the cost of a battered economy.

Editorial

City should explore all its options for the pier
Still, given a dispute with the state and the slow economy, redevelopmet may have to wait.

Experience trumps novelty on emerging Obama team
Obama’s choices reflect a move to the center, but don’t mean things won’t get done.

M.D. HARMONWhat's so offensive about Mormons and marriage?
They're now under fire for adopting the view of it our culture has always held – and they haven't.

CYNTHIA TUCKERGetting married shouldn't be only 'for white people'
Perhaps our new president and his family can overcome a stereotype or two.

Bangor Daily News

Sen. Collins honored by Boy Scouts

BANGOR, Maine — Though perhaps best known for the work she does in the nation’s capital, U.S. Sen. Susan Collins was honored Thursday for contributions closer to home.

Action on Sears Island sought

AUGUSTA, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci remains committed to a “positive and productive future for Sears Island,” his office said Thursday.

UMaine educator named Professor of the Year

ORONO, Maine — A University of Maine professor in the areas of soil science and forest resources has been named the 2008 Maine Professor of the Year.

Ex-tribal officials guilty

BANGOR, Maine — A federal jury Thursday found a former Indian Township Passamaquoddy tribal governor guilty on all but one of 30 charges, including misapplication of tribal and federal funds and making false statements to government agencies.

Councilor resigning his seat in Brewer

BREWER, Maine — When City Councilor Michael Celli was elected to the state House of Representatives earlier this month, he faced a challenging question: Should he keep both seats? more

Cupboard is bare at Indian Island

INDIAN ISLAND, Maine — Despite some recent renovations and the promise of a new roof during the weekend, the shelves are bare in the food pantry that serves this close-knit community.

UMaine takes 10th in national Chem-E-Car event

ORONO, Maine — A group of eight University of Maine students took 10th place out of 29 teams at last weekend’s national Chem-E-Car competition in Philadelphia.

Editorial

Legislating by Referendum

Next November, Maine voters will have another chance to rewrite their tax bills, just as they did on Nov. 4 by repealing the DirigoChoice beverage tax.

Only $600,000 a Year

It sounded voluntary and generous when the top executives of Goldman Sachs announced that they would give up their usual bonuses this year.

Time to keep on keeping on — politically

In his Nov. 13 commentary “1800s Civic Virtue Comeback Dubious,” Lynn Hudson Parson notes that “once the election cycle is complete, politics as a source of interest disappears, to be replaced by American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, the World Series or the Super Bowl.”


Kennebec Journal

STATE FUND LOSES $3B
AUGUSTA -- Wall Street's wild ride, with recent deep dips, has meant a nearly $3 billion drop in assets since July for the Maine Public Employees Retirement System.

University acknowledges a founding spirit
AUGUSTA -- Friends remember Richard J. Randall as a family man, golfer and dedicated servant to the University of Maine at Augusta.

Group links puppy mills, chain store
The Humane Society of the United States said Thursday that its eight-month investigation revealed extensive brokering between puppy mills and Petland, an international chain pet store.

Editorials:

Give thanks for what you have; hunger on rise
The family cooks are pulling together menus and shopping lists. Mom and Dad are plotting the car trip to Gram and Gramps' house or vice-versa. How big a turkey do we need this year? Are any vegetarians coming? Who's going to peel all the potatoes? Can we stop Aunt Mary from making that awful stuffing with prunes in it again?

L. SANDY MAISEL : With latest picks, Obama chooses staff with clear qualifications
I wish the critics would just chill. Remember the euphoria on election night when not only Barack Obama supporters but also many John McCain supporters felt good about the new direction the president-elect might take the nation, about one more barrier caused by racism that had been broken, about a leader who spoke to all of the people -- those who voted for him and those whom he had failed to sway?

Sun Journal
Lewiston seeking $35.7M from feds
LEWISTON - If Congress sets aside money to stimulate the national economy, Lewiston wants to get its share.

More red ink flows in Maine
AUGUSTA (AP) - Red ink continued to spill Thursday in the State House as state budget reviewers got a new report on plunging revenues and officials confirmed their belief that the shortfall for the current fiscal year will be just shy of $150 million.

Noted bridge deteriorating
NAPLES (AP) - One of Maine's most familiar bridges is in for an overhaul.

Mom accused of being drug mule
PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (AP) - New Hampshire state police say a Maine mother of a 1-year-old girl served as a drug mule for a pair of drug traffickers.

USDA: Mainers struggling to eat AUGUSTA (AP) - Figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicate 13.3 percent of Maine households were having difficulty getting adequate food even before the economic slowdown.
The department's food security report covering the period between 2005 and 2007 indicates there were statistically significant increases in Delaware, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Nevada and West Virginia. The largest increases were observed in Maine and Minnesota.

Bar Harbor guards darkness
BAR HARBOR (AP) - They take their darkness seriously in Bar Harbor.

Builders go green by going modular
BOSTON (AP) - It took six days for builders to put together a modular classroom with wood panels and walls of windows on a concrete plaza in Boston this week.

Editorial
Will we be cheap, or good?
Good government isn't cheap.

Universal health care a top priority for Obama
If you're having trouble remembering what the recent election was all about, rest easy: you're probably not going senile - you're likely experiencing the momentary effects of brainwashing. For weeks, your television, newspaper and radio have been telling you America is a "center-right nation" that elected Barack Obama to crush his fellow "socialist" hippies, discard the agenda he campaigned on, and meet the policy demands of electorally humiliated Republicans.

MPBN
Town Council Condemns Infamous "Lottery"

November 20, 2008 Reported By: Susan Sharon

Members of the Standish Town Council voted unanimously Thursday to condemn what has been called "the Osama Obama Shotgun lottery" sign at the Oak Hill General Store. The now infamous sign reportedly asked customers to bet a dollar to predict the days Osama bin Laden and President-Elect Barack Obama would be assassinated and suggested methods for carrying out the task. Stories about the sign have now circulated around the world. And as Susan Sharon reports, they have thrust Standish into the spotlight in a raging debate about race and free speech.

Holiday Shoppers Expected To Spend Far Less This Year

November 20, 2008 Reported By: Keith McKeen

The unofficial beginning of the holiday shopping season - post-Thanksgiving's "Black Friday" - is just around the corner. A national study indicates than most consumers are looking for less expensive and more practical gifts than they sought out last year. And a University of Maine economist says that the state's retailers can expect weaker sales than they've seen in many years.

Film Portrays Positive View Of Struggling Maine Industry

November 20, 2008 Reported By: Keith Shortall

Few businesses in Maine have escaped the effects of the downturn, even high-end boat builders, who have seen orders decline, and in some cases cut their workforces. But a new film that premieres in Rockland tonight takes an unapologetically positive view of the state's boat building industry. "Maine Built Boats: Art and Soul" was produced by author, lecturer and ESPN sailing analyst Gary Jobson. Keith Shortall spoke with Jobson earlier today at the Samoset Resort in Rockland.

Jetport Provides Special Lanes For Families

November 20, 2008 Reported By: Josie Huang

Times Record

Town officials fear 'drastic' revenue drop...(full story)

Baldacci slices $80M; more state cuts loom...(full story)

BNAS redevelopers aim to tap stimulus package...(full story)

Editorial
Reject all hate speech ...(full story)

Maine News for Thursday, October 20, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Baldacci orders deep spending cuts
His executive order calls for almost $80 million in belt-tightening, with more to come next month.

State education spending cuts could force school layoffs
A $27 million cutback in aid could also lead districts to combine bus routes and plan fewer field trips.

Gun sales shoot way up
Buyers say they fear new restrictions under an Obama administration

Race incidents blamed on 'tiny lunatic fringe'
Some Mainers fear the state might be seen as racist, but others believe outsiders know better.

New PAC focuses on GOP basics
Dean Scontras and other activists will take a lesson from Democrats.

USM wants frats, sororities to meet their neighbors
Continued complaints about the houses lead USM to invite 290 people to a community meeting.

State sex-offender registry challenge likely to go to trial
Thirty offenders have filed suit saying they would be unfairly harmed if their records are posted online.

Lobster feasts would be cause for thanks
To help Maine's fishermen, a Bangor woman starts a campaign to make it a seafood Thanksgiving.

Pier-bid loser back in the mix
Ocean Properties has said it's still interested in the pier project, and it plans to meet with city officials.

Editorial

Police shooting justified, but can be learned from
A report from the Attorney General's Office should allow for examination without blame.

High salt prices shouldn't mean more ice on the roads
Using this resource more wisely makes sense. Skimping on safety does not.

PERRY A. LAMBIt's time to resolve the issue of public use of private land
The question involves Maine statutes and case law versus our customs and traditions.

CHICHUN TSOUThe two shores of the Taiwan Strait are busy mending their own business
While Taiwan is embrolied in political scandal, life on the mainland embraces capitalism.

Bangor Daily News

$80M in cuts forced on state programs

AUGUSTA, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci on Wednesday ordered nearly $80 million in curtailments in state programs with education and human services programs absorbing the bulk of the impact of cutbacks that result from an ailing national economy that’s sliding into recession.

’Tis the season to give thanks for … lobster

BANGOR, Maine — To many, Maine and lobster are synonymous. But lobster and Thanksgiving? A Bangor woman hopes to make it so through a promotion aimed at getting people to add the tasty crustacean to their holiday celebrations, beginning with Thanksgiving Day.

Prescription privacy ruling could influence Maine’s law

CONCORD, N.H. — A federal appeals court has upheld the constitutionality of New Hampshire’s first-in-the-nation law making doctors’ prescription writing habits confidential.

Baldacci: Trade is key to recovery

AUGUSTA, Maine — Gov. John Baldacci considered canceling his participation in the trade mission to Canada this week. But he decided that with exports continuing to grow, he had to at least go to Toronto to help solidify trade with the state’s biggest trade partner.

Heating resource guide created

PORTLAND, MAINE — Maine Equal Justice Partners has created a resource guide to help those who need assistance with their winter utility and fuel bills.

No bids submitted for former Moosehead Manufacturing plant

DOVER-FOXCROFT, Maine — No one submitted a bid Saturday for the purchase of the vacant Moosehead Manufacturing Co. plant.

Augusta man sues retailer over alleged ethnic slurs

BANGOR, MAINE — An Iranian-born U.S. citizen who is a Seventh-day Adventist has sued Sears in federal court, alleging that his direct supervisor at the store where he worked in Augusta referred to him as a “sand [n-word]” and “the terrorist” and called his religious views “crap.”

UMPI windmill project a ‘go’

PRESQUE ISLE, MAINE — The winds of change are blowing across the campus of the University of Maine at Presque Isle, and drafts from that transformation could be felt at other campuses across the state and nation, UMPI President Don Zillman said Wednesday.

Lawmaker proposes $19M for ‘green energy’ mills

U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud introduced a House bill Wednesday that would grant federal energy tax credits worth $19 million annually to Maine biomass boilers such as the one that powers the East Millinocket paper mill at which he once worked.

Leading role in genetics forecast for Bangor area

BANGOR, Maine — “Invented in Maine” is poised to join, and even supplant, “Made in Maine” and “Maine-grown” as important branding trademarks for the Pine Tree State.

2 lobster firms get ‘working waterfront’ aid

OWLS HEAD, MAINE — Two midcoast lobster businesses got help Tuesday when they were approved as working waterfront projects by the board of Land for Maine’s Future.

Editorial

The High Cost of Soda

Whenever government takes action that smacks of imposing values on a group of people, critics abound on both the left and right.

Automakers at a crossroad

With prospects of financial handout to American automakers fading, Congress and the car companies must look for alternatives that will preserve needed jobs but not sustain imprudent business decisions.

Kennebec Journal
STATE CUTS $80M
AUGUSTA -- Gov. John Baldacci signed an executive order Wednesday to cut spending by nearly $80 million to help close a shortfall in the $3 billion budget.

Education takes major hit
AUGUSTA -- Slightly more than half of the $79.8 million in cutbacks Gov. John Baldacci plans for state government this fiscal year target education-related programs.

Trial of offender registry likely
AUGUSTA -- A trial is likely in a case where 30 Maine people convicted of sex offenses decades ago seek to keep their pictures, addresses, educational sites, and workplaces off the Internet.

On Maine Politics

What will it take to revive the Maine GOP? 11/19/08

Editorials:

200 new-economy jobs find home in our area
"This center will support our strategy to alter traditional opt-in, population-focused disease management with little process and results transparency, to a fee-for-service, cost-effective approach with complete accountability," said Dr. Gary Ferguson on Tuesday.

Law enforcers shouldn't stop ATV just because
All-terrain vehicles, commonly known as ATVs, are obnoxiously loud. They can tear up the landscape and cause all manner of environmental problems, like erosion that pollutes fragile streams. They scatter wildlife with their noise and scare the heck out of hikers. And there's something about being on an ATV that can bring out the worst and most juvenile aspects of someone's personality -- Vroom! Vroom!

Sun Journal
Review upholds rejection of slots
SCARBOROUGH (AP) - Scarborough's rejection of slot machines has been upheld by an inspection of ballots by the clerk's office.

Cuts hit schools, services
AUGUSTA - Gov. John Baldacci on Wednesday ordered nearly $80 million in curtailments in state programs, with education and human services programs absorbing the bulk of the impact of cutbacks that result from an ailing national economy that's sliding into recession.

Recount request withdrawn
Republican incumbent Michael Vaughan of Durham on Monday withdrew his request for a recount in the race for state representative from District 105.

Editorial
Have the court rule on Poulin
Efforts by the governor, attorney general, Democratic Party officials and others to unseat wayward Androscoggin County Commissioner Helen Poulin have reached a stalemate. So far, this group has opined that she's vacated her seat, and scheduled a caucus to select a replacement.

Giving to others is source of contentment, happiness
In an age when "big business" and "corporate greed" seem to be synonymous in the public mind, some bright lights occasionally emerge from the darkness brought on by AIG big spenders and over-the-top high-livers.

MPBN
Major Cuts Ordered By Governor Baldacci

November 19, 2008 Reported By: A.J. Higgins

Nearly 80 million dollars in curtailments have been ordered by the Baldacci administration as the first stage of what is expected to be a difficult period of transition in state finances. Gov. John Baldacci says another $70 million reduction to state programs and services will be submitted to the Legislature next month as part of budget revisions needed to balance the books through June 30th. As the state feels the sting of the national recession, Baldacci says all Mainers will have to make adjustments.

Sign Questioning Barack Obama's Fate Stirs Controversy In Standish

November 19, 2008 Reported By: Susan Sharon

Standish town officials will hold a special meeting Thursday afternoon at 1:00 pm to denounce the kind of inflammatory speech reportedly used on a sign at the Oak Hill General Store earlier this month. That sign, described in a story by the Associated Press, offered customers the chance to be part of a lottery predicting when President-Elect Barack Obama and Osama Bin Laden would be assassinated. As Susan Sharon reports, there's a distinct line about what is and is not protected speech but that doesn't make it any easier to read or hear.

Officials Troubled By Increase In Student Racial Slurs

November 19, 2008 Reported By: Keith McKeen

Even though the nation's contentious and sometimes vitriolic presidential campaign ended over two weeks ago, venom in the form of racial slurs is still prevalent. That's the message from the Maine Center for the Prevention of Hate Violence. Center director Steven Wessler says he's receiving an increase in phone calls, many of them from school officials, seeking to tone down the racial remarks of students, many of them aimed at President-Elect Obama.

Soup kitchens feeling the brunt of the economy

November 19, 2008 Reported By: Josie Huang

Maine has one of the country's highest hunger rates, and that was before the economy worsened. Now, soup kitchens and food pantries are seeing increased demand. Administrators worry that they won't be able to keep up with the demand.

Times Record

Bath planners OK downtown inn...(full story)

Editorial
Early voting a good idea...(full story)

Ellsworth American

Number of State Election Recounts Down
AUGUSTA — While Deborah Simpson’s political future hung in the balance, she knitted.

Editorial
Ugly Acts of Racism
The election of Sen. Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States had scarcely been confirmed before the threats began — more than have been seen involving any previous president-elect, according to some officials. While the U.S. Secret Service cautioned the public not to assume that those threats are racially motivated, two separate incidents here in Maine would suggest otherwise.

Capital Weekly
Baldacci curtails budget
Augusta (By Christopher Cousins - 11/19)

House members elect their leaders
Augusta (By Christopher Cousins - 11/19)

Maine News for Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Lawmakers formulate resolution on racism
A sign in Standish and other post-election incidents in Maine prompt an official response.

AG: Police justified in fatal shooting
South Portland officers fired when a suicidal man with two knives advanced toward two other officers.

In a pinch over salt
Rising prices have municipalities thinking about ways to conserve.

Once-promising telemedicine company to close
At least 200 IntelliCare Inc. workers will lose their jobs when it shuts down for 'strategic' reasons.

Editorial

Better bill might give auto bailout better shot
A plan to address all that's wrong in Detroit, including union contracts, would make sense.

Racist posting in Standish store was anti-American
The message about our next president deserves to be condemned in harsh terms.

JOSEPH W. GAULDIt's possible to create a truly American system of education
If we shifted our education focus to hearts and souls, our students' minds would follow.

Bangor Daily News

Financial meltdown having an effect on tourism in Maine

A private report indicates that tourism in Maine hasn’t escaped the nation’s economic meltdown unscathed.

Lower diesel costs ‘not making a difference’ for lobstermen

This year isn’t turning out to be one that members of Maine’s lobstering community will remember as one of their best. And according to some, 2009 probably won’t be, either.

Ex-tribal governor’s case goes to jury

BANGOR, Maine — Defense attorneys told jurors in closing arguments Tuesday that finding a former governor of the Indian Township Passamaquoddy Indian Tribe and the tribe’s ex-business manager guilty of misusing funds boils down to whether the two intended to defraud the government or considered transfers of money from one account to another as loans.

Editorial

Dirigo’s Future

The repeal of taxes on beer, wine and soda to fund the Dirigo Health program leaves lawmakers with the difficult task of keeping the controversial program afloat.

Seeking Certainty

Financial markets are as much about confidence and certainty as they are about dollars and cents.

Kennebec Journal

STATEHOUSE: Baldacci to discuss spending cuts today
AUGUSTA -- Gov. John Baldacci today will detail his order to curtail state spending for the remainder of the fiscal year.

New call center in Winthrop promises 200 jobs
NotifyMD announces intention to open business in former manufacturing plant on U.S. Route 202.

School systems move closer to consolidating
Waterville, Winslow and Vassalboro schools on Tuesday moved closer than ever to forming an alternative school system in which they would share resources and services.

Editorials:

Business loans harder to get, slowing growth
Lawmakers on Monday heard a mixed message about the availability of credit in Maine.

GEORGE SMITH : Maine status as Democratic state outlives prediction by 20 years
Go Blue! This favored crowd chant for the University of Maine's hockey team fills Alfond Arena at every game, and now it fills all of New England.

RICHARD W. ROSEN : GOP helped Democrats pass critical legislation
In your editorial of Nov. 16, "Note to leaders: Work with each other, legislators," you state that "Carol Weston and Richard Rosen did not like to talk to, or negotiate with, Democrats -- thus consigning themselves and the vast majority of their party (and constituents) in the Senate to a marginal role."

SHERRY HUBER : LURC succeeds in defense of Moosehead area natural resources
The editorial last month, "LURC Decision on Plum Creek Strikes Balance," was highly informative and insightful. We Mainers are passionate about our natural resources, and the debates around Plum Creek's concept plan for development and conservation in the Moosehead Lake region are the latest example. As trying as those debates may be, they serve the public well, resulting in informed and balanced decisions.

Sun Journal
Racial slurs on rise
LEWISTON - Since the presidential election Nov. 4, the Center for the Prevention of Hate Violence in Portland has received calls from schools about an increase in racial slurs and jokes among students.

Obama, race discussion slated
LEWISTON - A community discussion on the impact of Barack Obama's election on race relations in America and in Lewiston-Auburn will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at 219 Lisbon St.

Recount request withdrawn
Republican incumbent Michael Vaughan of Durham on Monday withdrew his request for a recount in the race for state representative from District 105.

Outcome of Lieberman vote pleases Sen. Collins
PORTLAND (AP) - Sen. Susan Collins says she's delighted that Senate Democrats are allowing Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman to retain his chairmanship of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

Editorial
Welcome to the Maine 'Wind Rush'
We may disagree with Bruce Cook's inspiration, but we admire his thinking. He is maybe the first public official in Western Maine to suggest a proactive approach to wind turbine construction, instead of scrambling after the fact.

Message of fear has been GOP stratagem for years
They'll be back. Don't think for a minute that they won't.

MPBN
Sears Island Compromise Still In Question

November 18, 2008 Reported By: A.J. Higgins

A compromise joint use agreement on the future of Sears Island seemed anything but certain Tuesday after a legislative panel voted to approve the plan pending the receipt of an offer for the construction of a new port on the property. The Legislature's Transportation Committee voted to approve a 601-acre conservation easement for the island just off Searsport, while reserving 330 acres for transportation uses. But as A.J. Higgins reports, some environmentalists who signed off on the plan originally now claim the lawmakers' action has voided the agreement.

Maine Delegation Contemplates Bailout

November 18, 2008 Reported By: Keith McKeen

A possible bailout for automakers was high on the congressional agenda today. Top officials from the Big Three, GM, Ford and Chrysler, all want a piece of a $25 billion pie. Maine's four member delegation leans toward an economic recovery package but is examining the consequences before making commitments. And as Keith McKeen finds, their constituents have mixed reactions about a bailout as well.

Auto Industry Woes Affect Dealer Sales

November 18, 2008 Reported By: Josie Huang

In Maine as elsewhere, car dealerships try to stay afloat amid the auto industry's troubles. On the floor of Yankee Ford in South Portland, general manager Bob Esposito showcases the new models that he wishes he could sell more of. Josie Huang has the story.

Think About Lobster For Turkey Day

November 18, 2008 Reported By: Susan Sharon

Maybe you can't afford to buy a new or a used car to help the auto industry and the local economy right now. But with the holidays approaching, Maine legislative leaders and others are urging you to think about consumption of a different sort. What's red and dipped in butter and very important to the Maine economy? As Susan Sharon reports, lobster or lobstah as it's lovingly referred to in these parts, is being promoted as part of the traditional Thanksgiving Day feast.

WCSH6
Legislature Fights Back Against Racism

Maine News for Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Tight credit takes toll on Maine firms
Business owners tell a legislative committee about their difficulties in trying to secure new loans.

Ex-tribal governor denies misusing funds
Robert L. Newell says he didn't intend to break the law when he transferred tribal funds to pay bills.

UMaine system faces budget cuts
A global economic crisis, tuition declines and state cutbacks spell trouble for the current fiscal year.

Adoptee advocates for access to records
Maine has joined seven other states that have passed access-to-birth-certificate laws.

Governor to replace county commissioner
Attorney general says move out of the district by Helen Poulin is cause for her to be replaced.

Maine's delegates wary of auto bailout until they see specifics
Most would only support a Big Three rescue if it includes tough conditions and protects tax dollars.

Pier project on hold as council ends contract talks
The Olympia Cos. and the city can't agree on how to move forward during a land dispute with the state.

Car sharing coming to Portland
U Car Share will station PT Cruisers at two sites for use by fee-paying program members.

Editorial

Power-line issue part of larger trade-off debate
Pursuing a green energy future will create environmental and economic winners and losers.

Predator deal with Pakistan serves a short-term need
Over time, the war on terror requiresa more stable Pakistani government.

RON BANCROFTMaine's financial problems stem from lack of jobs, jobs and jobs
Our lack of growth, along with inefficient spending on Medicaid and K-12 schooling, hold us back.

Bangor Daily News

Easy to borrow? Depends whom you ask

AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine banks and credit unions said Monday they’re financially healthy and ready to talk to borrowers as they addressed a legislative committee trying to assess how the state’s

Maine home foreclosures increase in 2nd quarter

AUGUSTA, Maine — The second quarter brought a slight increase in home foreclosures in Maine, but the state banking chief said Monday the number of foreclosures remains relatively small and poses no

UMS faces $27 million in reductions

The financial state of the University of Maine System was very much on the minds of system board of trustees who met Sunday and Monday at the Farmington campus to hear reports on how students

Towns reap tax benefits from wind farms

It has been two years since Mars Hill started receiving 20 years of $500,000 in annual payments from a tax increment financing deal connected to First Wind of Massachusetts’ 28-turbine wind farm

Driver’s license requirements

To meet the state’s proof of residency requirements for a driver’s license or state identification card, one must produce one of the following documents: - State driver’s license or

Deliberation to begin on former tribal governor

BANGOR, Maine — The jury is expected to begin deliberations today in the federal trial of a former Indian Township Passamaquoddy tribal governor and the tribe’s ex-business manager accused of

BMV: First day of new license rules ‘smooth’

BANGOR, Maine — Though personnel at Bureau of Motor Vehicles offices around the state were prepared for problems Monday, virtually none arose, a spokesman for the Secretary of State’s Office said.

Editorial

Sears Island Compromise

A consensus on the future of state-owned Sears Island in Penobscot Bay, which took years to achieve, is poised for acceptance by the Legislature’s Transportation Committee.

Kennebec Journal
BRACING FOR CUTS
The University of Maine at Augusta will likely cut $1 million from its budget this fiscal year, UMA President Allyson Hughes Handley said Monday.

Waterville to host energy conference
WATERVILLE -- Finding ways to conserve energy and promote sustainability will be the subject of a three-day community forum.

Law helps adoptees access information
AUGUSTA -- Tears came to her eyes when Lee-Ann Bragdon held up photos of her father, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Editorials:

Falling energy prices don't let us off the hook
The good news and the bad news are the same: Energy prices have declined.

DAVID B. OFFER : Oil companies make record profits, banks still pay bonuses
Several months ago, I signed up for a Master Card that gives me a 5 percent discount when I buy Shell gas. At the time, gas cost about $4 a gallon. The discount saved me 20 cents a gallon -- more than $2 each time I filled the tank.

REP. HANNAH PINGREE OF NORTH HAVEN REPRESENTS HOUS : As Mainers brace for winter, health care and economy top concerns
With the elections over, pundits are dissecting the results, trying to make sense of what motivated Maine voters at the polls. Mainers are famous for their independence and propensity for ticket-splitting. This year was no exception. It is one of the things I love about this state and its voters.

Sun Journal
First day of new license rules goes smoothly at state agency
LEWISTON - Life at the Maine Bureaus of Motor Vehicles in Lewiston and Mexico went on with minimal disruption during the first day that proof of legal U.S. presence was required for getting or renewing Maine driver's licenses or identification cards.

Maine home foreclosures increase
AUGUSTA (AP) - The second quarter brought a slight increase in home foreclosures in Maine, but the state banking chief said Monday that the number of foreclosures remains relatively small and poses no threat to the stability of state-chartered banks and credit unions.

UMS chancellor: Budget cuts likely
FARMINGTON (AP) - The global economic crisis is adding to financial difficulties for the University of Maine System, Chancellor Richard Pattenaude said Monday.

Lawmakers hear from state businesses
AUGUSTA - Maine banks and credit unions said Monday they're financially healthy and ready to talk to borrowers as they addressed a legislative committee trying to assess how the state's financial services industry and businesses are faring amid the world economic crisis.

AG: Poulin's move leaves office vacant
AUBURN - Gov. John Baldacci moved to replace Androscoggin County Commissioner Helen Poulin on Monday, calling on Lewiston Democrats to nominate possible replacements for the controversial politician.

Union backs Obama plan for teachers' merit raises
WASHINGTON (AP) - Citing New York City schools, a national teachers' union said it is open to President-elect Barack Obama's effort to tie pay raises to student performance.

Editorial
A problem of political perception
Something feels amiss with how Maine chooses its attorney general, but it's hard to put a finger on what.

Black Americans on path from victim to victor
The presidential couples, Laura and George W. Bush and Michelle and Barack Obama, standing in front of the White House, looked buff and comely in their ease and smiles. The president and the president-elect in their dark suits and blue ties and Laura and Michelle in different shades of red suggested cordiality with dignity. (If one couple looked more tanned than the other, only a churl would have imagined that an insult.)

MPBN
Business Owners Ponder The State of Their Climate

November 17, 2008 Reported By: A.J. Higgins

So, how is Maine's business climate fairing under the current circumstances? It depends on who you ask. A legislative panel heard conflicting stories today on the ability of Maine business owners to access credit. Lawmakers called the informational session to take the pulse of the state's lending institutions, all of which reported that they are financially strong and ready to talk to borrowers. But some business owners maintain that talk is about all they get from local lenders.

Home Foreclosures Increase In Maine

November 17, 2008 Reported By: Keith McKeen

Maine, along with the rest of the nation, continues to experience an uptick in home foreclosures. However the State Bureau of Financial Institutions reports that though the numbers are trending upward, the increase remains relatively low as compared to some other areas of the country.

Oil Price Confusion Caused By Early Lock-Ins

November 17, 2008 Reported By: Anne Ravana

As home heating oil prices now average $2.70/gallon statewide, some Mainers are regretting their decision to lock-in a price last summer at nearly twice that amount. At the time, they feared prices would only get higher. Depending on type of contract customers signed, some are facing a loss while others are seeing rebates in the form of lower monthly bills.

Judge Coffin Honored For 60 Years of Public Service

November 17, 2008 Reported By: Susan Sharon

He's one of the few people to have served in all three branches of government at the federal level as well as the military. His 60-year career of public service has included roles as chairman of the Maine Democratic Party, Congressman from Maine's second district, deputy administrator for the Agency for International Development under the Kennedy Administration, and for more than 40 years, a judge on the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals. Judge Frank Coffin has been retired as U.S. Senior Circuit Judge since 2006. But as Susan Sharon reports, tonight he'll be honored in Portland for his remarkable contributions to legal aid for the poor.

Maine News for Monday, November 17, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Grid needs upgrades for wind power
A report's call for changes to facilitate 'clean energy' is expected to influence debate on Maine projects.

Child care centers feel pinch
Enrollments start to shrink as parents trim expenses, a trend that makes operators nervous.

Mainers train Montenegro's troops
National Guard soldiers go to the fairly new nation and its forces travel here as a relationship grows.

Tribute to celebrate work of Judge Coffin
After helping revive the state Democratic Party, the Lewiston native made a mark as a federal judge.

Lawmakers divided over bailout of auto industry
Some Democrats say American automakers can't be allowed to go under, while some Republicans say government help would only postpone inevitable failure.

Editorial

Congress should narrow its economic focus
A lame-duck session is not the time to make major commitments for new national policies.

Lawmakers ought to be wary of unintended consequences
As Nebraskans have discovered, good motivations can lead to disastrous results.

LEIGH DONALDSONIs college becoming unreachable because of rising loan costs?
Even worse, graduates are now dumped in a job market where payback is nearly impossible.

Bangor Daily News

State sees revenues declining

AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine governments are facing a triple whammy in the current recession, with the three major sources of revenue for state and local governments all in decline, as well as other revenues, something that has not happened in decades.

In Maine, bishop pans gay marriage

PORTLAND, Maine — The leader of Maine’s Roman Catholic diocese issued a letter to be read at weekend Masses opposing gay marriage.

Bapst headed to state championship

BUCKSPORT, Maine — As murky fog off Penobscot Bay gradually engulfed Carmichael Field late Saturday afternoon, one thing couldn’t have been clearer for the John Bapst of Bangor football team.

UM business students get executive pep talk

ORONO, Maine — Dennis Carey worked his way through college waiting tables at Pat’s Pizza and, sometimes, ironing shirts for his fraternity brothers at 10 cents apiece.

Editorial

Consolidation Questions

While the rejection of school consolidation plans in some communities is troubling, the move toward centralized — and hence less expensive — administration is moving forward. Last week, 12 of 16 consolidation plans were approved. In those communities where they were rejected, alternatives are already being sought.

Kennebec Journal

Home-heating fuel prices plummeting
Heating oil has cost Mainers much less than many consumers feared it would.

When buying a dog as a holiday gift, Humane Society urges a bit of caution
With stores decked out in Christmas decorations, Thanksgiving only 10 days away, and a winter chill settling in, many Mainers -- and Americans -- are starting to think about holiday gifts for the family.

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT 11 Budget woes may force loss of school Options for T.C. Hamlin in Randolph to be discussed at Thursday meeting
GARDINER -- School Administrative District 11 will again consider closing T.C. Hamlin School in Randolph and moving students to the Pittston Consolidated School.

Editorial

Jeweler's policy on diamonds is truly a gem
Sometimes, the world's troubles are right at our doorstep.

MARINA SCHAUFFLER : Movement wants kids to 'experience life, not watch'
The recent Governor's Conference on Youth and the Natural World drew together 350 educators, health and recreation professionals and parents to discuss how Maine could advance the grassroots "No Child Left Inside" movement.

Sun Journal
Maine warden action challenged
PORTLAND (AP) - Civil libertarians are going to court to help defend of the rights of all-terrain vehicle riders, which they say have been violated by a Maine game warden's action.

Maine night hunting, poaching on the rise
AUGUSTA (AP) - Maine game wardens say they are seeing an increase in deer poaching, including night hunting, in a trend that has been noticed in other states as well.

Honoring Frank Coffin
The Maine Bar Foundation will be celebrating the life and work of Judge Frank Coffin on Monday night in Portland. Coffin has spent most of his career advocating for low-income people in Maine through his work as a lawyer, congressman and judge. He is the namesake of the prominent Frank M. Coffin Family Law Fellowship in Portland. He was born in Lewiston, went to Bates College then Harvard Law School, then returned to Lewiston to practice law. He became a member of Congress and then a judge with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.

Diocese: Same-sex unions not marriage
LEWISTON - In a letter read during Masses over the weekend, Bishop Richard Malone voiced opposition to news conferences held last week urging Mainers to end marriage discrimination and calling on state legislators to enact same-sex civil marriages.

Editorial
What's in the Gulf of Maine?
Government task forces have the sex appeal of cinder blocks.

Village Soup
State pension fund value plummets
Augusta (By Christopher Cousins - 11/16)

DHHS weighs $178 million cut from its $1.9 billion budget
Augusta (By Christopher Cousins - 11/15)