Maine News for Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Battle looms on license security
State House: The measure has divided lawmakers to the point that no one can predict the outcome.

Lawmakers approve child care union bill
State House: The measure recognizes the family child care providers' union and authorizes negotiations.

Jail plan ready for floor action
State House: The compromise is a major departure from Gov. John Baldacci's proposal.

Filmmakers ask state for $800,000
State House: A bill would reimburse some of the cost of shooting a movie in Maine.

More Mainers beat tax rush
Many file earlier knowing economic stimulus checks are waiting, but others face a last-minute scramble.

Can lawmakers agree on relief for homeowners?
Maine GOP Sen. Olympia Snowe urges the House to pass the Senate's version.

BIW hearing probes porn allegations
The suspended president of Local S6 says the national union took over operations 'to shut us up.'

Editorials:
Being behind in power bills shouldn't be life-threatening
While CMP will work with such customers, the state may offer more safeguards soon.

Letters: Legislators not dealing well with state's fiscal problems
They haven't been responsive to the governor's attempts to find long-term savings.

Bangor Daily News
Gay rights groups oppose language in referendum
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
BANGOR, Maine - Groups that support gay rights have sent a 12-page letter to Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap outlining what they say is wrong with a proposed referendum question submitted last week by Michael Heath, executive director of the Christian Civic League of Maine.

Jail compromise ready for debate
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - A compromise jail consolidation plan, reached after hundreds of hours of negotiations involving the Baldacci administration, county officials and lawmakers, was up for legislative debate as the 2008 session ground toward a hoped-for midweek adjournment.

Senate OKs child care workers' measure
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - The Legislature moved closer Monday toward recognizing a newly formed union representing nearly 2,200 people in Maine who care for children in their homes.

Dog breeder measure enacted
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - A bill to encourage ethical dog breeding and discourage puppy mills through a special task force has been passed by the Legislature.

Bill gives truckers a break on weight
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - The Legislature has given all-but-final approval to a measure that would give a break to some truckers by allowing them to operate with greater truck weights but not be subject to a fine. Opponents warned that Mainers will be paying for that break well into the future.

Panel backs school harassment complaint
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine Human Rights Commission on Monday found reasonable grounds to a complaint that a private school in Edgecomb subjected one of its pupils, a 9-year-old girl, to unlawful peer sexual harassment in education.

House, Senate kill popular vote measure
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - A bill to have Maine join other states in a national popular vote to elect future presidents of the United States is dead.

Editorial:
ClickBack on taxes, moose
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
This week, ClickBack - the BDN's interactive commentary feature - takes up proposals to increase fees for outdoor recreation; the moose hunt; taxes (appropriate for today, April 15); and this summer's Olympics in China.

John Buell: Real worry is Medicare, not Social Security
Recent conversations with friends sound a familiar theme. A college administrator asks me if he can count on Social Security upon his retirement. An electrician told me he has no realistic hope of retiring and that he worked as much overtime as he could.

Steve Cartwright: A place to voice our fears, our faith
The family-owned Times Record newspaper in Brunswick has been sold into chain ownership.

Kennebec Journal

Legislators' differences surface during debate on Real ID
AUGUSTA -- A plan to make Maine driver's licenses and identification cards more secure is proving to be so controversial in the Legislature that the bill's fate is impossible to predict as lawmakers prepare to take it up this week.

Movie makers want state's financial help
AUGUSTA -- Filmmakers hoping to shoot an independent movie in western Maine this fall are asking lawmakers for up to $800,000 in reimbursements for film-related expenses.

AUGUSTA Controversial council order reborn as proposed ordinance
AUGUSTA -- A council order that became a key part of the legal battle over the city's now-pending sale of a portion of the former Cony High School site is back before the council, this time as a proposed ordinance.

Hunger series captures national journalism award
"For I Was Hungry," the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel editorial series about Maine's growing problem with hunger and poor nutrition, won first place for editorial writing in the Society of Professional Journalists' Sigma Delta Chi national award contest for 2007.

On Maine Politics

New book gives insider details

Editorials:
Senators' ethics vote should be on record
One of the last remaining issues left for lawmakers to deal with in this session is ethics reform.

State woes don't necessarily need law to 'fix' them
That's our request to the members of the 123rd Legislature, as they frantically dash their way to the finish line. Faced with a Wednesday deadline to conclude their consideration of bills, they're tearing through the more than 100 pieces of legislation still to be debated, amended, killed or passed. Last Friday saw a blizzard of legislation passed in the House; most of those bills now await Senate action.

Columns:
DAVID B. OFFER : Just when we thought we were safe, League launches new attack
The Christian Civic League of Maine is like the Energizer bunny -- except that it's not amusing.

Sun Journal
Legislative session winds down
AUGUSTA - With two days left before the Legislature is scheduled to end its session, some of the most anticipated bills have yet to see final action. The fate of the controversial school and jail consolidation bills, toxic chemicals in toys and Dirigo health care bills remain in the balance.

State says it will take deadbeats' tax refunds
What the tax man gives, the state can now take away.

Winter disconnect rules end Tuesday
AUGUSTA (AP) - The Maine Public Utilities Commission's winter restrictions on electricity disconnections come to an end on Tuesday.

Senate OKs measure recognizing child-care workers' union
AUGUSTA (AP) - The Legislature moved closer Monday toward recognizing a newly formed union representing nearly 2,200 people in Maine who care for children in their homes.

Editorial:
On this tax day, check that box
In the fury of today's tax filing, the little check-box might be easy to miss.

MPBN
Newspaper's Employees Consider Buying the Company

The Blethen Maine Newspapers have a new potential buyer: the company's employees. At a Portland news conference this afternoon, members of the Portland Newspaper Guild announced that the union is exploring the idea of bidding for the chain, which includes the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram, The Kennebec Journal, the Waterville Sentinal, and the chain's online service, Maine Today.com. Barbara Cariddi reports.

State Senate Advances Construction Standards Bill

The Legislature moved closer toward imposing a statewide building and energy code today when the Maine Senate approved a bill to adopt universal construction standards. But not all lawmakers think universal standards are a good idea and some accused the bill's supporters of imposing a mandate on Maine communities with populations of 2,000 or more. A.J. Higgins reports.

Labor, Human Rights Activists Urge Collins To Oppose Columbia Free Trade Agreement

A Maine-based coalition of labor and human rights groups is calling on Republican Senator Susan Collins to join the rest of Maine's Congressional delegation in opposing the so-called Columbia Free Trade Agreement. The Bush administration has been seeking what's known as "fast track" approval from Congress for the agreement, which would permanently reduce duties on American exports to the South American nation. But critics say it will hurt Maine workers. Barbara Cariddi reports.

PolitickerME
‘None of us like this delegate stuff’

Party prepares for delegate challenges from Clinton, Obama camps

NPV initiative dead

Memo to Cianchette: No need for LL Bean duds in the rainforest

Maine News for Monday, April 14, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Municipalities plugging budget holes
Officials around Maine are using a variety of methods to deal with tight budgets.

Collins chief of staff to manage Senate re-election campaign
Steve Abbott, Collins' most trusted adviser, has managed her campaigns since 1994.

Law bars coal gasification in Maine, for now
State environmental officials now have three years to adopt emission standards for any plants.

State House Notes: It's not over until

BIW workers hope for calm in union storm
A decision on who runs the local will follow today's hearing on allegations against its leadership.

OLD PRISON MAY GET REPRIEVE
Organizations that have expressed interest in leasing the former Portsmouth Naval Prison will attend a forum this week in Durham, N.H.

Commentary:

LEIGH DONALDSONIs 'No Child Left Behind' really helping students learn?
Students are all different, and they all (especially inner-city minorities) need individual help and goals.

RAFAEL GALVEZWelcome immigrants, or criminalize them?
Americans shouldn't make harsh judgments about people who only want to live good lives.

ANOTHER VIEW: Stop pretending that state has money of its own to spend
It's time for taxpayers to realize that there are no 'free' transfers from Augusta to anywhere.

Bangor Daily News

Lincoln truckers may join D.C. rally
Monday, April 14, 2008
LINCOLN, Maine - At least 50 Maine trucks will roll on Washington, D.C., April 28 as part of a national rally to protest record diesel prices that many Mainers say are crushing the state’s forest products and hauling industries.

Mount Desert woman cherry blossom queen
Monday, April 14, 2008
WASHINGTON - A student from Maine is the new queen of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which wound down over the weekend in the nation's capital.

Papal visit attracts Mainers
Monday, April 14, 2008
BANGOR, Maine - There's only one reason Susan Moore would ever set foot in Yankee Stadium - to see the pope.

Collins, Sister Norberta to dine in D.C. with pope
Monday, April 14, 2008
BANGOR, Maine - Sen. Susan Collins wasn't invited to a White House dinner with Pope Benedict XVI during his first visit to the United States this week even though she'll be there earlier in the day to welcome him.

Former Maine Gov. Reed the model of moderation
Monday, April 14, 2008
WASHINGTON - Tucked into the southwest corner of the nation's capital near the Potomac River is the home of Maine's oldest living former governor, John Hathaway Reed, who served in the early 1960s.

Editorial:

Debt-Free College
Monday, April 14, 2008
A program that promises great things for Maine's economic future kicked off with the start of the spring college semester. Thanks to a legislative initiative approved last year, college students who incur education loan debt dating from January 2008 will be able to claim a tax credit for loan repayments.

Hunting for Dollars
Monday, April 14, 2008
Finding new ways to pay the bills at the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, especially if some of the costs may be passed on to those who don’t hunt, fish or trap, is a perennial issue.

Kennebec Journal

Utility bills coming due Tuesday
AUGUSTA -- Cash-strapped Maine residents who have delayed paying their utility bills through the winter might find themselves without electricity beginning Tuesday when their no-payment grace period expires.

Legislature's last day? It's anyone's guess
AUGUSTA -- The last day of the legislative session is supposed to be Wednesday.

Many questions still remain within troubled largest union at BIW
BATH --About 25 shipyard workers -- some swearing and grumbling in anger -- stood around the union representative, asking about the allegations and investigation that have thrown Bath Iron Works' largest labor organization into turmoil.

Editorials:
Leaving region power grid gives Maine options
It may not be about sex, but a bill just signed by Gov. John Baldacci is certainly all about power and money.

Bridge repair must be priority
Maine's roads and bridges are in rough shape. Some are even in dangerous shape. Anyone who drives across the state, slaloming around potholes and rumbling over the rusty spans that cross streams and rivers knows that.

Sun Journal

Editorial
Unheard over the screaming
Zealotry negates credibility. See Heath, Mike.

Letters:
State House shift change
As a class, the workers of this state don't often get the opportunity to speak to their leaders. They have been too busy keeping the power on and bills paid. They have been working in factories to produce goods the public cannot afford. They have been dissatisfied for some time now, but unable to tell their representatives in government in person because there was no time.

An historic mistake
Most people would agree that restoring historic buildings is a worthy goal. But to finance that effort through tax credits to wealthy developers, using money from the state's Housing Opportunities for Maine fund, is short-sighted.

MPBN
Labor, Human Rights Activists Urge Collins To Oppose Columbia Free Trade Agreement
A Maine-based coalition of labor and human rights groups is calling on Republican Senator Susan Collins to join the rest of Maine's Congressional delegation in opposing the so-called Columbia Free Trade Agreement. The Bush administration has been seeking what's known as "fast track" approval from Congress for the agreement, which would permanently reduce duties on American exports to the South American nation. But critics say it will hurt Maine workers. Barbara Cariddi reports.

Maine Environmental Activists Woo Young Supporters
What do a group of 300 young professionals at a cocktail party have in common? Aside from their interest in jump-starting their careers, raising families and meeting like-minded people, many share a passion for protecting the environment. At least that's the premise behind "TNC Next," the next and younger generation of supporters of The Nature Conservancy. This week the Maine chapter of the conservation organization invited prospective members to a kickoff party at the Ocean Gateway in Portland. As Susan Sharon reports, environmental groups are finding that it's not too hard to engage young people even without the free food and drinks.

Car-pooling Popularity Grows With Gas Prices
With the price of gasoline hitting record highs, Mainers with long commutes are feeling the pinch, and more and more are taking a new look at an old established style of commuting--the car pool. As Murray Carpenter reports, car-pooling and van-pooling are quickly growing in popularity.

Maine Lobster Researcher Leaves No Stone Unturned
While lobstering is so much a part of Maine's identity, and economy, there is much to learned about what the animals need to thrive in their environment. One Maine researcher has been on the case for years, and continues to track the lives of young lobsters as they grow. Barbara Cariddi headed out one recent morning with scientist Diane Cowan, and brought back this report.

PolitickerME
Romney to headline GOP convention; Democrats contemplate hosting two keynotes

Mitchell: One of the world’s most influential people?

Opinion: Rowe2010.com and more

Maine News for Friday, April 11, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Governor's license bill won't be a 'slam dunk'
State House: Legislators must reconcile differences that were clear at a hearing on Thursday.

Smoking in cars with kids banned
Gov. John Baldacci signs the bill, citing the risk to children from secondhand smoke.

Electric firms moving on high-power line
Increased capacity for planned wind projects is one reason to study a link with New England's grid.

Teams work on funding for pier
The city and developer are finding ways to rebound from a legislative setback, the lead negotiator says.

Watercraft ban a test of state's reach
If Maine's high court rules against personal watercraft restrictions, it could affect dozens of water bodies.

Briefs
House on record supporting repeal of school merger law
Governor John Baldacci`s veto of a bill to refine last year`s sweeping legislation to consolidate Maine school systems continues to reverberate at the State House.

Monday`s veto was sustained by the Senate. But Wednesday night, the House of Representatives went on record in support of repealing the entire consolidation law, which remains in the implementation stage.

A new bill filed by Baldacci, shorn of the elements he found objectionable, is still to be considered. In his veto message, Baldacci said his new bill is designed to allow school units to negotiate local cost-sharing agreements. It also aims to allow districts that receive a minimum special education subsidy to continue to do so when they join a new school district.

Sex offender registry bill survives initial Senate vote
The Maine Senate has given initial approval to a bill making changes in the state`s sex offender registry.

The changes address concerns raised after two men listed in the registry were murdered in 2006.

The bill says those who offended from 1982 to 1992 and have not re-offended can be removed from the registry. It also changes the definition of lifetime registrant so it applies prospectively from 2005.

In addition, the bill makes changes to address flaws noted by the state Supreme Court last year. The bill faces further votes.

Editorials:
Mortgage bailout poses risk to recovery
Using loan guarantees or placing a moratorium on foreclosures could prolong the downturn.

Using refusal of a polygraph test to question drug thefts is wrong
People are entitled to reject lie detector exams that can't be used as evidence in court.

M.D. HarmonU.S. anti-missile capability finding friends abroad
With NATO's decision to buy into the system, everybody will end up safer than they once were.

Peggy SiegleThere's still time to block Real ID
Maine can set an example for other states in how to protect their citizens' privacy.

Bangor Daily News

Statewide building code proposed
Friday, April 11, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - The House is expected to take up a bill today that proposes to replace the myriad of town building and energy codes with a uniform, statewide code.

Truckers gear up for fuel-price protest in D.C.
Friday, April 11, 2008
LINCOLN, Maine - The Coalition to Lower Fuel Prices hopes to roll on Washington, D.C., later this month as part of a national truckers rally and is holding a meeting Sunday to gear up for it.

License fee proposal divides Maine sportsmen
Friday, April 11, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Several of Maine's sportsmen's organizations were divided Thursday over a proposal to charge hunters and fishermen a few dollars more to help cover a budget deficit in the Maine Warden Service.

License bill goes before committee
Friday, April 11, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Senate President Beth Edmonds urged a legislative committee Thursday not to rush to meet the federal government's deadlines to ramp up security of Maine driver's licenses, and questioned whether its push under the Real ID law will make anyone safer.

Bill to fix state bridges passes its first hurdle
Friday, April 11, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - The Legislature's Transportation Committee voted overwhelmingly Thursday in favor of Gov. John Baldacci's proposal to raise $160 million over four years to fix Maine's bridges.

Law prohibiting smoking in cars gets Baldacci OK
Friday, April 11, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Gov. John Baldacci on Thursday signed into law a ban on smoking in any vehicle when children under 16 are present.

Wind tower proposal on table in Addison
Friday, April 11, 2008
ADDISON, Maine - Bonnie Thompson said she wasn't optimistic when she applied last fall to erect an 80-foot wind tower on her property in Addison.

Bill would send government leftovers to the poor
Friday, April 11, 2008
WASHINGTON - Despite the millions of Americans who go hungry every day, government leftovers have been going straight to the trash because of strict liability laws.

Editorials:
Readers reply: night sky, drivers licenses
Friday, April 11, 2008
This week's ClickBack asked readers to comment on a recent story that showed how eastern and northern Maine are virtually free of light pollution, and about the state's ongoing debate with the federal government over the Read ID plan.

Editorial: Maine's $20 million bet
Friday, April 11, 2008
Bad news has come in about Maine's unfortunate investment last August in something called Mainsail II, registered in the Cayman Islands.

Kennebec Journal
STATEHOUSE: State's investing rules targeted
AUGUSTA -- A Republican state senator is proposing to tighten the state's policies in the wake of a $20 million investment that the state has yet to recover.

Hunger series wins national recognition
The Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel editorial series, "For I Was Hungry," received honorable mention recognition in a national journalism contest.

Editorials:
We should ignore Heath, League, dogma of bigotry
We don't want to pay much attention to Michael Heath and the Christian Civic League, which he directs.

L. SANDY MAISEL : Seeking a balance between civil rights, national security
How does a nation, threatened by terrorists, balance respect for cherished civil liberties against the government's need to gain information and to maintain secrecy to protect us?

JEFF AUSTIN : Statewide building code could create bigger, not better government
Maine is poised to adopt a statewide building code. As this newspaper's March 31 editorial pointed out, this would be a big step for Maine. We currently have a statewide plumbing code, electrical code and fire code. Municipalities, however, adopt their own building codes.

Sun Journal
Bridge funding bill advances
AUGUSTA - A bill to authorize $160 million in municipal bonds over four years and increase vehicle registration fees to pay for bridge improvement projects received a public hearing before the Legislature's Transportation Committee on Thursday.

Maine lobsters closer to certification as sustainable
AUGUSTA (AP) - An effort to have Maine's lobster industry certified as "sustainable" is moving forward with the hiring of a Canadian company to review the state's lobster industry.

Baldacci signs bill banning smoking in cars with kids
AUGUSTA (AP) - Saying that children don't get to decide whether they have to sit in a smoke-filled car, Gov. John Baldacci signed a bill Thursday that will make Maine the latest state to ban smoking in cars in which children are present.

Editorials:
Teacher records merit fullest disclosure
When doctors lose their privilege to practice, the Maine Board of Licensure in Medicine discloses details of the reasons why. When lawyers are reprimanded, the Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar makes it public.

MPBN
License Fee Increase Proposed To Help Warden Service
Rising fuel costs are hitting state agenices hard. Among them, the Maine Warden Service, which has restricted the number of miles its wardens can travel. Today lawmakers heard about a bill to fill the warden's gas tanks, by increasing the license fees paid by Maine sportsmen. As Murray Carpenter reports, it's an idea that drew opposition from an unlikely quarter.

Senate Approves Changes To Sex Offender Registry
The Maine Senate has given initial approval to a bill that changes Maine's controversial sex offender registry, which came under scrutiny in 2006 after two men whose names were on it were murdered in separate attacks by a Canadian man who later killed himself. The bill says those who offended from 1982 to 1992 and who have not re-offended or have a prior history of offenses can be removed from the registry. It also changes the definition of lifetime registrant. AJ Higgins reports.

PolitickerME
Opinion: Will the school consolidation law go up in flames?

Controversy calms over Allen staffers featured at press event

Appropriations table: Demand far exceeds available funds

Record number of MCEA candidates to see smaller checks

Committee hearing driver’s license bill

Maine News for April 10, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Businesses add to heat generated by plan to increase cigarette tax
State House: Those who sell tobacco products try to galvanize opposition to the added cost.


Bill to aid homeowners OK'd
State House: A measure passes to keep predatory lenders from shady forms of foreclosure purchasing.


Heath proposes law to ban civil unions
The referendum, sought by the head of the Christian Civic League, would also nullify Maine's gay rights law.


UMaine sets sights on going smoke-free
Smoking in buildings and the sale of tobacco are already banned.


Indebted state shows its gratitude
A ceremony honoring 13 former POWs heralds plans for a military museum.


Editorials:
Don't forget the tax form's Clean Election Fund checkoff
One choice at tax time can mean more choices for voters on Election Day.


Without exit strategy, Iraq progress wasted
It will be left to the next president to face up to the need to end the U.S. combat role.

Column:

Sen. Beth EdmondsEthics laws really a matter of fairness
While concerns abound, there is no real evidence of widespread abuses by lawmakers.

Bangor Daily News

Penobscot slots bill sent on way to approval
Thursday, April 10, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - The Senate on Wednesday voted to engross LD 701, the bill that would allow the Penobscot Indian Nation to operate slot machines at its Indian Island high-stakes beano facility.

Baldacci touts wood energy use
Thursday, April 10, 2008
ORONO, Maine — Baldacci administration officials said Wednesday that Maine’s vast commercial forests contain enough "waste wood" to heat 150,000 homes and small businesses without reducing fiber supplies to existing mills.

State cuts squeeze job program
Thursday, April 10, 2008
BANGOR, Maine - Shortly after 9 o'clock every weekday morning, Esther West is dropped off at work. She uses her red-and-white walking stick to guide herself across the parking lot and into the entrance lobby of Army National Guard Building 255 near Bangor International Airport.

Officials: Gun issue likely won’t appear in Acadia bill
Thursday, April 10, 2008
A congressional bill expected to benefit Acadia National Park likely will not contain a controversial provision that would permit people to carry loaded firearms with them when they visit national parks, according to officials who have been following the legislation.

Report: Downeaster train will generate billions
Thursday, April 10, 2008
PORTLAND, Maine — A Chicago-based research firm has determined that the Amtrak Downeaster is more than a train ride — it’s an economic engine that will generate billions of dollars in economic impact in Maine over the next 20 years.

League fighting gay rights in Maine
Thursday, April 10, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - One of the state's most vocal opponents of gay rights has initiated a referendum aimed at banning same-sex marriages or civil unions and prohibiting same-sex couples from adopting children.

Penobscots fear losing oil to resolve
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Penobscot Indian Nation officials are afraid they’ll lose the free heating oil agreement they have with Venezuela if Congress approves a resolution condemning the country’s government and deeming it a terrorist group supporter.

Kennebec Journal

School consolidation revise awaiting action
AUGUSTA -- With five days left in this year's legislative session, legislators have yet to take up a bill Gov. John Baldacci pledged to file in an attempt to amend Maine's school-district consolidation law.

Business professor urges more action to boost economy
WATERVILLE -- Maine business expert John F. Mahon likens our current efforts to improve the state's economy to the title of Samuel Beckett's book, "Waiting for Godot."

AUGUSTA Augusta to partner with Georgtown school
AUGUSTA -- The Board of Education voted unanimously Wednesday to provide superintendent, special education and business office services to the Georgetown school system.

MEDALS GO TO POWS In ceremony at Maine Military Museum, governor pays tribute to veterans who were captured
SOUTH PORTLAND -- Alfred Hills of Old Orchard Beach flew exactly 61/2 bombing missions in World War II.

RICHMOND Selectmen to discuss I-295 project
RICHMOND -- Selectmen meet today to talk with the fire chief about a state proposal to shut down both southbound lanes of Interstate 295 for reconstruction this summer.

Editorials:
Consolidation foes should ditch poison pill
Whether school consolidation will ever happen in Maine is anyone's guess these days.

Columns:
JIM BRUNELLE : We can't tax or legislate smoking out of existence
In Augusta these days, the motto seems to be: "Don't tax you, don't tax me, tax that guy behind the tree." The guy behind the tree is a cigarette smoker.

Sun Journal

Governor to appeal decision
AUGUSTA (AP) - Gov. John Baldacci will appeal the government's denial of emergency assistance for expenses from the March snowstorm in northern Maine.

Maine looking to invest wisely
AUGUSTA - New legislation restricting state investments to those backed by the U.S. Treasury is aimed at preventing losses such as the one last August when nearly $20 million was never returned to the state.

Former POWs get state medals
SOUTH PORTLAND (AP) - Gov. John Baldacci presented state medals to a dozen former prisoners of war in a South Portland ceremony marking Former POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Baldacci to honor U.S. Army Reserve
AUGUSTA (AP) - Gov. John Baldacci is setting aside a day to recognize a century of service by the U.S. Army Reserve.

Campus launches tobacco campaign
ORONO (AP) - The University of Maine is looking to become tobacco-free.

Editorial
'Lewiston, but not for long'
Most negative perceptions of downtown Lewiston are unwarranted, but sometimes they seem all too justified.

MPBN
Maine Senate Endorses Tribal Slots Measure

A bill that would that would establish a second slot machine parlor in Penobscot County received ovewhelming support from the Maine Senate today, enough in fact to override a threatened veto from the governor. A similar version of the bill fell three votes short in the House, but supporters are confident they can muster the support they need to permit the Penobscot Indian nation to operate 100 slot machines on Indian Island during the times they are also running high-stakes Beano. A.J. Higgins reports.

PolitickerME
As Maine Goes Website Delivers Beat Down to Allen Campaign

Clinton picks up a superdelegate

Wally Edge: One More Reason to Vote Absentee
Mike Heath, the Executive Director of the Christian Civic League has submitted language that will define marriage between a man and a woman.

Maine News for Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Pressure's on to reverse school vote
But the three Portland councilors who declined state aid for a new building stand by their positions.

Private schools brace for state funding cuts
Maine helps many towns send students to private schools, but that money will be cut drastically.
Baldacci proposes new, safer bridges
State House: His bill aims to raise $160 million over four years and ramp up repairs and replacements.

Collins wants Iraqis to take responsibility
ANALYSIS: During the war hearing Tuesday, she avoids placing any blame on U.S. Policies.

Late season worries maple syrup industry
In northern Maine, snow as deep as 3 feet still covers sap tubes, putting a crimp in production.

Editorial:
Worse ideas still infect Dirigo funding debate
Using sin taxes or general fund revenues to fix an already-bloated health-care system is unwise.

Columns:
Heather PerryWhere are promised savings from school regionalization?
The governor said there was $200 million-plus to be saved, but somehow most of it vanished.

Bangor Daily News
Veto sets stage for renewed battle over school consolidation law
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
The governor’s veto of the changes to the school consolidation law on Monday and the quick vote in the Senate that sustained that veto have left some in Augusta and beyond scratching their heads. It also has set the stage for another battle over changes to the law as the legislative session winds down.

Baldacci reveals bridge initiative
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Nearly five months after a report recommended a significant increase in funding for bridge replacements and repairs in Maine, Gov. John Baldacci on Tuesday unveiled legislation to raise $160 million over four years to fix and preserve Maine’s bridges.

Lawmakers tout easing truck weight limits
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud and state Rep. John Piotti of Waldo County believe the time is long overdue to begin allowing heavy trucks on interstates in Maine.

Editorial:

License failures
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
When someone can list as their residence the address of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles office where they are applying for a license and be issued a driver's license the system clearly is broken.

Editorial: Consolidation wind
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
The point of school consolidation legislation, which strongly won legislative support last year, was to reduce administrative expenses for both property tax relief and to direct more money toward instruction.

Column:

Candace Kuchinski: Dirigo is the choice plan; let’s fight to keep it going
I recently learned that funding for the Dirigo Health program is in trouble and that House Majority Leader Hannah Pingree has submitted a bill to stabilize funding and preserve the program.

Kennebec Journal

HALLOWELL: Along the river
HALLOWELL -- City councilors Monday approved plans proposed by the Waterfront Advisory Committee to complete a new boardwalk at the downtown waterfront park at an estimated cost of $50,000.

HALLOWELL: Along the river
HALLOWELL -- City councilors Monday approved plans proposed by the Waterfront Advisory Committee to complete a new boardwalk at the downtown waterfront park at an estimated cost of $50,000.

Collins treads cautiously at Iraq hearings
WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sen. Susan Collins carved a middle path during Tuesday's Capitol Hill hearing on the war in Iraq, neither criticizing nor praising last year's troop surge and offering no opinion on its success or failure.

Forward thinking
What's good for the Kennebec River in one spot can flow through the rest of the river as well.

Morning Sentinel

KIBBY WIND PROJECT Adviser: Tax break plan to boost economy Franklin County expects to use money to bolster tourism, pay for improvements
FARMINGTON -- Road improvements, tourism, economic development, public safety and even mapping trails in Franklin County's unorganized territory are some projects that could be funded through a tax break program proposed for the Kibby wind farm project, a consultant told county commissioners Tuesday.

Collins ambiguous on Iraq issues
WASHINGTON -- Maine Sen. Susan Collins carved a middle path during Tuesday's Capitol Hill hearing on the war in Iraq, neither criticizing nor praising last year's troop surge and offering no opinion on its success or failure.

On Maine Politics

Who would you like to see at your convention?

Editorials:

Taking on the cyber-bullies
Bullying by children and teens is mean, it's ugly and it's frightening.

Private interest versus public obligation
Maine elected officials are squeaky clean when compared to the antics of government officials in Rhode Island and other states to our south and west. Nevertheless, there's housecleaning that must be done in the Legislature, where for the umpteenth time, lawmakers are considering a mild but essential series of ethics reforms that will strengthen the wall between their private interests and their public obligations.

Columns:
GEORGE SMITH : Legislative wrap-up: Truth and consequences
Every government action has consequences, some planned, some unanticipated. It's the surprises that hurt because they are often negative.

Sun Journal
Hannaford yanks ads from TV station
PORTLAND (AP) - The Hannaford supermarket chain says it's pulling advertising from WGME-TV.

Maine lab finds toxins in toys
PORTLAND (AP) - The Alliance for a Clean & Healthy Maine has found high levels chemicals that can cause health problems in children's toys and products.

Baldacci plan targets bridge renovations
AUGUSTA (AP) - Nearly five months after a report recommended a significant increase in funding for bridge replacements and repairs in Maine, Gov. John Baldacci on Tuesday unveiled legislation to raise $160 million over four years to fix up and preserve Maine's bridges.

Editorials:
A power beyond the state
Few things are more frightening than dangerous chemicals that are everywhere, invisible, almost unpronounceable and near-impossible to spell. Few things are more difficult to legislate and regulate, too.

Letters: Cost and effect
While we are being forced to pay attention to the proposed increase in the cigarette tax, two competing measures are moving through the Legislature that would increase doctors' bills by imposing a 1.8 percent tax.

MPBN
Lawmakers Reject Sick Leave Measure
Mainers who get sick, but have no sick leave benefits, face tough choices. A proposed law would have required employers to grant employees an hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. But opponents said it would make things harder for Maine businesses, and the bill died in Augusta today. Murray Carpenter reports.

Prominent Political Operatives to Spar During Casino Campaign
He is a former gubernatorial press spokesman whose public relations firm has turned back repeated efforts to expand casino-style gambling in Maine. She is the Maine Greens' two-time gubernatorial nominee and the party's most recent national candidate for vice-president of the United States. Now, Dennis Bailey and Pat LaMarche are poised to go head-to-head over a proposed casino for Oxford county as both prepare to roll out campaigns designed to persuade Maine voters in November. A.J. Higgins reports.

"Lemonade" Economics
Irwin Gratz talks with Karen MIlls of M-M-P Group about the impact of the recent slowdown on the Maine Economy and the opportunity it presents to position the state for the future.

PolitickerME

Tick tock: Statutory adjournment date looms as lawmakers push to get work done

Collins questions Petraeus, other Maine politicians respond

‘I missed the vote’ (for family reasons)

LaMarche to Serve as Spokeswoman for Oxford Casino Referendum

Seth Carey, the Rumford attorney responsible for the Oxford County Casino referendum that will be on the ballot this fall, has announced that Pat

Maine News for Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Portland Press Herald
School merger reforms vetoed
Lawmakers will now take up Gov. John Baldacci's alternative proposal for school consolidation.

Immigration coalition opposes licensing rules
Groups argue that Gov. Baldacci's proposal would prompt some aliens to drive without a license.

Bill sets fixed fee for Dirigo insurers
State House: It also would raise the cigarette tax from $2 to $2.50 to fund Maine health initiatives.

Breast cancer license plate due
The specialty plate will raise money and remind people of the benefits of early detection.

Caring Unlimited to keep funding, remain operating
The family service agency was among domestic violence projects in Maine facing potential cuts.

Colombian trade deal 'dead on arrival'
Three of Maine's four members of Congress oppose the free-trade pact; one is reviewing it.

Council says no to money for school
Portland passes up a chance to get $19.6 million from the state to build a new elementary school.

Loss of Monroe's post raises concerns
Some worry that cutting Portland's director of ports will mean less focus on waterfront issues.


Editorials:
Thud! Need for maintenance flowers with the spring
Taxpayers don't get excited about investment in road upkeep until the potholes get bad.

War's real costs are being paid by too few
A larger military would ease the strain of multiple deployments on service members.

Letters:
FairPoint exchange leaves caller upset with service

Taxpayers urged to beware of school consolidation

Bangor Daily News
School proposal changes vetoed
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - In swift succession Monday, the Senate approved changes to the school consolidation law and the governor vetoed the bill.

Allen takes Collins to task for her record on Iraq
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
BANGOR, Maine - Tom Allen got a prime opportunity Monday to talk publicly about one of the issues he has made central to his U.S. Senate campaign.

'Sportsmen' license plate unveiled
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - State officials unveiled a new specialty license plate Monday that will benefit programs popular with outdoor lovers.

Fallen Maine soldier 'one of the very best'
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
BREWER, Maine - Upon hearing of the death of one of his former students, Brewer High School music teacher Brady Harris said the reality of war hit home.

Editorials:

Vacuum Cleaner Games
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
To date, Maine voters have not been kind to casinos or racinos; the vote that authorized Hollywood Slots in Bangor slipped through while attention was focused on a larger proposal for southern Maine, CasinosNO! maintains.

Should Hillary Quit?
Monday, April 07, 2008
Several Democratic politicians, a few columnists, and much of the talk-show world and blogosphere are telling Hillary Clinton to quit the race. She shouldn't and she almost certainly won't.

Kennebec Journal
BALDACCI VETOS SCHOOL BILL
AUGUSTA -- Gov. John Baldacci Monday vetoed a bill meant to amend Maine's school-district consolidation law hours after it passed the Senate.

New Maine plate aimed at raising breast-cancer awareness
AUGUSTA -- A new specialty license plate to support breast-cancer services will be available in the fall.

Waterfront progress in Gardiner
GARDINER -- Carroll Leighton was thrilled to hear the city is moving closer to completing a boardwalk and other improvements at the waterfront park.

A license to protest
AUGUSTA -- Requiring everyone to prove they are legal residents to get a drivers license would make Maine roads less safe, do nothing to improve the county's security, and discriminate against immigrant workers crucial to Maine's economy, immigrant rights groups said Monday.

Congressional race has forum in Augusta
AUGUSTA -- There are 80,000 veterans in the 1st Congressional District.

Editorials:
I-295 detour: not pleasant, but necessary
Sacrifice for the public good is a high-minded concept that's often hell on those doing the sacrificing. And if all goes as planned, a project to close and repave southbound Interstate 295 between Gardiner and Topsham during three months this summer will indeed benefit the greater public -- but require significant sacrifice by both motorists and those living along U.S. Route 201 onto which traffic will be detoured.

Columns:
BY REP. JON HINCK : Compelling reasons to limit vehicle idling
Few would argue for needless waste of oil, diesel fuel and gasoline. My commercial vehicle idling reduction bill, L.D. 2056, supports energy independence and environmental responsibility while improving business profits here.

Letters:
Law on smoking doesn't anger one smoker
I couldn't resist commenting on the new uproar over the no smoking in your cars with children under 16 years of age. Being part of the smoking population, I'm probably in the minority who aren't upset with this.

Sun Journal
School overhaul veto is upheld
AUGUSTA - Three months after action had been expected, state lawmakers gave final approval Monday to a bill to refine last year's sweeping legislation to consolidate Maine school systems. Almost immediately, as anticipated, Gov. John Baldacci vetoed it.

Immigration group targets governor
AUGUSTA (AP) - Immigrants' rights activists went on the offensive Monday against Gov. John Baldacci's proposal to make driver's licenses more secure, saying it targets the most vulnerable, encourages aliens to drive illegally and does little to make Maine safer.

Baldacci signs legislation to raise snowmobile fees
AUGUSTA (AP) - Maine snowmobilers will be paying higher registration fees.

Allen announces broadband bill
BANGOR (AP) - U.S. Representative Tom Allen has submitted legislation that he says would expand high-speed Internet access in rural areas in Maine and across the country.

I-295 likely to close due to construction
AUGUSTA (AP) - State officials say it's all but a sure thing that the southbound lanes of Interstate 295 from Gardiner to Topsham will be closed to traffic for 2½ months this summer to rebuild the highway.

Baldacci speaks up for Dirigo Health
AUGUSTA (AP) - Gov. John Baldacci joined with the head of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care on Monday to urge support for a bill advocates say is needed to shore up Maine's troubled Dirigo Health program.

State parks are in demand
PORTLAND (AP) - Campsite reservations at Maine state parks have hit an all-time high for this time of year as Mainers look ahead toward summer.

Editorial:
A clearer view about tobacco taxes
For a momentary delight, a cigarette has serious long-term effects on smokers, those around them, and the public.

MPBN:
"Lemonade" Economics
Irwin Gratz talks with Karen MIlls of M-M-P Group about the impact of the recent slowdown on the Maine Economy and the opportunity it presents to position the state for the future.

Passenger Rail Funding Kindles Resentment in the House
A bill that began as a well-intended effort to expand passenger rail service in Maine quickly degenerated into a 45-minute debate on spending priorities in the House today and rekindled some long-held resentments that divide Maine's less prosperous northern residents from their wealthier southern counterparts. Lawmakers utlimately approved spending $2.5 million dollars a year to extend passenger rail service from Portland to Brunswick in a vote that divided largely along regional lines. A.J. Higgins reports.

Immigrants Target of Increased Prosecutions and Harassment
For the second time in a month, a Brazilian immigrant from out of state has been charged with transporting an illegal immigrant to Maine for financial gain. In both cases, federal investigators say the immigrants came to Maine to obtain drivers licenses. Maine is among a handful of states with lax rules for issuing drivers licenses, which can be used in other states to seek work. But advocates say the arrests reflect a growing trend in the prosecution and harassment of immigrants. Keith Mckeen reports.

PolitickerME.com
Strimling accuses Pingree of setting up ‘dirty trick’ through donation

Pingree poses questions to Petraeus

Pearson tapped as Common Cause's VP for Programs

Baldacci vetoes bill that altered school funding formula

Wally Edge Catholics, the MCLU and Driver Licenses for Illegals.
The AP is reporting that the MCLU, The Roman Catholic Diocese and several immigrants and civil rights groups are planning a press conference in.

Maine AP Wire
New Jersey lawmakers agree to offer 6 weeks of paid leave
New Jersey moved Monday to become the third state to require companies to offer six weeks of paid leave to workers wishing to care for a new child or sick relative.

Maine News for Monday, April 7, 2008

Kennebec Journal
AUGUSTA Lawmakers try laptops in effort to reduce costs Pilot program takes aim at paper use; part-time staff positions

AUGUSTA -- Rep. Kim Silsby cleared her House desk of papers late last week, filling a small black trash can with all sorts of documents.

CONSOLIDATION Senate to vote today on bill Cost-sharing has no opposition
AUGUSTA -- Planners working out mergers between local school districts are turning up the pressure on legislators to pass a bill that would allow their consolidation work to continue.

Bullying moves to the Internet Online anonymity presents a whole new set of problems to those protecting children
It's an age-old problem that's taken on a new form in a new age. And it's posing a new challenge for educators.

MCLU's Heath stirring the civil union pot
AUGUSTA -- The candidates running for the 1st Congressional District are scheduled to be in Augusta tonight for an event sponsored by the Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee.

Editorial
Counting what needs to be counted
College acceptances are in the mail, and high school seniors are ripping open fat envelopes and thin envelopes and sitting down with their parents to figure out where they'll spend the next four years of their lives.

Letters:
Attack on state workers misses important point
The letter from Kevin P. Morrissey was appropriately dated, April Fool's Day. In that letter Morrissey calls his wages "earned" and reflects that state workers are "non contributor" workers. Morrissey, my wages as a state worker are actually taxed twice. Once when you "earn" your wages, and once when we state workers "earn" ours. That makes me a "double contributor."

Lets make county jail inmates earn their keep
What's next at the Kennebec County jail? Religious services! What's wrong with the penal system today? How much is this going to cost taxpayers? I have to laugh when I read stories like this. It just doesn't make sense. Growing up in the 50's and 60's, my understanding of jail was that it was a place where people who committed crimes served their sentence.

Portland Press Herald
State leaders lobby for new refueling tankers
Gov. Baldacci and the congressional delegation also push for basing an active-duty unit in Bangor.

Smokers incensed over tax proposal
Some say they'll buy cigarettes online or in New Hampshire if lawmakers pass another increase.

State campsites filling up fast
Reservations at Maine state parks have hit an all-time high for this time of year, officials say.

As heating season winds down, no relief in oil prices
Prices usually head lower in the spring, but the volatile crude oil market may play the spoiler this year.

Diesel price hits record; truckers hold protest
One Maine driver spends $620 to fill his tank with diesel.

JUSTIN ELLISCredit card debt on rise among college students

Commentary:
Cigarette tax shouldn't be used to boost Dirigo
Tobacco taxes can be good policy, but the health-care system is already overfunded.

The test of new jail panel will be its ability to close jails
Corrections reform has begun slowly with a deal between state and county officials.

ELIZABETH MITCHELLA booster shot, and more, for health care
A bill before the Legislature would strengthen and extend the good results of Dirigo.

LEIGH DONALDSON, ColumnistAmericans have to be assured their votes will count
Lawmakers should make sure balloting fiascos can't happen again and that the next big election is secure.

Bangor Daily News

Delegation targets energy speculators
Monday, April 07, 2008
AUGUSTA, Maine - Mainers are paying more for their fuel because of unregulated speculation in the energy market, said Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine.

Down East Tattoo Show in Bangor draws more women, older clientele
Monday, April 07, 2008
BANGOR, Maine - For 57-year-old Levant resident Steve Doddy, attending the Down East Tattoo Show has become a yearly tradition that includes a group of friends from Canada, a birthday party and searching for the perfect ink.

Injured Maine soldier dies
Monday, April 07, 2008
A University of Maine graduate wounded Wednesday on a combat mission in Afghanistan died the next day after being airlifted to a U.S. Army medical facility in Germany for treatment.

Pilot of downed plane missing
Monday, April 07, 2008
BELFAST, Maine - A pilot of a single-engine aircraft was believed missing after witnesses reported seeing the plane crash into waters off Seaside Drive on Sunday evening.

Oil prices not falling as N.E. spring arrives
Monday, April 07, 2008
PORTLAND, Maine - Along with robins and crocuses, a welcome sign of spring across northern New England is watching the heating season wind down. That usually signals a drop in the price of heating oil, but that hasn’t been the case this year.

Editorials:

Should Hillary Quit?
Monday, April 07, 2008
Several Democratic politicians, a few columnists, and much of the talk-show world and blogosphere are telling Hillary Clinton to quit the race. She shouldn't and she almost certainly won't.

National Service
Monday, April 07, 2008
One of the injustices of the U.S. invasion and occupation of Iraq is that this dangerous and arduous work has been borne by men and women who were essentially contracted to do the job. And that group, men and women who enlisted in the military, represents a small minority of American citizens.

OP-Ed

Scott Lansley: Stimulus package? Not for Maine businesses
Many of you have received a letter in the mail announcing how much money the federal government will be sending you as part of an 'economic stimulus' package.

Kerry Millay : Democracy lacking in winner-take-all elections
The editorial 'Public Opinion: So What?' (BDN, March 29-30) touches on the crucial issue of American politics today, namely, that our political system is broken and needs to be fixed.

Sun Journal
Delegation to explore Maine's economy
PORTLAND (AP) - A delegation of business, tourism and elected officials from Northern Ireland is coming to Maine to explore Gov. John Baldacci's "creative economy" initiative.

Truckers protest $620 diesel fill-up
EASTON, Pa. (AP) - Many drivers are shaking their heads at spending $50 to fill up their tanks.

Maine wants refueling tankers upgraded
BANGOR (AP) - Maine leaders used a weekend visit by the director of the Air National Guard to make a pitch for bringing new refueling tankers, and possibly an active duty unit, to Bangor International Airport, home of the 101st Air Refueling Wing.

Editorial
Taking the battle out of consolidation
"I don't believe a committee can write a book," the historian Arnold Toynbee once uttered. "It can, oh, govern a country, perhaps, but I don't believe it can write a book."

Bush shamefully flees Iraqi refugee crisis
In several recent speeches on Iraq, there was one issue President Bush never mentioned. That's the issue of Iraqi refugees.

MPBN
Passenger Rail Funding Kindles Resentment in the House A bill that began as a well-intended effort to expand passenger rail service in Maine quickly degenerated into a 45-minute debate on spending priorities in the House today and rekindled some long-held resentments that divide Maine's less prosperous northern residents from their wealthier southern counterparts. Lawmakers utlimately approved spending $2.5 million dollars a year to extend passenger rail service from Portland to Brunswick in a vote that divided largely along regional lines. A.J. Higgins reports

Immigrants Target of Increased Prosecutions and Harassment

For the second time in a month, a Brazilian immigrant from out of state has been charged with transporting an illegal immigrant to Maine for financial gain. In both cases, federal investigators say the immigrants came to Maine to obtain drivers licenses. Maine is among a handful of states with lax rules for issuing drivers licenses, which can be used in other states to seek work. But advocates say the arrests reflect a growing trend in the prosecution and harassment of immigrants. Keith Mckeen reports.

PolitickerME.Com

Allen, Michaud attend Dems’ office opening in Bangor

Wally Edge: Where Did Prosperity Go?