Maine News for Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Real Clear Politics
RCP Average 09/30 - 10/06 -- Obama 49.6 to McCain 43.8

Portland Press Herald
Nader's message brings local voters to their feet
The presidential candidate blasts the powers in Washington for the recent financial crisis.

Coalition pushes to keep drink tax
No on One says a 'few pennies' on beverages is worth it to fund Dirigo Health.

BILL NEMITZIs this vote on a casino, or Bailey?

House District 132: Two candidates cite different priorities
The incumbent hopes to resolve a boundary dispute. The challenger aims to be an advocate.

House District 133: Rivals emphasizing tax reform
Challenger Charity Kewish would look for savings; Donald Pilon suggests broadening the tax base.

Oil prices fall amid turmoil
A barrel of oil drops below $90 as consumers and businesses cut back on fuel consumption.

Editorial
Stabilization efforts and better regulation needed
Monday's market plunge shows that the $700 billion rescue bill was merely a starting point.

RON BANCROFTIn from the bullpen, Palin proves herself to be a knuckleballer
But the vice presidential debate was just a side session to this year's vital presidential race.

Bangor Daily News
'Cut-rate' stove sales place Glenburn man on hot seat

BANGOR, Maine — Police have charged a Glenburn man who they believe has been selling wood pellet stoves illegally from a Bangor retail store that he managed.

High court skeptical on claims of Maine smokers’ deception

WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court returned to the stage Monday as justices weighed whether state laws can be used to challenge deceptive cigarette advertising in a case from Maine.

Energy crisis hijacks heating plans

Nearly three-quarters of Mainers who participated in a recent poll plan to turn down their thermostats this winter while 10 percent predicted they will not be able to adequately heat their homes due

Former Gov. King backs Obama on energy

BANGOR, Maine — Former Maine Gov. Angus King told a crowd of listeners at the Bangor Public Library on Monday that he has never been more scared or concerned about the future.

MMA doctors reject Question 1

BANGOR, Maine — Members of Maine’s medical community held a media blitz Monday with stops in Bangor and Portland to broadcast their opposition to Question 1.

Collins snags small-business endorsement

BREWER, Maine — Calling her re-election “critical to the small business owners” in Maine, the National Federation of Independent Business on Monday endorsed Susan Collins over her challenger

Tax breaks allowed for senior volunteers

AUGUSTA, Maine — Town officials across the state are cautiously eyeing a new law that allows them to provide senior citizens with another avenue for tax breaks.

Editorial

Made in the USA

If ever there was a reminder that the U.S. economy is too heavily tied to the ephemera of speculation, the current crisis is it.

Add your ideas to overhauling Maine government

About two years ago, Grow Smart Maine released the Brookings Institution report “Charting Maine’s Future.” GrowSmart is a statewide organization of 5,200 Maine people who reflect the full range

Kennebec Journal
Local shoppers looking to save wherever they can
AUGUSTA -- There is turmoil on Wall Street. A winter's worth of heating costs are looming.

Phantom load power loss adds up

State, union battle in D.C.
AUGUSTA -- The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Monday in a case that pits 20 state workers against the Maine State Employees Association and the state of Maine.

New schools may wait as bonds curdle
AUGUSTA -- Facing the prospect of reduced revenues during the coming budget cycle, the state Department of Education will delay issuing bonds to finance 12 pending school construction projects.

AUGUSTA Bid to update city taxi fares hits red light
AUGUSTA -- City Center had to be one of the easiest places on Earth to hail a taxicab Monday night.

Editorials:

Seems obvious: Texting, iPods bad for drivers
Technology brings us wonderful things -- new ways to diagnose diseases, new ways to learn, new ways to communicate.

Drop a dime (or more) to help others keep warm
They don't look like a pile of firewood or a furnace, but they're just as likely to keep people warm this winter.

HEAT HELPERS
To get a canister for collecting donations at your workplace, call the United Way of Kennebec Valley at 626-3400.

DAVID B. OFFER : Fiscal meltdown happened when big banks forgot basic lessons
I think I am a former customer of Washington Mutual Savings Bank.

Sun Journal
Coalition backs new tax: Health care for 'pennies'
PORTLAND (AP) - A coalition trying to convince voters to keep a newly enacted tax on beer, wine and soda urged Mainers on Monday to find another way to show their frustration over taxes than to repeal funding that they say could leave Mainers without health coverage.

Maine solar homes welcome visitors
BUCKSPORT, Maine (AP) - Solar power groups say there are an estimated 3,000 solar users in Maine, ranging from elaborate homes to small cottages.

Casino backers check out land around Oxford
OXFORD - Representatives of the Olympia Group are in town this week to shop for a site for the proposed $150 million Oxford County resort casino.

State workers case hits highest court
AUGUSTA - The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Monday in a case that pits 20 state workers against the Maine State Employees Association and the state of Maine.

Editorial
A second (district) of your time
News that the presidential campaign of Sen. John McCain has turned its attention to Maine - well, the 2nd District anyway - has political prognosticators in a tizzy about what this says about the state.

Presidential campaigns entering the last act
Newspaper accounts of past presidential campaigns nearly always reveal the singular moment when the public finally decided who should prevail on Election Day. A foolish remark, a speech not made, an inability to catch an unexpected swing in the public mood. It's often less that the winner fired the silver bullet than that the loser forgot to duck. Only the hindsight of the historian actually determines the fateful moment.

MPBN

Study Assesses Question One Cost At $40 Million A Year

A report released Monday by the University of Maine says the state's new beverage taxes, at the heart of Question 1 on this November’s ballot, will cost Maine businesses and households more than 40 million dollars a year. The report does not taken an official position on the beverage tax, which funds the Dirigo Health Program. But as Anne Ravana reports, as election day approaches, campaigns for and against the tax, are raising their voices and boosting their advertising beginning this week.

PUC Okays $2 Million In Penalties, Approves Sale of Northern Utilities

State utility regulators today imposed 2 million dollars in penalties against Northern Utilities for what they call "probable" safety violations linked to nine incidents, including two house explosions and gas leaks in Southern Maine. As Keith Shortall reports, the Maine Public Utilities Commission also approved the $160 million purchase of Northern Utilities by Unitil Corporation.

Independent Hoffman Seeks Spot In TV Senate Debates

While Republican Sen. Susan Collins and her Democratic opponent, Congressman Tom Allen prepare for a series of statewide televised debates this month, Independent Senate candidate Herbert Hoffman is on the outside looking in. Hoffman is attempting to mount a write-in campaign for the race that he says was snatched from him by the courts. And although he did not meet the technical requirements for ballot status, he is attempting to convince the state's television stations that he should be included in the debates. A.J. Higgins has this report.

Older Workers Stay On The Job

As Mainers try to figure out how to deal with the combination of high fuel prices, an approaching winter and a declining economy, tightening the purse strings just isn't enough for some people. For older folks, it may mean putting off retirement, prolonging their working life and in some cases coming out of retirement to make ends meet. Tom Porter has the story.

Maine News for Monday, October 6, 2008

Real Clear Politics
RCP Average 09/26 - 10/04 Obamab 49.3 to McCain 43.4

Portland Press Herald
Senate District 5: Economy, taxes at top of agenda
The incumbent calls for further consolidation efforts; the challenger looks to control spending.

Senate District 4: Candidates differ on state insurance plan
Dirigo is a good start, says Nancy Sullivan, while Kristi Bryant feels creating more competition is the answer.

Senate District 3: Stackpole seeks to unseat Courtney in Senate race
The incumbent senator faces a challenge from the five-term school committee member.

Supreme Court to consider two cases from Maine in this term
It's considered unusual for the high court to accept even one case from Maine.

The money of color
Tourism businesses hope leaf-peepers and other fall visitors make up for a less-than-stellar summer.

Dubai aims to top its own tower record
Already home to the world's tallest building, the city plans a structure that would be two-thirds of a mile high.

Editorial

Heating season worries haven’t fully abated
The situation has improved, but prices could still spike and aid could run out.

Another View: Teacher learning helps professionals do a tough job
The staff development goals of the Portland teachers contract can lead to greater things.

LEIGH DONALDSONWould a rose by any other name be just as liberal?
Only in politics could a word meaning 'favoring progress or reform' turn into an insult.

Bangor Daily News

Analysts say Maine plays key election role

Maine’s 2nd Congressional District stretches from the western border with New Hampshire to the eastern tip of Washington County, encompassing everything north of Augusta.

2 new scams reported in Houlton area

HOULTON, Maine — The Police Department is warning residents to be wary of two new scams that have surfaced in the area.

Simplify your home energy audit to avoid delay

Every year, once Labor Day hits, we all get serious about winter. Of course, everyone and anyone involved in heating or energy is right out straight this year.

Cafeteria review mandate violated

AUGUSTA, Maine — Federal law requires every school cafeteria be inspected twice a year by state health inspectors, and even though only 3 percent of Maine’s 666 schools are meeting that standard

Patience, collaboration protect Vinalhaven cove

VINALHAVEN, Maine — The area known as The Basin is a short drive or bike ride from the village shops, traditional island homes and working waterfront along Vinalhaven’s downtown strip

Editorial

Cheney Unmasked

For those want to know more about Vice President Dick Cheney’s role in the troubled Bush administration, a gold mine awaits. It is a new book, “Angler,” by Barton Gellman, a Washington Post

Washington County’s Health

A new report presents a shockingly dismal picture of the health conditions in Washington County. Consider these highlights of the Community Health Status Report released by the Mane Center of Disease

Kennebec Journal

SENATE 24: Former lawmaker challenging Mitchell
AUGUSTA -- Former Republican state Rep. Kim Davis of Augusta is running for the state Senate this year to challenge Senate Majority Leader Elizabeth Mitchell, D-Vassalboro.

AUGUSTA: Hiking, cabs on agenda
AUGUSTA -- A plan to create hiking and other recreational trails, while banning ATVs for the next several years, from city-owned land between Bond Brook and the airport, as well as a controversial change in taxi cab rates, go to the City Council tonight.

Guardsmen receive thumbs up
WATERVILLE -- Military police who have helped to stabilize western Iraq won accolades for the accomplishment Sunday during a ceremony at the Waterville State Armory.

Monitoring usage, checking temperature of heaters can make a big difference

Briefs
LITCHFIELD -- The steering committee of the Litchfield Energy Savers Society is to meet 7 p.m. today at the Town Office.

Editorial

Common-sense tips to reduce energy use
Tighten your house. Unplug the appliances. Slow down when you drive.

Sun Journal

Fall foliage creates bonus tourist season
Jeanne McGurn is happy to see beautiful fall colors and full motorcoaches this leaf-peeping season.

He knows from experience: Every vote counts
LEWISTON - Bill Henshaw knows the value of a single vote. When the 77-year-old Republican ran for his first elected office - selectman in Sabattus - he thought he won by three votes. A recount revealed that he lost by one.

Seven Alaska employees to testify in Palin probe
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - Seven Alaska state employees have reversed course and agreed to testify in an investigation into whether Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin abused her powers by firing a commissioner who refused to dismiss her former brother-in-law.

Editorial
Tailspin over an airplane
Some members of the Legislature's Criminal Justice Committee are miffed because the Department of Public Safety replaced one if its airplanes - using forfeited funds - without the committee's permission.

MPBN

Congressmen Maintain Positions in 2nd Bailout Vote

Maine's two congressman have stuck to their positions on the government's $700 billion financial bailout package which passed the House this afternoon. Tom Allen, representing the first district, voted in a favor of the amended Emergency Economic Stabilization Act, saying it was essential to stem the downward slide of the economy.

McCain to Focus on Winning Maine Votes

After announcing plans to concede Michigan to Democrat Barack Obama, the John McCain Campaign is rolling into Maine and a couple of other key states that Republicans believe could determine the winner in a close race. Maine is only one of two states that does not follow a winner-take-all approach in awarding its four votes to the Electoral College. AJ Higgins has more.

Independent Voter Explains His Presidential Choice

This election season we've been profiling Independent voters as they evaluate the presidential hopefuls. Last time we told you about a small business owner who's voting for John McCain. This week we introduce you to Louie Collins. He's not a soccer mom. But Collins comes pretty close. That's because he sells soccer balls, soccer cleats, soccer uniforms and all kinds of other soccer-related equipment to moms, dads and kids. As the manager of a sporting goods store Collins doesn't consider himself a political junkie. But he's following this election closely. And as Susan Sharon reports, he's throwing his support behind Barack Obama.

Maine News for Friday, October 3, 2008

Real Clear Politics
Average of Daily Presidential Tracking Polls
RCP Average 09/26 - 10/02 Obama 49.1 - McCain 43.5

Portland Press Herald
Pressure builds, but bailout fate still unclear
Several House 'no' votes appear to have changed, but conservative Democrats are still grumbling.

Palin, Biden duel on Iraq, energy
Her folksy message contrasts with her rival's policy strengths

Palin big draw for local voters in both parties

Council hopefuls spar over article, campaign promos
Ed Suslovic criticizes Dory Waxman for not disclosing her Ocean Properties ties; she says he's misled voters.

Survey raises wood-heating concerns
This winter, many Mainers will use outdated stoves or heat underinsulated buildings, a study reports.

AD WATCH: Sen. Collins portrayed as bipartisan problem-fixer

1st District candidates oppose current bailout proposal
U.S. House candidates Pingree and Summers say the plan lacks sufficient protection for taxpayers.

Markets, Iraq dominate Senate debate economy
Election 2008: U.S. Rep. Tom Allen and U.S. Sen. Susan Collins spar before a large crowd in Portland.

McCain's campaign writes off battleground state Michigan
The McCain camp says it will open a new front in Maine, which can split its four electoral votes.

Editorial
Financial crisis real, and must be addressed
How we got to the brink of economic collapse matters, but halting the slide is the priority.

Bangor Daily News

Lots of food, smiles, grimaces for debate-watchers

BANGOR, Maine— Whether it was takeout Chinese food, Buffalo-style chicken wings or pork loin they were eating, one thing was clear Thursday evening. No matter what the food, local Democrats and Republicans took time while they munched to feast on the only debate be-tween the two vice presidential nominees in the 2008 election.

EMMC gets state OK for new facility

BANGOR, Maine — The state has approved Eastern Maine Medical Center’s application to spend $250 million on a major expansion of its inpatient care facility, hospital officials announced Thursday.

No agency safe; Baldacci orders all budgets cut

AUGUSTA, Maine — No state agency is exempt from Gov. John Baldacci’s order to find budget cuts totaling 10 percent of current spending levels.

Fort Kent residents want windmill moratorium

A group of Fort Kent residents is proposing a moratorium on industrial wind turbines within town limits until local officials can develop ordinances governing the enormous structures.

Michaud wary of Senate’s bailout plan

WASHINGTON – With the House likely to vote today on the financial rescue plan, Democratic Rep. Mike Michaud, who voted against the plan Monday, said Thursday he was undecided about how to vote on the Senate-approved version.

Hinckley Yachts in Trenton lays off 49

TRENTON, Maine — Hinckley Yachts is laying off 49 people at the company’s luxury picnic jet boat production facility on Route 3, a company official said

New York probes Mass. wind-power developer

LINCOLN, Maine — As First Wind of Massachusetts finishes building a wind farm on Stetson Mountain and prepares applications for another on Rollins Mountain, New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo continues probing allegations that the company dealt improperly with public officials in upstate New York.

McCain gives up Mich., focuses on Maine

WASHINGTON — Republican presidential candidate John McCain conceded battleground Michigan to Democrat Barack Obama on Thursday, a major retreat as he struggles to regain his footing in a campaign increasingly dominated by economic issues.

Biden, Palin clash on issues

ST. LOUIS — Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin accused Barack Obama of voting against funding for U.S. troops in combat Thursday night in their much-anticipated campaign debate and chastised his Democratic running mate, Joe Biden, for defending the move, “especially with your son in the National Guard” and headed for Iraq.

Editorial

It’s a Lobster Stew

Maine’s lobstermen, the key players in a $250 million-a-year industry, are in sorry shape. With herring bait selling at $35 a bushel — when they can get it — and diesel fuel at $4 a gallon, and lobster’s “boat price” down to $3 a pound, they often can’t afford to go out.

Retirement Roulette

When he won re-election in 2004, President Bush asserted that he had won a mandate from the voters and earned political capital. A short time later, Mr. Bush spent that capital on a proposal to

Kennebec Journal
AUGUSTA Criticism greets possible new role for Planning Board
AUGUSTA -- Residents, business owners and city officials said a proposal requiring even the smallest new commercial development and multifamily dwelling projects on city "gateway" roads to be reviewed by Planning Board goes too far and would affect too many property owners.

Automated phone scams targeting central Maine
Central Maine residents are the targets this week of an uptick in automated phone scams.

SENATE 21 Local race could tip Senate rolls
AUGUSTA -- The race for Senate District 21 features an incumbent Republican with six years of legislative experience versus a Democrat with eight years of prior legislative service.

FARMINGDALE Town to send bills after setting tax rate
FARMINGDALE -- Residents could see a "minimal increase" or even a drop in their property taxes this year, Board of Selectmen Chairman Rickey McKenna said Thursday.

Foliage peaking north and west
AUGUSTA -- There's lots of peak color on the Maine Department of Conservation's fourth fall foliage report of the season.

Editorials:

LURC decision on Plum Creek strikes balance
Mainers are prone to holy wars, especially when it comes to their natural resources. We've fought battles about the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, about forest practices, about dams and wetlands and how to kill bears.

JOSEPH R. REISERT : It's the small things that make foreign visitors feel welcome
We're now in Germany, the fourth country of our European tour, and though I've seen a lot about "die Finanzkrise" in the local headlines, my German isn't good enough to make sense of the details.

Sun Journal
State OKs $250M EMMC expansion
BANGOR (AP) - The state has given the green light for a $250 million expansion of inpatient care facilities at Eastern Maine Medical Center.

Portland tightens ban on smoking
PORTLAND (AP) - A new law taking effect Friday in Maine's largest city will prohibit smoking within the outdoor areas of restaurants and bars where beverage or dining service is available, but smokers will be allowed to light up after 10 p.m.

Moosehead project arrives at key stage
BANGOR (AP) - Maine state regulators have formally presented proposed changes and now Plum Creek has until Oct. 14 to tell the Land Use Regulation Commission whether the proposed revisions are acceptable.

Baseball playoffs top VP debate for local viewers
LEWISTON - At Dudley's Lounge at the Ramada Inn, one television over the bar was showing "The Family Guy" while the other was tuned to the vice presidential debate.

Allen backs bailout bill, but Michaud undecided
After finding overwhelming support in the U.S. Senate, legislation aimed at rescuing the nation's economy heads to the House, which is likely to vote on the bill Friday.

Allen, Collins make pitches to voters
The candidates in Maine's U.S. Senate race sparred Thursday over universal health care, financial regulation, an Iraq withdrawal timetable and other issues in their second debate of the campaign season.

Editorial
Senate's lesson in leadership
In ancient Rome, the Senate was comprised of esteemed, respected leaders, who by virtue of birth, training and experience were expected to act in the best interest of the Republic.

MPBN

Wall Street Woes Not Regarded as "Make or Break" Issue for Maine Banks

Bankers in Maine will, like many of us, be keenly watching the progress of the latest financial bailout package which the House is expected to vote on tomorrow. And while there is anxiety and concern over the current financial situation, this is not regarded as a 'make or break' measure by Maine's banking community. Tom Porter has more.

Jackson Lab Calls EPA Allegations A Surprise

The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor faces a possible fine of more than $200,000 from the Environmental Protection Agency for alleged violations of hazardous waste regulations. The EPA made the announcement two years after it inspected the lab, and found improperly stored chemicals and waste and inadequately trained employees. As Anne Ravana reports, Jackson Lab management says the fine comes as a total surprise.

Maine News for Thursday, October 2, 2008

Real Clear Politics
Daily Tracking Poll Summary

Daily Electoral Map Summary

Electoralvote.com

Daily Electoral Summary

Portland Press Herald
Senate resuscitates rescue
Sweetened with tax breaks for businesses and the middle class, the $700 billion package passes easily, 74-25.

Despite crisis, state to sell bonds
Higher interest rates could cause budget woes for the communities involved, which want to raise $99 million.

Maine senators back bailout, hope House will follow suit

Personalities, not policy, could dominate debate
Analysis: The candidates for vice president must avoid tripping over their own shortcomings.

Mainers turning to lower-risk investments
Lenders say the shift to CDs, which has picked up speed recently, could offset any broader credit squeeze.

Report urges city to invest in the arts
A committee says creating an agency to attract innovative businesses will pay off for Portland.

State hands over proposal to Plum Creek
By Oct. 14, the developer must say yes or no to changes backed by regulators.

Editorial
Stereotypes and spin infect VP debate
It’s really a matter of who’s able to take over as president and whose policies will help most.

New mandate needed for low-level nuclear waste
The material is being stored in hospitals and other places where it shouldn’t be.

Bangor Daily News

Protection proposed for ugly, toothy wolffish

PORTLAND, Maine — A ferocious-looking denizen of the deep that can gobble up whole urchins and crabs in a few swift chomps is in need of protection, according to a petition filed with the federal

Maine lobstermen instruct candidates on fishing issues

ROCKLAND, Maine — The Maine Lobstermen’s Association hosted a meeting Tuesday to educate midcoast state legislative candidates on issues facing the industry. Gathering at Rockland City Hall,

Early voting catching on in Maine

BANGOR, Maine — Maine voters may be getting mixed signals about the term “early voting,” which is generating interest recently in some Maine municipalities, including Bangor.

Another alternative: Business in Fort Kent benefits from coal

FORT KENT, Maine — Forget the image of a hapless Bob Cratchit huddled next to a small stove, scuttle in hand, stoking the boiler with his meager coal rations under a thick cloud of black

Funds to improve drug safety awarded to 14 small hospitals

Fourteen small community hospitals in Maine have made a commitment to improve medication safety for their patients, supported with funding from the Maine Health Access Foundation, or MeHAF.

Plum Creek told: Take it or leave it

It’s officially Plum Creek’s call. State regulators gave Plum Creek a formal answer Wednesday nearly 3½ years after the company unveiled Maine’s largest development proposal:

Snowe, Collins glad Senate bill has passed

WASHINGTON — Republican Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe of Maine welcomed with gravity the U.S. Senate’s passage Wednesday night of a revamped $700 billion financial rescue plan.

Editorials

The Palin-Biden Debate

Vice presidential debates are usually afterthoughts, overshadowed by the matchups between those at the top of the ticket. This year, however, the debate between the vice presidential nominees, to be

Kennebec Journal
Officials say state's banks able to lend
AUGUSTA -- The head of the state's Bureau of Financial Institutions, which oversees banks and credit unions, said Wednesday that Maine banks are able to lend money despite national upheaval in financial markets.

SENATE 20 1 race, 2 veteran legislators
The two men vying to fill the Senate District 20 seat both offer voters a dose of legislative experience.

SAD 47 boss selling China on new school unit
CHINA -- School Administrative District 47 Superintendent James Morse told more than two dozen China residents Monday he sees the proposed regional school unit as key to reducing the expected loss of state education funds.

Editorials:

Son's music rocks campaign on our dime
Robert "Bo" Zabierek, of Sherman, is a candidate for the Maine House of Representatives. He's challenging long-time lawmaker Henry Joy of Crystal, and his chances of knocking off Joy are about as good as his chances of knocking down Mt. Katahdin. Joy's part of the northern Maine landscape.

ISSUE OF THE DAY: Augusta City Charter
On Nov. 4, Augusta residents will vote on significant changes to the city's Charter. A seven-member commission has spent much of the last year reviewing and discussing those revisions. Here, we present three columns: one from member Don Roberts, representing the majority which is recommending the changes; one from member William Johnson, representing the minority members who object to the changes; and one from member Bill Seitzinger, who explains the controversial proposed initiative and referendum revisions.

DAN BILLINGS : Voting early by absentee ballot convenient, but it has a price
While the calendar indicates Election Day is 33 days away, ballots are already being cast. Absentee ballots are now available and the increasing popularity of absentee voting is having a profound impact on our political system.

Sun Journal
State bond sale faces uncertainty
Despite the stormy markets and uncertainty about a $700 billion federal bailout, Maine plans to sell $99 million in bonds Friday to raise money to pay for more than a dozen municipal projects, ranging from building new schools to buying ambulances.

Collins, Snowe back bill
Maine's Republican Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe voted in favor of the $700 billion bill aimed at thawing the nation's frozen credit market. The bill passed 74-25, with significant support from both parties.

Maine rail service gets $500,000
PORTLAND (AP) - Maine's U.S. senators say the Downeaster passenger rail service that links Portland and Boston is getting a $500,000 federal grant.

Conference aims to get kids outside
AUGUSTA (AP) - Parents, government officials and leaders in education, health, child development and outdoor recreation will gather Thursday in Augusta to find ways to get children to spend more time outdoors.

Immunization rate slips, report says
PORTLAND (AP) - A coalition of public health groups says Maine's immunization rates in 2007 fell to a new low, 82 percent.

Wood pellet supply short
BANGOR (AP) - In the South, motorists are dealing with a short-term gasoline shortage. In Maine, consumers are dealing with a shortage of an altogether different type of fuel - wood pellets.

Group seeks protection for ugly fish
PORTLAND - A ferocious-looking denizen of the deep that can gobble up whole urchins and crabs in a few swift chomps needs protection, according to a petition filed with the federal government.

Editorial
Save this report from the fireplace
Gov. John Baldacci's wood-to-energy task force deserves credit for releasing an insightful final report about the state's forestry reserves and industry, absent of the potential biases that marred the initial drafts.

Should pastors use pulpit for political speeches?
There is no telling how many churches actually participated in "Pulpit Freedom Sunday," an event designed to challenge the government's restriction on political pronouncements from the pulpit.

MPBN

Maine Troops Experiencing Life In Afghanistan

Soldiers of the Maine National Guard are living and working on a small base in eastern Afghanistan. It's a long way from home and in a country where Americans are often unwelcome. MPBN news correspondent Doug Grindle has this special report, the first of two.

LURC Approves Plum Creek Development Changes

In what might be its last action for several months, the state's Land Use Regulation Commission met today in Bangor and approved a series of changes to the highly controversial Plum Creek development plan for Moosehead Lake. After tentatively approving the plan last week, the commission put forth changes Plum Creek will have to agree to in order for their plan to receive regulatory approval. As Anne Ravana reports, LURC still faces heavy criticism from opponents of Plum Creek.

Maine News for Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Real Clear Politics
General Election: McCain vs. Obama
A break down and average of the top presidential polls

RCP Average

09/21 - 09/30

--

48.8

44.0

Obama +4.8

RealClearPolitics Electoral Count

Portland Press Herald
Piece added to puzzle
The Senate inserts a tax-cut plan into the rescue proposal as a sweetener for House Republicans, and will vote today.

Democrats Michaud, Allen agree taxpayer protections are crucial
Though both say a bailout is vital, they won't support plans they see as flawed.

As need grows, Maine groups helping with personal finances
Shaken by the credit crisis, people look for guidance on managing their money.

For some investors, patience is hard advice to follow
But even retirees and others with pressing needs should try to avoid selling stocks now, experts say.

Allen ad aims to link Collins to crisis
The GOP senator's camp counters that the ad is misleading and a personal attack.

Maine official: Heating needs will be met
Energy chief John Kerry says aid programs should ensure residents can get fuel this winter.

Casino's look puts premium on charm
Regional architecture influences the design for a resort that needs voters' approval.

State officials talk with foes of Plum Creek plan
Environmentalists voice their concerns in a cordial meeting that followed protests the day before.

Editorial
As a tax and regulation plan, RGGI works
If polluters are going to be forced to cut emissions, this approach makes sense.

Bangor Daily News

Wood pellet supply fails to meet demand

Wood pellet manufacturers and suppliers in Maine are urging consumers to be patient and let supply catch up to demand as the winter heating season approaches.

Plum Creek process defended

State officials met Tuesday with members of the group that helped stage a small but vocal protest against the Land Use Regulation Commission’s tentative endorsement of Plum Creek’s Moosehead Lake development plan.

Casino details revealed

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The chief architect of a proposed resort casino in western Maine’s Oxford County outlined design plans Tuesday, and the company said it hoped to announce a specific location for the $150 million project before the end of next week.

Plane purchase with seized drug money panned

AUGUSTA, Maine — Members of the Legislature’s Criminal Justice Committee say they will push for a law in January requiring legislative approval before state law enforcement agencies can spend money forfeited by drug dealers, a move triggered by Maine State Police recently purchasing a new airplane at a cost of $345,000.

Market worries Mainers

BANGOR, Maine — People around retirement age are watching from the sidelines as their retirement investments ride the Wall Street roller coaster — and some of them are getting motion sickness.

Anthem, Maine Coast reach agreement

ELLSWORTH, Maine — Last-minute negotiations on Monday have resulted in an agreement between Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Maine Coast Memorial Hospital that will keep the hospital in Anthem’s network of health care providers through the end of 2009.

UM health center to be privatized

ORONO, Maine — Citing concerns over student access to health care as well as

Editorial

A bailout, reconsidered

Here’s some perspective on Congress’s failure to pass a financial rescue plan: As soon as the House vote was announced Monday, the stock market plummeted, falling nearly 800 points and wiping out more than $1 trillion in assets.

Kennebec Journal

Plum Creek opponents meet with state regulators
AUGUSTA -- Opponents of Plum Creek's extensive development plans for the Moosehead Lake area got their audience with state officials Tuesday, one day after four Earth First! protesters locked themselves together and were arrested at Land Use Regulation Commission's headquarters.

SENATE 19 Self-made candidates vie for seat
The race for state Senate District 19 pits incumbent Sen. Paula Benoit, of Phippsburg, against challenger Seth Goodall, chairman of the Richmond Board of Selectmen.

GARDINER Bad economy colors crowded field for City Council
GARDINER -- Five candidates, including an incumbent, are vying for three at-large seats on the City Council.

Allen, Michaud elaborate on differing bailout-plan votes
A day after dividing their votes on a failed proposal for a $700 billion Wall Street bailout, Maine's two U.S. Congressmen agreed Tuesday that it's vital for lawmakers to pass a relief bill for credit markets.

State to award iPod for kids' energy-saving ideas
AUGUSTA -- The Governor's Office of Energy Independence and Security and the Maine Public Utilities Commission's Efficiency Maine program are sponsoring the sixth annual Energy Saving Tips Contest for students in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades.

BRIEFS
AUGUSTA -- The City Council and Planning Board meet Thursday to discuss a plan to require even the smallest of commercial development projects to go to Planning Board review if the projects would be on a city "gateway" road.

Editorials:

Michaud bailed on rescue bill, cast easy vote
Maine's two congressmen, Democrats Tom Allen and Mike Michaud, cast opposing votes Monday on crucial financial rescue legislation.

Educare challenge grant good for area, state
We all want the best for our children. And the opportunity to give young children the best kind of education just landed in Waterville.

Editorial

GEORGE SMITH : It's past time for candidates to lead, give us honest answers
Wedged between a disappointing presidential debate and a widely anticipated vice presidential debate, these few days offer an occasion for reflection, if not hope.

Sun Journal
Maine's minimum wage rises today
AUGUSTA (AP) - Maine's minimum wage earners are getting a raise. Starting Wednesday, the state's minimum wage will be $7.25 an hour - a quarter more than the current rate.

A 'charming' casino
PORTLAND - The Las Vegas company seeking to build a casino resort in Oxford County unveiled artist renderings of the project Tuesday, explaining their design was aimed at blending in to the New England architecture landscape.

License plate to fund research
AUGUSTA (AP) - Mainers will soon have a new specialty license plate they can put on their cars.

Maine courts boost interpreter services
PORTLAND (AP) - The U.S. Department of Justice and Maine's courts signed an agreement Tuesday that ensures timely access to interpreters for people with limited English.

Maine expects to weather energy crunch
AUGUSTA (AP) - Private donations along with additional federal dollars and expanded conservation efforts are part of a multifaceted effort that should ensure no one goes without heat this winter despite soaring energy costs, the state's top energy official said.

Maine landfill producing power
HAMPDEN (AP) - Gov. John Baldacci says the Pine Tree Landfill, Maine's first gas-to-energy facility, probably won't be the last project of its kind in Maine.

Campaigns trade barbs as Senate race heats up
U.S. Rep. Tom Allen is running a new television commercial that blames the current economic crisis on policies supported by U.S. Sen. Susan Collins.

Editorial
Partners in casino should become known
Olympia Gaming, the Las Vegas-based company seeking a casino in Oxford County, owns the majority of the outfit that got this referenda campaign rolling: Evergreen Mountain Enterprises.

MPBN
Trash-To-Gas Plant Opens In Hampden

It's the first Maine landfill turning trash into gas, and today it opened up to the public for the first time since it began producing power six months ago. Located in Hampden, Pine Tree Landfill continuously generates three megawatts of electricity from methane gas generated by the decomposing trash. A slight odor sill lingers but the mayor of Hampden says the new use has caused many local residents to view the landfill as something more than a gigantic mountain of waste in their backyards.

Oxford County Casino Plan Unveiled

It's just a few weeks before Maine voters will decide whether to allow a casino to open "somewhere" in Oxford County. The operative word is somewhere. The Las Vegas company behind the $150 million proposal has yet to settle on a piece of property, though principals say they are looking at several sites and hope to announce a pick by the end of next week. But at a press conference in Portland, leaders from the Olympia Group unveiled their idea of what the casino would look like. Josie Huang reports.

Candidate Profile: Professor John Frary

Partly by design and partly by default, John Frary has emerged as the Republican Party's best hope of defeating incumbant Democrat Mike Michaud in the race for Maine's second congressional district. The retired assistant professor and Farmington native seems to enjoy the political spotlight and has crafted a campaign that blends curmudgeon politics with a touch of 1920s vaudeville. A.J. Higgins has this profile in the second of a series as part of MPBN's "Your Vote 2008" coverage.

Maine News for Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Crisis, options irritate state residents
Some see any rescue as a necessary evil; others predict a huge debt that won't even halt the slide.

Maine Democrats split on bailout vote
Allen is unhappy with the defeat; Michaud is unhappy with the bill; constituents are mostly just unhappy.

Out of Canadian court, Greenlaw back at sea
Her boat might have drifted into Canadian waters during the filming of a TV fishing special.

Emission credits raise $39 million
The Northeast's effort to reduce greenhouse gases could become a national model, participants say.

Advice on managing offenders gathered
An expert tells legislators to focus on high-risk sex criminals, and that blanket policies often don't work.

Upheaval reshapes banking landscape
The U.S. is left with three superbanks, but the 8,500 community institutions will still provide alternatives.

Citigroup buys Wachovia banks
The agreement gives Citigroup more than 4,300 U.S. branches and $600 billion in deposits.

Editorial
Working Maine familes to pay for House failure
There's was plenty to dislike in a bailout of financial markets, but jobs depended on it.

RON BANCROFTThe presidential candidates get a debate report card
Obama is the winner in both style and substance in this cycle's first presidential debate.

Bangor Daily News

Michaud, Allen split on rescue proposal

U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud split from the majority of his fellow House Democrats on Monday to vote against a $700 billion bailout proposal, which ultimately fell 13 votes shy of passing.

Storm effort called ‘great training exercise’

MACHAIS, Maine — Monday dawned with a brilliant sun, clear teal-blue skies and fall leaves exploding into blinding reds, yellows and golds. The overnight rain had scrubbed the air clean, and damage reports from Tropical Storm Kyle were minimal in Down East Maine.

Market Meltdown

WASHINGTON (AP) — In a vote that shook the government, Wall Street and markets around the world, the House on Monday defeated a $700 billion emergency rescue for the nation’s financial system, leaving both parties and the Bush administration scrambling to pick up the pieces.

Four Plum Creek plan protesters arrested

A state office building was locked down for several hours and several protesters arrested Monday in the latest flare-up over Plum Creek’s controversial development plan for the Moosehead Lake region.

Editorial

Health Care Cost Questions

A dispute between the hospital in Ellsworth and the state’s largest health insurance company is a symptom of a much larger problem. Without adequate information on what health care costs, insurers, lawmakers and others have no real idea whether medical care in Maine is too expensive.

Kennebec Journal

House 79 race classic case of upstart vs. incumbent
Charles Jacques, a first-time candidate running for House District 79, said he is promoting a platform that "advocates liberty and freedom," including disbanding county government and legalizing marijuana.

Maine reps split votes on bailout
Maine's Democratic U.S. representatives landed on opposite sides of the financial bailout bill Monday, as constituents besieged them with calls on an issue fraught with political as well as economic risks.

Grant to provide Gardiner with enhanced signage
GARDINER -- A $50,000 grant will help people find their way around historical and cultural sites and hopefully boost the local economy.

STATEHOUSE Testimony targets sex offenders
AUGUSTA -- Victims of sex crimes and the offenders often live in the same home, where the crimes also occur.

4 arrested in Plum Creek protest
AUGUSTA -- Four Earth First! protesters, locked together by bicycle locks, were arrested Monday after being forcibly removed from a state office building.

Casino resort touted for Oxford County
AUGUSTA -- Backers of a proposed casino in Oxford County said Monday a casino brings another kind of entertainment to Maine that would complement offerings in tourist destinations such as Bar Harbor and Old Orchard Beach.

Editorials:

Election-year politics doomed bailout measure
For more than a week and a half, the Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 that was defeated Monday by the House has been called "the Wall Street Bailout" by politicians, the media and the public.

DAVID B. OFFER : Palin chosen for conservative views, not potential as leader
Sixteen years ago, James Stockdale bumbled his way through a nationally televised debate among candidates for vice president.

MARK L. JOHNSTON : Bank-credit union merger plan good for both
The recent news about a potential merger between Kennebec Savings Bank and Kennebec Valley Federal Credit Union has resulted in some healthy discussion, but unfortunately, some misinformation in the process.

Sun Journal
Bailout melts down
WASHINGTON - In a vote that shook the government, Wall Street and markets around the world, the House on Monday defeated a $700 billion emergency rescue for the nation's financial system, leaving both parties' lawmakers and the Bush administration scrambling to pick up the pieces. Dismayed investors sent the Dow Jones industrials plunging 777 points, the most ever for a single day.

Allen votes for rescue, but Michaud against it
U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, a Democrat from Maine's 2nd District, voted against the passage of the $700 billion emergency rescue bill for the nation's financial system.

Backers: Casino would hire 800
AUGUSTA - Backers of a proposed casino in Oxford County said Monday a casino brings another kind of entertainment to Maine that would complement offerings in tourist destinations such as Bar Harbor and Old Orchard Beach.

Falling snow detected on Mars
LOS ANGELES - NASA's Phoenix spacecraft has discovered evidence of past water at its Martian landing site and spotted falling snow for the first time, scientists reported Monday.

Greenlaw back to sea after arrest
Famed skipper and Maine author Linda Greenlaw headed back to sea Monday to resume her made-for-TV swordfishing trip after being arrested and hauled into a Canadian court for allegedly fishing inside Canada's 200-mile limit.

Editorial
Bailout bill needs global perspective
Congress has shown tremendous restraint in fighting calls for rapid action in the proposed $700 billion bailout of shaky banks. Its patience should be rewarded, by taking time to consider the global impact of its actions.

MPBN
Activists Disrupt LURC Office, Police Respond

Nearly a dozen protestors representing Earth First!, the Native Forest Network and themselves, disrupted the offices of the Land Use Regulation Commission in Augusta today, putting the building in lockdown for several hours and prompting Capitol Security to call in state and local police for assistance. Four of the protestors chained themselves together with bicycle locks, making it difficult to get them out. As Susan Sharon reports protestors are upset over LURC's handling of the Plum Creek development and conservation plan for Moosehead Lake.

Effectiveness of Sex Offender Registries Explored By Legislators

As the lawsuits pile up in the state's courts over the constitutionality of Maine's sex offender registry laws, members of the Legislature and other key state leaders met today for a day-long conference on national sex offender policies in general and the effectiveness of registries in particular. Many offenders are challenging a change in the state's 1999 registry law that requires violators to register for convictions that took place up to 26 years ago. As A.J. Higgins reports, one leading psychologist questions whether the registry actually has any impact on recidivism.

A Machias Hospital Scrutinized by Area Residents

Downeast Community Hospital in Machias is under scrutiny from local residents who say they are concerned about staff turnover and also about the quality of care. At a reecent rally, some community members said they will now travel two hours to Bangor or Ellsworth for medical services, rather than be treated at Downeast. Quorum Health Services, the national hospital management firm that took over Downeast Community Hospital in 2002, says accusations of staff mistreatment and high turnover are exaggerated and are causing unnecessary harm to the hospital's reputation.

Casino Issue Still Alive In Scarborough

To keep his horses in top form, harness driver Drew Campbell has jogged them along the half-mile track of Scarborough Downs for about eight years. Over that time, he's watched harness racing struggle, as audiences lose interest in the pastime, and top drivers and horses leave the state for bigger winnings.

Maine News for Monday, September 29, 2008

Portland Press Herald
Senate race ads take separate paths
As Collins emphasizes constituent service, Allen focuses on the national big picture.

Cruise ships coming in waves
Six of them are visiting the city this week, providing a welcome boost to tourism.

Both congressional candidates call environmental issues a top priority
Chellie Pingree and Charlie Summers field questions on environmental topics.

Baldacci: Vacationland can become 'Opportunityland'
The governor discusses goals of his last years in office during a wide-ranging interview.

Bus to add Augusta-Portland-Boston
Concord Coach Line will offer five trips a day from the capital to points south.

Maine solar power backers plan biggest site tour ever
Among the 70 buildings on the tour are a structure at USM and an inn that has Maine's largest solar array.

Greenlaw faces charge of breaking fishing laws
The Maine fisherman and best-selling author is accused of fishing within Canada's 200-mile limit.

Candidate wants to pay son to play guitar at campaign event
The case tests a new state law prohibiting candidates from paying public money to family members.

Statewide business show to premiere Saturday
The hosts of 'Inside Maine Business' will be the mayor of Augusta and the CEO of Maine & Co.

Editorial

How to trim budgets? With care and precision
Closing the gap between agency requests and Maine's revenues should be done thoughtfully.

Why do we produce a coin that no one wants to use?
Nostalgia and home-state lobbying don't justify the waste and expense of pennies.

LEIGH DONALDSONObama's foreign appeal should matter here
Foreign observers cannot vote in our election, but their views of our leaders do make a difference.

Bangor Daily News

Entire Maine coast closed to shellfish harvesting

PORTLAND, Maine — State officials have banned shellfish harvesting along the entire Maine coast because of concerns about bacterial runoff from the heavy rains of recent days.

Paul Newman had many ties to Maine

BAR HARBOR, Maine — While Paul Newman is being hailed around the world as a Hollywood legend after his death on Friday, in Maine he is being remembered for his generosity to the College of the Atlantic and for the films he made in the southern half of the state.

More Maine students taking online courses

AUGUSTA, Maine — More Maine college and high school students are taking classes online and through campus interconnections this fall, and education leaders say the numbers will increase

Mainers get ready for storm that wasn’t

It was a quiet day Sunday at the Washington County Command Center, set up in a $300,000 mobile Department of Conservation unit in the parking lot of the Washington County Courthouse in Machias.

Editorial

End of the Empire Age?

Unless you can remember life before World War I, the United States you know has always towered over the rest of the world. Since 1920 or so, the U.S. has been the world’s economic engine, its productivity expanding steadily and consistently leading the way in technology.

Hold the Line

The Federal Communications Commission is wisely looking at ways to reform subsidies for expanding telecommunications services and to use some of that money to provide fast Internet connections across the country. Its fixes so far, however, have penalized rural areas and mobile communications without reining in spending or reallocating funding. This shortchanges consumers in Maine and other rural states rather than helping them.

Kennebec Journal
Candidate puts ethics law to test Commission will weigh request to use public money to pay family member
AUGUSTA -- A candidate running for the Maine House of Representatives will ask the ethics commission today whether he can use public money to pay his son to play guitar at a campaign event.

Starting Wednesday from its new Augusta terminal, Concord Coach Lines will offer daily bus service to Boston
AUGUSTA -- It would be fitting if the first passengers to board the bus at Concord Coach Lines' new Augusta terminal took a moment to remember Bennett Katz.

Solar tour offers Mainers green options
Lofving has a little solar car he will show visitors. It holds two people, goes more than 25 m.p.h. and travels about 30 miles on each charge -- but unlike a gasoline car, when it runs out, you park it in the sun and it recharges itself, Lofving said.

Degree seeking students soar at KVCC
FAIRFIELD -- Available parking spots at Kennebec Valley Community College are harder to find these days as enrollment continues to climb at the commuter college off Western Avenue.

TV show touts Maine business
Maine's first statewide business show hosted by Maine business leaders, "Jacobson & Katz: Inside Maine Business," premieres statewide in October. The first episode airs Saturday, Oct. 4 on TV outlets statewide.

Editorials:

Debate offered a clear look at the candidates
We're not going to use boxing terms to describe Friday night's debate between presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama.

Sun Journal
Game boosts food bank
LEWISTON - Fans weren't as quick to make their usual mad dash to the snack bar or bathrooms during the first intermission at Sunday's Maineiacs game.

Hurricane Kyle brushes Maine, moves to Canada
MACHIAS - Fishermen moved boats to shelter from a rare burst of tropical weather along Maine's rugged eastern coast Sunday as a weakening Hurricane Kyle spun past on its way to Canada, delivering a glancing blow equivalent to a classic nor'easter that made locals yawn.

Hebron Academy to dedicate athletic center

Editorial
Missed the point, all along
Helen Poulin, an Androscoggin County Commissioner, moved to Auburn in August.

Note to McCain, Obama: Gates making a lot of sense
As the presidential candidates bone up for their foreign-policy debate Friday, they should study the speeches of Defense Secretary Robert Gates.

MPBN
Ripple Effect of Crisis On Wall Street Hits Main Street

The ripple effect of the national financial crisis is being felt by a myriad victims, not the least of which are state and local governments. The state of Maine is finding that out as it tries to market a 50 million dollar transportation bond. In fact, borrowing for a variety of public projects may become a major issue if congress fails to adequately resolve the nation's financial crisis.

Task Force Sets Wood Burning Goal

A special study panel today presented its final recommendations for lessening the state's reliance on foreign oil. The governor's Wood-to-Energy Task Force is suggesting eleven policy actions and an overall goal of converting 10 percent OF Maine's heating oil customers to wood burning systems.

Maine's Independent Voters To Weigh In On Presidential Race

Millions of television viewers are expected to tune in tonight for the first presidential debate beween Barack Obama and John McCain. Some of those watching are undecided voters who want to hear more before making up their minds. And many will be Independent voters who are being heavily courted by both sides. Tonight in the first of a series of profiles of Independent voters, Susan Sharon takes a look at why a small business woman from Biddeford is backing John McCain.