20082008 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE A review of the candidates and issues on the Nov. 4 ballot

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A supplement to the Capital Weekly Serving Augusta, Hallowell, Gardiner, Winthrop and the surrounding communities of Central Maine Page 2 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Oct. 30, 2008 Local Races & Issues ‘Incremental’ charter Mayo-Wescott challenges Coffin for Augusta seat By John Hale offer on the City Council,” Coffin [email protected] said. changes on Augusta’s AUGUSTA — Mary Mayo- Augusta City Council Coffin has been very involved Wescott, a veteran of Augusta in coaching youth sports. He city politics, is challenging At- coached Little League baseball and municipal ballot Large Augusta City Councilor girls’ softball a total of 19 years, Edward Coffin, who is running YMCA basketball a total of 25 for a second three-year term on By John Hale devoted to obtaining comments years and was assistant coach of an [email protected] from the public and almost all the council in the Nov. 4 election. AAU basketball team. AUGUSTA — In the Nov. 4 meetings having public comment All the other candidates on the Coffin is an inaugural member municipal election, the voters of periods. Augusta ballot are unopposed. of the Kennebec Valley Sports Hall Augusta will be asked to approve The revised charter can be read Coffin is a retired professional of Fame. changes in the Augusta City online at www.augustamaine.gov engineer and land surveyor who He designed the baseball fields Charter that have been approved by clicking on “Charter owned and ran his own engineering on Piggery Road for the Capitol by a majority of the seven-mem- Commission.” firm for 27 years and had extensive Area Recreation Association. ber Augusta Charter Commission experience with highways, bridges, Coffin had five children with and the Augusta City Council. buildings and hydrology. his first wife, who died, and is now This is the third time a charter INITIATIVE AND “I’m a positive person. The married to May Ross, who also has commission has been convened in REFERENDUM reception I’ve been getting has Mary Mayo-Wescott Edward Coffin five children. been great,” Coffin said. Of his Coffin served on the most the last 20 years, following com- Most of the proposed changes to opponent, Coffin said. “She’s a great with the new Comprehensive recent Lithgow Library Building missions in 1988 and 1998. In addi- the charter are in Article V-A, deal- was bought by a previous council tough opponent.” Plan for Augusta’s future. I have Committee. “We investigated every tion, several minor changes were ing with initiative and referendum. so the library could expand. “I’m Mayo-Wescott is owner of the knowledge and expertise, the possible alternative and we always approved in the City Charter by Here is a summary: deeply disappointed in the mayor Maine Light Productions. She has skills and the passion to make came back to the original site and voters in 2002. • City voters shall have the (Roger Katz, who campaigned been executive producer and things happen for my community.” the original plan,” he said. “All of If voters defeat these charter power of initiative to propose ordi- against a 2007 bond issue for anchor of the TV show “Maine Mayo-Wescott wants to enact a the City Council supports the changes, then the city will continue nances, orders and resolves and the expanding the library). I believe he View Business Magazine” for 19 code of ethics for the mayor and library. Right now, it’s just a fund- to operate under the 2002 charter. power of referendum to repeal ordi- has another strategy for the use of years on Cable TV Channel 9 and council. And she wants there to be a ing question: How much is to be Ward 4 City Councilor Mark nances, orders and resolves adopted the money. Nonetheless, I totally statewide. rule that any property assessed at raised privately and how much is to O’Brien, who was an appointed by the City Council. support his vision for downtown.” She said that her opponent “is a more than $50,000 gets an appraisal be raised publicly.” member of the Charter • A referendum to repeal a coun- “The only thing that can be very fine person and he’s done a lot before it is sold by the city. Coffin also served on the recent Commission and served as its chair, cil order authorizing the city to done right now is for people to for the community.” Mayo-Wescott was founder and committee that studied reuse of the wrote in the final report of the com- enter into a contract may occur only raise some money,” she said. “The past president of Friends of the former American Tissue plant site. mission that the panel did not once. city has set up an account for the Flatiron Building Inc. She is a “The first thing we should do is choose to fundamentally change • An application for referendum library. This is not a hopeless MARY member of Le Club Calumet and make the site environmentally Augusta’s council/manager form of must be filed within 60 days of pas- cause. Where there’s a will, there’s MAYO-WESCOTT the Kennebec Valley Chamber of acceptable,” he said. “We’re going government. sage of an ordinance, order or a way. It’s the library’s turn now.” “Rather, the recommended Mary Mayo-Wescott, 68, is an Mayo-Wescott thinks the for- Commerce. to take the property for taxes. resolve after Nov. 15, 2008. Hopefully we can make some changes aim to improve, in incre- • Ten qualified voters may orig- Augusta native and a 1958 gradu- mer American Tissue plant proper- mental ways, the way the Charter ate of Cony High School. She ty should be redeveloped once all money in salvage when the build- inate an application for an initiative EDWARD COFFIN ings are demolished. Then we can guides our local government,” or referendum with the city clerk. attended the University of Maine at environmental questions are set- O’Brien writes. Augusta for five years, with three tled. “That’s prime land on the Edward Coffin, 76, is a Freeport finally find a developer to come up The clerk shall, within two business with an idea for the site. It all He points out that “A charter is days, deliver the application to the years of study in public administra- Kennebec River,” she said. “It native who has lived in Augusta for the municipal equivalent of a state tion and two years in liberal studies could be business or housing. We 54 years. He graduated from depends on the ingenuity of the city attorney, who shall have 10 entity that buys that place.” or federal constitution. A municipal business days to deliver a written with a focus on communications have to have a good plan that con- Freeport High School in 1949 and charter establishes the fundamen- and TV production. nects all our riverfront assets.” earned a bachelor of science degree Coffin thinks there is opportuni- opinion on whether the petition ty to create apartments on the upper tals of how the city operates. A question is in conflict with the “I’m a lifelong learner,” she She wants to preserve the rail- in civil engineering from the charter is not easy to change, and it said. road link through Augusta as well. University of Maine in 1954. floors of downtown buildings. Constitution, statutes or regulations “I really believe our biggest should not be.” of the United States, or the She has two grown daughters, a Mayo-Wescott recognizes there For 27 years, he ran Coffin Besides O’Brien, the appointed granddaughter and a great-grand- is a need for more affordable hous- Engineering and Surveying, with short-term problem this winter is Constitution, statutes or regulations going to be heating for some city members of the Charter of the state of Maine or the city daughter. ing units in Augusta. “People are offices in Augusta and Camden. Commission were Donald Roberts, She was elected four times to hurting out there and we need more He said his favorite engineering residents,” he said. “Every building charter. has something in it that is creating who served as vice chairman; and • In a new provision, the city serve a total of eight years on the affordable housing,” she said. “I project was designing the Camden Michael Seitzinger; Elected mem- Augusta City Council from 1992 to would work hard to make sure that Woolen Mill Complex with a river heat loss. We’re going to have a attorney will be ready to work with hell of a problem. I’m just praying bers were Tim Bolton, Ward 1; May the applicants during a 10-day peri- 1996 and 1998 to 2002. happens. Cony LLC Village is a running through it. He also engi- Ross-Coffin, Ward 2; Richard While she was on the council, good example of that.” neered the MBNA buildings in for a mild winter.” od following issuance of his or her Coffin thinks the city should at Dumont, Ward 3; and William opinion to help resolve perceived Mayo-Wescott succeeded in reacti- As for helping people with their Belfast. Johnson, Ward 4, who acted as sec- vating the Augusta Historic heating bills this winter, Mayo- He was named Maine Surveyor least put out a checklist for resi- illegalities or to improve clarity of dents so they know what to do to retary. the question before it goes to the Preservation Commission and the Wescott said, “There are some of the Year in 1999. After an organizational meeting Augusta Conservation visionary things going on out there. He donated professional time to tighten up their homes for winter. council. “I have a lot to offer,” he said. in December 2007, the commission • If the attorney determines that Commission. People have to help themselves, design bridges on the Kennebec met more than 20 times, with three “Except for a couple of them too. That means caulking your win- River Rail Trail. “This is probably one of the better of those meetings being solely see MAJORITY page 5 now,” she said, “they don’t know dows and shutting off part of your After his retirement, his compa- councils I’ve ever seen. Everybody how to write orders. I think we house, if you have to. People are ny was split into two companies — brings something to the table.” need better representation. smart. They can help themselves E.S. Coffin Engineering in Besides the library and Something is missing in the and they can help their neighbors.” Augusta, run by his sons, Jim and American Tissue committees, Three-member minority process.” Mayo-Wescott said, “Although Kane, and a firm in Camden. Coffin also served on a blasting On Lithgow Library, Mayo- these are challenging times, there is “With my background on build- ordinance committee and the air- submits its own Wescott said the Rite Aid property an opportunity to make Augusta ings and highways, I have a lot to port committee. City Charter report Five candidates vie for three at-large seats By John Hale the minority report. By Sarah E. Reynolds to ask questions such as, “Are we [email protected] The at-large system also can [email protected] providing city services efficiently?” AUGUSTA — Three elected produce extremely unequal ward GARDINER — All three at- Gardiner City Council An important challenge he sees for members of the Augusta Charter representation, the report says, large seats on the City Council are the city is evaluating how it spends Commission have filed their own such as in 2004, when half of the open this year, and five candidates city organizations over the last 26 concerned, he said he wants his fel- the taxpayers’ money. With money three-page minority report to city councilors (the late Sylvia are competing for them. All seats are years. He has served as a library low citizens to get “everything they getting tight, more people are make known their differences Lund, Stan Koski, Arthur Lerman for two-year terms. Mayor Andrew trustee; a member and chair of the need, but not necessarily everything putting off paying their property tax with the majority on the Charter and Tom Sotir) all lived in Ward 1. MacLean is unopposed in his bid for planning board and the economic they want.” bills, which presents a serious cash Commission. According to the report, smaller re-election to a two-year term. Brief development commission; and on Esterline said the main challenge flow problem for the city, especially The dissenters are William wards would allow more personal profiles of the at-large candidates the original boards of Johnson Hall facing the town was attracting and when combined with cuts in state Johnson from Ward 4, Richard door–to-door campaigning by can- follow. and the Boys and Girls Club. keeping locally owned businesses. aid, he said. “Keep pushing forward Dumont from Ward 3 and Tim didates with full-time jobs and lim- Johnston said he decided to run “When I moved here in 1967, it with presenting the city as a good Bolton from Ward 1. On some of ited free time. Councilors would be for City Council because he “cares was a heck of a town,” he said, place to live and do business,” he their objections, only Johnson or more accessible to constituents. MARTHA MENTALL deeply” about Gardiner, his adopted adding that he thinks Gardiner has said, referring to another area that only Johnson and Bolton sign on as Commissioners Johnson and Martha Mentall, 78, the sole home. He added that he felt some- the potential to be that way again. needs to be focused on. objecting. On the others, presum- Bolton objected to a provision that incumbent in the race, is a veteran of one with his experience could really ably all three object to the majority limited a petition vote on a contract Gardiner politics, having won elec- help keep the city moving in the of four members who put out the to only one time. “No other issues tion to the council in 1996, 1998, “right direction” in a challenging KENDALL HOLMES GEORGE TRASK majority report. are limited to a referendum vote 2000 and 2006. She has also served time. He said the main challenge is Kendall Holmes, 52, grew up in George Trask, 54, grew up in Mark O’Brien, chairman of the only,” the report states. “No other on the Gardiner Planning Board. continuing to highlight and use the the Portland area and lived in Augusta, and has lived in Gardiner Augusta Charter Commission, said issues are limited to only one vote, She grew up in Biddeford and city’s assets to improve the econom- Gardiner in the late 1980s and early for 20 years. After graduating from that many of the changes approved ever.” graduated from high school there. ic climate. 1990s before leaving for a time. He Cony High School, he went into the by the commission were done on On the petition approval She then went on to Massachusetts and his wife, Deborah, returned to Army. unanimous 7-0 votes. But a signifi- process, the report says, “The Gardiner in 2001. They have two Institute of Technology’s Lowell WILLIAM Trask is the vice president of All cant number of others were on changes in this section confer judi- Institute where she was trained as an college-age sons. Season Home Improvement in close 4-3 votes. And those are the cial authority to the City Council, electrical engineer. She spent her ESTERLINE JR. After graduating from the Augusta, a full-service construction ones that make up the Minority an executive/legislative body, and professional career in New York, William Esterline Jr. was born University of Maine, Holmes company that also installs wind tur- Report. Corporation Counsel, a hired legal returning to Maine when she retired and raised in Girdletree, Md. and worked for the Portland Press bines. He lives with his wife, Gail, Johnson said he is “reluctantly” contractor. Only the courts have the at 65. She has a daughter, three served in the Navy during the Herald and the Maine Sunday and has a son, two stepsons and a urging voters to defeat the majority proper role to determine the legali- grandchildren and three great- Vietnam War. He later attended the Telegram. Later, he became a maga- stepdaughter. report that will be on the Nov. 4 ty of a petition question.” grandchildren. Her husband died Air Force Academy and had a career zine editor and most recently he and He served two terms on the ballot in Augusta “because there Citizens are prohibited from last year. in the Air Force. He came to Maine his wife owned the Web-based pub- Gardiner City Council in the 1990s. are some good things in there.” But resubmitting a defeated petition Mentall feels the most important with his wife, Betty, and four chil- lishing business, OldHouseWeb. He said he is running for the council his objections outweigh his support until a year has passed. And the city issues facing Gardiner and the rest dren in 1967. com, which they sold in 2006. He is again because he’s “fed up with for the majority report. attorney may determine whether a of the state are low wages and Esterline has been a leader of now in the process of starting anoth- taxes.” He wants to work with SAD The minority wants Augusta to different petition question is the unemployment. She attributes the both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, er Web-based publishing operation, 11 to find ways to reduce education return to an eight-ward City same or substantially the same as latter, in part, to the North American and is active in the Disabled he said. costs in order to bring property taxes Council system, instead of keeping the one that was defeated. “This Free Trade Agreement. American Veterans. Holmes currently sits on the down. the present system of four at-large provision could lead to political Mentall said she wants to serve He said he’s running for the Gardiner Board of Appeals and the In addition, he believes that seats and four wards. shenanigans through the legal in city government to help keep council because he wants to serve City Council’s ordinance review municipal departments should be “The current system favors can- interpretation,” states the report. spending and taxes “way down,” so fellow residents and “improve the committee. One reason he wants to examined closely for fat that could be didates supported by special inter- Another section allows the City cash-strapped residents aren’t bur- city of Gardiner.” After the recent serve on the council is because cut out. For example, he said the city ests with far greater resources than Council to amend or repeal referen- dened more than necessary. property tax revaluation, Esterline “Gardiner’s such a fun community does not need a downtown manager Augusta working people,” accord- dum or initiative legislation two questioned how the new valuation to live in,” he said. Holmes added as well as a city manager, adding that ing to the minority report. years after it is passed by the vot- was done, and encouraged fellow that he’d like to see his town, and he’d like to see the city manager out “Individual and business contribu- ers. Citizens would thereby be ROBERT JOHNSTON residents to look closely at their others in the Kennebec Valley, do a promoting the city more. tions of $100 to $250 were com- forced to redo the petition process Robert “Logan” Johnston grew tax bills. As a result, he said, more better job of marketing themselves He would also eliminate the mon in many campaigns over the all over again to regain the action up in Los Angeles, earned a bache- than 100 homeowners have to the rest of the world. He thinks city’s $25,000 subsidy of Johnson past decade, with some successful of their vote. lor’s degree at Harvard University, received abatements from the the city should work to attract high- Hall Performing Arts Center, which candidates (Dave Rollins) vs. Johnson objected to the city and has lived in Maine since 1982. town. tech firms to increase the number of he called “a waste of money.” (Cecil Munson) outspending oppo- manager’s being made public safe- Johnston, 56, lives with his wife Esterline said it’s important to well-paid jobs in the area and bal- Trask said the biggest challenge nents by three to one and others by ty director overseeing the police and their son, a senior at Gardiner retain businesses downtown and ance the tax base. the city faces is a national one — the twenty to one (Roger Katz) vs. and fire bureaus as an unnecessary Area High School, on a farm that attract new ones there. He also “We need some good, clear economy. He said Gardiner should (Stan Koski),” the report states. action. has long been in his wife’s family. believes residents need more com- heads on the City Council,” Holmes be a lot more aggressive in market- The size of the wards and the The minority also objected to They raise beef cattle and also sell munity events where they can get to said. ing itself to businesses. expense to run in large wards or to the commission’s rejecting a organically grown hay and grain for know each other and revive the As the nation slips into reces- “Somehow we have to get some- run citywide may discourage sion, Holmes feels his background see MINORITY page 5 cattle feed. neighborliness he recalls from days thing here that’s going to stay here,” potential candidates, according to Johnston has been active in many gone by. As far as town spending is as an entrepreneur will enable him he said. Oct. 30, 2008 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Page 3 Local Races & Issues Four candidates vie for two council seats

By Joyce Grondin Polling Places who are members of the Friends [email protected] of Vaughan Field. In that role and HALLOWELL—Three seats Hallowell City Council as a city councilor, Vellani is By John Hale School. City Clerk Deanna on the City Council are up for pleased that he has been involved [email protected] Hallett will be at the school earli- grabs this year, including a con- in securing the field to be used as er than 10 a.m. for those who tested race in Ward 1; a two-per- a park and playground. AUGUSTA — Absentee bal- need to vote by absentee ballot. son race for the one-year, at-large He served on the Personnel lots for the Nov. 4 election can be • LITCHFIELD — Polls seat available due to Dot Committee when municipal picked up and returned at town will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mithee’s resignation; and an employees negotiated their con- and city clerk’s offices from now at the Litchfield Sportsman’s unopposed race for the Ward 5 tracts, which he said turned out to until the election. In most cases, Club on Hallowell Road. seat. Here’s a brief look at the be a good deal for both the city an immediate family member can • MANCHESTER — Polls candidates running for office: and municipal employees. pick up an absentee ballot for a will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Vellani wants to see coun- voter or a voter can make a writ- at the Manchester Town Office. cilors agree on a Comprehensive ten application for an absentee • MONMOUTH — Polls WARD 1 Plan for the city so it can be ballot. will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Stephen Vellani, 51, is the approved by the state. He said the Here are the polling places at Cumston Hall. incumbent councilor for Ward 1. plan would serve as the frame- and the voting hours for the Nov. • MOUNT VERNON — Vellani, who grew up in work for what direction the city 4 election for communities in the Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to Gardiner, has been living in will take in the next 10 years or capital area: 8 p.m. at the Community Center Hallowell since 1985. so. • AUGUSTA — Polls will be on Main Street. So far, he has served one two- Stephen Vellani Stephen Thompson He believes the city is in dire open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Ward • OAKLAND — Polls will year term on the Hallowell City need of updating its infrastruc- 1 will vote at Buker Community be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Council. ture and he wants to see progress Center; Ward 2 will vote at Williams Elementary School. Prior to that, he had not served made in that direction. Augusta City Center; Ward 3 will • PITTSTON — Polls will be in elected office. However, he has “I think it’s been neglected,” vote at the Augusta Civic Center; open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the been involved in many communi- he said. and Ward 4 will vote at St. Pittston Town Office on ty activities, and organized Vellani is proud of the Andrew’s Parish Hall. Whitefield Road. events such as Rock on the River progress the city has made since • BELGRADE — Polls will • RANDOLPH — Polls will and fund-raisers to help folks in he’s been on the council, citing be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at need. the completion of the waterfront the Center for All Seasons. the Randolph Town Office on Vellani has an associate’s bulkhead project as one example. • CHELSEA — Polls will be Kinderhook Street. degree in occupational safety and He also said there has been open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the • READFIELD — Polls will earns his living as a musician. He more openness and accessibility Chelsea Town Office. be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on is married with three grown chil- in city government. “That’s • CHINA — Polls will be the second floor of the Readfield dren and a granddaughter. huge,” he said. open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Town Office. Vellani said that he’s running gym of the China Middle School. • SIDNEY — Polls will be for a second term on the council Stephen Thompson, 59, is • FARMINGDALE — Polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the because he believes strongly in challenging Vellani for the Ward will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sidney Town Office on Middle at the Hall-Dale Middle School Road. community service. David Bustin Sr. Danielle Obery see HALLOWELL page 4 He is one of several residents gym. • VASSALBORO — Polls • FAYETTE — Polls will be will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at at the Vassalboro Town Office. Starling Grange Hall. • VIENNA — Polls will be Winthrop has four-way race for two seats • GARDINER — Gardiner is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the one of many towns that is offer- Community Building on Kimball By John Hale papermaking industries and in pro- ing early voting at special times Pond Road. [email protected] gram development for the YMCA. by absentee ballots. Details can • WAYNE — Polls will be WINTHROP — Winthrop vot- Winthrop Town Council She has been married to her hus- be obtained by calling City Clerk open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the ers have a four-way contest for two band, Joe, for 25 years and they vote-getters will be elected. ness administration from Belmont Deirdre Berglund at 582-4460 or Ladd Recreation Center on Gott seats on the Town Council in the have two daughters who are both going to the city’s Web site at Road. Nov. 4 municipal election. The candidates are Sarah Fuller, Abbey College in Belmont, N.J., students at the University of Maine. Rae Giampetro, Kenneth Johnson and a bachelor’s degree in distribu- www.gardinermaine.com. On • WEST GARDINER — Bill MacDonald, current coun- Giampetro served on the Election Day, polls will be open Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to cil chairman, and James Norris, a and David Rheaume. tion management with a minor in Principal and Parents Advisory Here’s a closer look at each of economics from the same college. from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the 8 p.m. at the West Gardiner Fire veteran councilor, both decided not Committee and was active in Boys and Girls Club on Pray Station on Spears Corner Road. to seek re-election this year, creat- the four candidates. Giampetro is certified by the Winthrop Sports Boosters at Rae Giampetro is 48 and a YMCA as an instructor, a trainer Street. • WINTHROP — Polls will ing two openings on the seven- Winthrop High School. She served • HALLOWELL — Polls be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at member Town Council. native of New Jersey who has lived and a director. three years on the Winthrop Board in various parts of the country. She She is now a homemaker, but will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 the Winthrop Town Office on Four candidates are running for of Education and is currently the p.m. at Hall-Dale Elementary Highland Avenue. the two openings and the top two moved to Winthrop in 2002. She has worked as a production control holds a bachelor’s degree in busi- manager in the electronics and see WINTHROP page 5

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT Page 4 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Oct. 30, 2008 Legislative Races - Senate Children and elderly No. 1 concern Legislature must make tough choices By Joyce Grondin in need, but he said it will not be [email protected] enough. MONMOUTH — If elected District 21 He said that state programs to the Maine Senate, Democrat need to focus on helping Maine Sharon Benoit of Monmouth tion and energy as top priorities By Joyce Grondin homeowners upgrade their heat- said her No. 1 concern would be for the state. [email protected] ing systems and purchase alter- children and the elderly. “We always need to be looking WEST GARDINER — native kinds of energy, which “I think we have to look after at ways to strengthen Maine’s Republican Sen. Earle will also be better for the envi- our own … Make sure they have economy,” Benoit said, adding McCormick said the 124th ronment. Buying more oil for the food and heat. That’s something that the state must come up with Legislature must be prepared tank every year, he said, is not that we have to do for the common incentives to draw businesses to to make some tough choices on going to solve the crisis. good,” Benoit said. Maine. what programs to cut in order “There will never be Benoit is running for the She said that Maine needs to to close the gap on the $400 enough,” he said. Senate District 21 seat currently make sure that its educational sys- million — and growing — bud- Nonetheless, McCormick said held by Republican Sen. Earle tem responds to the labor needs of get shortfall. it’s encouraging that communi- McCormick of West Gardiner. The the marketplace and that it has a “Everything has to be on the ties and churches are coming district includes the towns of trained, skilled work force. table. We need to look at effi- together and reaching out to help Chelsea, Farmingdale, Gardiner, Sharon Benoit In addition to coming up with ciencies … things we don’t Earle McCormick folks who might not have asked Hallowell, Litchfield, Manchester, an alternative energy plan, Benoit need,” McCormick said. “We can for assistance. Monmouth, Pittston, Randolph, marked to help support the Dirigo said the state needs to find ways, do a lot.” the Dirigo Health Insurance McCormick wants to serve in West Gardiner and Winthrop. Health Insurance Plan. She knows such as with loans, to help individ- McCormick represents Senate Plan. Whether or not those taxes the Legislature because he has Benoit, 63, is not new to public a lot of people, such as students uals winterize their homes and District 21, which includes the are repealed will be decided in a always had an opinion about service. She served eight years in and workers that earn low wages, make other energy-saving adjust- towns of Chelsea, Farmingdale, November referendum. issues and he’d like to do some- the House of Representatives from who don’t make enough money to ments. She said the state seems to Gardiner, Hallowell, Litchfield, As far as school district con- thing for the people of Maine, he 1976 to 1984 in a southern Maine purchase health insurance and be doing a good job of getting Manchester, Monmouth, solidation goes, McCormick said said. district, which no longer exists Dirigo has helped them. information out to the public about Pittston, Randolph, West that many districts have gone to He is particularly proud to be due to redistricting. While in the “It’s far from the perfect solu- how to get help. One such pro- Gardiner and Winthrop. Prior to great lengths to create a work- part of a group of six moderates House, she served on several com- tion but if I’m going to drink wine, gram is the 211 phone number that that, he served two terms in the able plan and he does not want to who regularly work together on mittees, including the Judiciary I’ll pay a few more cents,” she folks can call to find someone to House of Representatives. see all that work wasted by bills in a Senate that had 18 Committee. said. conduct an energy audit on their His challenger is Sharon repealing consolidation altogeth- Democrats and 17 Republicans. She also served three years on Benoit said that she would not homes. Benoit of Monmouth, who er. “It was rare that we had an the South Portland City Council be in favor of repealing the school Benoit was raised in Cape defeated former Gardiner Mayor “I wouldn’t be in favor of an 18-17 vote,” he said. “It’s better and one term as mayor of South district consolidation bill that Elizabeth and has been living in Brian Rines in a Democratic outright repeal,” he said. “I think to get 24 votes instead of 18.” Portland. passed last year. She said that it’s Monmouth for 11 years. She has a Senate primary in June. we’ll find some way to build in McCormick is 65. He gradu- Benoit said the federal govern- working in several of the towns in bachelor’s degree in education and McCormick said the some incentives [for the districts ated with a bachelor’s degree in ment has already committed Low- her district. For example, she said taught middle school for nine Legislature cannot ask the peo- that are still struggling to come meteorology from St. Louis Income Home Energy Assistance that Monmouth, Hall-Dale, years in Portland public schools. ple of Maine to foot the budget up with a good plan] to move University in Missouri, and a Program (LIHEAP) funds to the Dresden and Richmond schools She worked for 15 years as the shortfall by increasing taxes. forward.” master’s in meteorology from the state to help low-income residents created a plan “rather smoothly” director of development and com- “We can’t ask them to step up He said it was unfortunate Naval Post Graduate School in purchase oil. However, she thinks that fits each of their needs. munity relations at Mercy anymore, so we’ll have to do that the school-district consoli- Monterey, Calif. the Legislature should be prepared “I see it as an opportunity for Hospital in Portland. She also ran some cutting back,” he said. dation plan was tied to the bud- He retired from the United to take some money from the administrators and teachers to be a small consulting business for a McCormick suggests that get in the first place. He said States Air Force and then taught Rainy Day Fund for additional creative. The students can benefit while. She and her husband, Keith lawmakers get serious about cut- some lawmakers tried to get it math for 15 years at Gardiner help. from it,” Benoit said. Weatherbie, have four children ting the size of the Legislature, out of the budget, but were Regional Middle School. He is “I hear a lot [of concerns about She said there’s a misconcep- and they’re raising a granddaugh- which he estimates would save a unsuccessful. married and has four children paying for fuel], especially from tion that schools will be consoli- ter. few million dollars. In contrast, the jail consolida- and five grandchildren. older people on fixed incomes,” dated physically, which is not the Benoit said that she’s running He said that people do not tion bill that eventually passed McCormick believes educa- she said. intent. Rather, it is the administra- for the Senate because she enjoys really need to be threatened by was thanks to the committee tion is another important issue Benoit believes Maine needs to tion, particularly a lesser number serving and she likes to get talk of cutting back. Rather, overseeing it, which included that the state faces. He is con- come up with some goals for alter- of superintendents, which are involved. McCormick said the Legislature sheriffs and other county repre- cerned about the children who native energy so the state can be being consolidated. “One of the best things about could find lots of ways to save sentatives. don’t graduate from high school. less reliant on oil. For that matter, The now estimated $400 mil- being in the Legislature is the money simply by talking to the A big concern for municipali- “We need a talented, educated she said the country should come lion budget shortfall is going to be opportunity to help people,” she people who work in various state ties and the state this year is the and trained work force. We can’t up with a solid plan. a challenge for the next said. departments to pinpoint and do explosive cost of oil and the afford to leave people behind “We haven’t had the leadership Legislature, Benoit said. Benoit said it’s the responsibil- away with duplication of ser- increased need by Maine citizens who don’t graduate from high to do it,” she said. “We’re going to have to priori- ity of a legislator to offer a solu- vices. for heating assistance. school,” he said, stressing the Benoit will vote “no” in tize and look at all the programs tion if they think they have one McCormick supports the McCormick believes the state state needs more business and November against repealing the that we have,” she said. “It could and to be part of the process. repeal of taxes on beer, wine, will put more money into the more jobs. taxes on beer, wine, soda and be a bigger issue … tax reform.” Benoit is a Clean Election can- soda and health insurance premi- Low-Income Home Energy McCormick is a Clean health insurance that are ear- She sees the economy, educa- didate. ums earmarked to help support Assistance Program to help those Election candidate. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT AT-LARGE large. It’s not something to jump • HALLOWELL David Bustin Sr. is running for into next year,” he said. “People are Senate District #21 the one-year, at-large term left worried about heating oil, gas and from page 3 vacant due to Dot Mithee stepping food.” down. Bustin believes he would be an 1 seat. Thompson, who is origi- asset to the council because he nally from Limestone, has been Bustin, 70, grew up in McCormick, Earle Portland. He has been living in already knows the procedures and living in Hallowell since 1978. how it works. He is married with two grown Hallowell for the last 20 years, children and one grandchild. and has been living in the capital area since 1968. Danielle Obery is running Thompson has a bachelor’s against David Bustin Sr. for the at- degree in English with a minor in He has three grown children, four grandchildren, and a great- large seat. business administration, and a Obery, 38, grew up in Augusta master’s degree in education. He grandson. He previously served six years and has been living in Hallowell is a retired state consultant. for four years. She is single. She He has never served in elected as mayor of Hallowell. He also served eight years in the Maine has a bachelor’s degree in biology office, but said that he has been and is an environmental specialist involved in a lot of volunteer House of Representatives in the 1970s. III for the Maine Department of work with schools and nonprofit Environmental Protection. organizations. Bustin received a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Obery said she is running for the Thompson said that he was council because she believes that motivated to run for the council Colby College and did graduate work at the University of Maine. Hallowell has a number of out- so he could offer his services by standing issues coming up, one of using his skills and knowledge. He is retired from the state of Maine and Central Maine Power which is storm-water erosion prob- He believes he has the skills to lems. look at proposals that come Co., and currently owns and oper- ates The Kennebec Wharf in “I think I could lend a hand and before the council and could help I think I could do a good job at it,” to find a balance between needs Hallowell. Bustin said that he’s running for she said, explaining that her experi- and expenditures. ence at the Department of We need “to meet emerging the vacant seat because he’s inter- ested in the former Stevens School Environmental Protection would be needs of the community,” he said. beneficial to the issue. Thompson is also interested in complex, off Winthrop Street. He doesn’t believe it’s the right She cited the possibility that the preserving the historical aspects city will purchase the Stevens of the community. He said it time for the city to purchase the property, which he believes has a School complex as another issue. would be great to capture some of Obery said the city needs to the city’s oral history by talking sale price of about $600,000. “This is not a good year to con- think about what it's going to do with seniors who’ve lived in with it in the future. town for years. sider that kind of purchase. If the city bought all the buildings, we’d “A number of the buildings are “Folks have an appreciation of historic,” she said. neighborhoods and how they have to maintain them and buy oil and fix them when something goes Obery also said the city needs to evolved over the years,” address flooding problems, col- Thompson said. wrong,” Bustin said. Another issue that Bustin is con- lapsed storm drains, downtown He also said the city should parking problems and lighting con- look at how it can best use tech- cerned about for the upcoming year is the bulkhead project on the cerns, as well as how — or when — nology and foster effective com- to purse the next step in the water- Endorsed By: munications. waterfront. A lot has been accom- plished already to stop the erosion front project. Because the city has a lot of Her main concerns, she said, are Maine Education Association older residents, Thompson said and completing the boardwalk, he said. the flooding issues and tax increas- the council must carefully scruti- es. She said the city must be fiscal- Professional Firefighters of Maine nize its expenditures in order to However, he believes the city shouldn’t pursue its completion this ly responsible during these hard keep taxes down. times. Kennebec Journal Thompson also said the city coming year because the federal Sportman’s Alliance of Maine should explore ways to bring grants that the city applied for more business to the community require a match by the municipality. “The local share would be very WARD 5 The Alliance for Maine’s Future and create jobs. Former City Councilor Andrew McPherson is running for the Ward Maine Association of Realtors 5 seat left vacant by Mark Walker, who did not take out papers for Maine Credit Union League For more election another term. McPherson served five terms on the council and one MERI Rating of 93 year of his last term as acting NFIB Rating of 100 coverage, visit us mayor. SCHOOL BOARD OF Proven Effective Leadership on the Web at: DIRECTORS Dawn Gallagher and Sarah Chelsea, Farmingdale, Gardiner, Hallowell, Litchfield, Manchester, McNaughton are running for two Monmouth, Pittston, Randolph, West Gardiner, Winthrop capital.villagesoup.com seats on the School Board of Directors for Regional School Paid for and Authorized by Earle McCormick for State Senate, 633 Hallowell Road, W. Gardiner, ME 04345 Unit 42, formerly SAD 16. Oct. 30, 2008 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Page 5 Legislative Races - Senate ‘It’s time for a change’ ‘There’s also great opportunity’

By John Hale Mitchell said people have the [email protected] right to vote on repealing the bev- AUGUSTA — Republican District 24 erage tax that is earmarked to sup- Kim Davis says voters are port the Dirigo Health Plan. “frightened to make a change” in hour without debate,” Davis said. By John Hale “I supported the tax because I their legislative leaders, “but I “It was unconscionable … Dirigo [email protected] felt it was more important to pay a think it’s time to make the is another subsidized program we AUGUSTA — Senate few cents on beer and wine to make change.” just can’t afford. They keep collect- Majority Leader Elizabeth sure that people had access to Davis, 51, served one term in ing all these taxes and fees to fund “Libby” Mitchell, D-Vassalboro, health care. I thought it was the the Maine House from 2004 to it. There’s a surcharge on other has shattered the “glass ceiling” best of the alternatives,” she said. 2006 and one term on the Augusta people’s health insurance to pay for that holds women back from exec- She also countered that the bev- City Council. She has also served Dirigo. It’s just wrong.” utive positions several times in her erage tax was done in daylight and on the Augusta Planning Board. She said, “I believe we need extraordinary political career. had ample debate. Now, she’s running a feisty national health care, but I don’t She was the first woman On school district consolidation campaign against Senate Majority think any state can do it on their House majority leader in Maine plan, Mitchell explained that the Leader Elizabeth “Libby” Mitchell own.” and the first woman to be elected state has fewer students with more in Senate District 24 (Augusta, Davis is not supportive of the speaker of the House in Maine. administrators. China, Oakland, Sidney and Kim Davis school district consolidation plan. Mitchell, 68, has served a total Elizabeth Mitchell “We can’t afford it. I am more Vassalboro). “If someone could show me on of 22 years in the House and the than willing to look for more flexi- “Sen. Mitchell is one of the “I spent a day in China at the paper that consolidation was actu- Senate. If she’s re-elected to her campus within the University of bility. But outright repeal seems to most liberal legislators in the state transfer station because that’s ally going to save people money, I third term in the Senate District 24 Maine System. She also worked to be going in the wrong direction,” of Maine,” Davis said. “She’s pow- where people go,” she added might be for it,” Davis said. “I seat on Nov. 4, she’ll run for Senate create a tax credit that benefited the she said. erful, entrenched and people love Davis is an Augusta native think it happened too quickly. I’m president. developers of the Arsenal in Augusta She said the state “absolutely” her. But I think she has to take whose family moved to California not too thrilled with this consolida- The district includes Augusta, and developers of old riverfront mills should put more money into the more responsibility for where until she was 15 when they moved tion.” China, Oakland, Sidney and throughout the state. low-income heating assistance pro- we’re at economically.” back to Maine, where she graduated On heating aid for the poor, Vassalboro. Her opponent is Despite huge economic chal- gram because it doesn’t have Davis claims that between 2000 from Hall-Dale High School. She’s Davis said what they’re doing right Republican Kim Davis of Augusta, lenges faced by the most recent enough money from Congress. and 2006, Maine saw only a 1.2 been living in Augusta for 28 years. now is a good start; helping people who’s served one term in the Maine legislature, Mitchell pointed to “We’re going to have to look at percent growth in private sector Davis is married to Dr. George weatherize their homes and putting House and one term on the Augusta many positives things that hap- that the first day that legislators are jobs. Davis, a medical doctor at some money into Low-Income City Council. pened. sworn in,” she said. “We just can- “I think we’re too generous in Riverview Psychiatric Center in Home Energy Assistance Program. “It is a huge honor to be “It’s also a session of great not leave anybody out in the cold. some cases,” Davis said. “Mitchell Augusta. The couple has seven “I do think they should take allowed to serve the people of the opportunity,” she said. “We’re The money will probably have to gets only a 25 rating from some children and five grandchildren money out of the Rainy Day Fund,” district,” she said. “I’ve come to going to try to be one of the green- come from the Rainy Day Fund.” business groups. We just can’t sus- between them. she said. “I think it’s kind of cruel know many of them personally. I est states in the country. There are On the budget shortfall, tain the way we’re going.” Davis has an interior decorating to have waited this long. I would try to be a problem-solver.” economic opportunities there.” Mitchell said, “We can’t afford to “We can save millions of dollars business and also works as a tax have communities ask for what While Davis noted that Mitchell “The national crisis is affecting do what we have been doing. While by reducing the size of the preparer for her father, Jack they think their community needs.” gets a low rating from a partisan every state,” she said. “We just we’re cutting, we have to be invest- Legislature,” Davis continued. Skehan, in Gardiner. On closing the budget shortfall, business group, Mitchell responded have to keep focused on the future ing in the future, too.” “Legislators get 100 percent of She founded the Eastern Davis said she thinks it’s going to that she’s been very supportive of and not let petty differences divide Mitchell is a South Carolina their health insurance paid by the Avenue Neighborhood Association be a very slow, arduous process. real businesses in her district. us. I’d like to create a round table native with a bachelor’s degree in state.” and she and her husband founded “I think it’s irresponsible to cut “I will put my record of sup- of business leaders who are getting English from Furman University She would like to see the Maine Augusta Education Enhancement 10 percent across the board. We porting business up against any- things done.” and a master’s degree in teaching House reduced from 151 to 99 rep- Inc. She also served on the need to seriously look at services body,” Mitchell said. “Good busi- She said, “People in Maine are from the University of North resentatives and the Maine Senate Memorial Bridge Replacement and see which are working and nesses in my district know that I struggling right now to put food on Carolina. She holds a law degree shrunk from 35 to 33 senators. Committee. which are not working. We’ve got have supported the things that the table and to heat their homes. from the University of Maine “It’s the one job you have where Davis favors repealing the taxes to create a business environment to make business work.” We’re all of us in this together, the School of Law. She is an attorney you learn so many things and you on beer, wine, soda and health contribute to our tax base,” She added, “Government is not the whole world, and none of us knows in the firm of Mitchell and Davis in meet so many people with so many insurance that have been ear- she said. “There seems to be a answer. It is a partnership.” where we’re going. We’ve got to be Augusta, her husband James’ law different ideas,” Davis said of marked to help pay for the Dirigo disconnect that you don’t need pri- Mitchell points out that she fought more honest with one another and firm. She and her husband have being a legislator, adding that she’s Health Insurance Plan. vate-sector jobs to support public- successfully to keep the University of have a bipartisan working relation- four adult children and six grand- been campaigning vigorously. “They were passed at the 11th sector jobs.” Maine at Augusta an independent ship to solve the problem.” children.

last gubernatorial election. Augusta City Council and Augusta council, one of which can be the city property. • MAJORITY • The City Council is allowed to Board of Education. The mayor and mayor. • MINORITY The minority also favored three place on the ballot an alternative chairman of the Board of Education • The city’s bonding limit in a sin- items that were discussed but not from page 2 question to the question placed on the are elected at-large. gle fiscal year, which it can raise from page 2 acted upon: a code of ethics for elect- ballot through a petition drive. This is • Raise stipends for city coun- without voter approval, is raised from ed officials; a required city vote for a question is illegal, the council shall similar to what the Maine Legislature cilors and school board members $500,000 to $750,000. recall procedure for the removal of passage of bonds; and a required city vote on whether to accept the attor- is permitted to do in like situations. from $150 to $200 per month. Raise • The veto power of the mayor is elected officials and rejecting vote for creation of tax increment ney’s opinion. If the council agrees it • If a referendum or initiative fails, the mayor’s pay from $200 to $250 eliminated. required appraisals for the sale of financing districts. is illegal, the question dies right there. then one year must go by before the per month. Raise the pay for the chair POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT If the attorney determines the ques- process may begin for bringing the of the Board of Education from $175 tion is legal, or if the council votes same question to the ballot again. to $225 per month. Members of the that it is legal, then the petitions shall • After two years from the date of Planning Board shall be paid $100 be printed. If the attorney deems it the election, the council may enact an per month, an increase from $50 a legal, the question doesn’t go back to ordinance, order or resolve repealed month. the council for a vote. All legal ques- by referendum or amend or repeal an • Specimen ballots are now called tions shall go forward, according to ordinance, order or resolve enacted sample ballots. O’Brien’s analysis. There is no dis- by initiative by the affirmative vote of • Six voting members of the City cretion on the part of the council to six members, one of whom may be Council can enact an emergency ordi- deny petitions on questions found to the mayor. nance that will take effect immediate- be legal. ly and be in effect for 60 days. • Petitioners have 75 days to col- OTHER CHANGES • For the purposes of oversight, lect petition signatures, up from the Here’s a look at some of the other administration and access to informa- current 60 days, not counting changes and key parts left the same in tion, the city manager shall serve as Sundays and legal holidays. The min- the majority report of the Augusta the public safety director, with no imum number of signatures required Charter Commission: increase in pay. remains the same. It is 20 percent of • Keep the current setup of four • Municipal bond issues shall the total votes cast in Augusta in the wards and four at-large seats for the require six affirmative votes from the

Johnson said. “One of the things I Council and for other offices in • WINTHROP noticed is that not many of the Winthrop are all for three years. town’s residents participate. I think For the Board of Education, from page 3 maybe I could get more people to there are two candidates seeking re- participate.” election to two seats. They are board’s representative to the "My background in finance and Mark King and John Mitchell. Regional Planning Committee for strategic planning could help reju- For trustees of Charles M. School Consolidation. venate the town," Johnson added. Bailey Public Library, there are “I received a call from a coun- "Thirty-two years ago, when I three incumbents seeking re-elec- cilor who asked me to run,” moved here, we had the mill. It was tion to three seats. The unopposed Giampetro said. “Joe and I have a manufacturing and bedroom candidates are Paul Cottrell, George taught our children that you need to community. Now, it’s just a bed- Dekelbaum and Margaret Kenney. be involved in community services room community.” and give back to where you live. I Johnson said Winthrop is aging Sarah Fuller, 32, is a native of would like to respond to the con- and its average age is continuing to Albany, N.Y., who has lived in cerns of the community.” grow. Winthrop nearly three years. She She said, “I have extensive “Young families with children holds a bachelor’s degree in geog- experience managing large bud- aren’t coming here,” he said. raphy from George Washington gets. I do have a keen interest in “Therefore, our school enrollments University in Washington, D.C., making Winthrop a desirable place are declining. We need to figure out and did graduate work in environ- to live while being fiscally respon- ways to attract more people.” mental and public health at the sible." same university. Giampetro said, “Declining David Rheaume is a Winthrop She earned a master’s degree in enrollment in the schools is indica- native who graduated from public relations from the University tive of change in the residential Winthrop High School in 1970. He of Miami School of base and is an important problem.” attended Augusta School of Communication. Business and was certified by Fuller has worked mostly in Kenneth Johnson, 74, grew up Maine Medical Center’s School of strategic communications with in the Boston area, but spent every Operating Room Technology. environmental and educational summer with his family in Ocean For 13 years, Rheaume has nonprofit organizations. She cur- Park, just south of Old Orchard owned and operated Wear It Again, rently works for Nancy Marshall Beach in Maine. Johnson and his a consignment shop for used men’s Communications in Augusta in wife, Sandra, have lived in clothes on Main Street in Winthrop. public relations and marketing, spe- Winthrop more than 30 years. They He served three terms and nine cializing in small business and eco- have three grown children and four years on the Winthrop Town nomic development. grandchildren. Council, from 1996 to 2005. For She is married to Douglas Fuller Johnson earned a bachelor’s two of those years, Rheaume was and has a stepson named Max. This degree in history from Middlebury elected council chairman. is her first attempt at running for College in Vermont and a master’s Rheaume served on the coun- elective office. of business administration degree cil’s appointments committee and “I’ve always been a civic-mind- from the University of Chicago. on its finance committee. He also ed individual,” Fuller said. “I think He served two years in the U.S. served on the Public Safety I would be able to make a contribu- Army's medical corps. He is retired Building Committee. tion with my experience in environ- from a career as a consultant with “I’ve had a lot of people ask me mental and education matters. I major accounting firms in the area to do it again,” Rheaume said. “I think it’s a great way to be deeply of health care. want to serve my town.” involved in the community. I’d like TH Johnson is an alternate on the He said, “The most pressing to be part of making a difference.” VOTE NOVEMBER 4 Board of Assessment Review and issue now is to keep taxes down dur- Asked what is the most impor- served on the last Public Safety ing the economic downturn. tant issue facing Winthrop, Fuller [email protected] Building Review Committee. Secondary to that would be to said, “Good economic develop- www.kimdavisforsenate.com “Since I’ve retired, I started upgrade the public safety buildings.” ment can bring new opportunities going to Town Council meetings,” The terms of office for Town for everyone.” Paid for and Athuorized by Kimberly Davis for Senate. Treasurer, Gina Pelletier. 200 Spears Corner Rd., West Gardiner, ME 04345 Page 6 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Oct. 30, 2008 Legislative Races - House ‘I would be a bipartisan lawmaker’ ‘I want to finish what I started’

By John Hale “This is not about the Dirigo [email protected] Health Plan,” she said. “This is about AUGUSTA — Anna Blodgett, District 56 taxes being put on in the middle of the 61, worked 26 years for the city night of the last day of the legislative of Augusta, including 12 years as Augusta session.” director of Parks, Cemeteries and She’s not in favor of repealing the Trees. board of directors of the Friends of By John Hale school district consolidation law. Working with the public has Lithgow Library. She is a member of [email protected] “I applaud the idea,” she said. “It shown her that she likes working Kennebec Historical Society and has AUGUSTA — Julie O’Brien, appears to be working for Augusta. with and for people, she said. Now been a member of Penney Memorial 51, been a high-profile person in Whether you like it is dependent on she’s running as a Democrat for the Baptist Church for more than 30 Augusta for years. where you live.” District 56 seat in the Maine House. years. Currently the executive director She said the state should put more One-term Rep. Kimberly Silsby, Blodgett doesn’t favor repealing of the Maine Republican Party, she money into the Low-Income Home D-Augusta, is not seeking re-elec- the taxes on beer, wine, soda and was founder and first executive direc- Energy Assistance Program. tion. Republican Julie O’Brien, who health insurance that are earmarked tor of the Children’s Discovery “Everyone in the Legislature is previously held this seat for four to help support the Dirigo Health Museum in Augusta, a project she going to have to become energy terms, is Blodgett’s opponent in the Insurance Plan. worked on for 23 years. experts very quickly,” she said. Anna Blodgett Nov. 4 election. “I don’t like taxes,” she said, “but And she served four terms in the Julie O’Brien “Some longtime customers are not House District 56 includes main- I believe health care is more impor- Maine House as a Republican law- going to be able to pay for oil. I don’t ly the part of Augusta that lies on the two grown children and two grand- have five children. believe that the local oil companies children. tant than beer and wine and soda. I maker from 1996 to 2004. While previously serving in the east side of the Kennebec River. It don’t believe Dirigo Health is the Now, O’Brien wants to return to are the enemies.” also encompasses the part of Blodgett attended Husson House, she “led the charge” for O’Brien also said the estimated College and earned a degree in sec- answer to our health needs, but I the Legislature to work on issues that Maine to create an online registry of Augusta that is south of Capitol think it is a good start.” are important to her: children’s con- $400 million shortfall facing the state Street on the west side of the river. retarial science. As director of Parks, sex offenders and “started the discus- budget over the next two-and-a-half Cemeteries and Trees for the city of She doesn’t favor repealing the cerns, mental health and substance sion” on residency requirements for For Blodgett, serving in the new school district consolidation abuse. years needs to be addressed. Legislature is, among other things, Augusta, she was in charge of 17 sex offenders, O’Brien said. “It’s frustrating that this continues cemeteries in Augusta. law. “Enrollment is going down, but “I feel very deeply that I haven’t She served on the Health and another way to work for the citizens administration is not,” she said. finished my job,” she said. “I was just to happen, shortfall after shortfall,” of Augusta. “When I came in, all the people Human Services Committee the year she said. “The agencies need to rein buried in all the cemeteries were list- “That in itself tells me that money hitting my stride when I had to leave that 5-year-old Logan Marr was mur- “I’ve always been a problem should be spent differently. If it’s because of term limits. I just want to in.” solver. I’ve always enjoyed working ed on index cards,” she explained. dered by her foster mother in She added that outside agencies “Over two years, I got them entered done right, I think there can be a finish what I started. I miss the public Chelsea. “We did a very in-depth with the public,” she said. “I’ve huge savings.” service part of the job, too; helping with contracts are encouraged to worked in the public sector for so on computers so we could find them review of the child welfare system in spend money at the end of the fiscal much easier. That was a huge help to Blodgett supports putting state constituents.” Maine,” O’Brien said. “We came out many years. This just seemed to be money into the federal Low-Income O’Brien is running against year if they have money left. another opportunity to serve the peo- genealogists.” with several dozen recommendations “If you haven’t spent $100,000 at Blodgett said she also enjoys Home Energy Assistance Program. Democrat Anna Blodgett of Augusta for the human services department. I ple of Augusta and the state of Maine.” “I’ve seen many people during in what looks like a close, competi- the end of the year, you are told to go “I think being able to compro- helping people with burials because believe they were very good recom- out and spend it quickly or you won’t those are hard times for people. by door to doors that I worry about tive race between two well-known mendations. I’m not so sure they’re mise is the way to get the most done this winter,” she said. “I give them foes. get it next year,” O’Brien said. “That for the most people,” Blodgett con- In addition to cemeteries, all of being followed.” just doesn’t make any sense to me.” the city-owned open spaces were her the brochure with all the resource District 56 includes mainly that As a legislator, O’Brien also tinued. “I feel I’ve never been so numbers on it. I worry about the peo- part of Augusta on the east side of the O’Brien also said she believes in entrenched in the party. I feel I responsibility, including all of the worked on overseeing the merger of less government. playgrounds. She was able to get ple who don’t ask for help.” Kennebec River. It also encompasses the departments of Mental Health and would be a great bipartisan legisla- As far as closing a two-year bud- the part of Augusta on the west side of “If something can be privatized, tor.” three new playgrounds for Augusta Human Services. that’s what I think should happen,” and expand the city’s flower gar- get shortfall estimated at $400 mil- the river that is south of Capitol “I’m interested to see how it real- The retiring Kim Silsby is trea- lion, Blodgett said the best solution Street. she said. “I don’t think government surer for Blodgett’s campaign. dens. ly is working,” she said. should be a welfare system for state “I had a horticulturist design is to create good-paying “green” O’Brien, whose maiden name is During her last term in the House Blodgett was raised in Sedgwick, jobs. Ross, is an Augusta native and a 1975 employees.” near Blue Hill. She graduated from them. I worked with Longfellow’s she served on the Appropriations If elected, O’Brien said she would Greenhouses and we got all our “That would produce revenues,” Cony High School graduate. She Committee. George Stevens Academy in 1965, she said. “A lot of people have said earned a bachelor’s degree in com- step down from her position as exec- which is where she met her husband, annuals for free,” she said. “I was “We worked very hard not to utive director of the Maine always looking for ways to save the we should cut state employment. I munity leadership and development approve any additional taxes,” she Michael Blodgett. personally don’t see that. That is from Springfield College in Republican Party. “We were high school sweet- city money.” said. She is a traditionally financed Blodgett retired from her execu- huge for our local economy in Massachusetts. As for the repeal of beer, wine, hearts and we’ve been married 39 Augusta.” She has been married to Augusta candidate and estimated her cam- years,” she said. tive job with the city in November soda and health insurance taxes that is paign against Blodgett will cost about 2006. Now she serves on the Blodgett is a Clean Elections attorney and Ward 4 City Councilor proposed on the Nov. 4 ballot, Michael is an information tech- candidate. Mark O’Brien for 22 years. They $6,000. nology consultant. The couple have Augusta Planning Board and the O’Brien said she is all for repeal. Karush says taxes must rise to balance budget Browne says state must cut spending

By Sarah E. Reynolds he said. Given the plan as it is, which [email protected] he said contains “many flaws,” he VASSALBORO — Democrat District 58 prefers an organizational structure Patricia Karush, 59, is a newcomer that allows more local control. to state politics, running for elective Browne said dealing with high office for the first time. She is seek- Vassalboro-Windsor-Augusta fuel costs this winter will be the ing to oust incumbent William er way to accomplish the goal of dis- By Sarah E. Reynolds “biggest challenge” facing the next Browne in District 58, which trict consolidation. [email protected] session of the Legislature. He thinks includes that part of Augusta east of Karush said helping needy VASSALBORO — William it is important to educate the public the Kennebec River and north of Mainers pay for heat this winter “is an Browne is the incumbent represent- about what help is available, both to North Belfast Avenue, Vassalboro area of significant concern to me,” ing House District 58, which pay for fuel and to weatherize homes. and Windsor. adding that she fears “we are going to includes Vassalboro, Windsor and “We have to take care of our A native of New York City, she have people in dire straits this winter.” that part of Augusta east of the own,” he said, adding that the state attended the University of Maine for She stressed that more should be done Kennebec River and north of North will probably have to put additional her undergraduate studies and to make residents aware of existing Belfast Avenue. He is seeking his dollars into the Low Income received her MBA from Southern programs that offer help with paying fourth and final term. Homeowner Energy Assistance New Hampshire University. She has for fuel and home weatherization. She The 66-year-old Republican was Program. Patricia Karush two adult children who grew up in thinks the Legislature should not only born in Belfast but moved to William Browne His prescription for reducing the Maine but now live out of state. state’s budget gap is straightforward: the country should have a single- add funds to the Low Income Home Vassalboro at the age of 8 and has Dirigo Health insurance plan should Karush is an assistant professor of Energy Assistance Program, but also lived there most of his life since. He cut spending. marketing and business at Thomas payer health insurance system. be repealed, in part because there was “We have to curb our spending “This should be a state-by-state expand the eligibility guidelines so graduated from Cony High School no opportunity for public comment. College in Waterville, where she has that more people can qualify. and received his bachelor’s degree habits,” he said. taught for 20 years; she has lived in issue,” she said. “Health care, I think, He also had another reason. However, he believes it will be is an inalienable right.” Regarding the state’s $400 million from the University of Maine. “We’re taxed to the limit already,” Maine since she was 24. budget shortfall, she said legislators A retired chemistry teacher, hard to cut state programs, and thinks Karush believes the taxes on beer, Karush thinks much of the opposi- McCormick said. legislators must look for efficiencies tion to the state’s school district con- face a dilemma. Browne also taught other science Regarding the school-district con- wine, soda and health insurance pre- “No one wants taxes increased, classes during his career at Waterville in the way the state operates and per- miums earmarked to help fund the solidation plan has less to do with the solidation plan now being imple- haps consider imposing a hiring content of the plan than the fact that it but no one wants any programs cut,” High School. He is married, has two mented, Browne expressed mixed Dirigo Health insurance program are she said. adult children. He lives on a farm, freeze. necessary. was mandated by the state. feelings. He acknowledged, “there The Clean Election candidate said Nonetheless, she said she believes it’s In order to close the budget gap, where he has no animals but grows are benefits to be gained” from con- “I recognize the people of Maine she thinks taxes must be raised in a and sells hay. he is running for a fourth term are fed up with taxes but it’s the a good plan and she does not want to solidation, but worried that “you can’t because he believes he can better see it repealed. way that does the least harm to those Browne has been on the town paint all school districts with one morally right thing to do to help our who are least advantaged. budget committee since 1981 and serve his constituents with the experi- neighbors,” she said, referring to the “It’s a great way to cut costs,” she broad brush.” ence of his prior terms behind him. said. “We have a budget shortfall, we “Either we increase taxes or every- previously served on the local school Browne is concerned about 18,000 Maine residents who depend body’s got to give up some of those committee. He does not object to the mandatory on Dirigo for health insurance. can’t pay for everything.” removing local control of schools in retirement imposed by term limits, In the event the current consolida- things that are near and dear to their He believes the taxes on beer, rural communities and would prefer She went on to say she thinks wine, soda and health insurance pre- though. these taxes will be short-lived because tion plan is repealed, however, she see KARUSH page 7 to allow schools to find their own “Eight years is enough,” he said. said the Legislature should find anoth- miums earmarked to help fund the ways to reduce the cost of education, Jacques says Dirigo is ‘broken’ Treat seeks another term in the House By Sarah E. Reynolds Jacques said the school district other hand, she wants the people [email protected] consolidation plan now being insured by Dirigo to keep their cov- WEST GARDINER — implemented is “a bad idea,” which District 79 erage, so she doesn’t want to see Calling himself “the Emperor’s he thinks should be scrapped. He the taxes repealed. In the event that New Clothes candidate,” described the plan as the first step the taxes are repealed, she plans to Republican Charles Jacques, 48, a towards centralizing control of Farmingdale-Hallowell-West Gardiner seek another way to fund the pro- retail manager for a national Maine’s schools in Augusta, some- paying too much for their state gov- By Sarah E. Reynolds gram. restaurant chain, hopes to oust vet- thing he strongly opposes. ernment,” he said. [email protected] She said the school consolida- eran legislator Rep. Sharon Treat He believes school districts Jacques believes that oil prices, HALLOWELL — Democrat tion plan “needs to be improved,” in House District 79, which should accept some degree of direc- which have recently decreased, will Sharon Treat, 52, represents but she would not like to see it includes Farmingdale, Hallowell tion from the state, in light of the continue to drop through the winter. District 79, which includes repealed. She got an amendment to and West Gardiner. fact that they get a significant por- The first thing Jacques would do Farmingdale, Hallowell and West the original plan passed so that the Jacques grew up in Portland and tion of their funding from Augusta. to balance the state’s budget is elim- Gardiner, in the Maine House of schools in her district, SAD 11 and Scarborough, and graduated from However, he said, with the consoli- inate waste. Representatives. If elected, this SAD 16, would not be forced to Scarborough High School and dation plan the state “is holding a “There are millions of dollars of will be her fourth term in the consolidate with districts they did- Casco Bay College in Portland. gun to local districts’ heads,” which ‘horseshit’ that could be cut,” he House. She previously served n’t want to merge with. In fact, she He has a wife, Tia, and three he feels is a bad public policy. said. four terms in the state Senate. said, SAD 16 had begun consoli- Sharon Treat daughters. Jacques doesn’t entirely oppose For example, the lights in state Born in Vermont, Treat grew up dating even before the plan was He served on the Monmouth consolidation, but said he would buildings that are not in use could be “all over New England,” coming to passed. But schools that really Economic Development Committee make it voluntary. Gardiner Solid Waste Commission. don’t want to consolidate aren’t turned off, he said. He added that Maine in 1986. She graduated from She is also on the Citizen Trade for two terms and on the Monmouth To help state residents who are the state should stop spending $10 Northfield Mount Hermon in doing it, which gives the Sanitary Board for one. having difficulty paying for heat this Policy Commission. Legislature the chance to amend million annually to interdict mari- Massachusetts, received a bache- She is executive director of the Not only does Jacques want to winter, he said the first thing the juana trade. lor’s degree from Princeton the plan to encourage holdout dis- repeal the beverage and insurance Legislature should do is slash state National Legislative Association tricts to consolidate, she said. “If it were legal, marijuana trade University and her law degree from on Prescription Drug Prices. taxes earmarked to support the spending and cut taxes. He would actually help the state,” he Georgetown University. With no According to Treat, the state Dirigo Health insurance program, acknowledged that for this year, the Regarding the taxes on beer, should use money from Maine said. children, she lives with her partner. wine, soda and health insurance he also would like to “shut down state will likely have to allocate Regarding the state Clean She currently sits on the Rainy Day Fund to increase fund- Dirigo.” more funding to the Low-Income intended to support the Dirigo ing for the Low-Income Home Elections funding program, if elect- Insurance and Financial Services Health insurance program, Treat “It’s a broken funding mecha- Home Energy Assistance Program. ed, he said that he would advocate Committee in the Legislature. Energy Assistance Plan, and make nism for a broken program,” he said However, in the long term, “we said she understands why people Besides her service in the Maine feel that taxes are too high. On the see TREAT page 7 of the taxes to fund Dirigo. need to recognize that Mainers are see JACQUES page 7 Legislature, she has served on the Oct. 30, 2008 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Page 7 Legislative Races - House Jenkins thought long about serving Flood says he gets things done

By John Hale Gov. John Baldacci has found $4 [email protected] million in state money to put into WINTHROP — Since her District 82 LIHEAP. “I will support that,” last run for the District 82 seat Flood said. “We can do it when we in the Maine House in 2006, Winthrop-Readfield come into session in December.” Democrat Priscilla Jenkins was He said he is sponsoring a bill elected to the Winthrop Town it should be taken from the Rainy By John Hale which provides that LIHEAP appli- Council last year, defeating Day Fund and put into the Low [email protected] cations with community action pro- three other candidates. Income Home Energy Assistance WINTHROP — Rep. Patrick grams will not require face-to-face She said it’s been a very Program. I don’t see the federal Flood, R-Winthrop, is running meetings. That will speed up the active year on the council, government doing much at this for a third term in House 82 process, he said. resolving issues about how to point. We don’t want any of our (Winthrop and Readfield) against He also said the Legislature this renovate public safety buildings neighbors to be cold.” the same opponent he defeated in summer added another $10 million and keeping up with a thorny On closing the estimated 2006, Democrat Priscilla Jenkins, to the Rainy Day Fund, which now debate over school consolida- $400 million budget shortfall of Winthrop. stands at $160 million. Flood said tion. over the next two years, Jenkins Flood said district constituents he would support taking another $7 “At my request, we are going million to $10 million from that Priscilla Jenkins said, “We do need to look for any should vote for him because he gets Patrick Flood to hold a community-wide Keep opportunities to squeeze out things done. fund to put toward LIHEAP if nec- Winthrop Warm forum later this waste. I used to be in the opera- “I get results by working in a essary. month,” Jenkins said. are earmarked to help support landowners to keep Maine timber- On the budget shortfall, now the Dirigo Health Insurance tions and research field. so I collaborative way with people,” he lands in production for 25 years or Now, she wants to try again to have some skills along that line. said, “and our state needs people estimated at $400 million, he said, unseat two-term Rep. Patrick Plan. The repeal proposal will be more by eliminating Maine income “We need to keep prodding and voted on in referendum in Clearly, the best way to do it who get results. I want to do good tax when the lands are sold. Flood, R-Winthrop, in the Nov. 4 would be to improve our econo- things for our state.” working with the different commis- general election. “I have long November. Another law allows landowners sioners to reduce costs.” “I am totally against repeal- my so we have more taxes com- Flood said, “I’ve built a good who commit forest practices viola- served my community and my ing in.” relationship with the different com- But in the long term, Flood said church,” said Jenkins. “This is ing these taxes,” Jenkins said. “I tions to work off part of their fines Maine needs to expand its econo- am all for fixing the problems Jenkins said she’s working missioners of the departments. As a by doing beneficial environmental another way to serve. It’s some- with a group to bring more jobs two-term legislator, I think I’m my and keep investing in education thing I’ve long thought of doing. that Dirigo has. I also think that projects. to ensure that its tax base grows. issue is being raised by the beer to the Winthrop-Readfield area. positioned as well as I ever will be. Another measure requires It’s a great way to spend retirement “We should look more at rail- I love my work. I’m very proud of Flood, 57, is a native of time. I have a lot of varied experi- and wine distributors and that we hunters to make every effort to Chatham, N.Y., who earned two didn’t put a tax on hard liquor. It roads in the future, given the the working relationships I have find and bring down animals they ence, from corporate America to high cost of oil,” she said. with the parties at the Statehouse bachelor’s degrees from Syracuse community organizing.” was proposed long before, it just have wounded for consumption or University in 1974, one in resource hadn’t been voted on before.” Jenkins has several bills she’d and with the administration.” use. Jenkins, 64, is married to like to sponsor in the Flood said he enjoys communi- management and the other in envi- John Davis, whose family is Jenkins said, “Dirigo saved On the taxes on beer, wine, soda ronmental science and forestry. He my life this year with a test that Legislature. cating with his constituents and and health insurance that are up for from Maine. They moved to She would like to develop that he is developing an e-mail con- retired in 2004 as senior manager Maine in 2000 from New Jersey. showed I had a cancer. It’s in repeal in a Nov. 4 referendum, of International Paper Co.’s Forest remission now. I’m a Dirigo opportunities for the agriculture stituent list with 500 names on it. “I Flood is for repeal. “I would rather They have three adult children, and forestry industries. She would can poll them and it’s very help- Resource Division, which encom- two of whom live in Maine, and member.” that it never got passed,” he said. passed several Northeastern states. On another potential referen- like to expand drug courts ful,” he said. “I can get an answer “We wanted to balance the budget five grandchildren. statewide. She would like to back within eight hours.” Flood and his wife, Marjorie, Jenkins earned a bachelor’s dum question, Jenkins said she without taxes. It was disappointing have two grown children and they does not favor repealing the new extend the Dirigo Health In the last two-year session of to me that after we passed a budget, degree in mathematics from Insurance Plan to larger employ- the Legislature, Flood served on have lived in Winthrop for 20 Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, school district consolidation law. along came a tax increase. Dirigo’s years. “It has some flaws, but I think ers and review discounts to appeal the Appropriations Committee, going to be funded either way.” N.Y., in 1965. She first worked to younger, healthier applicants which reviews the budget, bond Flood has been very active in in medical research, and then in we can fix them,” she said. “The He doesn’t favor repeal of the the community. He is currently on small towns feel they will lose and families. She would also like issues and all bills with financial school district consolidation law. “I the computer field. She said she to paint roadside curbs for visual- implications. the boards of Kennebec Behavioral worked for Fortune 500 compa- all their control over their small think we definitely have to address Health; Family Violence Project; grade schools. I’d like it to be ly impaired people so they can He points to a list of about a administrative costs in view of nies in computer development better differentiate between the dozen pieces of legislation that he Winthrop Area YMCA; Winthrop and business analysis in New that they could retain one-room declining enrollments,” he said. Area Chamber of Commerce; schoolhouses.” sidewalk and roadway. either sponsored or were blended “It’s a very emotional topic. People York and New Jersey before If elected to the House, with governor’s legislation that Marlee Johnston Foundation; retiring. On the coming winter’s heat- need to be able to vent. I don’t Healthy Futures; Maine Space ing needs, Jenkins said, “This Jenkins said she’d like to be became law since he was first think we should back away from Jenkins opposes the proposed appointed to the Business, elected. Grant Consortium; and repeal of taxes on beer, wine, constitutes possibly an emer- what is a very necessary step to Maranacook Lake Association and gency in my mind. If money Research and Economic Among his bills that were take.” soda and health insurance that Development Committee. enacted is a measure to encourage he is active in several other organi- can’t be found elsewhere, I think On heating needs, Flood said zations.

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT opportunity this state has ever had — to understands the needs of small busi- • KARUSH develop alternative energy,” she said. nesses, she said. Karush, a Clean Election candi- “I’m not a typical Democrat,” she from page 6 date, said she’s entering politics said. because she feels she has some exper- She added that she wants to help hearts,” Karush said. tise and a different perspective to solve the problems facing Maine. and For the longer term, she said the offer. As a longtime professor of mar- help the state retain more of the young state should take advantage of the keting and business who has worked people she teaches who move away greening of the national economy. with many Maine companies, she because they can’t find jobs here. “We are poised on the greatest

Jacques said he was drafted to “I’ve got a 4-year-old daughter,” • JACQUES run because no other Republican he said, explaining that he doesn’t wanted to oppose incumbent want her to have to move out of from page 6 Democrat Sharon Treat. But over state to get a job when the time the course of the campaign, he has comes. eliminating the program. developed a real passion about He blames the Democrats in “Clean Elections money is issues like bringing more jobs to the control of the Legislature for push- unethical. I won’t take it,” he said. state. ing jobs out of Maine.

ate time to turn to the rainy day long as vital personnel who leave • TREAT fund to help balance the budget. are replaced. “We have to look at Additionally, she acknowledged everything (in order to close the from page 6 that the legislature will have to budget gap),” she said. reduce spending, but said there are A Clean Election candidate with available loans and grants for some opportunities to do that with- special interest in health care and weatherization and conservation. out cutting services. the environment, Treat is running In the longer term, she thinks the For example, she said, the coun- for re-election because she believes state should focus on developing ty jails presently pay the full retail she still has a lot of offer. renewable energy. price for prescription drugs needed “I’m someone who really lis- “Obviously the entire country is by inmates. Instead, Treat would tens to my constituents and what in a financial crisis,” Treat said in have the jails join a regional pur- their concerns are,” she said. “I feel regards to the state’s half-billion- chasing group to get lower prices. I can contribute something to mak- dollar budget shortfall. However, She also said she would support ing this a better place for people to she added that now is an appropri- a “targeted” state hiring freeze, as live and work.” For more election coverage, visit us on the Web at: capital.villagesoup.com

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT

Representing with Integrity House District 82 Winthrop & Readfield Paid for by Pat Flood Election Team, Kevin McCarthy, Treasurer, 455 Winthrop Ctr. Rd., Withrop, ME 0 4364 Page 8 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Oct. 30, 2008 Legislative Races - House Dyar wants to see more emphasis Jones seeks second term, on developing alternative fuels vows to oppose human services cuts By Sarah E. Reynolds be returned to the school districts to [email protected] improve the quality of their pro- MOUNT VERNON — District 83 grams. Farmington native and business- “I think it is correct not to spend man Clyde E. Dyar has resided in Belgrade-Fayette-Manchester money on administration,” she said. central Maine most of his life, As far as what the Legislature except for the 11 years he was in Mount Vernon-Vienna can do to help state residents who the Air Force. cannot afford to heat their homes homes, saying that over-insulating By Sarah E. Reynolds The 67-year-old Republican is this winter, she said the legislature could create indoor air quality [email protected] running to represent District 83 in plans to go back into session in problems and potentially even MOUNT VERNON — State the Maine House, which includes December, and one of the things it cause homeowners to suffocate, if, Rep. Pat Jones holds the House Belgrade, Fayette, Manchester, will likely do at that time is to for example, a wood stove draws seat for District 83, which Mount Vernon and Vienna. appropriate funds to help low- all the oxygen out of a house that’s includes Belgrade, Fayette, In addition to his time on active income Mainers with the cost of too airtight. Manchester, Mount Vernon and duty, he spent nine years in the oil. Dyar said the state is adding Vienna. Maine National Guard. He gradu- “We cannot let Maine people funds to the Low Income The 65-year-old Democrat ated from Farmington High School freeze this winter,” she said. Homeowner Energy Assistance began her first term in the and received his bachelor’s degree Clyde E. Dyar Pat Jones Such action is especially likely, Program, and he supports that, but Legislature after winning a special from the University of Maine, she said, if the U.S. Congress has “we need to be looking at alterna- election last November following Farmington. with his Democratic rival, incum- Patrick, in Chicago. She also has a not acted on fuel assistance by then. tive fuels.” the death of her husband, Deane He is divorced and has an adult bent Pat Jones, that incentives 3-year-old granddaughter. While she does support additional As far as closing the state’s Jones. She said she had managed daughter, Carol Yvonne, who is rather than mandates are the best During her short time in the state monies for the Low Income budget gap, the legislature must two campaigns for her husband moving back to Maine from way to accomplish consolidation. Legislature she has worked on a bill Homeowner Energy Assistance “examine every department,” he when he ran for the House. Florida. “We are doing a knee-jerk reac- that would allow dental hygienists Program, and also wants to help res- said and acknowledged that bud- The eldest of 10 children, Jones Dyar owns Meadowbrook tion to the governor balancing his to set up private practices in order idents who are “just over the eligi- get-cutting is “a tough, tough task, grew up in Windsor and Augusta, Consulting and does business and budget,” Dyar said. He added that to increase the availability of basic bility line” for the program, she but you’ve got to sit down and do graduating from Cony High School. economic development consulting closing some schools is “the hid- dental care. She is also sponsoring a favors helping people weatherize that.” She later attended dental hygiene for companies and towns both here den agenda” of the consolidation measure that would require their homes to reduce their use of oil Dyar added that he thinks too school at New York State and abroad. He also advises clients plan. MaineCare and private insurers to rather than just helping them pay for much money goes to administra- University, received her bachelor’s on alternative energy systems. He While he believes that “consol- reimburse hygienists in private more fuel. tion, rather than being put to work degree in public health at the is a certified Maine assessor. idation is good if it’s done right,” practice. With regard to reducing the to help state residents. In order to University of Maine at Farmington In addition, he directs the he thinks a task force should be Jones said the state’s Dirigo state’s estimated $400 million bud- bring the state’s balance sheet in and earned a master’s degree in Thomas M. Teague Biotechnology assembled to examine the current Health program covers people who get shortfall, she said, “I will not line, he said, “we need to put public administration at the Center of Maine in Fairfield and plan and its consequences for those would not otherwise have health support more human services cuts,” everything on the table,” cutting in University of Maine at Orono. serves on the board of the Western affected by it. Then the legislature insurance. She opposes the referen- citing the $67 million already cut some places and possibly redirect- She worked for 24 years for the Kennebec Regional Development should either fix the existing plan dum to repeal the taxes on beer, from human services programs in ing funding in others. Maine Bureau of Health, rising to Corporation, which he helped start. or write new legislation. wine, soda and health insurance that the last year by her committee. A Clean Elections candidate, become a program manager in com- He also helped start the Somerset Implementation should begin with are earmarked to help support Apart from that, however, she said, Dyar said he wants to serve in the munity health. That job gave her the County Economic Development a pilot project, he believes, to see Dirigo. “All things are on the table. House because, “I think I can be a opportunity to work with state leg- Corporation and sits on the board, how the revised plan works. “It is appropriate to add a little Nothing is sacred.” voice for District 83.” He added islators on health policy, an interest and is the founder and a director of He suggested some ways tax onto these items,” she said, One possible measure she men- that he believes the knowledge he that has continued with her service the Mount Vernon Community schools could save money: have “because they contribute to health tioned was going to a voluntary has acquired through his interna- on the Health and Human Services Partnership. the state buy heating oil for all the care problems we have here in the four-day workweek for state tional business dealings can be committee in the Maine House of He feels strongly that the taxes schools, using its economies of state.” employees to reduce fuel expendi- helpful to state government. Representatives. on beer, wine, soda and health scale to get a better price, and have On the petitions to be submitted tures. “Bringing business acumen to Jones chaired the Maine Dental insurance passed to support the several school districts share one in October to repeal the state’s A Clean Elections candidate, Augusta is a very good thing,” he Access Coalition for a time and Dirigo Health program should be superintendent. school-district consolidation plan, she said, “I have always been in said, adding that he would like to remains a member of that group. repealed. In fact, he went even far- Regarding how the state’s poor she said, it is “unfortunate” that public service.” She said one reason see more people with business She has also been active in her local ther by stating they “should never may fare with high fuel prices this consolidation was “mandated from she wants to remain in the legisla- experience in the state legislature. PTA and has served on the school have been passed in the first place. winter, he said, “I don’t think we’ll on high,” adding that she would ture is because she believes “the He also thinks legislators should board for SAD 10 and District 42. We don’t need taxes passed at mid- allow anybody to freeze to death,” have preferred a voluntary, incen- most effective way to improve the call on outside experts more often. In addition, she has chaired the night.” adding that the price of oil is now tive approach. However, she sup- quality of life and preserve the envi- “If we’re truly going to survive, Mount Vernon youth alcohol pre- He said he is not sure if the coming down. ports consolidation, believing that it ronment is through policy-making.” government can’t be the answer,” vention program (Alive and Well), state’s school consolidation plan However, he is skeptical about will inevitably save money, as well Jones added that, during their he concluded. is a past member of the Healthy should be repealed, but agreed programs to add insulation to as allow students from smaller, 42-year marriage, she and her hus- Futures Coalition and a current poorer districts to benefit from lan- member of the Mount Vernon band had cherished principles of guage programs and other offerings public service. Community Partnership. they have not previously had access She has two adult sons who “When I lost him, I wanted to to. continue those principles that he grew up in central Maine: Michael, She added that the savings who lives in Farmington, and and I held dear in trying to serve accrued from consolidation should other people,” she said. Miller says school costs will Stewart is proponent of go up without consolidation school voucher system By Sarah E. Reynolds and materials suppliers who [email protected] volunteer to tighten up the SOMERVILLE — Lisa District 52 homes of those who cannot Miller is the incumbent repre- afford to pay for it themselves. senting District 52 in the state He suggested existing social House of Representatives, Chelsea, part of Jefferson, Somerville, service agencies that adminis- which includes Chelsea, part of ter the energy assistance pro- Jefferson, Somerville, Washington, Whitefield and Hibberts Gore gram could qualify applicants Washington, Whitefield and the for the help and connect them unorganized territory of the Legislature to appropriate By Sarah E. Reynolds with contractors willing to do [email protected] Hibberts Gore. The 57-year-old more money for heating assis- the work. WASHINGTON — John Democrat is running for a third tance and home weatherization. This type of local solution, Stewart, 42, is challenging term and serves on the Health She favors emphasizing weather- he said, is preferable to incumbent Lisa Miller for the and Human Services ization and helping residents expanding federal and state District 52 House seat, which Committee. improve the efficiency of their programs. includes Chelsea, part of Miller grew up in California, furnaces. She added that there are Regarding how to close the Jefferson, Somerville, where she graduated from high a number of private-sector and state’s estimated $400 million Washington, Whitefield and the school and received her bache- Lisa Miller nonprofit efforts to provide help John Stewart budget gap, Stewart said the unorganized territory of lor’s degree from Stanford to those in need, as well. Legislature should ask Mainers Hibberts Gore. University. She subsequently She said her own district has On balancing the state budget, He added that the legislature “what is their preferred spend- The Republican is a native earned her master’s degree in done good work establishing a Miller said legislators will almost should either “fix” Dirigo ing priority, and then cut of Hawaii, and remembers sail- public health from the University regional school district to com- certainly look again at the Health or scrap it. everything else.” ing the South Pacific in a boat of Michigan. ply with the state’s consolidation Department of Health and Stewart said the school con- He said legislators must his father built when he was She and her husband, Roy, plan, and she favors retaining the Human Services, even though solidation plan now being reduce spending and shrink the growing up. As a youngster, he came to Maine in 1977 when he law. An important reason to keep “we’ve been cutting that depart- implemented is a “very con- size of state government. The also lived for a time in Japan. was a resident at Maine Medical the consolidation plan as written, ment for six years.” She said fused issue,” and that the cur- state should realize that “tax- Stewart holds a general edu- Center in Portland. They have she said, is that “we’re looking another possible area to examine rent plan is a “one-size-fits-all” ing people who can’t get a cation diploma and served four lived in Somerville since 1980. at a ‘Perfect Storm’ of financing is the “hundreds of millions of solution that is not workable, decent-paying job is not the years in the Navy, where he Their three sons are Nathan, 26, problems for schools,” with dollars in tax credits and incen- and should be revisited. He is way” to expand the state’s studied propulsion engineering who lives in Seattle; Brian, 23, drastically increasing costs to tives that haven’t been looked at not sure if it is necessary to economy. Maine needs to as a machinist’s mate. He later who is a graduate student at Yale educate a declining number of to see if they’ve made a differ- repeal the plan, but citizens’ attract more businesses to the received a disabling injury University; and Terry, 20, a stu- students. ence.” Acknowledging that with confusion and worry must be state because “we can’t all live while serving aboard a subma- dent at the New England Institute She said she doesn’t expect such a large deficit, the cuts will addressed. He said people are on waitresses’ salaries,” he rine. of Art in Boston. consolidation will result in sig- “have to be sprinkled all the way afraid they will be “forced” to said. He and his wife, Cynthia Miller has been the health nificant property tax decreases, around.” send their children to a particu- Stewart is a Clean Election Rosen, came to Maine 11 years officer in Somerville for the last but it will “mitigate the funding “I hope we do not look to cut lar school. candidate and said he probably ago, and have lived in 25 years, has chaired the town’s crisis,” allowing school budgets any more in the school budgets,” Stewart, who home-schools wouldn’t be able to run for Washington for the past 10 school board, and serves on the to rise more slowly than they oth- she said. his son and plans to do the office if it wasn’t for public years. They have a 10-year-old reorganization planning commit- erwise would. Regarding her desire to serve same with his daughter once financing. He is running daughter, Hannah, and a 17- tee for her area. “If you don’t vote for consoli- in the House, she said she didn’t she finishes sixth grade, because he said he has “innov- year-old son, Noah. Miller opposes repealing the dation,” she said, “you will see “grow up thinking I was going to believes that “school choice is ative ideas and a new way of The couple run a farm stand taxes on beer, wine, soda and costs continuing to spiral be a legislator.” However, the an absolute necessity for par- looking at things” and is will- and fish farm, where they raise health insurance earmarked for upward.” advantage of the state’s small ents.” He would like to see the ing to work with people of dif- tilapia. So far, Stewart has not the support of Dirigo Health. She Looking at the law in a more population is that ordinary peo- state work towards a school fering views. been involved in public ser- said she wants to support the positive light, she also believes ple without large amounts of voucher program. Stewart believes it is impor- vice. Dirigo program, and added that that “there are quality education financial backing can run suc- As for the possible problems tant to change the way state Stewart favors repealing the the bill authorizing those taxes possibilities inherent in consoli- cessfully for that governmental faced by low-income Mainers government works because taxes on alcohol, soda and also includes market reforms that dation,” especially for Maine’s body. trying to heat their homes this people are angry. health insurance that support will reduce health insurance pre- many small, rural towns. She “I have always had a strong winter, he said the Low Income “They’re disgusted with Dirigo Health, and called the miums for self-insured individu- added that the consolidation law commitment to volunteerism and Homeowner Energy Assistance Augusta,” he said. manner in which the taxes als. Besides that, she said an preserves school choice, though public service,” she said. “If you Program is “a necessary tool to He added that he hopes to were passed “pretty egre- independent commission recom- parents and school boards must think certain things need to hap- help people out.” He added promote greater opportunity in gious.” mended supporting Dirigo Health advocate to maintain it. pen in our state government, get that the state should be the state because he’s afraid his “You don’t throw good through “broad-based taxes,” As for Mainers who may have in there and make it happen.” “exploring every opportunity children “will probably leave money after bad,” he said. rather than the insurance offset a hard time paying for heating oil Miller is a publicly funded to weatherize houses” by offer- the state if something doesn’t “The program was failing.” payment previously used. this winter, she said she expects Clean Election candidate. ing tax credits to contactors change.” Oct. 30, 2008 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Page 9 U.S. Senate Allen says Maine needs change from Collins rests reputation Bush, Collins failed policies on independent voice By Stephen Betts against trade agreements that have By Lynda Clancy she said. [email protected] resulted in job losses to manufac- [email protected] Collins does not, however, envi- ROCKLAND — The country's turing companies in Maine while Susan Collins is running for a sion Bath Iron Works shifting some middle class is the engine that Collins has supported them. She third term serving Maine as U.S. of its labor and resources into manu- keeps the economy going and has also backed tax packages that senator, and if she beats Tom Allen, facturing equipment for alternative Congressman Tom Allen said he have given breaks to companies she will embark on her 13th year in energy, as some have suggested. wants to serve in the Senate to that export jobs to other countries. Washington, D.C. “BIW is an extraordinary ship- reverse eight years of catering to the Collins has done a good job of Collin defines herself as a politi- yard, and I do believe it can expand rich at the expense of the middle creating an image that she is a mid- cian who crosses the aisle to accom- the line of work,“ she said. That class. dle-of-the-road senator but in reali- plish goals. Bipartisanship is central includes building more ships for the Allen, a Democrat from ty she is tied at the hips with the to her campaign, and she relishes the U.S. Coast Guard and working with Portland, is seeking one of Maine's failed policies of Bush, Allen said. job; since arriving at the U.S. the University of Maine and two U.S. Senate seats. He is chal- Allen said he supported the eco- Capitol, she has missed not one vote, Hogdon Yachts to build smaller lenging Republican Sen. Susan nomic rescue plan not to bail out 3,500 and counting. boats for the Navy Seals. Collins on the Nov. 4 ballot. Wall Street but to protect the “I feel strongly that we should be “There’s potential in that regard Allen said he has a basic philo- American economy. He said he in session right now working on to partner with smaller boatyards,” sophical difference with Collins expects there will be difficult eco- these [financial and economic] said Collins. “Whether BIW wants who has served for 12 years in the Tom Allen nomic times ahead but expects the issues,” said Collins, who is cam- Susan Collins to broaden its scope beyond ship- Senate. united effort by world leaders will paigning in Maine. “I voted against building, I’m not sure.” “Susan Collins and George is the highest I have ever seen,” he free up credit and help businesses. adjourning for August because we If she wins, Collins intends to Collins voted in favor of a recent Bush believe the way to strengthen said. He noted that Maine's economy is hadn’t resolved everything.” resume work on a financial regula- appropriation bill that bundled in a the economy is to give breaks to the The United States must focus on tied closely to the world's, noting Collins maintains that progress is tion bill. measure to reopen coastal waters to super rich and that prosperity will an energy program that promotes that lobstermen are having difficul- forged at the center and that she is “I am convinced we need to oil drilling, but she qualifies that she trickle down," Allen said. "I believe alternative, renewable energy rather ty selling lobsters to Canadian Maine's independent voice. modernize financial regulation, belongs to the Gang of 20, 10 the middle class is the engine for than an emphasis on oil, he said. processors because Canadian That independent streak surfaced which hasn’t been sufficient to pre- Republicans and 10 Democrats, the economy.” The country must also work processors have been unable to get when she issued a statement about vent a crisis such as we now have,” who are now crafting a bill that sets He said that Collins has support- toward universal access to health continued financing from Icelandic the McCain campaign's automated she said. the rules for such drilling. ed President Bush's tax cuts in care. He said his plan is similar to banks. "robo calls" to Maine citizens, tying Investment banks must be regu- She favors establishing a 25- to 2001, 2003 and 2006, has support- Democratic presidential candidate Collins frequently cites both her presidential candidate Barack lated like community banks, said 50-mile buffer, for coastal areas, and ed Vice President Dick Cheney's Barack Obama's. People can keep bipartisanship and her record of not Obama to William Ayers, a former Collins, and her bill will strengthen maintaining the drilling moratorium energy plan, and supported the war their current insurance if they want having missed a roll call vote in her member of the Weather that regulation for safety and finan- on Georges Bank. in Iraq. Allen opposed each of these to or can join a program similar to 12 years in the Senate, Allen noted, Underground. cial soundness, she said. Credit Nationally, Collins favors revisit- actions. the Medicare program. Businesses but he said both have little rele- “When I learned about the robo default swaps no longer fall through ing nuclear power; as for nuclear He noted that the 2003 tax cut will contribute to the cost and there vance. He said many of the failed call I was appalled,” said Collins. “I the regulatory cracks and mortgage plants in Maine, she wants more will mean that a person earning will be assistance for individuals Bush policies were approved by told staff we should put out a state- origination practices will be details. She cites France, with its nearly $1 million annually will who are unable to afford it and tax both Republicans and some ment that those calls have no place reformed, she said. power generated almost 70 percent receive a tax cut of $16,400 next credits for small businesses. Democrats. in Maine politics.” Collins said she wants Maine’s from nuclear plants, as a model. year. A person earning $40,000 will The United States must set a “You can be bipartisan and Collins grew up in Caribou, and economy to be strengthened by “It can be safe, but we still face receive $22. timetable for leaving Iraq, Allen wrong,” he said. established her political career with alternative energy development and challenges,” she said. “Community “That's not even enough to said. He said even Iraqi leaders And in terms of the 100 percent Maine's U.S. Sen. William Cohen production, which in turn will create support is necessary.” pay for a half tank of gas,” Allen want the United States to set a voting record, Allen noted that in during the 1980s. She then joined jobs. Besides that, there is the waste said. timetable. He said Bush may soon school one's attendance is noted on Maine Gov. John McKernan's “Maine does have the potential disposal issue. The veteran member of the U.S. agree to such a schedule for with- rank cards but grades are deter- administration as commissioner of to be a leader in alternative energy,” “We need solutions in both areas, House of Representatives said he drawing troops. mined by a person's performance. professional and financial regula- she said, citing University of Maine but as a country, we need to take a would work in the Senate on a “That leaves Susan Collins and Allen said he has a 98 percent vot- tion, was New England's regional research under way with Maine second look [at nuclear power],” number of programs to help the John McCain as opponents to a ing record and the few votes he has administrator for the Small Business Maritime Academy to develop an Collins said. middle class. He acknowledged timetable,” he said. missed have mostly been because Administration in 1992, and in 1994 underwater test bed to evaluate tidal Collins' 10-point energy plan, that this will be made much more Allen voted against the bill in of the death of a family member, his ran for governor herself. turbines, funding for which, she which is posted at her Web site, difficult by the financial crisis fac- 2002 to give the president autho- wife's cancer, and his daughter's After losing that race, she said, she shepherded through Senate includes the development of public ing the world, a problem he said is rization to invade Iraq. wedding. worked with Husson College as appropriations. transportation, subsidizing fares, the result of the president's failed The Democratic congressman “Maine and the country would executive director of the Center for Collins also considers offshore encouraging employers to assist economic program, a program sup- also cited trade deals as another have been a lot better off if Sen. Family Business but returned to pol- wind power a potential resource to their employees with fares, and ported by Collins. area where he and Collins are dif- Collins had missed a vote or two, or itics, winning Cohen's senatorial seat boost, and hopes to see Maine be a “The level of economic anxiety ferent. Allen said he has voted voted differently,” Allen said. in 1996. leader in manufacturing windmills, see COLLINS page 10 U.S. House Chellie Pingree Charlie Summers

By Stephen Betts diplomatic alternatives,” she said By Stephen Betts said, Congress should make 100 [email protected] of Iraq. [email protected] percent of money spent on health NORTH HAVEN — The Democratic candidate said SCARBOROUGH — insurance deductible on the Democratic congressional candi- there should be an increase in Congress needs to immediately income tax forms. He said a fam- date Chellie Pingree said she money for grants and low-interest lift its ban on new leases for oil ily that spends $874 a month on wants to focus on national poli- college loans. There also needs to companies to drill, said insurance could see its tax bill cut cies that will create and protect be more oversight of the college Republican Charlie Summers, by $3,000 if this proposal were jobs, make the country energy loan industry. Tuition can be made and if he is elected that would be approved. self-sufficient and provide uni- more affordable if the federal gov- his top priority. He said small businesses versal health care. ernment would also increase the Summers is seeking the First should also be allowed to form an Pingree is seeking the U.S. financial backing of public univer- District Congressional seat that association to purchase insur- House seat, representing Maine’s sities. She also supports tax credits represents a stretch of Maine ance, and this would make it first Congressional district. She is for college tuition. from Camden to Kittery. He will more affordable. being challenged by Republican Pingree served on the North be on the Nov. 4 ballot along with Additional money should be Charles Summers. Haven school board and said the Democrat Chellie Pingree of set aside for college aid, he said. Pingree is a resident of North federal government must pay its North Haven. The seat is held by He said such a plan can be Haven. If elected, she would be the share for federally mandated pro- Democratic U.S. Rep. Tom Allen achieved even with the 2001 tax first Democratic woman to repre- Chellie Pingree grams such as special education. who is running for the U.S. Charlie Summers cuts being made permanent. He sent Maine in Congress. She Pingree said the tax cuts ush- Senate. said if taxes remain law, more would also be the first resident of ing people with no insurance ered in by President George W. The Scarborough Republican how and why we got into Iraq,” jobs will be created and the gov- an island to represent Maine in waiting until they are much sick- Bush need to be rolled back. She said oil prices dropped when Summers said, but we now must ernment will get more money. Congress. er to seek medical care. said his tax policies have allowed President George W. Bush lifted work on a second surge — a Summers served for two years The North Haven Democrat The insurance companies and the wealthy to take advantage of the executive order that prohibits peace surge. as the New England regional served Knox County for eight pharmaceutical companies have the growing economy while the drilling in areas where there are The Iraqi army has taken over director for the Small Business years in the Maine Senate (1993- been the major roadblocks to uni- middle class has struggled. no leases. control of a majority of provinces Administration before deploying 2000). She served as majority versal care, she noted. More investment in the coun- “If Congress follows suit, we and he expects it to have full con- to Iraq for a year. The U.S. Navy leader in her final two terms. She In a Sept. 9 interview, Pingree try’s infrastructure including will see a similar drop,” he said. trol by April. The United States Reserve public affairs officer ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. said that the lack of oversight of roads, bridges, public transporta- Summers said the issue of should be able to pull its ground returned from Iraq in May. Senate in 2002, falling to incum- the credit market was trouble- tion and broadband service is drilling is the biggest difference troops out within 18 to 24 months He previously served as state bent Republican Susan Collins. some and had led to the worsen- important. between him and Pingree. while maintaining Air Force director for U.S. Sen. Olympia Pingree then served as national ing financial situation in the Tax credits should be provid- The Republican said he sup- bases. Snowe, managing her offices president and chief executive country. She said the salaries and ed for wind power projects, she ports investing in alternative The country needs to send in across the state. officer of Common Cause, a citi- buyouts for the chief executive said. energies but that the country is the Peace Corps to rebuild the Summers was elected twice to zen organization that fights for officers of some of these compa- Pingree said expanding areas not yet able to operate with those country, he said. the state Senate (1990 and 1992), open and accountable govern- nies were shocking. where oil companies can drill sources. He said additional “We’ve won the war. The representing Scarborough, Saco, ment, from 2003 until 2007 when Pingree issued a statement on should not be considered until the drilling would provide a bridge issue now is winning the hearts Old Orchard Beach and Dayton. she decided to seek the Maine Sept. 24 saying that "Congress companies look at drilling in the until that point is reached — and minds of the Iraqis,” he said. Earlier, he worked as manager Congressional seat. and the administration must act millions of acres they lease now about 25 years, he estimated. The same model of success in of the Bangor Motor Inn and then Pingree was instrumental in quickly to stabilize our financial but do not use. He said nuclear power needs Iraq needs to be used in the South Portland Motor Inn. He enacting a law that would force system, but also must hold those The United States must to be in the mix of alternative Afghanistan, he said. also ran a convenience store in pharmaceutical companies to on Wall Street who contributed to become energy self-sufficient, energies that have to become Summers said he is opposed Biddeford. negotiate their price of prescription this mess accountable. Any she said, and stop sending money mainstream sources of energy. He to a single-payer government The Scarborough man is mar- drugs sold to the state. The phar- bailout plan must limit executive overseas for purchasing oil. She said France safely operates health-care system, arguing that ried with two children, Tricia, maceutical companies waged a pay and cancel stock options so said the massive subsidies nuclear power plants and deals it would take away choice from who works in New York, and col- lengthy legal battle but the law was failed CEOs who abused the pub- received by the gas, oil and coal with the waste issue by recycling patients and doctors. Instead, he lege student Chas. eventually upheld by the courts. lic trust cannot take our money companies should be ended with the nuclear materials. The war in Iraq must be with them into retirement. A investments made for clean, The tax cuts signed into law ended, she said. The war is cost- bailout must also include protec- renewable energy development. by Bush in 2001 need to be made ing Americans $400 million each tions for taxpayers, including a Pingree said nuclear power permanent, he said. day. That money could provide plan to pay back the American would not be on the top of her list “The last thing we should do health-care coverage for every public and a way for homeowners since there are many safer alter- is raise taxes,” Summers said, For more election man, woman and child in the struggling with their mortgages natives. adding that while Democrats say United States, she said. She has to negotiate better terms." The North Haven woman start- they only plan to increase taxes noted that the war and lack of In regard to Iraq, Pingree said ed a business on the island in the on the wealthy, it has a way of fil- health care are at the root of the United States should pull out 1980s, North Island Designs, that tering down to lower income tax- its troops in 12 to 18 months. coverage, visit us much of the country’s economic produced yarn and knitting kits. payers. problems. She noted that the cost Pingree said there is very little She now owns an inn and Summers said he would have of health care has been a tremen- reason for preemptive military restaurant on the island — Nebo preferred a more diplomatic dous burden on businesses. action. She said in any future Lodge. approach before the Iraq war but Universal health-care cover- request for military action by a Pingree has three children — if he had been given the same on the Web at: age is needed, Pingree said. This president she would want to Asa, Cecily and Hannah. Hannah intelligence information that was can be accomplished by expand- make sure the information was is a state representative from given to Congress, he also would ing the Medicare program. accurate, and that more countries North Haven who plans to seek have supported the president hav- Universal care would save money and the United Nations were on the speaker of the House position ing the authority to go to war. the United States' side. capital.villagesoup.com in the long run by providing pre- if Democrats retain their majority “We can’t do anything about ventative care as opposed to hav- “We had not exhausted all our in the House. Page 10 CAPITAL AREA VOTER GUIDE Oct. 30, 2008

needs to set the stage for a signifi- • COLLINS cant, but responsible, draw-down of combat troops. State Referendums from page 9 She and Nelson wrote a propos- al to require Bush to immediately authorizing funding to build energy transition the mission of troops efficient transport, such as clean away from combat operations and buses and light rail. focus on counter-terrorism opera- Beverages, gambling, clean water She supports an east-west high- tions, border security and the train- way from the Canadian Maritimes ing of Iraqi forces. through Maine to Quebec and "This change would allow tens of upstate New York and developing a questions face state voters thousands of our combat troops to trade corridor with Canada. start the process of coming home and By Stephen Betts rent 25 cents to 54 cents per gal- age will generate $75 million for small businesses through HEALTH CARE would demonstrate that our military [email protected] commitment to Iraq is neither open- lon. Manufacturers who produce annually in additional taxes with expansion of the Dirigo program; Collins opposes cuts to Medicare Three statewide referendums ended nor unconditional," she said. fewer than 100,000 barrels of $35 million from paid health-care 2 percent for municipal revenue home health and hospice spending will face voters on Nov. 4, includ- Collins believes more troops are malt beverage a year would be claims, and nearly $30 million on sharing; another 2 percent for a and wants increased support for ing a possible repeal of a bever- needed in Afghanistan to counter the exempt as would wine makers nearly every nonalcoholic drink prepaid college fund for Maine "compassionate, cost-effective alter- age tax package to pay for the Taliban, but said the U.S. reserve who produce less than 20,000 rather than plain water. Another residents; 2 percent for subsidiz- natives to institutional care," such as Dirigo health insurance program. and national guard troops are over- gallons annually. The tax would nearly $11 million would be gen- ing prescription drugs for the home health and hospice. She Question 1 was brought about used. Having additional troops in be $4 per gallon on syrup used to erated from the tax on beer and elderly; 2 percent for rural road believes the Medicare benefit by a petition drive by opponents Afghanistan is a burden that should make soft drinks and 42 cents per wine. improvements; 2 percent for the should be expanded to include more of the tax. The question asks, “Do be borne by other NATO countries, gallon on bottled soft drinks and A yes vote repeals the taxes. Maine Community College preventive care, and encourages you want to reject the parts of a she said. drinks produced using powder. The legislators who oppose System; and 1 percent each for health information technologies. new law that change the method A group called “Fed Up with the repeal say the increase is local school aid, a renewable When it comes to health-care of funding Maine’s Dirigo Health GOVERNMENT Taxes” led the petition drive. small and targets items that are energy fund, the NextGen tuition plans, she and Sen. Mary Landrieu Program through charging health When asked about what some Members of the coalition include not healthy and therefore costs program, to raise the minimum introduced legislation to create new insurance companies a fixed fee call a culture of ethical failure in the Maine State Chamber of society more in terms of obesity wage to $7.70 in 2008 and $8.40 tax credits for small businesses to on paid claims and adding taxes government, Collins acknowledged Commerce, the Maine Restaurant and alcoholism. in 2009 (or if the Legislature make health insurance more afford- to malt liquor, wine and soft there is a problem. Association, the Maine Grocers Rep. Wendy Pieh of Bremen refuses to increase the wage that able and to create refundable tax drinks?” “I’m very concerned about the Association, the Maine noted that the tax on tobacco money would also go to Dirigo), credits for low- and middle-income The Legislature approved and erosion of public confidence in pub- Innkeepers Association, the products is much greater and was water quality improvement pro- families. the governor signed in the spring lic office,” she said. Maine Oil Dealers Association, enacted for the same reason, to jects, the Land for Maine’s Future She doesn't agree with McCain's a bill that pays for Dirigo through She said she pursues a creed the Maine Automobile Dealers offset some of the cost that the Fund, public access television, plan to eliminate the current tax the tax on paid health claims as articulated by Margaret Chase Association, the Maine Beverage state incurs for diseases created creative economy projects, and exclusion of employer payments for well as a new tax on malt liquor, Smith, one that hangs in her office Association, the Maine Beer and by tobacco. gambling addiction services. health coverage, and she has doubts and hikes in taxes on beer and and says: "... public service must be Wine Wholesalers Association, Another 2 percent would go to that Obama's plan would be all that wine. CASINO more than doing a job efficiently NFIB Maine, the Portland the community where the casino effective. The House voted 75-64 for the Regional Chamber of Commerce, The second question is also is located and 1 percent would go and honestly. It must be a complete bill and the Senate voted 18-17. the New England Convenience the result of a petition drive. This to Oxford County. IRAQ AND dedication to the people and to the Local legislators were split along Store Association, Maine one asks, “Do you want to allow a This totals 36 percent of the AFGHANISTAN nation with full recognition that party lines with Democrats sup- Chapter, and the Associated certain Maine company to have gross income. every human being is entitled to porting it and Republicans Builders and Contractors. the only casino in Maine, to be The referendum would man- Collins, along with Sens. Ben courtesy and consideration, that opposed. The group collected more than located in Oxford County, if part date that Evergreen be the only Nelson and Evan Bayh, introduced constructive criticism is not only to The tax on wine manufactur- 72,000 signatures, well above the of the revenue is used to fund spe- casino in the state for the next 10 a provision to reduce American tax- be expected, but sought, that smears ers would go from the current 30 55,087 needed to get the repeal cific state programs?” years. payer burden for military expenses are not only to be expected, but cents per gallon to 65 cents. The question on the ballot. Slot machines are operating at in Iraq in the 2009 Defense fought, that honor is to be earned but tax on manufacturers of malt bev- Newell Auger, the spokesman Hollywood Slots in Bangor but CLEAN WATER Authorization Act. The provision not bought." erages would rise from the cur- for the group, said the tax pack- the Oxford County plan would be The final state referendum requires Iraqis to assume responsi- She regards setting a personal for a full-fledged casino. asks residents, “Do you favor a bility for paying salaries, training example as highly important and The proposal would allow a $3.4 million bond issue to support and equipping Iraqi security forces said she believes in serving the peo- company named Evergreen drinking water programs, to sup- and the Sons of Iraq. ple of Maine with integrity. Mountain Enterprises LLC to port the construction of waste- Last week, President Bush issued "I’ve always put the interests of operate slot machines, card water treatment facilities and to a signing statement arguing against Maine people first,” Collins said. U.S. President some of the requirements that would games, roulette, video games and leverage $17 million in other She reasserted her centrist posi- other games of chance. funds? inhibit the president’s job. tion and said: “The partisan rancor Americans will be asked to Angeles, Calif. Her running The casino would be limited to This question would fund the Collins said that the White and gridlock do not serve the people choose a new United States mate is Rosa Clemente of 1,500 slot machines. state’s revolving loan fund that House did not object to two of the of this country well.” President this November and Charlotte, N.C. The facility would be open to communities can apply to for most important provisions, but she Collins supports her fellow the field includes four candi- • Ralph Nader as an inde- anyone 19 years old and older. low-interest loans. Every $1 of is concerned that the signing state- Republican Party presidential nomi- dates. pendent from Winsted, Conn. Of the money taken in by the state money raised will attract $5 ment was issued at all. nee John McCain, and said Sarah They are: His running mate is Matt casino, 5 percent would go to a in federal money, according to the Signing statements are unconsti- Palin is qualified to be his vice pres- • Republican John McCain, Gonzalez of San Francisco. student loan pool; 4 percent for Maine Department of tutional, she said, adding that Bush ident. The recent vice presidential a U.S. senator from Arizona. • Democrat Barack the research and development of Environmental Protection. “doesn’t have the right to selectively debate answered any questions His running mate is Gov. Sarah Obama, a U.S. senator from an east-west highway; 3 percent No specific projects are target- ignore parts of it [the act].” She said about Palin’s ability, said Collins. Palin of Wasilla, Alaska. Illinois. His running mate is to the University of Maine for ed for the money. Communities the three senators would be writing But that doesn’t mean there might • Green Party candidate U.S. Sen. Joe Biden of biofuel research; 3 percent to must apply in a competitive Bush a letter strongly objecting to have been stronger candidates. Cynthia McKinney of Los Wilmington, Del. make health care more affordable process to the DEP. his signing statement. “Olympia Snowe would have Collins said the United States been good,” said Collins. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT Democratic Candidates “Putting People First!” Barack Obama for President of United States Joe Biden for Vice-President of United States Tom Allen for US Senate Chellie Pingree for US Congress, First District Mike Michaud for US Congress, Second District Candidates for State Legislature Candidate Senate District Towns Sharon Benoit 21 Litchfield, Manchester, Chelsea, Farmingdale, Gardiner, Hallowell, Monmouth, Pittston, Randolph, West Gardiner, Winthrop Elizabeth Mitchell 24 Augusta, China, Oakland, Sidney, Vassalboro Peter Rines 20 Windsor Ann Woloson 18 Readfield, Rome, Vienna, Wayne, Belgrade, Fayette, Mt. Vernon House District Lisa Miller 52 Chelsea Anna Blodgett 56 Most of Augusta east of the Kennebec Patsy Crockett 57 Most of Augusta west of the Kennebec Pat Karush 58 Vassalboro, Windsor, part of north Augusta Stephen Hanley 59 Gardiner, Randolph Sharon Treat 79 Farmingdale, Hallowell, West Gardiner Nancy Smith 80 Litchfield, Monmouth Peggy Dwyer 81 Leeds, Wayne Priscilla Jenkins 82 Winthrop, Readfield Edward Finch 84 Fairfield, Rome, Smithfield Pat Jones 83 Belgrade, Fayette, Manchester, Vienna, Mt. Vernon Candidate for County Commissioner Beverly Daggett Augusta, Chelsea, Randolph

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