Let's all just get along, and get the State of Maine moving forward. Looking forward to new private sector jobs and having Maine's infrastructure rebuilt. Can we start with rt 11 from rt 302 to Lewiston?
I live in the area and frankly, enjoy watching the training flights. Sure it's noisy, but that's the sound of freedom. And no, there aren't any "just over tree top level" flights, well unless you're on top of Pleasant Mountain. And yes, when I was in the Marines, I did get to hear all sorts of aircraft.
I live in the area and frankly, enjoy watching the training flights. Sure it's noisy, but that's the sound of freedom. And no, there aren't any "just over tree top level" flights, well unless you're on top of Pleasant Mountain. And yes, when I was in the Marines, I did get to hear all sorts of aircraft.
The problem is with the legal definition of fraud vs what the common person calls fraud. It would be more accurate to use the term "misuse" What is really needed are case workers assigned to high use patients to help them manage their use. Too many end up in ED's for non-emergent reasons that can and should be handled by their PCP.
The interesting thing about narcotic use and abuse is the way the brain responds. This has been clearly demonstrated that the brain responds very differently to narcotics when in pain as opposed to wanting the narcotic. As you point out, the problem starts after the pain has resolved, which for an injury, depending on the extent of the injury, should only be for a very short time.
I hope you don't have to endure another robbery and I wish the pharmacies would consider more security because this problem is not going away anytime soon.
I find it very difficult to blame the House for alllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll the financial woes of the US, seeing that the Democrats had the House, Senate and the Presidency for a full 2 years and did NOTHING to fix the financial crisis. I am tired of hearing "oh it takes time." When you have all 3 branches, you can do what ever you like including passing a 1800 page law that Mrs. Pelosi said, "we have to pass it to read it."
Instead of constantly passing these little extensions, it's time for Congress to fix the problem instead of just keep "kicking the can down the road." I'm part of the 53%. I will accept a tax increase as long as it is part of a plan for substantial decreased spending.
Notice how quickly everyone turns on the father. Mom in rehab, mom has had no contact "because they don't get along," in rehab for drug abuse, judge gives custody to the father, "potentially abusive situation," etc. Disappointed that everyone assumes the father had something to do with it, yet mom is on national TV for it. Maybe someone from mom's recent drug past has something to do with it...Courts are loath to give children to the father unless it is extreme circumstances. Oh, and kids do break bones being kids, unless you look at every kid with a cast as an abuse victim. Whoever had a hand in this will burn in hell regardless.
instead of a set of lights, I believe a round about like that have been installed on Rt 202 in Gorham would be a much better idea. It would continue the traffic flow but would significantly slow the rate of speed, but allow traffic to flow smoothly. A traffic like, especially at 5 way light, would significantly disrupt traffic flow.
Everyone seems to be blaming the habitat disturbance and not coyotes. It that were the case, why is the herd in Southern ME doing the best? Here in Western Maine, you can hear coyotes celebrating a kill almost every night, and our herd is getting smaller too. I believe the hard winters play a role as well, but coyotes impact cannot be ignored.
I'm a little concerned that law enforcement has not been officially involved in this until this time. I don't think a single Animal Control officer stands a chance of figuring this out by himself.
I wasn't aware that St. Joe's has a medical program. According to their website, they only offer bachelor (sp), masters and post master certificates. So, what's the rest of the story?
Let's see, 2 healthcare reps, 1 pharmacy rep, 1 health care advocate, 2 insurance company reps, 1 lobbyist, 1 business rep and Allumbaugh, don't know what he represents. Seems like a pretty balanced committee with reps present to advocate for patient care, and cost containment.
This represents the person, often self employed, who doesn't make anything for a pay check, but has all the toys, and doesn't pay income taxes. I'd love for the system to have a method in place to place value on possessions, ie toys, such as the $40k pickup truck that belongs to the business. No different than the guy, out west I believe, who won 2 million in the lottery and was going to continue on public aide because his winnings were not considered income by law.
Anyone who operates while using a controlled substance should be charged with, wait for it,...operating under the influence of a controlled substance. Shouldn't matter if it is methadone, oxycodone, pot or alcohol.
Working in health care, I have seen this type of behavior over and over. "Can you write a prescription for the ibuprofen? I don't have any money." But the stench of cigarette smoke is overpowering. If they chose to spend their money on cigarettes instead of medicine, why do you think they wouldn't skip the presents?
I think I have an idea for idiotic proposal like this one. Perhaps a sign on the office of sponsors that says something like "Stupid slap needed." But that may provoke a law enforcement response. So, how about "brainiac of the day?"
So, "force the Portland City Council to accept the piece."? Seems they wanted it, but had a change of heart when the politics came into play. So much for support of workers from the Socialist State of Portland.
As far a removing it on the wkend when no one was around. Does anyone think 200 protesters will stand by and not do anything if it was removed while they were there? Seems like a smart move to protect it.
And Bill, not very supportive of State employees who did the removal: "(my guess is they destroyed it when they took it off the wall)". After all, these as State Union laborers.
This mural should be in the State Museum or some other museum, as it is a piece of art. Seems several museums already want to display it.
I see the logic of Mechanic Falls, Poland, Norway and Paris asking for some sort of compensation for what could be a large impact on their Fire, EMS and police services, in nothing else, simply from the increased traffic along the Rt. 26 corridor. But somehow I don't think non profits have lost income because of the Casino, but more the economy. People go to these "clubs" more for the socialization aspect than just the gaming opportunities.
I did try to find my source, but was unable. I know I read it in either the Sun Journal, or the Portland Press, and it was quite a while ago, years ago. What I did find was that it seems GD's choice to keep BIW focused on military applications and not to attempt civilian sources of work.
This happens to be an enforced welfare. I've read that BIW is precluded from building any commercial ships because they are a military contractor. So not really comparing apples to apples.
www.can-so.org/allgoodthings/Eng-combined.pdf This is a link to the application to be permitted to accept food stamps. If you check the eligibility requirements, you find that Marden's doesn't qualify. They don't sell meat, poulty, fish or dairy products. So, no research with that issue, did you research the rest of your claims as well? As far a Mr. Marple's presentation, I don't think that passed the straight face test. Although I'm surprised it was admitted that 34% of the state is on state aide.
The only proposal out there right now is the Right To Work proposal. Nothing more. This "crisis" is completely manufactured by the Unions, based on rhetoric. How can anyone feel it is fair to have to pay dues to something you don't want to and don't have a choice? I've worked in a job like that and wasn't interested in joining the Union. But I didn't have a choice. So, tell me, why did I have to? To support a PAC? More strength to you Gov Lepage!
Oh this must make the liberals wring their hands! Evil guns, take them away! Oh wait, mental health issues? Oh, can't make you responsible, must let you do what ever you want, whenever and where ever you want! Oh, and you don't have to take your medication either...
This should be a no starter. It is just disgusting how much crap people throw out. And she wants to dump that in a concentrated form into what ever body of water is easiest? Makes you wonder what convenient things are done in the town office...
Reading the editorial and comments brought a couple of thoughts to mind.
1) What's wrong with the Downeaster? I've used it several times to go to Boston. It was a pleasant but slow trip. There are way too many stops on the way. And it's expensive. It could be a good feeder to a high speed train with very limited stops, except it doesn't go to South Station.
2) There are many countries that successfully use passenger rail. And they have the land mass of New England. Take a look at a map. Passenger rail doesn't work in a large land mass country like the US. Considered it to go to Michigan when my son went to school there. There is even an Amtrak station on campus, but it was going to take something like 28hrs. We made the drive in 16ish hours, depending on how long we got stuck on the Blue Water Bridge.
3) I believe it would be much better spent money on light passenger rail and heavy freight. The amount of freight that can be moved by a train is incredible. Just went to Arizona and they have huge freight trains out there. And light passenger rail can go right on the same streets in cities that are already there.
There is a place for rail, I just don't see it in high speed, outside of specialized corridors.
Having taken care of one or two motor vehicle occupants over the years, the difference a simple seat belt is dramatic. Almost always people who wear seatbelts are standing there waiting as EMS, Fire and Police arrive. Those without seatbelts are sometimes out of the vehicle as well, usually many feet away from the vehicle, lucky to be breathing, while EMS, Fire and Police pray for the helicopter to hurry and get there, so the victim can get to a trauma center hopefully to stay alive, and then endure months of rehab, with little chance to get back to where they were physically. This is a no brainer. I feel the same way about helmets for motorcycle riders as well.
You want someone with a Master's or PhD in hospital administration to accept a job for $70,000?! A hard working RN makes more than that year, never mind what the other professional staff make? Mr. Buldoc, while I'm not a fan of huge salaries, but a little reality needs to shine in your life. And having known personally a hospital president, it is a 24/7/365 job, married to your job, never away from the phone. Certainly not a job I would want for a long time, especially at $70k a year. I know it's difficult while being in Augusta but try real hard to get that dose of reality into your life, maybe ever a daily dose. One quick question Mr. Bolduc: did you object to the many "special assistants" in Augusta that made >$100,000 in the last 8 years?
Many of the towns in this state are run by board of selectmen, elected in the general elections, often unopposed. Is it really a stretch for a couple of these boards to really not realize what kind of financial trouble there are in? Interesting one of the methods of "help" that can come from the state is to increase property taxes. Wonder if Democrats are really that excited about raising taxes by any means possible and this is why this is such an issue?
Destroying the very fabric of our society?! That's a little strong. Any examples? I like the fact that the focus is now on Mainers who need help, that Maine will no longer be a haven for "undocumented" people, and there is now a concrete plan in place to pay what hospitals that are owed for taking care of those on MaineCare.
A little dose of reason struck in Augusta. It would have been an incredible traffic mess with all the state workers getting out at 4 pm. Ever been in Augusta at 4pm on a snowy day?! What a mess, trying to get thru those rotaries and over the bridges and then throw in snow removal equipment. What I'm interested in is if they were paid with regular wages or did they use vacation/sick time?
Like to admit it or not, we all carry our "papers" and must produce them when we asked by law enforcement, like I did a couple of wks a go when I was stopped for a taillight being out. It's called a drivers license. To get one of these, you must have already proved citizenship. This is a hollow excuse to claim bigotry or discrimination. I work with several foreign born folks and they all carry their "papers" with them and don't mind doing so.
This law needs to be reworked, and start by getting rid of the "waivers." The is jut too big and needs to be broken down into smaller sections. And clearly, this should be have been read before being voted on. There are clearly good pieces in this law, such as being able to keep your child on your policy if they are in college, but I believe the waivers need to go TODAY.
Maine DOT capable of maintaining 295?! Wasn't this the same section of road that we had to use millions of stimulus dollars to repair? The Maine DOT hasn't stood a chance because the legislature has continually raided the budget for other programs. The state is very good at wasting money and sending people to Ireland for instance. While the MTA may waste money, at least they are capable of maintaining roads. I'd rather see them completely take over all major highways including RT 302. Then the DOT could spend money on the secondary roads which are crumbling so badly that in the spring, they are almost not passable.
I have a knife that has a nubbin on it to help open it one handed. Bought it a Paris Farmers Union. It's called a Shark. May I suggest you try that instead of wasting more time and money instead of concentrating on what is troubling this state? Oh, wait, this might be why the state is troubled.
I work in healthcare and it is very frustrating watching patients in the parking lot sucking down the last dreg of that cigarette. I know for a fact that when I change insurance, I am checked for smoking, chol., and my wt is recorded. And I run the risk of being denied insurance or paying more, based on what that data is. And I have a deductible that I have to meet out of pocket before my "benefits" kick in. MaineCare users don't have a deductible, or any financial interest that I'm aware of. It is time for the users of MaineCare to have a little responsibility for their lifestyle choices. I'm not asking for $50 or $100 deductible for an ED visit, but a copay equal to a pack of cigarettes and the Dunkin Donuts large coffee is not unreasonable to ask.
What is missing from your argument is that he has attended this breakfast honoring MLK several times in the past. Who cares if it wasn't an officially sponsored NAACP event? He honored the man, didn't he? Ever consider that this was his previously scheduled event? And I haven't heard any apologizies for any of the vitriol from the campaign. While the language of many of the attack adds was civil, the message was much more disrespectful than a flip answer to a badgering reporter.
Yea, 2 weeks is a long time to wait for companies to think about relocating to Maine, do all the studies to see if it is cost effective, apply for and get all the permits granted and then decide to move.
All three of the weapons you mention are heavily regulated or outright banned (against the law) for the general public to own. I do now a specific permit must be had to own any automatic weapon.
I know Vince and my family and I have spent time with him and his family away from MMC. I can tell you, his phone never stopped. Sure, he made a lot of money, but being held responsible to a job 24/7/365, I didn't think it was worth it, watching him never able to get away from his job.
I have served on my town's planning board, so I can understand the complexities of the planning process. Each town has developed, with state help, its own planning ordinances. I'm not aware the counties have them. At the town level, these ordinances must be voted on. Will this now happen at the county level to develop at County ordinance? Each town will have to have a town meeting to vote on this. Does every town have to agree? Do you expect people to volunteer for a county planning board? There are so many potential problems and will be a very long development time to establish a county planning ordinance. This needs to be thought through before abolishing LURC.
I believe that the past white governors attending these gatherings were doing so simply for political reasons only. While I agree Lepage should use more proper language, I like the directness of his comments and fully believe the NAACP is nothing more than a lobby. It is surely a different kind of politics in Maine. Maybe is will be effective, not like the last 8 yrs.
How about a flat tax, with zero personal tax deductions? Follow that up with a tax credit for the company that adds new full time jobs that has health and dental insurance as well as a retirement program with employer match? That addresses the argument about taxing individuals vs stifling job creation.
Outstanding Mr. Lepage! Next up, how about a residency requirement tomorrow?! Did you hear that sound? That was a whole lot of people moving back to Mass!
Reading the negative comments posted here is truly disheartening. It would seem that some people will never accept any ideas, or change without seeing only the negative. Based on these comments, how would anyone have any success? Fort. Gov. LePage has said he is not interested in polls or newspaper headlines. I wish him luck and fortitude in fixing the State and to grow employment opportunities in the private sector. I hope he starts by fixing the roads. What company would want to relocate here with the roads being the shape they're in?
The problem with your reasoning is the unintended impact it would have on others around the user. Having worked in EMS and healthcare for many years, I have seen first hand the impacts on nonusers. Users will use, then drive, cause an accident, harming or killing someone else. Loss of productivity at work, diverting income from the household. Alcohol keeps being added into the conversation. It is also very destructive. But society's tolerance of alcohol abuse has rapidly decreasing. Drinking and driving is not tolerated at all anymore because of the social impact. And you are advocating for it to be legal to use any drug? I'd rather see the war go on.
I've been watching with interest as this story has developed. I consider myself a backyard farmer, having raised pigs, turkeys, meat birds and laying hens. I appreciate the need for access to someplace to process livestock. However, I'm not sure that this zoning change should be granted. I too believe that the industrial park would be the best place for this enterprise. If this was already a working farm, and wanted to expand their business opportunity, then I may feel differently.
Before any goes crazy with smells, bugs, body parts, etc, you should do some research. Perhaps even visit a slaughter house. They are very heavily regulated and inspected both by state and federal officials and prob by city officials as well. They must dispose of everything properly. Those of us who raise our food and those who buy locally grown meat would benefit. Slaughter houses are getting hard to find and processing is getting expensive. This should be encouraged for everyone's benefit.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Sun, 12/12/2010 - 02:45
Perhaps if the Dream Act was amended to military service only, it would be acceptable. Let these folks serve for 4 yrs, and then they can use their GI benefits to go to school then. While I was in school, (just finished my masters in May), I found it very upsetting that immigrant students were going to school for free and were being paid based on their grades, including gas money, thru the Aspire program. US students aren't eligible for this program, but are able to take out loans up the ........ to pay for school themselves. Enough handouts, let them earn it or pay for it the same way everyone else does.
But, I bet you and your friends enjoyed the display! This is no different for those who live in the Fryeburg area or have to travel through the Fryeburg area during the fair. And that is 10,000's EVERY day, not just after dark.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Sun, 11/28/2010 - 22:45
I'm curious if the 1 million or whatever is what he collected or was that the retail value. Perhaps that's why they didn't further pursue him after the 400,000 or so he did pay back.
Reporting abuse is not a easy as one would expect. Having worked in healthcare for some time now, I have had the opportunity to attempt to report abuse. However, there is no easy way to do this, nor is there follow up on the other end. However, the state is finally starting to move towards holding people responsible for their decisions. Narcotics are finally being monitored and abusers are finally being shut off. That means if they are trying to get too many then they are shut off. This is a much larger problem than people suspect and it is a thriving cash business. Ask any police officer what the street value of narcotics is. Glad to see DHHS finally starting to pay attention.
I'm surprised this doesn't happen more often. It is not unusual at all to see people walking on the road and not the sidewalks. When you come around the curve coming from Lewiston to Auburn, it is very difficult to see, esp this time of yr with it being dark so early.
Here's my thoughts on the UN statistics: Those stats are correct, but don't address the causes of these stats. Blaming the health care system is unfounded. We need to look at what we put in our mouths to start. Obesity, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol are almost always modified by behavior change. Then smoking: we all know about the potential disease processes related to that. Infant mortality? Smoking, drug usage, lack of prenatal care, the list goes on and on. The point is, it is not the health care system. It is personal choice that is responsible for the vast majority of these statistics.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Thu, 11/04/2010 - 02:03
“It's just tragic that our system works in such a way that money speaks louder than the truth,” Scott Vlaun said.
Cashman credited the level of support for the referendum to both the economy and to the success of Hollywood Slots. “We have a gaming facility in Maine that's operated very well,” he said.
As with the last several attempts, I was struck by the distortion and misinformation that CasinoNo and other groups published this time around. I believe people finally looked closely at the proposal and the positive impact it has had in Bangor and decided that the negative rhetoric was unfounded. Phrases like "kiddie casinos" for instance...I will grant that the previous attempts were flawed, but I also believe these flaws were completely blown out of proportion and people have grown weary of the negative and false attacks, not just on this issue, but in politics in general. Here's hoping the Oxford Casino is a smashing success!
Let's for a moment say Lewiston is successful in it's attempt to get a casino in the Bates Mill. How are people supposed to get there?! Get off at the Auburn exit, and fight their way thru Auburn and then all the little side streets to get to the Mill? Or get off at the Lewiston exit and pick your way thru those side streets after running the, what 6-8 traffic lights on Lisbon st?! And once you get there, where is the parking? People already complain about the parking garages in Lewiston. Not a very reasonable plan, regardless of what other casinos are in the state by then.
There are so many things wrong with this proposal: among them: 1) besides being in the US without any attempt to become a citizen, what does that say about the desire to the betterment of the country. 2) how will this be managed at the polls? I can foresee rampant fraud possibilities, regardless of the efforts of poll workers.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Thu, 10/14/2010 - 23:25
The only reason that bill was paid was a result of the federal stimulus money. Augusta has not paid anymore since, and the debt is now back to 2007. Can anyone name any other business that is required to take care of "customers" without any idea of when they will get paid for services rendered. This is federal law if the hospital accepts medicare/medicaid dollars. No one can be turned away.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Fri, 10/08/2010 - 20:38
How many times can we say no to multimillion dollar construction projects? The addition of a conference center in Western Maine? 1st rate hotel rooms? Imagine how many tour companies would route their tour buses there during foliage season instead of heading to Conway, NH? People will work and stay working, as they have in Bridgton with the Hannaford there. There used to be alot of jobs in the area, so there are most likely many people just waiting for an opportunity to go back to work. It's time to give people a chance to pull themselves up by their bootstraps and add some much needed tax revenue to help pay down Augusta's debt. I can assure you there is not millions of dollars being spent in Western Maine by local people, so lets capture that tourist dollar. Vote Yes on 1!
By mrnpchick, unverified — Sun, 10/03/2010 - 19:47
Sounds just like every time a president, or board member says, "we have complete confidence in their ability and stand by them 100%" and then the next day or week they are fired. The point is, I don't ever believe a corporate mouth piece when the say things like "Media reports stating that we plan to drop health care coverage for our employees are completely false,". Usually this means, "oh crap, everyone already knows what we're going to do," and then they do it. The plain truth is that any corporation the sees an advantage one way or the other for a financial advantage, it will make that move.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Wed, 09/29/2010 - 12:37
I find it interesting that folks get upset when someone swears and speaks directly when presented with a situation or question. While I and others may not like it, swearing seems to now be part of our culture and language. And lets not forget how he was raised. By himself on the streets as a kid. It is really amazing that he has gotten to where he is now when you consider his upbringing and I believe you must consider that strongly. He has been to the other side of the tracks and knows what works and doesn't work. I am truly surprised someone has come forward with stories of physical fights that LePage has been in as another example of "why he shouldn't be in politics." I find it refreshing that someone will answer a question when asked and not deflect and spin to what they want to talk about.
Too big? Would that be as in too big a tourist draw? Bring this to Portland and it will instantly become an international tourist attraction. Lets see, how many cruise liner companies would instantly tout that in their destination brochures?! Perhaps its time for Portland to elect people who aren't afraid of thinking outside the box.
How does one get hospitalized by a quarry? Did this reporter graduate from high school or take any grammar classes? Are there any editors that work at the Sun Journal?
Sorry for your loss, but I'd bet someone does already have them in their freezer. This happened to me years ago at Marshfield Fair. Someone took all 6 if my Black Angus right off the fairgrounds. Luckily we were able to follow their tracks thru the woods right to the guys house, and got them all back. The lack of tracks or sign isn't a good thing.
As usual, there is truth in the above, but not the whole truth, surprisingly. Bellamy himself adopted and adapted the salute from the Romans. God forbid we use anything from one of the greatest civilizations ever. Oh and the pledge has been adapted several times, once over his objections. The Flag Code changed the salute because of the Nazi's use which started after the Italians adopted it in the '20's. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellamy_salute.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Tue, 09/14/2010 - 12:25
While there are snippets of truth to your statement, this is certainly not the whole truth, surprisingly! Shall we start with the salute itself, which was started by Bellamy? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellamy_salute tell the whole story, referring to the Roman roots of the salute, which was military based. The Germans adopted the salute, and therefore was changed in 1942, when the Flag Code was instituted. And his original pledge was changed, over his objections. Heaven forbid we actually used something that was originated by one of the greatest civilizations ever.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Thu, 09/09/2010 - 02:51
Somehow, I don't believe we've had 21.34% of real inflation in 10 yrs. And even if the the total amount of increased spending is only "half" of what Mr. Fletcher says, that is a far cry from a claim that state spending has actually decreased.
Sounds like the Maine Policy Heritage Center will be turning into at right leaning MoveOn.Org. Any one who follows MoveOn.org will understand why conservatives or realists welcome a organization to counter MoveOn's "version" of the "truth."
I've had people offer to use their debit card to buy my groceries if I would give them the cash. People come to Maine because benefits are very easy to get and there is no residency requirement. People are even now moving form Mass to Maine because of the law requiring insurance coverage.
I completely agree, who cares if the candidate is woman, black, or gay?! Let's elect someone who can do the job. And for that matter, why can't the Democratic or Republican parties on the state or National level give us candidates who might be enticing to the entire populace and not either radical wing?! Not sold on LePage or Mitchell at all. Might have to do some independent thinking...
By mrnpchick, unverified — Thu, 08/19/2010 - 11:54
So you live in one area of the state, travel to another area, have a serious medical problem that needs immediate intervention. Oh let's not forget the 30 medications you take for your 16 medical problems, and the 10 allergies you have. Would you like the medical providers to know about these quickly or would you like them to call your doctors office, (oops that went into the voice mail because the staff was busy), wait for the records to show up on the fax, then the clerk brings them to your treatment room, hopefully while your still alive, or the provider can look you up in a few seconds thus assuring you timely treatment and a better, and quicker recovery. This is a no brainer. Oh and this an effort coordinated at the state level, not by hospital systems. Having seen this work first hand, this system is excellent. I hope those of you who have opted out reconsider for your own sake.
By mrnpchick, unverified — Thu, 08/05/2010 - 10:36
So the false info already begins, (Ginger 1). The State of Maine is facing another $1,000,000,000,000 (thats alot of zeroe) shortfall and there doesn't seem to be any more federal dollars coming to help with this shortfall. How many times will the voters buy the lies and distortions and say no to a large development plan? I don't believe Bangor has turned into a cesspit of drunkards or gambling addicts. If this were even remotely true, the press and Casino NO would be all over it. It is about time for a well thought out and regulated casino in Western Maine. Everyone knows the jobs and development could be very helpful to the area.
MoveOn.org already tried to flog this story. It quickly went away when if was pointed out that Obama appointed a retired BP executive to lead the MMS and that Obama has received more money from BP than any other candidate EVER. Check out MoveOn.org's website/facebook site and the comments and the proof is all cited there. What people need to get over is the Demoncrat/Republiclowns crap and focus on the stinking reality of national politics.
My son will be graduating in 2 yrs from USM, and would love to stay in Maine. But the reality is, while his major is in the top 10 of the projected employment opportunities, he is afraid he will not be able to stay in Maine. That is much of a choice is it? We continually bemoan the lack of opportunity for our college graduates, but the legislature has done little or nothing to make Maine a more attractive place to add jobs. Our taxes are too high, our roads are junk and Augusta is constantly trying to milk the few successful businesses in Maine, ie Poland Spring story earlier this week. It is time for a change and a refocus of the state slogan: "Maine, the way life should be."
I wonder how long it takes and how much it costs, realistically, for someone to immigrate to the US legally. Please, keep the BS to a minimum, I'm looking for real estimations.
The Soviet experiment in Maine has failed and its up to the next governor to change course. The sign at the state borders says, "Maine, the way life should be." When I first moved to Maine 22 yrs ago, people were working and thriving. Now, 25% are stuck on the state dole, with no job prospects, and no self esteem. People want to contribute, and I believe its time for the state to help bring jobs back to Maine and stop getting in the way of job development. Let's give people the chance to work, that's what a vast majority of people want. Now, off to work for me, thankfully, although as I work in healthcare, I'd be more comfortable with my employment if the state would pay their MaineCare bills.
If you know you're illegal, expect the consequences, regardless of what you do in life. Having said that, reform is necessary, but lets keep the cream, and not the dregs.
This guy is crazy! Nationalizing privately owned companies is now called "getting control over the country's oil industry"?! "Re-nationalized the hydrocarbon industry"?! Canceling foreign debt because it was illegitimate?! Sounds like Marxism to me.
This guy is crazy! Nationalizing privately owned companies is now called "getting control over the country's oil industry"?! "Re-nationalized the hydrocarbon industry"?! Canceling foreign debt because it was illegitimate?! Sounds like Marxism to me.
Funny everyone complains about Poland Spring trucks. Their drivers are watched and monitored for everything. Hit a deer? Sorry, you're fired for not paying attention. Speeding? Find a new job. Quite frankly, I never worry when I see the green trucks. They have excellent drivers. Logging trucks on the other hand? Terrifying! Routinely overloaded, on the roads after hours so they won't get weighed or inspected, swaying all over the roads, top heavy, on can go on and on. And then then Baldacci passes a law so they can overload 25% because fuel prices went up! How's the impact on the local, poorly built and maintained roads now?! The states woes are not Poland Springs fault, time to look elsewhere. Oh and I wish they'd build a bottling plant in my town!
We gripe when Obama goes on vacation and we gripe when the head of BP attends a wkend boat race and we gripe when our vacations are over. I think we just like to gripe.
Interesting that the vast majority of illegal immigrants live in the south. Perhaps they want to secede form the United States and become part of Mexico again? And I believe the Mexicans have the highest percentage of Roman Catholics in North America? Follows the "poll" results quite nicely.
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-ad nausem (sp)
any facts to offer at all? Both parties are corrupt and are interested in only their own reelection and therefore maintaining their own power base. They have to raise about 20K a day for reelection at the national level according to a recent Wall Street Journal article, so what can we expect? Imagine if only ONE Senator or Representative did not run for reelection "because I've been here long enough and its someone elses turn," and not have to retire because of some kind of scandal.
I have the credentials and can assure you that 90% are able to work, but can't stop drinking and drugging and other self destructive behavior to be bothered to work. 25% of the state is unable to work?! Something needs to change.
The other part that is missing from the discussion is that the credits for interest on the mortgage and other items will be phased out after 3 yrs. That is when everyone will take a huge hit in taxes. Yes on 1!
Joe, you seriously missed the point. The point is that too many people use MaineCare and other state benefits for their benefit and pass that expectation onto their children. If you believe that 25% of Maine's population or anything approaching that are developmentally delayed or physically handicapped, then you are not looking around you. Gov. Baldacci's welfare state is too large, too expensive and much too inclusive. Working in health care gives you 1st hand look at people, 20somethings, etc, with "disabilities" who should be disenrolled and made responsible for their own actions and choices. However, no one is suggesting the truly needy should be disenrolled, or these programs cut.
Recent Comments
You go!
Well said. Keep up the pressure.
Oops
Sorry for the double post.
fly overs
I live in the area and frankly, enjoy watching the training flights. Sure it's noisy, but that's the sound of freedom. And no, there aren't any "just over tree top level" flights, well unless you're on top of Pleasant Mountain. And yes, when I was in the Marines, I did get to hear all sorts of aircraft.
fly overs
I live in the area and frankly, enjoy watching the training flights. Sure it's noisy, but that's the sound of freedom. And no, there aren't any "just over tree top level" flights, well unless you're on top of Pleasant Mountain. And yes, when I was in the Marines, I did get to hear all sorts of aircraft.
The problem is with the legal
The problem is with the legal definition of fraud vs what the common person calls fraud. It would be more accurate to use the term "misuse" What is really needed are case workers assigned to high use patients to help them manage their use. Too many end up in ED's for non-emergent reasons that can and should be handled by their PCP.
Schedule 1 drugs have no
Schedule 1 drugs have no medical use and are not prescribed, as defined by federal law.
They aren't illegal, but are
They aren't illegal, but are or at least, supposed to be available with a prescription only.
The interesting thing about
The interesting thing about narcotic use and abuse is the way the brain responds. This has been clearly demonstrated that the brain responds very differently to narcotics when in pain as opposed to wanting the narcotic. As you point out, the problem starts after the pain has resolved, which for an injury, depending on the extent of the injury, should only be for a very short time.
I hope you don't have to endure another robbery and I wish the pharmacies would consider more security because this problem is not going away anytime soon.
Not too often I agree with
Not too often I agree with you Dan, but this time I think you've hit it right on the head.
House
I find it very difficult to blame the House for alllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll the financial woes of the US, seeing that the Democrats had the House, Senate and the Presidency for a full 2 years and did NOTHING to fix the financial crisis. I am tired of hearing "oh it takes time." When you have all 3 branches, you can do what ever you like including passing a 1800 page law that Mrs. Pelosi said, "we have to pass it to read it."
tax cut
Only problem with that claim about the tax cut is that it isn't happening until 2013. Try another attack avenue.
smokers
Smokers are a bunch of disgusting inconsiderate jerks!
1. NO SMOKING IN A HOSPITAL!
2. The world is not your ashtray!
3. You stink after smoking!
Please
You're a big bully! Don't worry about the $221,000,000.00 deficit. (that's a pretty big number where I live.)
Nice
Instead of constantly passing these little extensions, it's time for Congress to fix the problem instead of just keep "kicking the can down the road." I'm part of the 53%. I will accept a tax increase as long as it is part of a plan for substantial decreased spending.
mom
Notice how quickly everyone turns on the father. Mom in rehab, mom has had no contact "because they don't get along," in rehab for drug abuse, judge gives custody to the father, "potentially abusive situation," etc. Disappointed that everyone assumes the father had something to do with it, yet mom is on national TV for it. Maybe someone from mom's recent drug past has something to do with it...Courts are loath to give children to the father unless it is extreme circumstances. Oh, and kids do break bones being kids, unless you look at every kid with a cast as an abuse victim. Whoever had a hand in this will burn in hell regardless.
roundabout
instead of a set of lights, I believe a round about like that have been installed on Rt 202 in Gorham would be a much better idea. It would continue the traffic flow but would significantly slow the rate of speed, but allow traffic to flow smoothly. A traffic like, especially at 5 way light, would significantly disrupt traffic flow.
Habitat
Everyone seems to be blaming the habitat disturbance and not coyotes. It that were the case, why is the herd in Southern ME doing the best? Here in Western Maine, you can hear coyotes celebrating a kill almost every night, and our herd is getting smaller too. I believe the hard winters play a role as well, but coyotes impact cannot be ignored.
cough syrup
Hope it makes them puke!
I'm a little concerned that
I'm a little concerned that law enforcement has not been officially involved in this until this time. I don't think a single Animal Control officer stands a chance of figuring this out by himself.
medical students?
I wasn't aware that St. Joe's has a medical program. According to their website, they only offer bachelor (sp), masters and post master certificates. So, what's the rest of the story?
No rats?!
She really thinks there aren't any rats in Auburn now? Hahahahaha!
Misleading headline perhaps?
Let's see, 2 healthcare reps, 1 pharmacy rep, 1 health care advocate, 2 insurance company reps, 1 lobbyist, 1 business rep and Allumbaugh, don't know what he represents. Seems like a pretty balanced committee with reps present to advocate for patient care, and cost containment.
We all know this person
This represents the person, often self employed, who doesn't make anything for a pay check, but has all the toys, and doesn't pay income taxes. I'd love for the system to have a method in place to place value on possessions, ie toys, such as the $40k pickup truck that belongs to the business. No different than the guy, out west I believe, who won 2 million in the lottery and was going to continue on public aide because his winnings were not considered income by law.
controlled substances
Anyone who operates while using a controlled substance should be charged with, wait for it,...operating under the influence of a controlled substance. Shouldn't matter if it is methadone, oxycodone, pot or alcohol.
Nice
Well thought out comment, soundly based in logic. Not too often I agree, but, as always, well stated.
Hopefully the commissioner
Hopefully the commissioner will have “technical or scientific backgrounds in environmental issues.”
I'd want the rock to stay, it
I'd want the rock to stay, it must certainly slow people down when they drive by the house.
Completely agree.
Completely agree.
So, no cost to the state? Who
So, no cost to the state? Who is going to pay for the study then?
Sorry
Working in health care, I have seen this type of behavior over and over. "Can you write a prescription for the ibuprofen? I don't have any money." But the stench of cigarette smoke is overpowering. If they chose to spend their money on cigarettes instead of medicine, why do you think they wouldn't skip the presents?
I think I have an idea for
I think I have an idea for idiotic proposal like this one. Perhaps a sign on the office of sponsors that says something like "Stupid slap needed." But that may provoke a law enforcement response. So, how about "brainiac of the day?"
Hmmmm
while the take in the western part of the state was relatively flat.
But this tick harvest in Western Maine will be bountiful this year.
What don't you agree with?
What don't you agree with? That Bill implied it was destroyed by State employees or what?
Mural
So, "force the Portland City Council to accept the piece."? Seems they wanted it, but had a change of heart when the politics came into play. So much for support of workers from the Socialist State of Portland.
As far a removing it on the wkend when no one was around. Does anyone think 200 protesters will stand by and not do anything if it was removed while they were there? Seems like a smart move to protect it.
And Bill, not very supportive of State employees who did the removal: "(my guess is they destroyed it when they took it off the wall)". After all, these as State Union laborers.
This mural should be in the State Museum or some other museum, as it is a piece of art. Seems several museums already want to display it.
People are too stupid to rule
People are too stupid to rule this planet. On, and don't forget to panic about the "Supermoon" tomorrow night either!
They also considered how many
They also considered how many gun owners there are in Maine as well, and how many justified shootings there have been in Maine as well.
Not too often I agree with
Not too often I agree with you Dan, but you nailed this one right on the head.
That is quite a pearl that
That is quite a pearl that Sargent gave you. Thanks for sharing and reinforcing, he simply forgot to apply that to politics as well.
Must be that new math they're
Must be that new math they're teaching in schools these days. Does anyone up there now how to add and subtract?!
Wow, what a mess...
Wow, what a mess...
Impact
I see the logic of Mechanic Falls, Poland, Norway and Paris asking for some sort of compensation for what could be a large impact on their Fire, EMS and police services, in nothing else, simply from the increased traffic along the Rt. 26 corridor. But somehow I don't think non profits have lost income because of the Casino, but more the economy. People go to these "clubs" more for the socialization aspect than just the gaming opportunities.
I did try to find my source,
I did try to find my source, but was unable. I know I read it in either the Sun Journal, or the Portland Press, and it was quite a while ago, years ago. What I did find was that it seems GD's choice to keep BIW focused on military applications and not to attempt civilian sources of work.
Let's try to stay on topic.
Let's try to stay on topic. You both at times have some very good conversations and provide interesting thinking points.
BIW
This happens to be an enforced welfare. I've read that BIW is precluded from building any commercial ships because they are a military contractor. So not really comparing apples to apples.
oops
My bad, 26% and 340,000 participants.
check your facts
www.can-so.org/allgoodthings/Eng-combined.pdf This is a link to the application to be permitted to accept food stamps. If you check the eligibility requirements, you find that Marden's doesn't qualify. They don't sell meat, poulty, fish or dairy products. So, no research with that issue, did you research the rest of your claims as well? As far a Mr. Marple's presentation, I don't think that passed the straight face test. Although I'm surprised it was admitted that 34% of the state is on state aide.
The only proposal out there
The only proposal out there right now is the Right To Work proposal. Nothing more. This "crisis" is completely manufactured by the Unions, based on rhetoric. How can anyone feel it is fair to have to pay dues to something you don't want to and don't have a choice? I've worked in a job like that and wasn't interested in joining the Union. But I didn't have a choice. So, tell me, why did I have to? To support a PAC? More strength to you Gov Lepage!
Oh this must make the
Oh this must make the liberals wring their hands! Evil guns, take them away! Oh wait, mental health issues? Oh, can't make you responsible, must let you do what ever you want, whenever and where ever you want! Oh, and you don't have to take your medication either...
Just say no
This should be a no starter. It is just disgusting how much crap people throw out. And she wants to dump that in a concentrated form into what ever body of water is easiest? Makes you wonder what convenient things are done in the town office...
It would be kinda interesting
It would be kinda interesting to see who agrees and who disagrees with a given comment. How about it Patti, can you make that happen?
Couple of things
Reading the editorial and comments brought a couple of thoughts to mind.
1) What's wrong with the Downeaster? I've used it several times to go to Boston. It was a pleasant but slow trip. There are way too many stops on the way. And it's expensive. It could be a good feeder to a high speed train with very limited stops, except it doesn't go to South Station.
2) There are many countries that successfully use passenger rail. And they have the land mass of New England. Take a look at a map. Passenger rail doesn't work in a large land mass country like the US. Considered it to go to Michigan when my son went to school there. There is even an Amtrak station on campus, but it was going to take something like 28hrs. We made the drive in 16ish hours, depending on how long we got stuck on the Blue Water Bridge.
3) I believe it would be much better spent money on light passenger rail and heavy freight. The amount of freight that can be moved by a train is incredible. Just went to Arizona and they have huge freight trains out there. And light passenger rail can go right on the same streets in cities that are already there.
There is a place for rail, I just don't see it in high speed, outside of specialized corridors.
Having taken care of one or
Having taken care of one or two motor vehicle occupants over the years, the difference a simple seat belt is dramatic. Almost always people who wear seatbelts are standing there waiting as EMS, Fire and Police arrive. Those without seatbelts are sometimes out of the vehicle as well, usually many feet away from the vehicle, lucky to be breathing, while EMS, Fire and Police pray for the helicopter to hurry and get there, so the victim can get to a trauma center hopefully to stay alive, and then endure months of rehab, with little chance to get back to where they were physically. This is a no brainer. I feel the same way about helmets for motorcycle riders as well.
That Bruins game was a great
That Bruins game was a great game!
$70,000?!
You want someone with a Master's or PhD in hospital administration to accept a job for $70,000?! A hard working RN makes more than that year, never mind what the other professional staff make? Mr. Buldoc, while I'm not a fan of huge salaries, but a little reality needs to shine in your life. And having known personally a hospital president, it is a 24/7/365 job, married to your job, never away from the phone. Certainly not a job I would want for a long time, especially at $70k a year. I know it's difficult while being in Augusta but try real hard to get that dose of reality into your life, maybe ever a daily dose. One quick question Mr. Bolduc: did you object to the many "special assistants" in Augusta that made >$100,000 in the last 8 years?
Seems the democrats have been
Seems the democrats have been caught with their hands in the cookie jar!
Many of the towns in this
Many of the towns in this state are run by board of selectmen, elected in the general elections, often unopposed. Is it really a stretch for a couple of these boards to really not realize what kind of financial trouble there are in? Interesting one of the methods of "help" that can come from the state is to increase property taxes. Wonder if Democrats are really that excited about raising taxes by any means possible and this is why this is such an issue?
I think paying the hospitals
I think paying the hospitals in the state the millions owed to them is quite an accomplishment in his 1st month in office, but that's just my opinion.
Hahahahaahahaha!
Hahahahaahahaha!
Destroying the very fabric of
Destroying the very fabric of our society?! That's a little strong. Any examples? I like the fact that the focus is now on Mainers who need help, that Maine will no longer be a haven for "undocumented" people, and there is now a concrete plan in place to pay what hospitals that are owed for taking care of those on MaineCare.
traffic
A little dose of reason struck in Augusta. It would have been an incredible traffic mess with all the state workers getting out at 4 pm. Ever been in Augusta at 4pm on a snowy day?! What a mess, trying to get thru those rotaries and over the bridges and then throw in snow removal equipment. What I'm interested in is if they were paid with regular wages or did they use vacation/sick time?
Don't forget to brush your
Don't forget to brush your teeth when you floss too.
Papers
Like to admit it or not, we all carry our "papers" and must produce them when we asked by law enforcement, like I did a couple of wks a go when I was stopped for a taillight being out. It's called a drivers license. To get one of these, you must have already proved citizenship. This is a hollow excuse to claim bigotry or discrimination. I work with several foreign born folks and they all carry their "papers" with them and don't mind doing so.
rework
This law needs to be reworked, and start by getting rid of the "waivers." The is jut too big and needs to be broken down into smaller sections. And clearly, this should be have been read before being voted on. There are clearly good pieces in this law, such as being able to keep your child on your policy if they are in college, but I believe the waivers need to go TODAY.
295
Maine DOT capable of maintaining 295?! Wasn't this the same section of road that we had to use millions of stimulus dollars to repair? The Maine DOT hasn't stood a chance because the legislature has continually raided the budget for other programs. The state is very good at wasting money and sending people to Ireland for instance. While the MTA may waste money, at least they are capable of maintaining roads. I'd rather see them completely take over all major highways including RT 302. Then the DOT could spend money on the secondary roads which are crumbling so badly that in the spring, they are almost not passable.
Sounds like the Democrats are
Sounds like the Democrats are upset a page was stolen from their book and is being used against them.
I have a knife that has a
I have a knife that has a nubbin on it to help open it one handed. Bought it a Paris Farmers Union. It's called a Shark. May I suggest you try that instead of wasting more time and money instead of concentrating on what is troubling this state? Oh, wait, this might be why the state is troubled.
Gov
I support him too.
News
Hey, Tron, some of us actually get up and leave for work before stores are open and don't watch the news at 0530 in the morning.
Not a bad idea
I work in healthcare and it is very frustrating watching patients in the parking lot sucking down the last dreg of that cigarette. I know for a fact that when I change insurance, I am checked for smoking, chol., and my wt is recorded. And I run the risk of being denied insurance or paying more, based on what that data is. And I have a deductible that I have to meet out of pocket before my "benefits" kick in. MaineCare users don't have a deductible, or any financial interest that I'm aware of. It is time for the users of MaineCare to have a little responsibility for their lifestyle choices. I'm not asking for $50 or $100 deductible for an ED visit, but a copay equal to a pack of cigarettes and the Dunkin Donuts large coffee is not unreasonable to ask.
What is missing from your
What is missing from your argument is that he has attended this breakfast honoring MLK several times in the past. Who cares if it wasn't an officially sponsored NAACP event? He honored the man, didn't he? Ever consider that this was his previously scheduled event? And I haven't heard any apologizies for any of the vitriol from the campaign. While the language of many of the attack adds was civil, the message was much more disrespectful than a flip answer to a badgering reporter.
Yea, 2 weeks is a long time
Yea, 2 weeks is a long time to wait for companies to think about relocating to Maine, do all the studies to see if it is cost effective, apply for and get all the permits granted and then decide to move.
Thank you for pointing that
Thank you for pointing that out. Could you imagine the chaos of a Constitutional Convention?!
All three of the weapons you
All three of the weapons you mention are heavily regulated or outright banned (against the law) for the general public to own. I do now a specific permit must be had to own any automatic weapon.
Vince
I know Vince and my family and I have spent time with him and his family away from MMC. I can tell you, his phone never stopped. Sure, he made a lot of money, but being held responsible to a job 24/7/365, I didn't think it was worth it, watching him never able to get away from his job.
Wonder if she flunked out of
Wonder if she flunked out of college. Why else would she want to discourage anyone from hearing about college often.
I have served on my town's
I have served on my town's planning board, so I can understand the complexities of the planning process. Each town has developed, with state help, its own planning ordinances. I'm not aware the counties have them. At the town level, these ordinances must be voted on. Will this now happen at the county level to develop at County ordinance? Each town will have to have a town meeting to vote on this. Does every town have to agree? Do you expect people to volunteer for a county planning board? There are so many potential problems and will be a very long development time to establish a county planning ordinance. This needs to be thought through before abolishing LURC.
I believe that the past white
I believe that the past white governors attending these gatherings were doing so simply for political reasons only. While I agree Lepage should use more proper language, I like the directness of his comments and fully believe the NAACP is nothing more than a lobby. It is surely a different kind of politics in Maine. Maybe is will be effective, not like the last 8 yrs.
How about a flat tax, with
How about a flat tax, with zero personal tax deductions? Follow that up with a tax credit for the company that adds new full time jobs that has health and dental insurance as well as a retirement program with employer match? That addresses the argument about taxing individuals vs stifling job creation.
Outstanding Mr. Lepage! Next
Outstanding Mr. Lepage! Next up, how about a residency requirement tomorrow?! Did you hear that sound? That was a whole lot of people moving back to Mass!
Reading the negative comments
Reading the negative comments posted here is truly disheartening. It would seem that some people will never accept any ideas, or change without seeing only the negative. Based on these comments, how would anyone have any success? Fort. Gov. LePage has said he is not interested in polls or newspaper headlines. I wish him luck and fortitude in fixing the State and to grow employment opportunities in the private sector. I hope he starts by fixing the roads. What company would want to relocate here with the roads being the shape they're in?
That's why Maine needs
That's why Maine needs residency requirements.
facts
Questions about methadone should be answered with this link: https://online.epocrates.com/noFrame/showPage.do?method=drugs&MonographI...
Here's the link for suboxone: https://online.epocrates.com/noFrame/showPage.do?method=drugs&MonographI...
The problem with your
The problem with your reasoning is the unintended impact it would have on others around the user. Having worked in EMS and healthcare for many years, I have seen first hand the impacts on nonusers. Users will use, then drive, cause an accident, harming or killing someone else. Loss of productivity at work, diverting income from the household. Alcohol keeps being added into the conversation. It is also very destructive. But society's tolerance of alcohol abuse has rapidly decreasing. Drinking and driving is not tolerated at all anymore because of the social impact. And you are advocating for it to be legal to use any drug? I'd rather see the war go on.
slaughter house
I've been watching with interest as this story has developed. I consider myself a backyard farmer, having raised pigs, turkeys, meat birds and laying hens. I appreciate the need for access to someplace to process livestock. However, I'm not sure that this zoning change should be granted. I too believe that the industrial park would be the best place for this enterprise. If this was already a working farm, and wanted to expand their business opportunity, then I may feel differently.
back yard farmer
Before any goes crazy with smells, bugs, body parts, etc, you should do some research. Perhaps even visit a slaughter house. They are very heavily regulated and inspected both by state and federal officials and prob by city officials as well. They must dispose of everything properly. Those of us who raise our food and those who buy locally grown meat would benefit. Slaughter houses are getting hard to find and processing is getting expensive. This should be encouraged for everyone's benefit.
Military service
Perhaps if the Dream Act was amended to military service only, it would be acceptable. Let these folks serve for 4 yrs, and then they can use their GI benefits to go to school then. While I was in school, (just finished my masters in May), I found it very upsetting that immigrant students were going to school for free and were being paid based on their grades, including gas money, thru the Aspire program. US students aren't eligible for this program, but are able to take out loans up the ........ to pay for school themselves. Enough handouts, let them earn it or pay for it the same way everyone else does.
But, I bet you and your
But, I bet you and your friends enjoyed the display! This is no different for those who live in the Fryeburg area or have to travel through the Fryeburg area during the fair. And that is 10,000's EVERY day, not just after dark.
I'm curious if the 1 million
I'm curious if the 1 million or whatever is what he collected or was that the retail value. Perhaps that's why they didn't further pursue him after the 400,000 or so he did pay back.
Come on, disagree?! That was
Come on, disagree?! That was pretty funny...
reporting abuse
Reporting abuse is not a easy as one would expect. Having worked in healthcare for some time now, I have had the opportunity to attempt to report abuse. However, there is no easy way to do this, nor is there follow up on the other end. However, the state is finally starting to move towards holding people responsible for their decisions. Narcotics are finally being monitored and abusers are finally being shut off. That means if they are trying to get too many then they are shut off. This is a much larger problem than people suspect and it is a thriving cash business. Ask any police officer what the street value of narcotics is. Glad to see DHHS finally starting to pay attention.
I'm surprised this doesn't
I'm surprised this doesn't happen more often. It is not unusual at all to see people walking on the road and not the sidewalks. When you come around the curve coming from Lewiston to Auburn, it is very difficult to see, esp this time of yr with it being dark so early.
Kinda like SSM...
Kinda like SSM...
Here's my thoughts on the UN
Here's my thoughts on the UN statistics: Those stats are correct, but don't address the causes of these stats. Blaming the health care system is unfounded. We need to look at what we put in our mouths to start. Obesity, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol are almost always modified by behavior change. Then smoking: we all know about the potential disease processes related to that. Infant mortality? Smoking, drug usage, lack of prenatal care, the list goes on and on. The point is, it is not the health care system. It is personal choice that is responsible for the vast majority of these statistics.
Mississippi is further up the
Mississippi is further up the Forbes list than Maine is right?! Then that's a good thing!
“It's just tragic that our
“It's just tragic that our system works in such a way that money speaks louder than the truth,” Scott Vlaun said.
Cashman credited the level of support for the referendum to both the economy and to the success of Hollywood Slots. “We have a gaming facility in Maine that's operated very well,” he said.
As with the last several attempts, I was struck by the distortion and misinformation that CasinoNo and other groups published this time around. I believe people finally looked closely at the proposal and the positive impact it has had in Bangor and decided that the negative rhetoric was unfounded. Phrases like "kiddie casinos" for instance...I will grant that the previous attempts were flawed, but I also believe these flaws were completely blown out of proportion and people have grown weary of the negative and false attacks, not just on this issue, but in politics in general. Here's hoping the Oxford Casino is a smashing success!
Access
Let's for a moment say Lewiston is successful in it's attempt to get a casino in the Bates Mill. How are people supposed to get there?! Get off at the Auburn exit, and fight their way thru Auburn and then all the little side streets to get to the Mill? Or get off at the Lewiston exit and pick your way thru those side streets after running the, what 6-8 traffic lights on Lisbon st?! And once you get there, where is the parking? People already complain about the parking garages in Lewiston. Not a very reasonable plan, regardless of what other casinos are in the state by then.
There are so many things
There are so many things wrong with this proposal: among them: 1) besides being in the US without any attempt to become a citizen, what does that say about the desire to the betterment of the country. 2) how will this be managed at the polls? I can foresee rampant fraud possibilities, regardless of the efforts of poll workers.
Somehow I don't think the
Somehow I don't think the local planning board would sign off on that. It's not like is a topless donut shop...
The only reason that bill was
The only reason that bill was paid was a result of the federal stimulus money. Augusta has not paid anymore since, and the debt is now back to 2007. Can anyone name any other business that is required to take care of "customers" without any idea of when they will get paid for services rendered. This is federal law if the hospital accepts medicare/medicaid dollars. No one can be turned away.
How many times can we say no
How many times can we say no to multimillion dollar construction projects? The addition of a conference center in Western Maine? 1st rate hotel rooms? Imagine how many tour companies would route their tour buses there during foliage season instead of heading to Conway, NH? People will work and stay working, as they have in Bridgton with the Hannaford there. There used to be alot of jobs in the area, so there are most likely many people just waiting for an opportunity to go back to work. It's time to give people a chance to pull themselves up by their bootstraps and add some much needed tax revenue to help pay down Augusta's debt. I can assure you there is not millions of dollars being spent in Western Maine by local people, so lets capture that tourist dollar. Vote Yes on 1!
Sounds just like every time a
Sounds just like every time a president, or board member says, "we have complete confidence in their ability and stand by them 100%" and then the next day or week they are fired. The point is, I don't ever believe a corporate mouth piece when the say things like "Media reports stating that we plan to drop health care coverage for our employees are completely false,". Usually this means, "oh crap, everyone already knows what we're going to do," and then they do it. The plain truth is that any corporation the sees an advantage one way or the other for a financial advantage, it will make that move.
So?
I find it interesting that folks get upset when someone swears and speaks directly when presented with a situation or question. While I and others may not like it, swearing seems to now be part of our culture and language. And lets not forget how he was raised. By himself on the streets as a kid. It is really amazing that he has gotten to where he is now when you consider his upbringing and I believe you must consider that strongly. He has been to the other side of the tracks and knows what works and doesn't work. I am truly surprised someone has come forward with stories of physical fights that LePage has been in as another example of "why he shouldn't be in politics." I find it refreshing that someone will answer a question when asked and not deflect and spin to what they want to talk about.
layoffs
funny how this story disappeared off the city section of the online paper.
AP Stylebook guidelines
My high school grammar teacher would still make ask the question, "How does one get hospitalized by a quarry?" Grammar does count.
are you kidding me?
Too big? Would that be as in too big a tourist draw? Bring this to Portland and it will instantly become an international tourist attraction. Lets see, how many cruise liner companies would instantly tout that in their destination brochures?! Perhaps its time for Portland to elect people who aren't afraid of thinking outside the box.
How does one get hospitalized
How does one get hospitalized by a quarry? Did this reporter graduate from high school or take any grammar classes? Are there any editors that work at the Sun Journal?
Sorry for your loss, but I'd
Sorry for your loss, but I'd bet someone does already have them in their freezer. This happened to me years ago at Marshfield Fair. Someone took all 6 if my Black Angus right off the fairgrounds. Luckily we were able to follow their tracks thru the woods right to the guys house, and got them all back. The lack of tracks or sign isn't a good thing.
oops
kinda duplicated from above, the SJ site went down for maintenance just as I submitted, sorry.
bellamy salute
As usual, there is truth in the above, but not the whole truth, surprisingly. Bellamy himself adopted and adapted the salute from the Romans. God forbid we use anything from one of the greatest civilizations ever. Oh and the pledge has been adapted several times, once over his objections. The Flag Code changed the salute because of the Nazi's use which started after the Italians adopted it in the '20's. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellamy_salute.
bellamy salute
While there are snippets of truth to your statement, this is certainly not the whole truth, surprisingly! Shall we start with the salute itself, which was started by Bellamy? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bellamy_salute tell the whole story, referring to the Roman roots of the salute, which was military based. The Germans adopted the salute, and therefore was changed in 1942, when the Flag Code was instituted. And his original pledge was changed, over his objections. Heaven forbid we actually used something that was originated by one of the greatest civilizations ever.
inflation
Somehow, I don't believe we've had 21.34% of real inflation in 10 yrs. And even if the the total amount of increased spending is only "half" of what Mr. Fletcher says, that is a far cry from a claim that state spending has actually decreased.
Sounds like the Maine Policy
Sounds like the Maine Policy Heritage Center will be turning into at right leaning MoveOn.Org. Any one who follows MoveOn.org will understand why conservatives or realists welcome a organization to counter MoveOn's "version" of the "truth."
missing story
This is such a non story and has been for the months it has running. Yawning sooooo wide a cricket just fell in...
I've had people offer to use
I've had people offer to use their debit card to buy my groceries if I would give them the cash. People come to Maine because benefits are very easy to get and there is no residency requirement. People are even now moving form Mass to Maine because of the law requiring insurance coverage.
Hahahahahahahahahahaaha!
Hahahahahahahahahahaaha!
I completely agree, who cares
I completely agree, who cares if the candidate is woman, black, or gay?! Let's elect someone who can do the job. And for that matter, why can't the Democratic or Republican parties on the state or National level give us candidates who might be enticing to the entire populace and not either radical wing?! Not sold on LePage or Mitchell at all. Might have to do some independent thinking...
Nice post, hard to argue with
Nice post, hard to argue with his facts isn't it?! Too bad so many others can't apply any facts to their statements.
NYC peace mosque
I was with you on points 1, 2 and 3 but then you went crazy on points 4, 5, and 6.
Philster
I thought his idea was great!
Great idea! Public flogging
Great idea! Public flogging would go a long way as well too I think.
healthnet
So you live in one area of the state, travel to another area, have a serious medical problem that needs immediate intervention. Oh let's not forget the 30 medications you take for your 16 medical problems, and the 10 allergies you have. Would you like the medical providers to know about these quickly or would you like them to call your doctors office, (oops that went into the voice mail because the staff was busy), wait for the records to show up on the fax, then the clerk brings them to your treatment room, hopefully while your still alive, or the provider can look you up in a few seconds thus assuring you timely treatment and a better, and quicker recovery. This is a no brainer. Oh and this an effort coordinated at the state level, not by hospital systems. Having seen this work first hand, this system is excellent. I hope those of you who have opted out reconsider for your own sake.
Honestly, at times it is more
Honestly, at times it is more of little brothers and sisters fighting than an open discussion that adds anything to the subject matter.
LOSER!
LOSER!
casinos
So the false info already begins, (Ginger 1). The State of Maine is facing another $1,000,000,000,000 (thats alot of zeroe) shortfall and there doesn't seem to be any more federal dollars coming to help with this shortfall. How many times will the voters buy the lies and distortions and say no to a large development plan? I don't believe Bangor has turned into a cesspit of drunkards or gambling addicts. If this were even remotely true, the press and Casino NO would be all over it. It is about time for a well thought out and regulated casino in Western Maine. Everyone knows the jobs and development could be very helpful to the area.
oil industry
MoveOn.org already tried to flog this story. It quickly went away when if was pointed out that Obama appointed a retired BP executive to lead the MMS and that Obama has received more money from BP than any other candidate EVER. Check out MoveOn.org's website/facebook site and the comments and the proof is all cited there. What people need to get over is the Demoncrat/Republiclowns crap and focus on the stinking reality of national politics.
okay
My son will be graduating in 2 yrs from USM, and would love to stay in Maine. But the reality is, while his major is in the top 10 of the projected employment opportunities, he is afraid he will not be able to stay in Maine. That is much of a choice is it? We continually bemoan the lack of opportunity for our college graduates, but the legislature has done little or nothing to make Maine a more attractive place to add jobs. Our taxes are too high, our roads are junk and Augusta is constantly trying to milk the few successful businesses in Maine, ie Poland Spring story earlier this week. It is time for a change and a refocus of the state slogan: "Maine, the way life should be."
duh
I don't think he wants to take anything away, but just wanted to be part of the "2 for 1" deal. I don't think that's an unreasonable request.
taps
Actually, the neighbors would probably be checking on the missing performer if they didn't hear it.
Logan
Can you imagine if it was a foster father that had done that? He would never have seen freedom again.
legal immigration
I wonder how long it takes and how much it costs, realistically, for someone to immigrate to the US legally. Please, keep the BS to a minimum, I'm looking for real estimations.
The Soviet experiment in
The Soviet experiment in Maine has failed and its up to the next governor to change course. The sign at the state borders says, "Maine, the way life should be." When I first moved to Maine 22 yrs ago, people were working and thriving. Now, 25% are stuck on the state dole, with no job prospects, and no self esteem. People want to contribute, and I believe its time for the state to help bring jobs back to Maine and stop getting in the way of job development. Let's give people the chance to work, that's what a vast majority of people want. Now, off to work for me, thankfully, although as I work in healthcare, I'd be more comfortable with my employment if the state would pay their MaineCare bills.
so...
If you know you're illegal, expect the consequences, regardless of what you do in life. Having said that, reform is necessary, but lets keep the cream, and not the dregs.
rewow
This is so crazy I put it up twice by mistake!
Wow
This guy is crazy! Nationalizing privately owned companies is now called "getting control over the country's oil industry"?! "Re-nationalized the hydrocarbon industry"?! Canceling foreign debt because it was illegitimate?! Sounds like Marxism to me.
Wow
This guy is crazy! Nationalizing privately owned companies is now called "getting control over the country's oil industry"?! "Re-nationalized the hydrocarbon industry"?! Canceling foreign debt because it was illegitimate?! Sounds like Marxism to me.
trucks
Funny everyone complains about Poland Spring trucks. Their drivers are watched and monitored for everything. Hit a deer? Sorry, you're fired for not paying attention. Speeding? Find a new job. Quite frankly, I never worry when I see the green trucks. They have excellent drivers. Logging trucks on the other hand? Terrifying! Routinely overloaded, on the roads after hours so they won't get weighed or inspected, swaying all over the roads, top heavy, on can go on and on. And then then Baldacci passes a law so they can overload 25% because fuel prices went up! How's the impact on the local, poorly built and maintained roads now?! The states woes are not Poland Springs fault, time to look elsewhere. Oh and I wish they'd build a bottling plant in my town!
vacation
We gripe when Obama goes on vacation and we gripe when the head of BP attends a wkend boat race and we gripe when our vacations are over. I think we just like to gripe.
Interesting that the vast
Interesting that the vast majority of illegal immigrants live in the south. Perhaps they want to secede form the United States and become part of Mexico again? And I believe the Mexicans have the highest percentage of Roman Catholics in North America? Follows the "poll" results quite nicely.
Clinton had a Republican
Clinton had a Republican congress, but he did in fact sign a budget that was balanced.
-opinion -opinion -opinion -o
-opinion
-opinion
-opinion
-opinion
-ad nausem (sp)
any facts to offer at all? Both parties are corrupt and are interested in only their own reelection and therefore maintaining their own power base. They have to raise about 20K a day for reelection at the national level according to a recent Wall Street Journal article, so what can we expect? Imagine if only ONE Senator or Representative did not run for reelection "because I've been here long enough and its someone elses turn," and not have to retire because of some kind of scandal.
Tron, I wonder how long it
Tron, I wonder how long it would take to slander someone at a performance review of a public employee. About 15 secs I bet.
Completely true thinkingman.
Completely true thinkingman. When was the last time anyone had a review in public or why would you want one on public?
It sounds to me like Brain is
It sounds to me like Brain is the one who needs the protection order.
teddybear721
I'm glad he's well. His angel was defin. with him today. It's true what they say, kids are really made of rubber.
arguments
Reading some these "interactions" is like listening to a bunch of 10 yr olds fight.
I voted for Obama last time,
I voted for Obama last time, won't happen again. He is clearly in over his head, worse than Bush or Clinton in their first 1.5 yrs.
That's interesting, Rino,
That's interesting, Rino, about the ski industry and they also forgot about golf courses. Maybe tourists don't ski or golf in Maine?!
Voisine, get yourself an
Voisine, get yourself an extra large glass of coolaide!
What is Harold talking about?
What is Harold talking about?
Tron, you really are a troll.
Tron, you really are a troll.
Cost Maine money? Those fines
Cost Maine money? Those fines will go into the General Fund. Yipee! Now we can waste it on more DHHS programs!
I have the credentials and
I have the credentials and can assure you that 90% are able to work, but can't stop drinking and drugging and other self destructive behavior to be bothered to work. 25% of the state is unable to work?! Something needs to change.
He is a crooked cop thru and
He is a crooked cop thru and thru.
The other part that is
The other part that is missing from the discussion is that the credits for interest on the mortgage and other items will be phased out after 3 yrs. That is when everyone will take a huge hit in taxes. Yes on 1!
Joe, you seriously missed the
Joe, you seriously missed the point. The point is that too many people use MaineCare and other state benefits for their benefit and pass that expectation onto their children. If you believe that 25% of Maine's population or anything approaching that are developmentally delayed or physically handicapped, then you are not looking around you. Gov. Baldacci's welfare state is too large, too expensive and much too inclusive. Working in health care gives you 1st hand look at people, 20somethings, etc, with "disabilities" who should be disenrolled and made responsible for their own actions and choices. However, no one is suggesting the truly needy should be disenrolled, or these programs cut.