BANGOR (AP) – Activists gathered Saturday at parks, bridges and other locations across Maine in a show of opposition to the Iraq war on its fifth anniversary.

One of the larger demonstrations was held at Paul Bunyan Park, where some of the 250 people held hands in what was billed as a “chain of concern.”

In Auburn, about 20 protesters turned out at Androscoggin Superior Court.

The Maine People’s Alliance said the grassroots events were intended as a reminder that money spent on the war could be used to improve access to health care, provide affordable housing and protect the environment.

“In 2008 alone, Maine will contribute $225 million to the war. That money could help fill our current state budget shortfall,” organizer Ben Chin said. “It’s time to get our priorities straight and end this war now.”

Vigils were also scheduled in Augusta, Bath, Caribou, Damariscotta, Ellsworth, Farmington, Machias, Portland, Rockland, Skowhegan and South Paris.

AP-ES-03-15-08 1426EDT


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