This Week's Letters
Most can help ‘grow the state’s economy’
Editor:
This election year, I am urging the Scarborough residents of District 128 to vote for the candidate for state representative who is best qualified and able to work and grow the state’s economy by helping Maine business and workers. That person is Sylvia Most. Sylvia has the skills and experience needed to make an impact in Augusta on issues surrounding Maine’s economy.
As a Scarborough Town Councilor, she brings balance and a strong reasoned voice to all of the issues. Also in this capacity, Sylvia serves on the Scarborough Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Directors, where she has worked with business leaders to support local companies and bring new jobs and investment to the community. She has been a strong supporter of efforts to develop the Haigis Parkway. She has led efforts to help the town’s small businesses by initiating and supporting improvements to our local ordinances and practices that benefit businesses and residents alike.
Sylvia is an experienced mechanical engineer and is currently working on her PhD in public policy. She understands the importance of primary, secondary and higher education in creating the workforce of the future and has been a strong supporter of providing high quality education for Scarborough students and future workers.
Scarborough has experienced much recent success in growing local business and supporting economic development. Let’s send someone to Augusta who can use this experience to further continue helping Scarborough businesses and workers and who can further help our state’s economy. Sylvia’s strong commitment to the town and her ability to work hard and work with all parties involved helps her get the job done. Sylvia is bright, good-natured and possesses a great deal of common sense. On Nov. 7, vote for Sylvia Most for state representative.
Carolyn H. Brodsky
Scarborough
Rep. Clough endorses Sylvia Most
Editor:
As I approach the end of my fourth term in the Maine Legislature, I think I have a good understanding of what type of individual can best represent the residents of Scarborough and the people of Maine in Augusta.
Several important qualities come to mind: A strong work ethic, proven leadership, a first hand understanding of the requirements of public service, a tendency to question rather than to blindly accept what has been presented as fact and, most important, a lack of personal agenda coupled with a strong desires to serve all constituents equally and well.
As a member of the Scarborough Town Council, Sylvia Most has demonstrated that she has these qualities and that she is willing to work tirelessly for what is best for the people she represents.
Voters in Scarborough’s House District 128 are indeed very fortunate to have a candidate like Sylvia Most on the ballot this year. I am proud to say I will be voting for Sylvia to represent me in Augusta in the 123rd Maine Legislature. I hope you will too. You will be glad you did.
Rep. Harold A. Clough
House District 128
Scarborough
Support Bromley for State Senate
Editor:
On Nov. 7, when I cast my vote for state senator, I will be voting for the candidate that can provide the best leadership for growing Maine’s economy and supporting small businesses. I will be voting to re-elect Senator Lynn Bromley.
Senator Bromley has been a proven leader on issues that support economic and small business development. Most notably, Senator Bromley has been a leader on increasing access to education and job training, providing direct support for small businesses and investing in research and development to grow Maine’s technology based business and workforce.
Senator Bromley has led the effort to increase access to higher education and job training through the creation of Maine’s Community College System. This system is helping students of all ages obtain the education and career training needed to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce. These students are deeply committed to staying in Maine. They are fellow workers, family and community members with roots in this region. In addition, the Community College System is creating partnerships with Maine businesses for worker training so they can compete in today’s economy.
Senator Bromley has taken a leadership role on direct support of Maine’s small businesses. She led the fight in support of changes to the Regulatory Fairness Board to simplify and streamline business regulation. Recently, Lynn successfully led efforts to eliminate the tax on business equipment, paving the way for business investment.
As co-chair of the Legislative Committee on Business, Research, and Economic Development (BRED), Senator Bromley has provided continued leadership to craft bipartisan efforts in support of research and development, technology development, and innovation. Since 2003, efforts by BRED have fostered $310 million in new payroll and $412 in research funding. More specifically, through Senator Bromley’s leadership the state has provided continual support for one of Maine’s most innovative, nationally recognized programs – the Maine Technology Institute. MTI has had a major impact on Maine’s business development success by providing direct grants to Maine companies for research and development. Since its beginning in 2000, MTI has made over 500 grant awards to more than 400 entities, most all of which have been small Maine businesses. In total, MTI has dispersed more than $20 million in awards, but most importantly has leveraged over $35 million in private investment. Many local businesses have directly benefited from MTI support. This is exactly the kind of program that Maine needs to compete in the innovation economy.
I am a small business owner who works on a daily basis on economic and business development. On Nov. 7, please join me in voting for Senator Bromley, a proven leader, so that she can continue her work on behalf of Maine businesses, workers, and students.
Jim Damicis
Scarborough
Babine is committed to vets and their families
Editor:
As a World War II veteran, long time Scarborough resident and Past Commander of Scarborough’s Libby-Mitchell American Legion Post #76, I support Shawn Babine for state representative and ask that Scarborough’s veterans vote for him this November.
Shawn’s commitment to veterans and their families brings a level of leadership that continues our call for improved services and greater protection of veterans’ benefits.
Shawn’s leadership in the Sons of the American Legion Squadron has helped our goals to expand our American Legion programs. He has played an integral role in raising monies for our educational programs like the Boys State and Girls State scholarships. With his help we now send eight young men and women to the Boys and Girls State program every June. He organized our new School Citizenship Award that recognizes the exemplary citizenship of two high school and two middle school students. For more than five years, Shawn continues to help the American Legion organize the Memorial Day parade and each year we grow and get better.
As our state representative, Shawn will continue to be a conscientious listener, hard worker and problem solver. I am pleased that Shawn is the candidate to replace Darlene Curley in the State Legislature. He will continue the legacy of strong Scarborough leaders.
There are many difficult challenges ahead in reducing the tax burden and strengthening Maine’s business environment. I’m confident that Shawn will be an independent voice representing the people of Scarborough and all of Maine. On Nov. 7, please vote for Shawn Babine for Maine House. Maine needs his kind of leadership!
Ken Dolloff
Scarborough
Pendleton will fight for senior citizens
Editor:
I am writing in support of Peggy Pendleton, who is running for the Maine House seat in District 128.
Peggy’s experience as a health care professional and health care educator for over 24 years will be critical in understanding the complicated health care, Medicaid and prescription drug issues that many of our seniors face.
As a senior citizen, I can say with confidence that I feel very comfortable that Peggy will be working in Augusta fighting for the interest of seniors, particularly as it relates to health care and other issues.
Peggy will fight for affordable health care and continue to support Maine’s low cost prescription drug plan that she helped to implement as a senator. Peggy will also work diligently to provide greater access to low cost prescription drugs for seniors.
I therefore strongly urge you to vote for Peggy Pendleton on Nov. 7.
Thomas Downs
Scarborough
Vote for change and vote for Curley
Editor:
We need change in Congress and we need it now: new ideas, a representative who will put people before politics and results. That change is Darlene Curley.
Darlene Curley is a registered nurse and a successful businesswoman who created over 100 jobs right here in Maine. She knows how to take care of people and make payroll. She has done it.
Curley grew up in a hard working union family, learning the most important lesson of all…if you don’t like the way things are going, you roll up your sleeves and get to work. Darlene has done this her whole life and will do the same representing the people of the First District in Congress.
Curley supports our troops. Her father was a veteran of the Korean War and her husband served our country as an Army officer.
Darlene is like us – she and her husband have raised three children and overcome hardship. She and her family lost a child. Darlene has turned that into advocacy for children and supporting healthcare and education.
Curley has been my representative and a leader in the State Legislature for two terms, serving on the Health and Human Services and Appropriations (budget) Committees. The Speaker of the House recognized her leadership and appointed Darlene to a National Health Care Committee during her first term.
Darlene gets things done. She has listened to her constituents and delivered: balanced budgets, lower taxes, while prioritizing increased funding for education, children’s services and lower cost prescription drugs for our senior citizens. I know because she has represented Scarborough.
Curley has worked with both parties to get things done. She sponsored and championed “Tina’s Law,” getting driver’s with suspended licenses off our highways. Tougher penalties for unsafe drivers, safer highways for all Maine families – Democrats, Republicans, Independents and Greens, alike. It is the most important legislation of the last few years and Curley got it done.
We need a change in Congress and that change is Darlene Curley. I ask you to join me and vote for change, vote Curley for Congress. Darlene cares about us.
Kathryn Fellows
Scarborough
Vote yes on Wentworth referendum
Editor:
I am writing to show my support of the proposed new Wentworth Intermediate School building. I am the parent of a fifth grader, a fourth grader and a first grader, who may never benefit from a new building, however I feel that a “yes” vote on the Nov. 7 referendum is very important.
The current building is 44 years old and has issues with asbestos and poor ventilation and it lacks a sprinkler system. Classroom instruction time is shortened due to the length of time it takes to get from one classroom to another (i.e. getting a class from their primary classroom to art, gym, music, library and lunch). It is over crowded now with 785 students and numbers are expected to increase in the future.
Over the years, portable classrooms (which were originally intended to be a temporary fix) have been added to the school – some are beyond their life expectancy and are now being closed off due to air quality concerns. The other schools in town have experienced new construction, whether it was a new school like the middle school which was built approximately 10 years ago, or additions and renovations to the primary schools and the high school. It is now time to focus on Wentworth Intermediate School!
Please join me in voting “yes” on Nov. 7 and help improve Wentworth, the future school of our young students.
Lisa Huber
Scarborough
Most ‘talks out of both sides of her mouth’
Editor:
Beware of Sylvia Most in our State House as she does most of her talking out of both sides of her mouth. These were her exact words at a recent Zoning Board meeting where we were personally involved.
Sylvia Most was a key player in the development of Scarborough’s Future Plan. As written, the Future Plan states development throughout Scarborough should direct residential development to specific areas in town (the R Zones) while encouraging commercial and industrial developments to other areas. With that, as a member of the Town Council, Sylvia chose to ignore the Future Plan and voted to allow a commercial business to be located within a residential zone. She did this without knowing any of the specifics or the potential impact to the surrounding neighbors. These impacts included an increase in the local traffic by over 230 trips per day down several residential streets and the construction of a building that would be 10 times bigger than any of the surrounding homes.
When challenged on her position, Sylvia did meet with us to discuss these issues. At our meeting, she agreed that we had legitimate concerns regarding a large business coming into a single-family neighborhood. However, when she spoke at the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, in one breath she agreed that the neighbors had legitimate concerns, but in the second, strongly supported the location of a large business within a residential neighborhood. As Sylvia herself stated, “If it sounds like I’m speaking out of both sides of my mouth, it‘s because I am.”
In choosing your representative for the State House, remember to choose one with integrity, who takes the time to learn the issues, develops a sound position and has the fortitude to stand behind their decisions.
Stacey and David Hughes
Scarborough
Vote for Pendleton for Maine House
Editor:
I am writing this letter in support of Peggy Pendleton’s campaign for House District No. 128. Peggy is committed to our community, having lived here and raised her family for the last 30 years.
Peggy is committed to building a better future for Maine. She has served in the Maine House for six years and the Maine Senate for eight years. During this time she served as the Senate Chair of the Education, Judiciary and State and Local Government Committees. That experience helped Peggy realize that responsible leadership means keeping Maine’s promise as a great place to live and raise a family.
Peggy’s experience as a nurse and nurse educator for over 24 years will assist her in making our health care system and prescription drugs more affordable, especially to seniors and low income families. She understands the health care system and will be able to get to work immediately on those issues without a learning curve.
Peggy is committed to investing in education and building new opportunities for all Mainers. She will work diligently to insure fiscal responsibility in Maine and demanding it from Washington. Peggy is strongly committed to creating good paying jobs and building a strong local and Maine economy. You can count on Peggy to safeguard and protect out quality of life, our environment and our natural heritage.
Peggy is a proven leader who has the experience to get the job done. She has the strongest integrity and will be an independent voice in Augusta.
Therefore, I strongly urge you to vote for Peggy Pendleton on Nov. 7.
Neil D. Jamieson, Jr.
Scarborough
Tina Turcotte’s mother says ‘vote for Curley’
Editor:
I am voting for Darlene Curley for Congress because she gets things done...I know this first hand because I am Tina Turcotte's mother (Tina’s Law).
No one can take away the grief that our family felt when we lost our daughter in a tragic accident caused by a driver with a suspended license. We want to prevent this from happening to any other Maine family...we can all thank State Representative Darlene Curley for getting this done.
Darlene Curley is a proven leader. She is able to recognize problems and has the dedication and determination to find solutions and get the job done. She works with Democrats, Republicans and Independents to find solutions for Maine families. She will do the same thing in Congress, putting people before politics.
If it had not been for Darlene Curley, "Tina's Law" would not have become a reality. She is committed to making Maine and our country a better and safer place to live. Join me and vote for Darlene Curley for Congress on Nov. 7.
Pat LaNigra
Scarborough
Cast your vote for Shawn Babine
Editor:
As a Scarborough small business owner, a community volunteer and as a former Chicago Republican, I understand and appreciate the challenges facing Scarborough and Maine. I brought my business, Sudzie Autowash, to Scarborough because it’s a great place to live and to do business. Even with that comfort, we can all agree that it's getting more and more difficult to raise a family, pay for quality health care, pay our taxes (and I pay twice) and to build a better life. Like you, I care deeply about Maine and its future. And like most Mainers, regardless of any political candidate's party affiliation, I vote for the candidate with a clear message and a strong vision. That candidate must be well grounded, remember where they came from, hold their principles firmly yet they must be willing to compromise earnestly when it is in the best interest of those he or she serves. That is why I'm supporting Shawn Babine for the Maine House.
On Tuesday, Nov. 7, we have the opportunity to vote for an excellent candidate. Shawn is committed to helping working families and our local small businesses. His fiscal stewardship with Scarborough's budget is a positive example of how advocating for taxpayers' interest can be balanced with a growing community's need for more services. Shawn Babine's background as a community and statewide leader, his experience in corporate management and his dedication to the people he serves makes him ready to be an effective leader on the first day in the legislature. When you vote this Nov. 7, casting a vote for Shawn is casting a vote for Scarborough's future.
John Massengill
Scarborough
Watch out for ‘misleading statements’
Editor:
I'm not sure which group would get the gold medal for misleading the public – the proponents of the $55 million in school projects or the opponents of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
According to the brochures provided by the school district, it will only cost a maximum of $70 a year to the average homeowner to borrow $55 million. Amazing! The facts are that these school projects will cost $8,200 over the life of the bond to the average homeowner, with a peak year of $495 (2012).
The brochures further mislead the public by artificially lowering the square feet per student data. The brochures use a figure of 1,100 students at the middle school and 1,058 students at the intermediate school. According to the figures in the 2006 comprehensive plan (provided by the school department no less), the peak enrollment at the middle school will be 850 students in 2011, while the peak enrollment in the intermediate school will be 794 in 2008. Come on guys, be straight with the public!
Not to be outdone, the Taxpayer Bill of Rights opponents continue to spread the fear that Maine schools will suffer hardships and standards will be lowered if the citizens approve the referendum question. Was this the outcome from TABOR in Colorado? Fact: Maine and Colorado each graduate about 88 percent of high school seniors. Fact: Colorado has 35 percent of its students graduate from college, while Maine is at 26 percent in this category. Could that be because the class of 2006 in Colorado scored 1670 on the SAT, while Maine, the number one taxed state, had students lagging far behind with a score of 1493? Obviously, higher taxes is not the answer. One last point – Colorado teachers get paid more than Maine teachers.
Never underestimate the intelligence of the voter. These statements misleading the public or spreading the fear of gloom and doom only further underscore my support for the Taxpayer Bill of Rights and my lack of support for the $55 million in school bonds.
Marcus Moschetto
Scarborough
Pendleton ‘wants to help the people’
Editor:
As a business owner in Scarborough, I’ve needed help to deal with regulations at the state level. Peggy Pendleton was willing to help. When my family was going through a medical crisis which was regulated at the state level, Peggy Pendleton was willing to help.
To me, a state legislator needs to be willing to truly “represent the people,” not just get elected to follow through on their own agendas of their political party agendas. Believe me when I say that I’ve seen it both ways.
Peggy is a person who is willing to listen and wants to help you – “the people.” That’s why I support Peggy Pendleton.
Julie O’Brien
Scarborough
Vote for Pendleton in District 128
Editor:
The Scarborough residents of District 128 have been given the privilege once again to vote for Peggy Pendleton for state representative.
Peggy’s experience and expertise in state government speaks for itself.
I have known Peggy for over 30 years and I applaud her honesty and conscientious efforts in working for employment opportunities for Mainers and health care that everyone can afford.
As an educator for nearly 40 years, I am consistently aware and appreciative of Peggy’s continued support of quality education for all of Maine’s students.
It is with extreme conviction in Peggy Pendleton’s ability to make conditions better for her constituents in District 128 and the entire state that I strongly urge you to join me in voting for her on Nov. 7.
Karen Poore
Scarborough
Most will be ‘fantastic addition’ to legislature
Editor:
I am writing to voice my support for Sylvia Most, who is running for a seat in the Maine House.
I have known Sylvia since the early 1990s, when we worked together at National Semiconductor in South Portland. I know her to be dedicated, creative and enthusiastic, as well as a person of high integrity. I am confident that she will work hard to develop solutions to the challenges that we face here in Maine – the need for tax reform, access to health care, protection of the environment and economic development.
Sylvia and I do not always agree on every policy position. But I know that her positions are based on a thoughtful exploration of the issues and a genuine desire to do what she believes is in the best interest of her constituents. So often in politics today we are presented only with negative attacks on those who choose public service. It is truly a pleasure to have the opportunity to endorse someone who will be a fantastic addition to the Maine House – Sylvia Most.
Michael Rauth
Scarborough
Education Association endorses Dedian for council
Editor:
The Scarborough Education Association (SEA) is pleased to announce it has endorsed David Dedian in his bid for a seat on the Scarborough Town Council.
David Dedian is a civil engineer and vice president of a local business specializing in wastewater treatment and industrial cleanup. He would bring a great deal of technical expertise to the local Scarborough government, along with his personal independence and openness to listen and work with other governmental agencies including the School Board. He is committed to advocating for the Town Council to focus its direction in order to address the many challenges facing our growing community. He would bring a fresh prospective, a wealth of knowledge and experience and a sincere commitment to the community of Scarborough as a member of the Town Council, all of which the SEA embraces.
David and his wife have two children in the Scarborough Schools. Along with the technical knowledge and expertise David has, his view is that “it takes a community to educate a child.” To that end, with the interrelationship between a Town Council and a School Board, as a town councilor he would be interested in working with the School Board to provide quality education for the students in Scarborough.
This is the first year the Scarborough Education Association (SEA) has interviewed candidates for Town Council and School Board. All of the candidates were invited to participate. Although not all of the candidates accepted the SEA’s invitation to dialogue about issues of importance to education in general and the Scarborough schools in particular, the SEA hopes that in the future all of the candidates will do so.
The association is pleased to announce its endorsement of David Dedian and urges the community to vote for David Dedian for Town Council on Nov. 7.
The Scarborough Education Association
Pendleton is ‘sincere and hardworking’
Editor:
I am writing in support of Peggy Pendleton, who is running for the Maine House seat in District 128. Peggy is a compassionate, experienced and involved community leader who has served our community well over the years. She has been active in Friends of the Library, the local Kiwanis Club, the local American Legion Auxiliary and Friday Night Forum and has made many other contributions to our community.
Peggy is a sincere and hardworking individual who care deeply about the town of Scarborough and all of its citizens. Peggy has resided in our community for over 30 years and has raised children and grandchildren here. Peggy will represent all of us in Augusta and leave partisan politics behind, as she has exhibited before. She will be an independent voice who will fight to continue to improve Scarborough as well as the state of Maine. Her six years in the Maine House and her eight years in the Maine Senate have provided her with the experience and knowledge of having to pass significant pieces of legislation. There will be no “on the job training” when Peggy returns to Augusta.
As a nurse for over 24 years, Peggy has the knowledge and experience to deal with the serious issues of low cost prescription drugs for our seniors and the rising cost of health care. As a senior citizen, I know that Peggy will fight for our rights in Augusta as she did during her time in the senate.
For all of the above reasons, I strongly urge you to vote for Peggy Pendleton on Nov. 7.
Millie Stevens
Scarborough
Support Most in House District 128
Editor:
With so much riding on this year's elections, I am writing to urge your readers to support the election of Sylvia Most to the Maine House of Representatives.
I have known Sylvia for several years and worked directly with her on matters affecting this area. She is someone who has first-hand knowledge of the problems facing Maine's small businesses as well as those facing our working men and women. She is also a dedicated parent who knows the pressures that confront Maine families.
Sylvia Most's priorities are right for our state – tax reform, getting state spending under control, protecting our environment, access to quality healthcare and providing our children with the best educational opportunities possible.
By voting for Sylvia Most, Scarborough residents can be assured that their new state representative will be someone who knows and understands the concerns of the citizens of Maine House District 128.
Endorsing Sylvia comes easily to me. She is a person of integrity, courage and principle. I strongly urge all residents of District 128 to support and vote for Sylvia Most on Nov. 7!
Charlie Summers
Scarborough
Fuller Farm woodlands are being ‘proactively managed’
Editor:
The Scarborough Land Conservation Trust (SLCT) has received a number of inquiries about the recent logging operations at our Fuller Farm property on Broadturn Road.
Fuller Farm was purchased by the SLCT in 2000 with financial assistance from the state’s Land for Maine’s Future Program, the town of Scarborough and private donations. At that time, a conservation easement was placed on the property to: 1) prohibit residential (and commercial) development, 2) protect the public access the property for passive recreational, 3) protect traditional working landscapes of agriculture and forestry and 4) protect wildlife and associated habitat.
One of SLCT’s many stewardship responsibilities at Fuller Farm is management of the forest. In 2001, SLCT developed a Forest Management Plan for this renewable resource approved by the Maine Forest Service – a plan that uses best management practices to govern the sustainable harvest of timber. As such, the forest regenerates at a rate faster than the rate at which trees are cut.
SLCT consulted with state and federal wildlife biologists to develop habitat management plans for three distinct areas of the property: grassland, scrub-shrub and forest, which collectively support over 130 different species of birds. These wildlife considerations, in addition to prescriptions for forest stand improvement, brush management, early successional habitat development and improvement, riparian buffer management, critical area planting (i.e.: critical erosion areas and stream bank stabilization), and access road improvement and development have all been incorporated into our management plan.
The general objectives of SLCT’s forest management are to: 1) manage for forest health, 2) provide open green space, 3) sustain, manage and/or diversify wildlife habitat and 4) allow public access. Prior to our ownership, timber management at Fuller Farm was not scientifically based, it was simply extractive (take the best, leave the rest) and a poor quality forest resulted.
Under the direction of a certified Maine forester, SLCT has undertaken an improvement and thinning harvest to improve Fuller Farm’s forest stand composition, quality, and forest wildlife diversity. Yes, this activity is very visible and disruptive, especially where the property experiences frequent public use. It is, however, a disruption that will greatly improve the value and quality of wildlife habitat and timber. The disruption will heal naturally over time. Tree seeds benefit from being able to germinate and grow on areas of exposed soil, and high quality tree seedlings are released from a heavily shaded overstory. The goal is to maintain a forest in succession: a canopy of large trees that contribute to forest reproduction, an understory of replacement trees as larger ones are taken, and a nursery of young trees. Each of these stages of forest growth contributes to wildlife diversity.
We have made the decision to proactively manage our woodlands in accordance to our objectives. There are obvious changes, the most dramatic of which is the establishment of the initial infrastructure of logging roads and timber landings that will service the property in 10-year cycles. Realizing this, our management plan for trails includes developing pedestrian trails separate from the "roadways" created by the timber harvest and should not be impacted by future harvests. An extension of the existing pedestrian trail is, at this moment, under construction by a five-person Maine Conservation Corps trail crew.
SLCT returns over 97 percent of the public and private financial support we receive to land acquisition and property management. As more and more people avail themselves to SLCT properties for recreation, our need to improve our properties to facilitate recreational use increases and with it, our stewardship budget. While we are fortunate to obtain funding through grants and private donations, it isn’t enough. Wise management of our forested land is a demonstration of responsible stewardship and responsible asset management and provides necessary revenue for further property improvements.
Thank you for being patient while these important management activities take place. The responsibility of land management has created many opportunities for volunteers. If you would like assistance with property and trail projects, we would like to hear from you.
Laurene Swaney, President
Scarborough Land Conservation Trust
Editor:
This election year, I am urging the Scarborough residents of District 128 to vote for the candidate for state representative who is best qualified and able to work and grow the state’s economy by helping Maine business and workers. That person is Sylvia Most. Sylvia has the skills and experience needed to make an impact in Augusta on issues surrounding Maine’s economy.
As a Scarborough Town Councilor, she brings balance and a strong reasoned voice to all of the issues. Also in this capacity, Sylvia serves on the Scarborough Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Directors, where she has worked with business leaders to support local companies and bring new jobs and investment to the community. She has been a strong supporter of efforts to develop the Haigis Parkway. She has led efforts to help the town’s small businesses by initiating and supporting improvements to our local ordinances and practices that benefit businesses and residents alike.
Sylvia is an experienced mechanical engineer and is currently working on her PhD in public policy. She understands the importance of primary, secondary and higher education in creating the workforce of the future and has been a strong supporter of providing high quality education for Scarborough students and future workers.
Scarborough has experienced much recent success in growing local business and supporting economic development. Let’s send someone to Augusta who can use this experience to further continue helping Scarborough businesses and workers and who can further help our state’s economy. Sylvia’s strong commitment to the town and her ability to work hard and work with all parties involved helps her get the job done. Sylvia is bright, good-natured and possesses a great deal of common sense. On Nov. 7, vote for Sylvia Most for state representative.
Carolyn H. Brodsky
Scarborough
Rep. Clough endorses Sylvia Most
Editor:
As I approach the end of my fourth term in the Maine Legislature, I think I have a good understanding of what type of individual can best represent the residents of Scarborough and the people of Maine in Augusta.
Several important qualities come to mind: A strong work ethic, proven leadership, a first hand understanding of the requirements of public service, a tendency to question rather than to blindly accept what has been presented as fact and, most important, a lack of personal agenda coupled with a strong desires to serve all constituents equally and well.
As a member of the Scarborough Town Council, Sylvia Most has demonstrated that she has these qualities and that she is willing to work tirelessly for what is best for the people she represents.
Voters in Scarborough’s House District 128 are indeed very fortunate to have a candidate like Sylvia Most on the ballot this year. I am proud to say I will be voting for Sylvia to represent me in Augusta in the 123rd Maine Legislature. I hope you will too. You will be glad you did.
Rep. Harold A. Clough
House District 128
Scarborough
Support Bromley for State Senate
Editor:
On Nov. 7, when I cast my vote for state senator, I will be voting for the candidate that can provide the best leadership for growing Maine’s economy and supporting small businesses. I will be voting to re-elect Senator Lynn Bromley.
Senator Bromley has been a proven leader on issues that support economic and small business development. Most notably, Senator Bromley has been a leader on increasing access to education and job training, providing direct support for small businesses and investing in research and development to grow Maine’s technology based business and workforce.
Senator Bromley has led the effort to increase access to higher education and job training through the creation of Maine’s Community College System. This system is helping students of all ages obtain the education and career training needed to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce. These students are deeply committed to staying in Maine. They are fellow workers, family and community members with roots in this region. In addition, the Community College System is creating partnerships with Maine businesses for worker training so they can compete in today’s economy.
Senator Bromley has taken a leadership role on direct support of Maine’s small businesses. She led the fight in support of changes to the Regulatory Fairness Board to simplify and streamline business regulation. Recently, Lynn successfully led efforts to eliminate the tax on business equipment, paving the way for business investment.
As co-chair of the Legislative Committee on Business, Research, and Economic Development (BRED), Senator Bromley has provided continued leadership to craft bipartisan efforts in support of research and development, technology development, and innovation. Since 2003, efforts by BRED have fostered $310 million in new payroll and $412 in research funding. More specifically, through Senator Bromley’s leadership the state has provided continual support for one of Maine’s most innovative, nationally recognized programs – the Maine Technology Institute. MTI has had a major impact on Maine’s business development success by providing direct grants to Maine companies for research and development. Since its beginning in 2000, MTI has made over 500 grant awards to more than 400 entities, most all of which have been small Maine businesses. In total, MTI has dispersed more than $20 million in awards, but most importantly has leveraged over $35 million in private investment. Many local businesses have directly benefited from MTI support. This is exactly the kind of program that Maine needs to compete in the innovation economy.
I am a small business owner who works on a daily basis on economic and business development. On Nov. 7, please join me in voting for Senator Bromley, a proven leader, so that she can continue her work on behalf of Maine businesses, workers, and students.
Jim Damicis
Scarborough
Babine is committed to vets and their families
Editor:
As a World War II veteran, long time Scarborough resident and Past Commander of Scarborough’s Libby-Mitchell American Legion Post #76, I support Shawn Babine for state representative and ask that Scarborough’s veterans vote for him this November.
Shawn’s commitment to veterans and their families brings a level of leadership that continues our call for improved services and greater protection of veterans’ benefits.
Shawn’s leadership in the Sons of the American Legion Squadron has helped our goals to expand our American Legion programs. He has played an integral role in raising monies for our educational programs like the Boys State and Girls State scholarships. With his help we now send eight young men and women to the Boys and Girls State program every June. He organized our new School Citizenship Award that recognizes the exemplary citizenship of two high school and two middle school students. For more than five years, Shawn continues to help the American Legion organize the Memorial Day parade and each year we grow and get better.
As our state representative, Shawn will continue to be a conscientious listener, hard worker and problem solver. I am pleased that Shawn is the candidate to replace Darlene Curley in the State Legislature. He will continue the legacy of strong Scarborough leaders.
There are many difficult challenges ahead in reducing the tax burden and strengthening Maine’s business environment. I’m confident that Shawn will be an independent voice representing the people of Scarborough and all of Maine. On Nov. 7, please vote for Shawn Babine for Maine House. Maine needs his kind of leadership!
Ken Dolloff
Scarborough
Pendleton will fight for senior citizens
Editor:
I am writing in support of Peggy Pendleton, who is running for the Maine House seat in District 128.
Peggy’s experience as a health care professional and health care educator for over 24 years will be critical in understanding the complicated health care, Medicaid and prescription drug issues that many of our seniors face.
As a senior citizen, I can say with confidence that I feel very comfortable that Peggy will be working in Augusta fighting for the interest of seniors, particularly as it relates to health care and other issues.
Peggy will fight for affordable health care and continue to support Maine’s low cost prescription drug plan that she helped to implement as a senator. Peggy will also work diligently to provide greater access to low cost prescription drugs for seniors.
I therefore strongly urge you to vote for Peggy Pendleton on Nov. 7.
Thomas Downs
Scarborough
Vote for change and vote for Curley
Editor:
We need change in Congress and we need it now: new ideas, a representative who will put people before politics and results. That change is Darlene Curley.
Darlene Curley is a registered nurse and a successful businesswoman who created over 100 jobs right here in Maine. She knows how to take care of people and make payroll. She has done it.
Curley grew up in a hard working union family, learning the most important lesson of all…if you don’t like the way things are going, you roll up your sleeves and get to work. Darlene has done this her whole life and will do the same representing the people of the First District in Congress.
Curley supports our troops. Her father was a veteran of the Korean War and her husband served our country as an Army officer.
Darlene is like us – she and her husband have raised three children and overcome hardship. She and her family lost a child. Darlene has turned that into advocacy for children and supporting healthcare and education.
Curley has been my representative and a leader in the State Legislature for two terms, serving on the Health and Human Services and Appropriations (budget) Committees. The Speaker of the House recognized her leadership and appointed Darlene to a National Health Care Committee during her first term.
Darlene gets things done. She has listened to her constituents and delivered: balanced budgets, lower taxes, while prioritizing increased funding for education, children’s services and lower cost prescription drugs for our senior citizens. I know because she has represented Scarborough.
Curley has worked with both parties to get things done. She sponsored and championed “Tina’s Law,” getting driver’s with suspended licenses off our highways. Tougher penalties for unsafe drivers, safer highways for all Maine families – Democrats, Republicans, Independents and Greens, alike. It is the most important legislation of the last few years and Curley got it done.
We need a change in Congress and that change is Darlene Curley. I ask you to join me and vote for change, vote Curley for Congress. Darlene cares about us.
Kathryn Fellows
Scarborough
Vote yes on Wentworth referendum
Editor:
I am writing to show my support of the proposed new Wentworth Intermediate School building. I am the parent of a fifth grader, a fourth grader and a first grader, who may never benefit from a new building, however I feel that a “yes” vote on the Nov. 7 referendum is very important.
The current building is 44 years old and has issues with asbestos and poor ventilation and it lacks a sprinkler system. Classroom instruction time is shortened due to the length of time it takes to get from one classroom to another (i.e. getting a class from their primary classroom to art, gym, music, library and lunch). It is over crowded now with 785 students and numbers are expected to increase in the future.
Over the years, portable classrooms (which were originally intended to be a temporary fix) have been added to the school – some are beyond their life expectancy and are now being closed off due to air quality concerns. The other schools in town have experienced new construction, whether it was a new school like the middle school which was built approximately 10 years ago, or additions and renovations to the primary schools and the high school. It is now time to focus on Wentworth Intermediate School!
Please join me in voting “yes” on Nov. 7 and help improve Wentworth, the future school of our young students.
Lisa Huber
Scarborough
Most ‘talks out of both sides of her mouth’
Editor:
Beware of Sylvia Most in our State House as she does most of her talking out of both sides of her mouth. These were her exact words at a recent Zoning Board meeting where we were personally involved.
Sylvia Most was a key player in the development of Scarborough’s Future Plan. As written, the Future Plan states development throughout Scarborough should direct residential development to specific areas in town (the R Zones) while encouraging commercial and industrial developments to other areas. With that, as a member of the Town Council, Sylvia chose to ignore the Future Plan and voted to allow a commercial business to be located within a residential zone. She did this without knowing any of the specifics or the potential impact to the surrounding neighbors. These impacts included an increase in the local traffic by over 230 trips per day down several residential streets and the construction of a building that would be 10 times bigger than any of the surrounding homes.
When challenged on her position, Sylvia did meet with us to discuss these issues. At our meeting, she agreed that we had legitimate concerns regarding a large business coming into a single-family neighborhood. However, when she spoke at the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, in one breath she agreed that the neighbors had legitimate concerns, but in the second, strongly supported the location of a large business within a residential neighborhood. As Sylvia herself stated, “If it sounds like I’m speaking out of both sides of my mouth, it‘s because I am.”
In choosing your representative for the State House, remember to choose one with integrity, who takes the time to learn the issues, develops a sound position and has the fortitude to stand behind their decisions.
Stacey and David Hughes
Scarborough
Vote for Pendleton for Maine House
Editor:
I am writing this letter in support of Peggy Pendleton’s campaign for House District No. 128. Peggy is committed to our community, having lived here and raised her family for the last 30 years.
Peggy is committed to building a better future for Maine. She has served in the Maine House for six years and the Maine Senate for eight years. During this time she served as the Senate Chair of the Education, Judiciary and State and Local Government Committees. That experience helped Peggy realize that responsible leadership means keeping Maine’s promise as a great place to live and raise a family.
Peggy’s experience as a nurse and nurse educator for over 24 years will assist her in making our health care system and prescription drugs more affordable, especially to seniors and low income families. She understands the health care system and will be able to get to work immediately on those issues without a learning curve.
Peggy is committed to investing in education and building new opportunities for all Mainers. She will work diligently to insure fiscal responsibility in Maine and demanding it from Washington. Peggy is strongly committed to creating good paying jobs and building a strong local and Maine economy. You can count on Peggy to safeguard and protect out quality of life, our environment and our natural heritage.
Peggy is a proven leader who has the experience to get the job done. She has the strongest integrity and will be an independent voice in Augusta.
Therefore, I strongly urge you to vote for Peggy Pendleton on Nov. 7.
Neil D. Jamieson, Jr.
Scarborough
Tina Turcotte’s mother says ‘vote for Curley’
Editor:
I am voting for Darlene Curley for Congress because she gets things done...I know this first hand because I am Tina Turcotte's mother (Tina’s Law).
No one can take away the grief that our family felt when we lost our daughter in a tragic accident caused by a driver with a suspended license. We want to prevent this from happening to any other Maine family...we can all thank State Representative Darlene Curley for getting this done.
Darlene Curley is a proven leader. She is able to recognize problems and has the dedication and determination to find solutions and get the job done. She works with Democrats, Republicans and Independents to find solutions for Maine families. She will do the same thing in Congress, putting people before politics.
If it had not been for Darlene Curley, "Tina's Law" would not have become a reality. She is committed to making Maine and our country a better and safer place to live. Join me and vote for Darlene Curley for Congress on Nov. 7.
Pat LaNigra
Scarborough
Cast your vote for Shawn Babine
Editor:
As a Scarborough small business owner, a community volunteer and as a former Chicago Republican, I understand and appreciate the challenges facing Scarborough and Maine. I brought my business, Sudzie Autowash, to Scarborough because it’s a great place to live and to do business. Even with that comfort, we can all agree that it's getting more and more difficult to raise a family, pay for quality health care, pay our taxes (and I pay twice) and to build a better life. Like you, I care deeply about Maine and its future. And like most Mainers, regardless of any political candidate's party affiliation, I vote for the candidate with a clear message and a strong vision. That candidate must be well grounded, remember where they came from, hold their principles firmly yet they must be willing to compromise earnestly when it is in the best interest of those he or she serves. That is why I'm supporting Shawn Babine for the Maine House.
On Tuesday, Nov. 7, we have the opportunity to vote for an excellent candidate. Shawn is committed to helping working families and our local small businesses. His fiscal stewardship with Scarborough's budget is a positive example of how advocating for taxpayers' interest can be balanced with a growing community's need for more services. Shawn Babine's background as a community and statewide leader, his experience in corporate management and his dedication to the people he serves makes him ready to be an effective leader on the first day in the legislature. When you vote this Nov. 7, casting a vote for Shawn is casting a vote for Scarborough's future.
John Massengill
Scarborough
Watch out for ‘misleading statements’
Editor:
I'm not sure which group would get the gold medal for misleading the public – the proponents of the $55 million in school projects or the opponents of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
According to the brochures provided by the school district, it will only cost a maximum of $70 a year to the average homeowner to borrow $55 million. Amazing! The facts are that these school projects will cost $8,200 over the life of the bond to the average homeowner, with a peak year of $495 (2012).
The brochures further mislead the public by artificially lowering the square feet per student data. The brochures use a figure of 1,100 students at the middle school and 1,058 students at the intermediate school. According to the figures in the 2006 comprehensive plan (provided by the school department no less), the peak enrollment at the middle school will be 850 students in 2011, while the peak enrollment in the intermediate school will be 794 in 2008. Come on guys, be straight with the public!
Not to be outdone, the Taxpayer Bill of Rights opponents continue to spread the fear that Maine schools will suffer hardships and standards will be lowered if the citizens approve the referendum question. Was this the outcome from TABOR in Colorado? Fact: Maine and Colorado each graduate about 88 percent of high school seniors. Fact: Colorado has 35 percent of its students graduate from college, while Maine is at 26 percent in this category. Could that be because the class of 2006 in Colorado scored 1670 on the SAT, while Maine, the number one taxed state, had students lagging far behind with a score of 1493? Obviously, higher taxes is not the answer. One last point – Colorado teachers get paid more than Maine teachers.
Never underestimate the intelligence of the voter. These statements misleading the public or spreading the fear of gloom and doom only further underscore my support for the Taxpayer Bill of Rights and my lack of support for the $55 million in school bonds.
Marcus Moschetto
Scarborough
Pendleton ‘wants to help the people’
Editor:
As a business owner in Scarborough, I’ve needed help to deal with regulations at the state level. Peggy Pendleton was willing to help. When my family was going through a medical crisis which was regulated at the state level, Peggy Pendleton was willing to help.
To me, a state legislator needs to be willing to truly “represent the people,” not just get elected to follow through on their own agendas of their political party agendas. Believe me when I say that I’ve seen it both ways.
Peggy is a person who is willing to listen and wants to help you – “the people.” That’s why I support Peggy Pendleton.
Julie O’Brien
Scarborough
Vote for Pendleton in District 128
Editor:
The Scarborough residents of District 128 have been given the privilege once again to vote for Peggy Pendleton for state representative.
Peggy’s experience and expertise in state government speaks for itself.
I have known Peggy for over 30 years and I applaud her honesty and conscientious efforts in working for employment opportunities for Mainers and health care that everyone can afford.
As an educator for nearly 40 years, I am consistently aware and appreciative of Peggy’s continued support of quality education for all of Maine’s students.
It is with extreme conviction in Peggy Pendleton’s ability to make conditions better for her constituents in District 128 and the entire state that I strongly urge you to join me in voting for her on Nov. 7.
Karen Poore
Scarborough
Most will be ‘fantastic addition’ to legislature
Editor:
I am writing to voice my support for Sylvia Most, who is running for a seat in the Maine House.
I have known Sylvia since the early 1990s, when we worked together at National Semiconductor in South Portland. I know her to be dedicated, creative and enthusiastic, as well as a person of high integrity. I am confident that she will work hard to develop solutions to the challenges that we face here in Maine – the need for tax reform, access to health care, protection of the environment and economic development.
Sylvia and I do not always agree on every policy position. But I know that her positions are based on a thoughtful exploration of the issues and a genuine desire to do what she believes is in the best interest of her constituents. So often in politics today we are presented only with negative attacks on those who choose public service. It is truly a pleasure to have the opportunity to endorse someone who will be a fantastic addition to the Maine House – Sylvia Most.
Michael Rauth
Scarborough
Education Association endorses Dedian for council
Editor:
The Scarborough Education Association (SEA) is pleased to announce it has endorsed David Dedian in his bid for a seat on the Scarborough Town Council.
David Dedian is a civil engineer and vice president of a local business specializing in wastewater treatment and industrial cleanup. He would bring a great deal of technical expertise to the local Scarborough government, along with his personal independence and openness to listen and work with other governmental agencies including the School Board. He is committed to advocating for the Town Council to focus its direction in order to address the many challenges facing our growing community. He would bring a fresh prospective, a wealth of knowledge and experience and a sincere commitment to the community of Scarborough as a member of the Town Council, all of which the SEA embraces.
David and his wife have two children in the Scarborough Schools. Along with the technical knowledge and expertise David has, his view is that “it takes a community to educate a child.” To that end, with the interrelationship between a Town Council and a School Board, as a town councilor he would be interested in working with the School Board to provide quality education for the students in Scarborough.
This is the first year the Scarborough Education Association (SEA) has interviewed candidates for Town Council and School Board. All of the candidates were invited to participate. Although not all of the candidates accepted the SEA’s invitation to dialogue about issues of importance to education in general and the Scarborough schools in particular, the SEA hopes that in the future all of the candidates will do so.
The association is pleased to announce its endorsement of David Dedian and urges the community to vote for David Dedian for Town Council on Nov. 7.
The Scarborough Education Association
Pendleton is ‘sincere and hardworking’
Editor:
I am writing in support of Peggy Pendleton, who is running for the Maine House seat in District 128. Peggy is a compassionate, experienced and involved community leader who has served our community well over the years. She has been active in Friends of the Library, the local Kiwanis Club, the local American Legion Auxiliary and Friday Night Forum and has made many other contributions to our community.
Peggy is a sincere and hardworking individual who care deeply about the town of Scarborough and all of its citizens. Peggy has resided in our community for over 30 years and has raised children and grandchildren here. Peggy will represent all of us in Augusta and leave partisan politics behind, as she has exhibited before. She will be an independent voice who will fight to continue to improve Scarborough as well as the state of Maine. Her six years in the Maine House and her eight years in the Maine Senate have provided her with the experience and knowledge of having to pass significant pieces of legislation. There will be no “on the job training” when Peggy returns to Augusta.
As a nurse for over 24 years, Peggy has the knowledge and experience to deal with the serious issues of low cost prescription drugs for our seniors and the rising cost of health care. As a senior citizen, I know that Peggy will fight for our rights in Augusta as she did during her time in the senate.
For all of the above reasons, I strongly urge you to vote for Peggy Pendleton on Nov. 7.
Millie Stevens
Scarborough
Support Most in House District 128
Editor:
With so much riding on this year's elections, I am writing to urge your readers to support the election of Sylvia Most to the Maine House of Representatives.
I have known Sylvia for several years and worked directly with her on matters affecting this area. She is someone who has first-hand knowledge of the problems facing Maine's small businesses as well as those facing our working men and women. She is also a dedicated parent who knows the pressures that confront Maine families.
Sylvia Most's priorities are right for our state – tax reform, getting state spending under control, protecting our environment, access to quality healthcare and providing our children with the best educational opportunities possible.
By voting for Sylvia Most, Scarborough residents can be assured that their new state representative will be someone who knows and understands the concerns of the citizens of Maine House District 128.
Endorsing Sylvia comes easily to me. She is a person of integrity, courage and principle. I strongly urge all residents of District 128 to support and vote for Sylvia Most on Nov. 7!
Charlie Summers
Scarborough
Fuller Farm woodlands are being ‘proactively managed’
Editor:
The Scarborough Land Conservation Trust (SLCT) has received a number of inquiries about the recent logging operations at our Fuller Farm property on Broadturn Road.
Fuller Farm was purchased by the SLCT in 2000 with financial assistance from the state’s Land for Maine’s Future Program, the town of Scarborough and private donations. At that time, a conservation easement was placed on the property to: 1) prohibit residential (and commercial) development, 2) protect the public access the property for passive recreational, 3) protect traditional working landscapes of agriculture and forestry and 4) protect wildlife and associated habitat.
One of SLCT’s many stewardship responsibilities at Fuller Farm is management of the forest. In 2001, SLCT developed a Forest Management Plan for this renewable resource approved by the Maine Forest Service – a plan that uses best management practices to govern the sustainable harvest of timber. As such, the forest regenerates at a rate faster than the rate at which trees are cut.
SLCT consulted with state and federal wildlife biologists to develop habitat management plans for three distinct areas of the property: grassland, scrub-shrub and forest, which collectively support over 130 different species of birds. These wildlife considerations, in addition to prescriptions for forest stand improvement, brush management, early successional habitat development and improvement, riparian buffer management, critical area planting (i.e.: critical erosion areas and stream bank stabilization), and access road improvement and development have all been incorporated into our management plan.
The general objectives of SLCT’s forest management are to: 1) manage for forest health, 2) provide open green space, 3) sustain, manage and/or diversify wildlife habitat and 4) allow public access. Prior to our ownership, timber management at Fuller Farm was not scientifically based, it was simply extractive (take the best, leave the rest) and a poor quality forest resulted.
Under the direction of a certified Maine forester, SLCT has undertaken an improvement and thinning harvest to improve Fuller Farm’s forest stand composition, quality, and forest wildlife diversity. Yes, this activity is very visible and disruptive, especially where the property experiences frequent public use. It is, however, a disruption that will greatly improve the value and quality of wildlife habitat and timber. The disruption will heal naturally over time. Tree seeds benefit from being able to germinate and grow on areas of exposed soil, and high quality tree seedlings are released from a heavily shaded overstory. The goal is to maintain a forest in succession: a canopy of large trees that contribute to forest reproduction, an understory of replacement trees as larger ones are taken, and a nursery of young trees. Each of these stages of forest growth contributes to wildlife diversity.
We have made the decision to proactively manage our woodlands in accordance to our objectives. There are obvious changes, the most dramatic of which is the establishment of the initial infrastructure of logging roads and timber landings that will service the property in 10-year cycles. Realizing this, our management plan for trails includes developing pedestrian trails separate from the "roadways" created by the timber harvest and should not be impacted by future harvests. An extension of the existing pedestrian trail is, at this moment, under construction by a five-person Maine Conservation Corps trail crew.
SLCT returns over 97 percent of the public and private financial support we receive to land acquisition and property management. As more and more people avail themselves to SLCT properties for recreation, our need to improve our properties to facilitate recreational use increases and with it, our stewardship budget. While we are fortunate to obtain funding through grants and private donations, it isn’t enough. Wise management of our forested land is a demonstration of responsible stewardship and responsible asset management and provides necessary revenue for further property improvements.
Thank you for being patient while these important management activities take place. The responsibility of land management has created many opportunities for volunteers. If you would like assistance with property and trail projects, we would like to hear from you.
Laurene Swaney, President
Scarborough Land Conservation Trust
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