News

Wilton Fish & Game Assoc. Receives NRA Foundation Grant

 

Wilton Fish & Game members are pleased to announce that they have received a grant from the NRA Foundation in the amount of $8, 292.50 for the drilling of a well and public restroom.  The grant was applied with the thought in mind that the association would like to sponsor more adult and youth programs.  Realizing that after being in existence for 84 years it was time to make a move forward.  WFGA was organized on April 23^rd. 1929 with G.F. Goodspeed as president.  The association has been through many trials such as disbanding in 1942 and then re-organizing in 1951.  The club became incorporated on August 1953 adopting its constitution in 1976.  The articles of Incorporation state that the purposes are:  (a) “to promote the interests of legitimate sport with rod and gun; (b) to enforce the laws for the protection and propagation of inland fish and game within the state.”

 

Over the years the WFGA has conducted many Hunter Safety Courses as well as NRA sanctioned Home Protection Courses and assisted the Boy Scouts in achieving merit badges for shooting.  A sporting clay shooting course with electric trap machine is operational and open to the public on Mondays (weather permitting) at 4:30. For more info call Charlie @ 462-6792

 

The indoor range is a six station 50 foot range with retrievable targets. Upgraded exhaust fans have been recently added for the safety of all shooters and in 2012 the stations have been rebuilt.   In 2009 a considerable amount of work was done to the outdoor facility.  Grading, bulldozing, fencing around a two station shooting box (a CONEX box) was installed on the outdoor range.  Many programs have been made available to the public such as:  shooting gallery, cowboy shoot, concealed pistol courses, and etc.  A Youth League was established in 2010 with the youth competing with other club teams and also competing at Camp Perry in Ohio .  The youth league has also established a food service booth for fund raising during many of the WFGA events.

 

WFGA purchased 12+ areas of land abutting original acreage in mid-2011.  An archery range is being established and has a 15 foot tree stand which again has been donated by a member.  Plans are being made to open up some of this property and adding a 50 yard outdoor multi-station 22 LR range with shooting pads that are ADA approved.

 

This year members are busy remodeling the existing kitchen with donated kitchen cabinets, new ceiling, counter tops and hoping to redo the flooring. Funds are being raised for the counter top and flooring.  Two sinks are going to be added so eventually public functions will be provided.

 

 Public programs have been improved over the last several years.  The annual ice fishing derby on Wilson Lake has offered a youth fishing program call “Hooked on Fishing” which has been under the instruction of Emily MacCabe from the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.  This summer a new program called the,” Androscoggin River Two Dam Fishing Derby”, is being offered to the public with youth categories for the heaviest fish.  This last winter the Ice out Contest was brought back after several years of non existence.  Funds raised are being used for the upgrading of the clubhouse kitchen.   

 

Work has started with the well being drilled at the facility under the leadership of President Phil Maurais.   Two major trees will be taken down for the safety of the building.  With the NRA Foundation Grant many major improvements will be made and will greatly affect the public access to the Wilton Fish & Game Association Programs.

 

Membership is always open.  Meetings are held at 6:30 PM on the third Sunday of each month at the facility on Rt. #2 in Wilton .  FMI Call Phil @ 897-3027

 

Franklin Health Internal Medicine Earns National Recognition for Patient-centered Care

Patient-Centered Medical Home™2011 standards emphasize enhanced care through patient-clinician partnership

 

FARMINGTON , MAINE ¾

 

The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) announces that Franklin Health Internal Medicine in Farmington has received recognition from the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) 2011 (PCMH 2011) program for using evidence-based, patient-centered processes that focus on highly coordinated care and long‐term participative relationships. The practice received Level 1 status.

 

The PCMH model designates a primary nurse-provider team that coordinates patient care across a continuum of settings ranging from the primary care office to specialty clinics to inpatient areas. Care is facilitated by registries, information technology, health information exchange, and other means to assure that patients receive the indicated care when and where they need it, and communicated in a way that they understand.

 

The PCMH model demonstrates the benchmarks of patient-centered care, including same day appointments as needed, expanded hours, 24/7 access to a provider, and appropriate use of proven health information systems. According to the NCQA, research shows that medical homes can lead to higher quality and lower costs, and improve patients’ and providers’ reported experiences of care.

 

“The patient-centered medical home raises the bar in defining high-quality care by emphasizing access, health information technology and partnerships between clinicians and patients,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane. PCMH Recognition shows that Franklin Health Internal Medicine has the tools, systems and resources to provide their patients with the right care at the right time.”

 

To receive recognition, which is valid for three years, the internal medicine practice demonstrated the ability to meet the program’s key elements embodying characteristics of the medical home. The standards are aligned with the joint principles of the Patient-Centered Medical Home established with the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Osteopathic Association. 

 

Franklin Health Internal Medicine met key program components in the following areas:

·        Written standards for patient access and continuity of care

·        Use of patient feedback materials

·        Appropriate use of charting tools to track patients and organize clinical information

• Responsive care management techniques with an emphasis on preventive care for individual patients and for the entire patient population
• Adaptation to patient’s cultural and linguistic needs
• Use of information technology for prescriptions, test and referral tracking and coordination with other health care providers
• Use of evidence-based guidelines to treat chronic conditions
• Measurement and reporting of clinical and service performance

 

“There are three levels of NCQA PCMH recognition and each level reflects the degree to which a practice meets the requirements that comprise the standards,” said Mavis Dubord, Franklin Health director of clinical and administrative services. “We are very proud of all the work that our internal medicine clinicians and staff did, along with information technology staff who worked behind the scenes in achieving this first step of recognition. This achievement demonstrates their level of commitment and excellence to our patients.”

Franklin Health Internal Medicine offers a full range of adult medicine services from routine physicals to managing complex medical conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Its providers, which include Stephen Goss, DO; Stacy Hershfeld, DO; Robert O’Reilly, DO; and Beth Hartsock, ANP, FNP; provide 24/7 call coverage for their patients at Franklin Memorial Hospital.

 

Internal Medicine offices are conveniently located on the first floor of the Mt. Blue Health Center in Farmington , located on the Franklin Memorial Hospital campus. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Franklin Health Internal Medicine at 778-4922.

 

ABOUT NCQA

NCQA is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality.  NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations.  It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance.  NCQA’s Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care.  NCQA is committed to providing health care quality information for consumers, purchasers, health care providers and researchers.

 

 

Governor Signs Hospital Bill, Makes Good on Promise to Maine People  

AUGUSTA – After promising the people of Maine he would pay Maine’s hospitals, Governor Paul R. LePage has made good on that promise. More than 150 days after first introducing his plan to pay Maine’s $484 million in hospital debt, the Governor finally had the opportunity Friday to sign LD 1555 “An Act To Strengthen Maine’s Hospitals and To Provide for a New Spirits Contract.” He did so with little fanfare citing “it’s simply the right thing to do.”

“Paying our bills is the right thing to do, it’s just unfortunate that Democrats waited so long to make the right decision for the people of Maine,” Governor LePage said.

On January 15, Governor LePage announced his plan to pay $484 million in unpaid Medicaid bills – debt dating back to 2009 – to Maine hospitals. In March, Democrats proposed a “new” hospital plan, which was rejected in Committee. Democrats also claimed the Governor’s bill was unconstitutional before holding the bill up in Committee and refusing to allow a vote. Furthermore, Democrats tried tying Medicaid expansion to the hospital bill in late May, a strategy the Governor vetoed on May 23.

With $484 million debt erased, the Governor said he will issue voter-authorized bonds, including $51.5 million for transportation infrastructure improvements and $53.5 million for conservation, clean water upgrades, and construction and energy efficiency at post-secondary educational institutions.

In a letter dated May 23, Governor LePage requested the State Treasurer to start preparing those bonds for his signature. “Lastly, as I have said all along, once we have our fiscal house in order, we will be in a position to release the authorized bonds. As a measure of good faith, I am hereby directing the State Treasurer to begin to prepare those bonds for my signature on an expedited basis. I will sign them as soon as this new Governor’s Bill is enacted. I hope she will act quickly to ensure our economy can get back to work,” he wrote.The Governor has not yet received any information from the Office of the Treasurer.

Governor LePage has consistently said that it is irresponsible to issue new debt without a credible plan to pay the State’s outstanding debts.

2^nd Annual Father’s Day Androscoggin River Clean Up POSTPONED

In the interest of safety for community volunteers given high river levels, the event has been moved to June 30^th

WHEN AND WHERE

June 30^th 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Volunteer Check-in starts at 8:30 AM and orientation will begin at 9 AM)

Little Andy Park, Second Street, Auburn (Volunteers will be dispatched from here to boats/shoreline locations)

 

Auburn – The Androscoggin Land Trust (ALT) has chosen to postpone the annual Father’s Day Riverfront clean up due to higher water than would be safe for beginning paddlers.   Given the success of last year’s event (over 1,300 pounds of trash and debris), this water-based clean-up effort for the Androscoggin River will be moved two weeks to Sunday, June 30th.

“While ALT is proud to be a major promoter for experiences on the river, the safety of the community is always our top priority.  We look forward to letting the river return to normal levels by June 30^th and having everyone out on that day,” shared Jonathan LaBonte, ALT Executive Director of ALT.

ALT, with the help of primary sponsor Baxter Brewing Co., along with partners Service Master Clean and Fire House Grille, will be encouraging families and willing volunteers to come help clean up the Androscoggin River as we prepare downtown Lewiston-Auburn for the summer river recreation season.

With growing interest in the riverfront, including the investment interest spinning off from Lewiston’s Riverfront Island planning effort and the ALT-led Androscoggin Greenway project, the view of our community from the river itself needs continued attention.

Lewiston Auburn Canoe & Kayak Rentals as well as Bates Outing Club will be providing canoes to assist in this effort, but we encourage those with canoes to consider bringing your boats so we can maximize the number of people on the river.  Volunteers will be assigned to the canoes and will take to the river in groups.  Those more comfortable on land will have opportunities to provide clean-up support from the shore.

Both Fire House Grille and Baxter Brewery are assisting with staff volunteers and as host of the thank you BBQ lunch sponsored by ServiceMaster Clean, along with a complimentary Baxter (or non-alcoholic) beverage to the first 100 volunteers to register. 

If you wish to join the effort, register early. To learn more or to register for the clean-up, please call ALT at 207-782-2302 or e-mail us at info@androscogginlandtrust.org

 

Thirty-six Employees Recognized for Professional Development

Recipients earned advanced degrees and certifications in the past year

FARMINGTON , MAINE ¾

 

On June 11, hospital leaders and peers recognized 36 employees for earning advanced degrees and certifications in the past year. The Franklin Memorial Hospital Professional Development Council and the Education Department hosted the recognition ceremony to acknowledge the recipients commitment to advancing their knowledge and skills.

 

“Franklin Community Health Network (FCHN) reinforces the benefit of investing in education with the goal of attracting, retaining, and developing a workforce that is recognized as our greatest asset,” Rebecca Ryder, FCHN president/CEO, told attendees. “As we continuously strive to be a successful and vibrant health care system, employee commitment to professional development is critical.”

 

The FMH Professional Development Council is an interdisciplinary professional council with the mission of “fostering opportunities for professional growth through lifelong learning.” In addition to promoting professional and educational advancement, its members are also involved in skills fairs, peer review, and case study review.

 

Council members and the department each represents is as follows: Dee Robinson, Information Systems; April Paradis, Oncology; Hope Pratt, Health Information Management; Melissa Caminiti, Quality; Vickie Adams, Cardiopulmonary; Taffy Davis, Education; Nancy Walters, Med/Surg; Charlie Mills, Lab; Timia Seager, Outpatient Services; and Ashley Stevenson, Outpatient Services.

 

Pam Ernest, chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services, stated her commitment to education and that she had spent half of her career working in the Education Department. She then thanked Karen Rogers, present director, for successfully acquiring Maine ’s Health Care Sector Grant funding from the State of Maine Department of Labor in 2010 to subsidize staff education. “Once that happened, the number of staff working on advanced degrees and certifications snowballed. Most people being recognized today used that support.”

 

Those recognized included: Jan Bell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Pam Caldwell, Master of Science in Nursing; Kim Coolidge, Medical Assistant Certification; Taffy Davis, Master of Science in Nursing; Tracy Doiron, Certified Professional Coder; Jacob Dumais, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Certification; Linda Dunham, RT Coder; Sarah Emmons, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, Sonography Certification; Jeannine Fletcher, Certified Healthcare Access Associate; Ann Forbes, Certified Healthcare Access Associate; Leslie Geissinger, Master of Science in Nursing; April Guagenti , Graduate Certificate in Gerontology; Jennielea Hanna, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Elizabeth Hebert, Medical Lab Technician Certification; Brenda Hill, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Sandra Hyde, Certified Professional Coder; Ralph Johnson, Certified Healthcare Chief Information Officer; Mary Keane, Master of Science in Nursing; Jacqueline Knight , Certified Professional Coder; Diana Ladd, Certified Healthcare Access Associate; Jackie Lane, Certified Professional Coder; Linda Lidstone, Certified Healthcare Access Associate; Miriah McKenna, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Jamie Medrano, Certified Professional Coder; Ashley Noyes, Medical Assistant Certification; Beth Paradis, Medical Assistant Certification; Hope Pratt , Certified Professional Coder, Hospital; Theresa Richard, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Dee Robinson, Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration and Information Systems; Karen Rogers, Board Certified in Nursing Professional Development; Sarah Rowe, Medical Assistant Certification; Timia Seager, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Tina Smith, Medical Assistant Certification; Ashley Trask, Medical Assistant Certification; Audrey Couture, Medical Assistant Certification; and Patricia McDaniel, Registered Nurse.

 

LePage Administration Highlights Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation in Advance of ‘Elder Abuse Awareness Day’

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul LePage joined state officials at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation and Department of Health and Human Services, as well as other agencies and Maine organizations, in focusing attention on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is recognized each June 15th throughout the United States and in other countries.

As he has done with the issue of domestic violence, Governor LePage is encouraging greater awareness of elder abuse. To highlight what is sometimes referred to as the ‘crime of the 21st century,’ because of its increasing prevalence and devastating effects, the Governor issued a proclamation designating June 15^th as “Elder Abuse Awareness Day.” The proclamation urges the State’s residents to join this effort by reporting suspected abuse of Maine’s seniors.

“Elder abuse comes in various forms – emotional, physical, financial,” Governor LePage commented. “It may involve neglect, abandonment and the draining of a senior’s monetary assets. Sadly, these crimes are under-reported, leaving too many victims to suffer. The State of Maine has the resources and strong desire to provide assistance and support, but it’s imperative that more people speak up and report their concerns. Currently, only one out of five cases of elderly abuse is reported.”

The Governor on Wednesday was a guest speaker at Spectrum Generations Center, a resource center on aging and disabilities in Damariscotta, where he addressed members about Elder Abuse Awareness. Specifically, Governor LePage discussed domestic violence and its relationship to elder abuse in Maine.

Commissioner Anne L. Head from the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (DPFR) is reminding Mainers that financial abuse, which includes investment fraud and exploitation, is among the most common forms of elder abuse, costing its victims an estimated $2.9 billion a year.

“Seniors are disproportionately the target of financial exploitation,” Commissioner Head commented. “All too often, the abuse is perpetrated by caregivers, family members or financial advisers.”

The Commissioner explained that the Department’s five agencies are dedicated to educating the public and helping the victims of financial abuse. As examples, she highlighted the Bureau of Financial Institution’s online Consumer Library (www.maine.gov/pfr/financialinstitutions) and the Downeaster Guide to Elder Financial Protection available through the Department’s Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection. The 32 page publication is available free of charge to Maine residents by calling 1-800-332-8529 (1-800-DEBT-LAW). It can also be found at www.Credit.Maine.gov under “Publications”.

Maine’s Office of Securities, another agency within DPFR, noted the frequency of investment fraud and the importance of reporting suspected cases. “Investment fraud is an area of particular concern,” Securities Administrator Judith Shaw said, “because victims can quickly see their entire life-savings depleted with little opportunity to recover financial stability. Losses through financial abuse can also lead to physical and emotional health problems.” For investment-related questions or concerns, the Office of Securities can be reached toll-free at 1-877-624-8551 and online at www.investors.maine.gov.

Ricker Hamilton, Director of the Office of Aging and Disability Services and a national expert on the prevention of elder abuse stressed that while it is essential for suspected abuse to be reported to the Maine APS 24-hour hotline as quickly as possible, recognition of the signs that a senior may be a victim of abuse is also critical.

“Understanding which seniors in our communities may be especially vulnerable to elder abuse and financial exploitation and spotting the red flags of abuse are essential to ensuring that victims get the help they need,” Hamilton said.

Signs that an older adult may be vulnerable to possible abuse or exploitation may include:

• Social isolation, depression, and/or recent loss of a spouse or partner

• Recent decline in health or in the ability for self-care

• Lack of familiarity with financial accounts and/or overly complicated finances

• Dependence on another to provide everyday care or essential services

• Willingness to listen to telemarketing calls or respond to solicitations from unverified charities or businesses

Red flags of possible victimization include:

• Senior has injuries that are not adequately explained

• Change in appearance or poor hygiene Senior is missing checks, account statements or documentation regarding finances

• Running out of money at the end of the month or excessive anxiety about finances

• Senior is fearful or depressed

• Senior is accompanied by a caregiver who is overly protective or dominating

A copy of the Governor’s proclamation is attached to this news release.

Western Maine Selected as Venue for Inaugural SCI Mountain Challenge in September ~ Participants across the maritime industry expected to compete in 2 day fundraiser ~

AUGUSTA - The mountains of Western Maine have been selected by the Seamen's Church Institute (SCI) as the location for its premier SCI Mountain Challenge, a first-of-its-kind in Maine fundraiser that will ask competitors to tackle 25 miles of rugged terrain and five peaks in two days (Sept. 21-22, 2013). Maine's varied terrain and isolated location provide the setting to test land dwellers' endurance of the hardships mariners confront at sea.   The SCI Mountain Challenge, sponsored in part by Cargill, Inc., is expected to draw approximately 120 participants comprised mainly of business executives from both corporate and private entities who have national and global ties to the shipping industry. Funds raised by team sponsors will be used to support services provided by SCI, North America's largest mariners' service agency.   "SCI selected Maine as the site for this inaugural event because of its great mountains and venues, spectacular scenery, and diverse choices and course offerings," said Jennifer Koenig, SCI's Director of Development. "Throughout the event, SCI will be promoting the state of Maine and all that it has to offer in the way of its goods and services, scenic beauty and welcoming nature."   Competitors will ascend more than 5,000 feet each day as they climb five iconic Maine mountains: Burnt Mountain (3,680 feet), Sugarloaf Mountain (4,250 feet), Spaulding Mountain (4,010 feet), Barker Mountain (2,594 feet) and Jordan Mountain (2,653 feet). Maine made products will be prominently featured not only during the actual race, but in competitor welcome bags, during the awards ceremony and in a Maine Made Product Showcase.   "This event is truly unique and promises to promote not only the natural, rugged beauty of our state, but also introduce the competitors to technology designed and manufactured in Maine that's necessary for essential communication and safety during the event," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "They and their families will see Maine at its best."   Day 1 is based on the Sugarloaf Massif, home to some of the biggest mountains in the eastern United States and some of the finest fall views one will ever see. Burnt Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain highlight Day 1, and teams with exceptional endurance and teamwork may reach a third "bonus summit" if they move quickly enough across the mountain tops.   Day 2 revolves around the range of mountains at Sunday River in far western Maine. The rich network of trails, big ascents and steep descents ensure competitors earn their celebratory party high up the mountain after crossing the finish line.   In this test of endurance, SCI awards prizes based on cumulative times and philanthropic dollars raised. Untamed Adventure Racing of Dover, N.H., is helping SCI with the logistical aspects of the event, including course selection, permitting, transportation and emergency services.   More information, registration and partnership details can be found at www.scimountainchallenge.com.

Maine Law Enforcement Officer Receives National Recognition  

Governor congratulates Deputy Jason Solomon of York County

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage today congratulated Deputy Jason Solomon of the York County Sheriff’s Office on being selected as the 2013 National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) School Resource Officer (SRO) of the Year.

Solomon is a 12-year veteran of the York County Sheriff’s Office who has been the school resource officer for Massabesic High School in Waterboro since 2010.

“Deputy Solomon is a leader and role model for his community, and I offer my congratulations to him on receiving this prestigious award,” said Governor LePage. “School resource officers are very much more than an armed security presence in our schools. Officers, like Deputy Solomon, across Maine are promoting positive relations between youth and law enforcement, which is important for future generations in building stronger, safer communities.”

NASRO’s School Resource Officer of the Year Award recognizes an SRO that has made a specific and significant contribution to their local community and school. Chief Deputy Bill King submitted Deputy Solomon for this honor after receiving numerous reports of his exemplary performance from students, faculty, administrators and parents.

Solomon will be recognized as NASRO’s SRO of the year on July 14 in Orlando, Florida – the first day of NASRO’s National Conference.

“Maine’s schools are safe places, in great part to the important work of School Resource Officers like Deputy Solomon,” said Education Commissioner Stephen Bowen. “In both presence and practice, these officers are upholding the security of our schools while ensuring they are welcoming community centers that foster student learning, family engagement and educator effectiveness. I want to thank Deputy Solomon for his commitment to protecting our students and educators, and to being such a positive role model in the lives of kids in RSU 57.”

SRO programs across the nation are collaborative efforts by police agencies, law enforcement officers, educators, students, parents and communities. The goal of NASRO and SRO programs is to provide safe learning environments in our nation’s schools, provide valuable resources to school staff, foster a positive relationship with our nation’s youth and develop strategies to resolve problems affecting our youth with the goal of protecting every child so they can reach their fullest potential.

Maine Wins Two International Awards for its State Web Portal

AUGUSTA – Maine’s official state Web portal, www.Maine.gov, has recently been honored as a top government Web site receiving two separate awards that recognize achievements in the fields of both creativity and communications. The Web site received a Silver Communicator Award of Distinction from the International Academy of Visual Arts and a Bronze Summit Creative Award presented by the Summit International Awards Organization.

“The internet has become a primary source of news and communication for many individuals with access,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “It is good policy to ensure Mainers have easily accessible information about their government. Maine citizens can be proud that their state Web site is consistently recognized as one of the best.”

The state of Maine’s award-winning website was revamped May of last year, taking mobile-ready design to the next level, along with a fresh look, faster speed, and a powerful new search engine.

In February, the Governor launched a new financial transparency website to provide Maine citizens and the general public with access to basic, easy to understand information regarding state finances and government spending. Through the new Maine Open Checkbook website, individuals will initially be able to research the details of state expenditures, including vendor payments and employee compensation. Next year the State plans to expand the service to include revenue data and other detail related to expenses. Future enhancements are planned to include expanded analytics with graphs and comparative reports.

“The State of Maine has set very high standards for its Web site,” remarked Greg McNeal, Chief Technology Officer for Maine’s Office of Information Technology and Chair of Maine’s InforME Board, overseeing Maine.gov. “A successful Web presence can be achieved for all states, both big and small, through creativity and strong partner relations. I believe these awards recognize that.”

The Communicator Awards are an annual competition honoring the best in advertising, corporate communications, public relations and identity work for print, video, interactive and audio. The awards are judged and overseen by the International Academy of the Visual Arts (IAVA), a 600+ member organization of leading professionals from various disciplines of the visual arts dedicated to embracing progress and the evolving nature of traditional and interactive media.

The Summit Creative Award recognizes and celebrates the creative accomplishments of small and medium sized advertising agencies and other creative groups. Participating judges come from both large and small-size companies and universities and over the past seventeen years, the competition has established itself as the premier arbiter of creative excellence for firms of this size.

Learn more about Maine.gov through RSS Feeds, Twitter and Facebook

About Maine.gov

Maine.gov (http://www.Maine.gov) is the official Web portal of the state of Maine. Maine.gov is a service of InforME, a collaborative effort between the state of Maine and Maine Information Network, LLC. part of the NIC (NASDAQ: EGOV) family of companies.

About NIC

NIC Inc. (NASDAQ: EGOV) is the nation's leading provider of official government portals, online services, and secure payment processing solutions. The company's innovative eGovernment services help reduce costs and increase efficiencies for government agencies, citizens, and businesses across the country. NIC provides eGovernment solutions for more than 3,500 federal, state, and local agencies in the United States. Additional information is available at http://www.egov.com.

 

 

Governor LePage and Ecoshel Announce Plans for 78 Jobs in Ashland  

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage and Ecoshel CEO Bryan Kirkey announced today plans to create 78 new jobs at a manufacturing facility in Ashland for a new patented cedar shingle system.

The Ecoshel facility will be located at the Levesque Sawmill Site on Levesque Mill Road. Plans include the addition of up to 10 production lines in the coming years, which would boost employment even further. At the start of production, an estimated 150 additional indirect jobs will be created.

“It is with pleasure that I welcome you and your company, Ecoshel Smart-Shingle System, to the great State of Maine,” the Governor stated in a letter to Kirkey. “Not only will you bring much-needed and welcomed jobs to Ashland, but your product line will also create hundreds more indirect jobs that will have a significant economic impact on communities across Aroostook County and the State of Maine.”

George Gervais, Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development, will speak at an announcement Tuesday on behalf of the Governor. Kirkey praised DECD for its rapid response in assisting him to locate his company in Maine.

"When we made the decision to set up an advanced manufacturing system in Maine, I contacted Commissioner Gervais and Rosaire Pelletier, Forest Products Industry Liaison at DECD, to see if they could help,” Kirkey said. “I'm very thankful for how hard they have worked to make this possible and for all of the well-run, well-designed programs, such as MTI, MRDA, FAME and the Community Development Block Grant Program. These are exactly the type of programs that businesses need to grow and create jobs, especially in this economy."

Governor LePage highlighted the coordination between government and the company to make the project a reality. “Today’s announcement is another example of what can happen when the government and the private sector work together,” the Governor stated. “My administration has been focused on providing an ‘open for business’ attitude across state government since day one. When government acts to connect businesses with the resources they need, to find ways to eliminate red tape and to streamline processes, companies such as Ecoshel are able to focus on what you do best: create jobs. Your decision to locate here is a sign of encouragement that my administration is moving in the right direction to make Maine a better place to do business and to make Maine a state known for its business-friendly attitude.”

To facilitate the location of Ecoshel in Maine, the LePage Administration’s economic development team expedited a Maine Rural Development Authority loan for the company; assisted with site selection; connected Ecoshel with suppliers of raw materials; and started the financing process with FAME and other agencies.

Over the last two years, Ecoshel has been in beta production of their Smart-Shingle System, premium cedar shingle panels for roofing and siding, at a facility in Gainesville, Ga. The company decided to build its permanent manufacturing facility in Maine to be closer an abundant source of northern white cedar and its proximity to the nation’s largest cedar shingle markets in New England, according Ecoshel CEO Kirkey.

In addition to processing northern white cedar, Ecoshel will import western red cedar.