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 HelloReturn to index of stories... |
Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this "Week-in-Review" Edition of NH Outlook. Making News this week: Will opposition snuf out a smoking ban, NH Roads found to be Poor to Mediocre, A new Ethics Law now on the books, and, the mild winter takes a toll on the North Country. Here to talk about all this and more from the State House in Concord: Tom Fahey from the Union Leader, and Colin Manning from Foster's Daily Democrat. And here in Durham, Jeff Feingold with the NH Business Review, and Edith Tucker with the Coos County Democrat. |
| Smoking Ban Return to index of stories... |
We begin with the burning issue of whether or not the state should impose a smoking ban in restaurants and bars. As expected -- the bill brought emotional testimony at a Senate hearing this week. Opponents argued the state should Not intrude on individual freedoms -- while Supporters pointed to health risks. One young woman blamed 2nd hand smoke for her mother's death. The Senate Committee came to a tie vote -- so it will recommend the full Senate REJECT the ban. Q TOM/COLIN: The big question of course -- will the full Senate follow suit? Does Senate generally abide by committee reports??? Q House approved the ban -- Gov says he'll sign it if it makes it to his desk -but, will it ever arrive ? Q Studies show 79% of the public SUPPORT the ban. Will there be Election-Year pressure to go along? q I understand the hearing was hours-long and often emotional? Q JEFF: Opponents argue decision to ban smoking should be left up to the owners of restaurants and bars. Is that happening now?? ** opponents say this is a violation of NH's traditionally hands-off form of government. Q Ban -- EXCLUDES private clubs? ** Several Republicans, including Clegg, oppose the bill. lobbyists on both sides are working hard to sway the few undecided members. Q When will see a vote on the ban??? |
| End of Life Return to index of stories... |
"End of Life" care -- came before Lawmakers on Tuesday. Coincidentally, this week is the one year anniversary of Terri Shiavo's death, the brain-damaged Florida woman -- whose feeding tube was removed -- sparking a national debate on the rights of the disabled and end of life decisions. A bill impacting NH"s "do not resusciate" statutes went before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Q COLIN/TOM: What will this bill do??? Q There was also a push to simplify the legal language in these documents -- does this bill do that?? EDITH???? Q When it comes to life and death politics -- the Catholic Church usually has something to say. Was that the case for this bill as well??? Q The Diocese of Manchester belives faith-based hospitals should be able to move patients who have "do not resuscitate" orders that conflict with the institution. That didn't go over well with some???? Q Concerns raised about giving Doctors more freedom to DENY life-sustaining treatment -- that could cause unnecessary suffering??? Q What's likely to happen with this one? |
| Roads Report Return to index of stories... |
A report out this week says Half of NH"s state-maintained roads, and 1/3rd of its bridges are in poor to Mediocre condition -- and that rural roads are the most deadly. The national non-profit Transportation Research group -- gave NH roads and bridges a "D"-- and a "C" for traffic congestion and safety. Q Clearly -- More investment in state roads is needed. Is their a COMMITMENT to do that? Q What's been the state response? Q Is this an indictment of the Transportation Commissioner?? Q The mild winter -- caused havoc on roadways -- freezing and thawing, freezing and thawing. |
| Snow Relief & Fire Return to index of stories... |
The Mild Winter - may have helped consumers with their fuel bills -- but, in the North country it also put the squeeze on a lot of businesses. This week in Lancaster, NH officials met with restaurant and lodging businesses as well as loggers and truckers -- who say they suffered from this winter's lack of snow & higher fuel prices. Q EDITH: I read one account that said business was off as much as 30-60 Percent? Q Even sawmills say businsess suffered from the drop in wood deliveries because loggers couldn't get into the woods on soft ground. Q What about SKI resorts?? Q What can the state do? Is their AID available? ====================================== Q The warm, dry weather is also BOOSTING Fire Danger in NH? |
| Berlin & PSNH Return to index of stories... |
A new study released this week by the Carsey Institute at UNH says it's been a tough time for job losses in the rural Northeast, which has seen the highest rate of job displacement in any region of the country. No suprise to the North Country -- still reeling from the recent loss of Mill Jobs. EDITH: This week workers at the Fraser Paper pulp mill in Berlin learned they will be eligible for federal assistance. ** The mill closes May 6th leaving 250 out of work Q EDITH: Any sense as to how much assistance workers can expect??? Q displaced Mill Workers in Berlin voted on severence package Q EDITH: PSNH interested in converting the Berlin Pulp Mill into a wood-burning power plant. PSNH says its Willing to move quickly -- if Legislature and local community support it. Is their SUPPORT for that??? ** Q TOM/COLIN: I understand constructing a power plant would require APPROVAL by the Legislature. Has there been any talk of bills in the works to build such a facility in the north country? |
| Ethics Bill Return to index of stories... |
NH has a new Ethics Law on the books. Governor Lynch signed it into law on Thursday. It sets up an ethics commission for the Executive Branch -- and tightens gift-giving rules and regulations on lobbyists. Q It was a platform he campaigned on - and he got his wish. What will this CHANGE???? **Lynch upset GOv Benson in 2004 in part by harping on ethics controversies like the Linda Pepin Insurance Scandal. Q The COMPOSITION of the Commission --and who appointed was an issue at one point. Obviously a COMPROMISE was worked out? How was that resolved??? ** The governor and Executive Council will have the power to approve all the nominees, Q The Executive Branch, was the only branch of state government that didn't have an ethics commission. Now it does. What kind of POWER does the commission wield.? |
| Diocese Audit Return to index of stories... |
A long-awaited audit released on Thursday says the Roman Catholic diocese of Manchester has taken steps to protect children from sexual abuse but significant work remains to be done. The diocese disagrees with some of the audit's findings but acknowledged there is more work to do. The audit is part of a key 2002 settlement between the state and the diocese that ended a criminal investigation of whether church leaders knew priests were molesting children but failed to protect them. Q JEFF: What did the Attorney General says was the major problem? Q COLIN/TOM: What kind of power does the STATE have over the diocese when it comes to the issue of abuse??? ===== Q Criminal background checks of employees and volunteers who work with children seemed to be a major sticking point? Q What did the church it is doing to comply with report/still needs to be done? Q This is just the first in a series of audits? The audit is the first of four annual assessments of the Diocese of Manchester's child protection policies. |
| Primary Awards Return to index of stories... |
The NH Primary Awards dinner was held Tuesday in Manchester. ABC News' George Stephanopoulous was a No-show - But the state's political elite were there to pay tribute to primary history and raise money for the NH Political Library. A movement to diminish the stature of New Hampshire's primary - was the buzz of the night. Speaker after speaker spoke out in support of the state's lead contest --which is under fire from national Democrats who are considering putting one or two caucuses between Iowa’s caucus. Q COLIN/TOM: What's the latest on the proposed Primary bill that would allow the Secretary of State flexbility for setting the filing period for candidates in the next primary? Q Is NH trying to leapfrog the primary to the very front of the line before the Iowa Caucus. Q JEFF/EDITH: any thoughts. The Governor believes the plan national Democrats are looking at would FRONT-LOAD the process -- giving a greater advantage to candidates with money. |
| Goodnight Return to index of stories... |
My thanks to Tom Fahey & Colin Manning in Concord and Edith Tucker and Jeff Feingold here in Durham. And, thank you for watching. I'm Beth Carroll. I'll see you next time. |
| transporation Return to index of stories... |
CONCORD, N.H. - About half of New Hampshire's state-maintained roads and a third of its bridges are poor or mediocre, and rural roads are the most deadly, according to a national nonprofit transportation research group. The Road Information Program today released its report giving a "D" to New Hampshire's roads and bridges and a "C" for traffic congestion and safety. The report, based on 2004 data, rated 47 percent of state-maintained roads as substandard and 32 percent of bridges as deficient obsolete. The C for traffic safety reflects an average 139 traffic deaths annually. Congestion earned a C, with 24 percent of urban Interstates and other highways considered congested. William Wilkins, the group's leader, says the report highlights the need for more investment in state roads, a position supported by Transportation Commissioner Carol Murray. |
| disabled end of life Return to index of stories... |
sparing other disabled Americans the kind of death she suffered. TERRI SCHIAVO'S FAMILY MARKS ANNIVERSARY OF HER DEATH WASHINGTON - The foundation formed to keep a brain-damaged woman alive will now focus on sparing other disabled Americans the kind of death she suffered. Terri Schiavo died one year ago today of dehydration, 13 days after her feeding tube was removed. Her mother says the family will spend today "deep in thought and prayer." At a news conference, the family's supporters recalled that in 2004, the late Pope John Paul said, "Removing the feeding tube of a disabled person is a serious violation of the law of God." Republican Senator Sam Brownback of Kansas says the Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation will be "dedicated to ensuring the rights of disabled, elderly, those among us who are most vulnerable to the increased push for euthanasia in our culture and in our society." Sound: Steve Coleman, A-P correspondent, with Mary Schindler, mother of Terri Schiavo, and Senator Sam Brownback, R-Kan. The foundation formed to keep a brain-damaged woman alive will now focus on sparing other disabled Americans the kind of death she suffered. Correspondent Steve Coleman reports. CUT *454 :29 Mary Schindler, mother of Terri Schiavo, speaking at news conference Mary Schindler says her daughter died one year ago today. CUT *455 :09 "and prayer" Cathy Cleaver Ruse, senior fellow with Family Research Council, speaking at news conference Cathy Cleaver Ruse says the former pope condemned what happened to Terri Schiavo. CUT *456 :15 "basic care" Reverend Peter West, spokesman for Priests for Life, speaking at news conference Father Peter West says Pope John Paul the Second wrote about Terri Schiavo's situation a year before they both died. CUT *457 :17 "of God" Reverend Peter West, spokesman for Priests for Life, speaking at news conference Father Peter West reads part of a letter from Priests for Life national director Father Frank Pavone, describing Terri Schiavo's final hours during last year's Easter season. CUT *458 :20 "they faced" Senator Sam Brownback, R-Kan., speaking at news conference Senator Sam Brownback says Terri Schiavo's death raises a fundamental question. CUT *459 :09 "is yes" Senator Sam Brownback, R-Kan., in news conference Senator Sam Brownback says no one should have to die like Terri Schiavo. CUT *460 :13 "our society" On the Net: www.terrisfight.org CHAPLAINS' ORGANIZATION REJECTS CALL FOR UNBRIDLED PRAY |
| smoking Return to index of stories... |
CONCORD, N.H. - There could be fireworks next week when the New Hampshire state Senate takes up a proposal to ban smoking in all restaurants and bars in the state. The House already has approved a ban, but a Senate committee came to a tie vote after reviewing it, so will recommend the Senate reject the ban. The House approved the ban last week. Q health of restaurant and bar workers business practices. AP-NH--Smoking Ban ,0123 Senate Committee not recommending smoking ban amsst CONCORD, N.H. - A proposed ban on smoking in all restaurants and bars in New Hampshire is headed for a battle in the state Senate. A Senate committee today did not have enough votes to support the statewide ban. The three-to-three vote means the committee will recommend the Senate reject the proposed ban. That doesn't mean the Senate will follow suit. Senators are expecting some impassioned speeches next week when the ban comes up for a vote. The ban has been approved by the House. Supporters say the ban is necessary to protect restaurant workers and will benefit public health. Opponents say the decision to ban smoking should be left up to the owners of restaurants and bars. AP-NY-03-30-06 1247EST AP-NH--Smoking Ban,0094 Senate committee to vote on smoking ban today dewman CONCORD, N.H. - After hearing emotional testimony, a state Senate committee is expected to vote today on whether to recommend smoking be banned in New Hampshire restaurants and bars. Yesterday, a lung cancer patient who has never smoked and a young woman whose mother died from exposure to smokers urged the committee to recommend the Senate pass the ban. Supporters say the health of restaurant and bar workers is at stake. Opponents say the state shouldn't get involved in individual freedoms and business practices. The House approved the ban last week. AP-NY-03-30-06 0851EST Concord Monitor: Karen Lindquist tends to limit her political involvement to voting, but recently two things have changed: The Legislature began to debate a smoking ban in restaurants and, in December, she was diagnosed with lung cancer. Lindquist, who is 33 and lives in Hudson, came to the State House yesterday to ask why her senator, Majority Leader Bob Clegg, opposes the ban. During an hours-long and often emotional hearing on the bill, Lindquist explained that her cancer was the result of secondhand smoke, some of which she inhaled while working and socializing in bars. "Who knows what other side effects second-hand smoke has in store for us?" she said in a shaky voice. "I never smoked, and yet I have paid the price with my health." Lindquist's plea was part of a lengthy debate yesterday that touched on science, economics and personal experience. Supporters of the ban say it will protect restaurant workers from secondhand smoke and reduce the incidence of lung cancer. Opponents see the ban as a step toward a "nanny state" and a violation of New Hampshire's traditionally hands-off form of government. The ban, which excludes bars at private clubs, such as those run by the American Legion, passed the House earlier this month, 189-156. Many around the State House expect the vote in the Senate will be even closer. Several Republicans, including Clegg, oppose the bill, but lobbyists on both sides are working hard to sway the few undecided members. ---ADVERTISEMENT--- Sheila Evans, a lobbyist for Clean Air Works for New Hampshire, said she hopes senators feel election-year pressure and heed a study that shows 79 percent of New Hampshire residents support the ban. The House vote and Lynch's promise to sign the bill if it reaches his desk are good omens, but she says the will of the Senate is anyone's guess. "People are playing it pretty close to the vest," she said. Dozens of people packed the State House halls yesterday, waiting for the hearing. Those supporting the ban wore pink ribbons, American Lung Association pins and buttons that said "79%," a reference to the poll. Lindquist waited with them, wearing a neatly styled wig and a polished pink sweater that, by mid-afternoon, was adorned with one of the "79%" buttons. She clutched handwritten notes and a copy of a letter she wrote to Clegg last week, which was published in Sunday's Nashua Telegraph and a recent edition of the Hudson-Litchfield News. "Maybe if he had written back, I wouldn't be here," she said. "I know he's against it; I just wanted to know why." Nearly 40 people registered to speak before the committee. Some brought scientific studies and political polls. Others, such as Chris MacNeil, brought personal stories: MacNeil, who's from Concord, said increased tobacco taxes forced her to sell her corner store. She now makes a living from cigarette vending machines in bars and restaurants, which would see far less use if a ban were in place. "I would ask you to allow OSHA to worry about workplace conditions, and not a bunch of lobbyists,"she said. Rep. Ken Weyler, a Kingston Republican, called the link between cancer and secondhand smoke "junk science." Instead of banning smoking, the state should develop smoke-inhalation guidelines similar to those for exposure to nuclear radiation, lead and toxic chemicals. "Even something as harmless as broccoli could be described as containing carcinogens," he said. Clegg, who has said smoking should be a matter of personal choice, not government mandate, nodded silently when Lindquist read her letter to the committee. She summarized her recent health problems, including the accidental discovery of a cancerous mass, the removal of part of her right lung, a weeklong hospital stay and on-going chemotherapy. "Sen. Clegg, please consider voting to pass a ban on smoking in restaurants and bars," said Lindquist, who works in the radiology department of Southern New Hampshire Medical Center. "If my story helps at least one person avoid the hell I have had to endure, I will have made my point.... I can't change the past, but we can all change the future. I hope that you never have to see your child or any loved ones like this." Lindquist then reached up and removed her wig. ------ End of article |
| Pataki/NH Return to index of stories... |
AP-NH--Pataki in N.H.,0107 Pataki schedules visits to N.H. bywmanwwwfls HENNIKER, N.H. - New York Governor George Pataki plans to visit New Hampshire in April and May. Pataki, a potential candidate for president in 2008, will be in New Hampshire late next month. During the two-day trip he will visit Republican groups and is expected to speak at a political breakfast in Bedford. Then in May, Pataki will be the commencement speaker at New England College in Henniker. The governor's plans to visit New Hampshire last month were canceled because of a medical emergency. Pataki spent three weeks in the hospital recovering from an appendectomy and related complications. --- |
| computer breech Return to index of stories... |
XX ADDS NHPR attribution to lead. CLARIFIES last graf to note no comment on suspension XX CONCORD, N.H. - A state computer specialist who was put on leave says bosses ignored his warnings about weaknesses in New Hampshire's computer network -- according to the Concord Monitor and New Hampshire Public Radio. Forty-four-year-old Doug Oliver was suspended with pay last month -- two days after the announcement of a security breach affecting motor vehicle offices, the Veterans Home in Tilton, and the Liquor Commission. Oliver says he's speaking out to clear his name. He says officials underreported the extent of hacking. And he says they knew as early as last summer that perhaps more than half the state's computer systems were at significant or severe risk of being attacked. Oliver says he was suspended over the discovery of hackers' software on a server, which he acknowledges installing to use during security tests. He says the program was turned off, but should have been deleted when testing ended. Rick Bailey, New Hampshire's chief information officer and Oliver's boss, declined to comment on the suspension, citing personnel issues. |
| Phone Jamming Return to index of stories... |
AP-NH--GOP Phone Jamming,TOPS,0177 Another man charged in GOP phone jamming case bywhofls XX ADDS Washingtion state connection, minor edits XX CONCORD, N.H. - Another man faces charges of participating in the Election Day 2002 phone jamming plot against New Hampshire Democrats. Shaun Hansen of Spokane, Washington -- the former owner of Idaho telemarketing company Mylo Enterprises -- appeared in federal court today to answer to one count of conspiracy to commit telephone harassment and once count of aiding and abetting in phone harassment. He pleaded not guilty to both. Hansen, 34, is the fourth man indicted charges stemming from the phone jamming, which bombarded Democratic and nonpartisan get-out-the-vote phone banks with hundreds of hang-up calls in 2002. That was the year of a hotly contested U-S Senate race between Democratic Governor Jeanne Shaheen and now-Senator John Sununu. A jury last year convicted former national Republican Party official James Tobin on telephone harassment charges. Former State G-O-P Executive Director Chuck McGee and Allen Raymond, a Virginia-based telemarketer, both pleaded guilty to participating in the phone jamming. AP-NY-03-27-06 1323EST |
| Gov Huckabee Return to index of stories... |
MANCHESTER, N.H. - The governor of Arkansas is in New Hampshire today looking for potential presidential primary support. Mike Huckabee speaks tonight at the Republican Lincoln-Reagan dinner in Manchester. It's Huckabee's third visit to New Hampshire since August. |
| Internet Free Speech Return to index of stories... |
Reps. Bass and Allen Welcome New FEC Internet Rule, Decision by House Leadership to Let It Take Effect Maine and New Hampshire Congressmen offered bipartisan legislation to protect Internet political speech from campaign finance regulation Washington, D.C.---U.S. Representatives Tom Allen and Charles Bass today applauded the decision by the House Leadership to delay consideration of H.R. 1606, the Online Freedom of Speech Act, so that new rules governing Internet political communication adopted on Monday by the Federal Election Commission may take effect and provided the proper level of Congressional oversight. "The new FEC rule makes H.R. 1606 unnecessary, and we appreciate the decision by House Leadership to delay action on this bill to let the FEC rule take effect," Representatives Allen and Bass said. "This is the outcome that bloggers and good government reformers have sought. Our bipartisan legislation, H.R. 4900, the Internet Free Speech Protection Act, helped to steer the debate and offered an alternative that would provide much more protection to Internet users and their right to comment freely on federal campaigns than H.R. 1606 would have offered. When the FEC issued its rule, we acted quickly to incorporate their well thought out language directly into H.R. 4900. Our legislation would exempt most blog operators and individuals from the campaign finance regulations and obligations, without creating the soft money loophole that would have resulted under H.R. 1606." "Representatives Tom Allen and Charles Bass have provided enormously important leadership," Fred Wertheimer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Democracy 21, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to protecting the integrity of the nation's campaign finance laws. "They have played the central role in blocking legislation that would have returned corrupting, unlimited soft money to federal campaigns and unraveled the campaign finance laws. We owe Representatives Allen and Bass a deep debt of gratitude for taking on and prevailing in this critical battle to prevent new gaping soft money loopholes in the campaign finance laws." "We believe the outcome of this debate is a real victory for citizens who use the Internet for political discussion and organizing," said John Morris, Director, Internet Standards, Technology and Policy Project at the Center for Democracy & Technology. "H.R. 4900, sponsored by Congressmen Allen and Bass, helped to highlight the need to broadly exempt bloggers and other online speakers from the full range of campaign finance rules. Although not perfect, the rules issued by the Commission make clear that Americans can freely engage in robust and constructive online political debate throughout the 2006 election cycle." ### For additional information, please contact: Mark Sullivan , 774-5019 Tad Furtado , 225-5206 |
| GOP State chair Return to index of stories... |
Wayne Semprini is the new state Republican party chairman. The Newcastle businessman succeed outgoing leader Warren Henderson as chairman of the state party. He was elected last weekend on the 2nd ballot. Defeating State Representative Fran Wendleboe. Leader of N.H. GOP expects smooth change By Adam Leech aleech@seacoastonline.com NEW CASTLE - Newly elected state Republican Party Chairman Wayne Semprini said he does not believe the resignation of White House Chief of Staff Andy Card will affect elections in the state. Card resigned Tuesday and will be replaced by budget director Joshua Bolten, President Bush announced Tuesday. "Andy is a great guy and very hard-working and has done a great deal for his party," Semprini said. "I’m sure Andy will make sure the transition to the position is seamless." Semprini said he does not believe the resignation was a result of the president’s dropping approval ratings because he feels Bush does not concern himself too much with the numbers. That said, he is sure Bush would appreciate more favorable polls. "I think the president’s poll numbers are to some degree unmerited. I recognize there are a lot of good Americans who are frustrated about things in Iraq, but it’s a tough conflict," Semprini said. "The numbers are probably part of fighting to bring freedom to Iraq." The state GOP committee has had it own share of conflicts recently, among them controversy surrounding former House Speaker Gene Chandler’s failure to disclose $68,000 in personal gifts, as well as the conviction of two Republican officials in a phone-jamming scheme that interfered with a Democratic get-out-the-vote drive in the 2002 elections. "Because of the phone-jamming incident, I think we’ve found ourselves on the defensive a lot," said Semprini. "I’d like to turn that around and do that in a positive way." Semprini, a local businessman, was elected as chairman of the state GOP’s executive committee at last weekend’s annual meeting. On the second ballot, Semprini defeated New London State Rep. Fran Wendleboe, 182-118. He replaces Warren Henderson of Exeter, who stepped down to care for his parents in Florida. As chairman, Semprini said he hopes to "re-energize and re-invigorate" some of the grassroots efforts of the party, which he said will be crucial in regaining seats in the House and Senate. "A lot of independents in the state lean toward being conservative, but don’t align themselves to one party," he said. "I’d like to bring some of those people over the fence if I could." There are no current plans to have President Bush in New Hampshire to help with election efforts, he said, but the commander in chief has an open invitation. "I know the president enjoys his visits to New Hampshire, and when we are able to get him to take time out of his busy schedule, it’s always a great event," said Semprini. Material from The Associated Press was used in this report. Print this Story Email this Story Discuss this Story Back to the Portsmouth Herald Portsmouth Herald Home Delivery Best Offer Seacoast Online is owned and operated by Seacoast Media Group. Copyright © 2006 Seacoast Online. All rights reserved. Please read our Copyright Notice and Terms of Use. Seacoast Media Group is a subsidiary of Ottaway Newspapers, Inc., a Dow Jones Company. |
| fire and snow Return to index of stories... |
GILFORD, N.H. - Fire officials warn that the warm, dry weather is boosting fire danger in New Hampshire. Firefighters put out an eight-acre brush fire yesterday in Gilford in a rugged, wooded area. There were small brush fires in other areas of the state, as well. GILFORD, N.H. - It's going to be another warm, dry, windy day in New Hampshire -- and that means there's a strong chance for more brush fires. Firefighters put out an eight-acre brush fire yesterday in Gilford in a rugged, wooded area. There were small brush fires in other areas of the state, as well. It's been very dry, with less than two inches of rain in the last 53 days, and very low humidity. That, combined with a day of temperatures in the 60s and 70s, means conditions are ripe for more fires. AP-NY-03-31-06 0519EST Business hurt by mild winter to get state advice avbho CONCORD, N.H. - government agencies hold a meeting in Lancaster tomorrow to outline assistance available to businesses hurt by the mild winter. Governor John Lynch says small businesses that depend on winter tourism are struggling and the session will offer an opportunity for businesses to learn what help is available to help them recover. The New Hampshire Business Finance Authority, Department of Resources and Economic Development and the Coos Economic Development Corporation will host the meeting. CONCORD, N.H. - State officials are gathering in the North Country this morning to talk to business owners hurt by the mild winter. The Department of Resources and Economic Development, New Hampshire Business Finance Authority and the Coos Economic Development Corporation are hosting the meeting in Lancaster. For Immediate Release: Contact: Pamela Walsh Monday, March 27, 2006 271-2121 491-7124 Governor Announces Meeting Wednesday to Update Businesses Hurt by Lack of Snow on Available Help CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch announced today that state agencies will hold an informational session in Lancaster this Wednesday to discuss assistance available to businesses hurt by this year's mild winter. "I recognize that some New Hampshire small businesses are struggling because of this year's mild winter and the impact that had on winter tourism, including snowmobiling and skiing," Gov. Lynch said. "Wednesday's informational session is an important opportunity for New Hampshire businesses to learn what assistance is available to help them recover." The New Hampshire Business Finance Authority, the Department of Resources and Economic Development and the Coos Economic Development Corp. will host the meeting at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Lancaster Town Hall. # # # |
| Huckabee NH Visit Return to index of stories... |
AP-NH--Huckabee Visit,0118 Arkansas governor on return visit to primary state avbstr MANCHESTER, N.H. - Arkansas Republican Governor Mike Huckabee says he hasn't decided whether to run for president but acknowledged in New Hampshire today that it's not a coincidence that his visit is the third since August to the state with the leadoff primary. Huckabee spoke at a Lincoln-Reagan dinner in Manchester. Huckabee said in an interview President Bush's low standing in public opinion polls reflects that "people often get impatient and want quick results" in Iraq. He said he believes public opinion will turn more positive toward the president because Bush is speaking directly to Americans with a much more personal and heartfelt explanation of why the U-S is in Iraq. AP-NY-03-29-06 1956EST |
| Deadly Force Return to index of stories... |
AP-NH--Deadly Force,0135 Ayotte speaks against deadly force plan dewman CONCORD, N.H. - Attorney General Kelly Ayotte is asking New Hampshire House members to reject a bill to expand the right to use deadly force. Ayotte told a House committee yesterday the plan would endanger innocent bystanders and help criminals settling disputes with a gun get away with murder. Under the current law, except inside a home or yard, residents have a duty to retreat from deadly force, if they can do so safely. The proposal would make use of deadly force legal when someone uses unlawful force during commission of a felony in any place that a victim has a legal right to be, such as a street or parking lot. Supporters say it makes sense to expand the use of deadly force to include whenever someone uses unlawful force against you. AP-NY-03-30-06 0949EST |
| end of life Return to index of stories... |
“What right does the Diocese have to dictate what these documents will say?’’ Clegg asked. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Dr. Ira Byock also disagreed with the church position, saying it could be harmful to move a terminally ill patient due to a hospital’s policy on do not resuscitate orders. “I think what they want puts the public at risk at times,’’ Byock said. Q Concerns about the rights of the disabled, and elderly -- the most vulnerable to the push for euthansia in our culture. End of Life Care/Health Care Decision Making HB 656, relative to medical decision making for those adults without capacity to make health care decisions for themselves After two years of work on New Hampshire’s advance directives laws , a coalition of legislators and stakeholder organizations were successful in convincing legislators to update the State’s health care decisions statutes. This important legislation – HB 656 – will: make it easier for people to express in writing their preferences for health care; bring NH’s current statute up to date; simplify into plain English the legal language used in the current state law to make it more understandable; and establish procedures for ‘Do Not Resuscitate’ orders. Congratulations to the Healthcare Decisions Coalition led by Shawn LaFrance and many thanks to Representatives Maureen Mooney , Cynthia Dokmo , Hilda Sokul , Laurie Harding , Alida Millham and Robert Rowe for their efforts to pass HB 656. The Senate Judiciary Committee will take up HB 656 on March 28th. Certificate of Need Merrimack Republican Rep. Maureen Mooney led a two-year effort to combine end-of-life laws and make the forms easier for people to complete and get adopted. The bill provides rules and forms for people to designate someone to make health care decisions for them if they no longer can communicate. |
| ethics Return to index of stories... |
CONCORD, N.H. - One priority of New Hampshire Governor John Lynch has been an ethics commission. Now he's got his wish. He signed into law a bill that would place greater restrictions and accountability on himself, his office and the Executive branch. The commission would be able to investigate allegations of violations and recommend disciplinary action. Gov. John Lynch today signed bipartisan legislation reforming New Hampshire state government's ethics laws, creating an ethics commission for the executive branch, tightening gift-giving rules, and increasing the regulation of lobbyists. For Immediate Release: Contact: Pamela Walsh Thursday, March 30, 2006 271-2121 491-7124 Governor Lynch Signs Bipartisan Legislation Reforming State Government's Ethics Laws CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today signed bipartisan legislation reforming New Hampshire state government's ethics laws, creating an ethics commission for the executive branch, tightening gift-giving rules, and increasing the regulation of lobbyists. "I believe that serving in public office is a great honor and a sacred trust. That is why from my first moments in office, I made clear that I was committed to making sure New Hampshire state government was open, ethical and honest," Gov. Lynch said. Even before he took office, Gov. Lynch proposed the creation of an independent Ethics Commission for the Executive Branch, the only branch of state government that doesn't currently have an ethics commission. "I worked to place greater restrictions on myself, my office and the Executive branch because I believe that the people of New Hampshire deserve the highest standards of ethics and integrity in their elected officials," Gov. Lynch said. "This new ethics commission will provide additional and lasting assurance to our citizens that their business is conducted with integrity," he said. This commission will have the authority to: o Issue guidelines on the appropriate conduct for Executive Branch officials, consistent with the state Code of Ethics; o Issue interpretive rulings explaining or clarifying the law, guidelines, etc. o Render advisory opinions; o Receive sworn complaints, investigate allegations of violations, and make appropriate findings; o Investigate any unauthorized release of information o Recommend disciplinary action, including but not limited to removal from office and criminal charges. In addition to working for the Ethics legislation, Gov. Lynch also put his own assets in a blind trust and was the first New Hampshire Governor to issue an Executive Order requiring his staff to file public financial disclosures. In addition, this legislation: * Requires that people lobbying for state contracts or lobbying the executive branch on legislation to now register as lobbyists. * Establishes comprehensive gift-giving rules that are strict and uniform across state government. * Makes clear that people cannot use their participation in state government activities to advance their own private, personal and business interests - a provision that applies to both the legislative and executive branches. "This legislation was the result of bipartisan work. And in the end, we came together to pass a comprehensive ethics reform legislation that ensures the highest codes of conduct for public officials," Gov. Lynch said. "I want to thank the members of the legislature for their efforts." The legislation, SB 206, was sponsored by Senators Sylvia Larsen, Lou D'Allesandro, Maggie Hassan, Bob Clegg, Martha Fuller Clark and Iris Estabrook, and Representatives Shawn Jasper, Jim Craig and Sheila Francoeur. # # # Pamela Walsh Communications Director Office of Gov. John Lynch 271-2121 pamela.walsh@nh.gov |
| primary Return to index of stories... |
Governor Lynch and Secretary of State William Gardner will be speaking about the important role the New Hampshire primary plays in the state and national presidential selection process. A movement to diminish the stature of New Hampshire's primary -- was the talk of the night. Q COLIN/TOM: Democrats on the national level are now weighing what state, if any, will join Iowa and New Hampshire’s traditional status as candidate-vetters. This week, Republicans learned that Michigan Republicans are also looking to move up their primary a week earlier as well. New Hampshire Primary Awards dinner benefiting the New Hampshire Political Library, Lynch said that “our tradition should and will prevail in the end.” While the dinner paid tribute to those of primary history like ABC News’s George Steph and anti-war candidate George McCarthy the focus of the night was preserving the tradition for the future. Lynch says DNC plans to add caucuses before NH 'illogical'Submitted by admin on March 29, 2006 - 11:28am. By JAMES W. PINDELL PoliticsNH.com MANCHESTER, March 29 – Gov. John Lynch said to a bi-partisan crowd of the state’s political elite that a Democratic National Committee proposal to put at least one other state caucus between Iowa’s and New Hampshire’s primary was “illogical”. “Caucus participation is tiny compared to primary participation. Frankly, given the nominating commission's stated goals of increasing voter participation, promoting more caucuses is illogical,” Lynch said. Addressing over 600 people at the New Hampshire Primary Awards dinner benefiting the New Hampshire Political Library, Lynch said that “our tradition should and will prevail in the end.” While the dinner paid tribute to those of primary history like ABC News’s George Steph and anti-war candidate George McCarthy the focus of the night was preserving the tradition for the future. As Ambassador Terry Schumaker said at the dinner, McCarthy’s 1968 may have been the most important New Hampshire primary because, even though McCarthy didn’t win, his strong second place showing forced a sitting president, Lyndon Johnson, from seeking re-election. But these could all be memories if a movement to diminish the stature of New Hampshire, and of honest grassroots campaign, succeeds. Democrats on the national level are now weighing what state, if any, will join Iowa and New Hampshire’s traditional status as candidate-vetters. This week, Republicans learned that Michigan Republicans are also looking to move up their primary a week earlier as well. James Pindell can be reached at pindell@politicsnh.com Posted in 2008 NH Primary | 2008 NH Primary | login or register to post comments | email this page | printer friendly version » -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Immediate Release March 27, 2006 Contact: Michael P. Chaney President and CEO 496-01512 mchaney@politicallibrary.org 2006 New Hampshire Primary Awards Dinner Celebrating an American Political Tradition Manchester, NH: The New Hampshire presidential primary and individuals who have given their time, energy, and spirit to preserving this Granite State and national tradition will be celebrated Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at the Center of New Hampshire beginning at 6:00 p.m. The New Hampshire Political Library will be welcoming nearly six hundred guests as they present an evening full of New Hampshire primary veterans past and present as part of the Political Library’s work in preserving the first-in-the-nation primary. The keynote address will be given by George Stephanopoulos, Chief Washington Correspondent for ABC News and anchor for ABC’s Sunday morning program, This Week with George Stephanopoulos. Mr. Stephanopoulos was a key strategist for both Clinton presidential campaigns and served in the Clinton administration as the senior advisor to the president for policy and strategy. Ambassador Gerald Carmen will be honored for his involvement in the 1980 New Hampshire primary, serving as campaign chair for President Reagan’s successful run for office. Ambassador Carmen served as chairman of the New Hampshire Republican Party and has been active in New Hampshire politics for over 25 years. Two public servants who have played a pivotal role at the local level will be honored during the evening, Mr. Howard Zea and Representative Robert Johnson. Mr. Zea served as the Town Clerk in Plainfield from 1943 to 2000, beginning at the age of 27. Representative Johnson served as Town Moderator in Northwood from 1938 to 1998, and currently serves in the New Hampshire House of Representatives. The New Hampshire Primary Awards Dinner will pay tribute to the late Senator Eugene McCarthy for his role in the 1968 New Hampshire primary and American political history. Senator McCarthy made history by challenging sitting President Johnson’s polities on the Vietnam War. A member of the McCarthy family will be present to accept the award. Governor Lynch and Secretary of State William Gardner will be speaking about the important role the New Hampshire primary plays in the state and national presidential selection process. The evening will be emceed by Scott Spradling of WMUR-TV Channel 9. The New Hampshire Political Library is a non-partisan, non-profit organization with library collections at the State Library and offices and programs at the Franklin Pierce Manse. Since 1997, the Political Library has been preserving the political past of our state and working to document future political history. ### |
| Berlin Return to index of stories... |
BERLIN, N.H. - North Country officials say they support converting the Berlin pulp mill into a Public Service Company of New Hampshire power plant. P-S-N-H President Gary Long says Berlin is one of the candidates the company is eyeing for a 50 megawatt wood-burning plant. Long says he is willing to move quickly on the proposal if the Legislature and local community support it. A wood-burning power plant could absorb the supply of wood that will become available after the mill closes in May. Construction of a power plant requires approval by the Legislature. North Country lawmakers say they are working on getting the necessary bills passed in Concord. GREGG, SUNUNU ANNOUNCE BERLIN MILL WORKERS ELIGBILE FOR U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR TRADE ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE WASHINGTON, DC – United States Senators Judd Gregg and John Sununu today announced that workers impacted by the closing of the Fraser Paper pulp mill in Berlin are eligible for United States Department of Labor Trade Adjustment Assistance. TAA resources provide aid to workers who lose their jobs or whose hours of work and wages are reduced as a result of increased imports. The Department of Labor informed Sununu’s and Gregg’s offices of the TAA approval early Thursday afternoon. Senator Gregg stated: “It is important that those individuals affected by the closing of the Fraser Paper mill have access to resources and assistance they need to help out at this critical time. We will continue to work in conjunction with state and local officials to assist these workers and their families.” Senator Sununu stated: “These critical resources will provide significant assistance to workers impacted by the closure of the Fraser Paper pulp mill. The Department of Labor’s job training and income support benefits will help the displaced workers take an important step toward getting back up on their feet.” According to the Department of Labor, an official of the local workers’ union applied for these federal benefits on behalf of the employees. Having now been approved for TAA resources, Fraser employees who lose their jobs when the plant closes in May will be able to apply for the program’s benefits, which can include reemployment services, relocation allowances, cash payments for eligible workers enrolled in full-time training, health insurance coverage assistance, and classroom, on-the-job, or employer-based training. Affected workers who are over age 50 and enter a full-time job that pays less than their previous position would have the option to instead receive $5,000 per year in income support through Alternative TAA. Fraser employees who need assistance in applying for TAA benefits may visit www.servicelocator.org – a Department of Labor Web site – to locate the nearest career one-stop center. -30- Barbara J. Riley Communications Director Senator John E. Sununu P: 202-224-2841 F: 202-224-1961 barbara_riley@sununu.senate.gov CONCORD, N.H. - State officials are gathering in the North Country this morning to talk to business owners hurt by the mild winter. The Department of Resources and Economic Development, New Hampshire Business Finance Authority and the Coos Economic Development Corporation are hosting the meeting in Lancaster. Union to vote on benefits package offered to Berlin mill workers bywber BERLIN, N.H. - Workers at the closing pulp mill in Berlin are preparing to vote on a severance package offered by mill owners. A vote on the final offer from Fraser Papers is scheduled for tomorrow. The pulp mill is to be closed May sixth, but the paper in Gorham will stay open. Union and company officials have been in talks over the package for about three weeks. The package encompasses severance pay and outlines bumping rights for workers seeking continued employment. AP-NY-03-29-06 0948EST BERLIN, N.H. - North Country officials say they support converting the Berlin pulp mill into a Public Service Company of New Hampshire power plant. P-S-N-H President Gary Long says Berlin is one of the candidates the company is eyeing for a 50 megawatt wood-burning plant. Long says he is willing to move quickly on the proposal if the Legislature and local community support it. A wood-burning power plant could absorb the supply of wood that will become available after the mill closes in May. Construction of a power plant requires approval by the Legislature. North Country lawmakers say they are working on getting the necessary bills passed in Concord. City officials have also been talking with New England Wood Pellet about putting a plant at the mill site. |
| key: Economy / Business Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 3/31/06 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:00 minutes Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this "Week-in-Review" Edition of NH Outlook. Making News this week: Will opposition snuf out a smoking ban, NH Roads found to be Poor to Mediocre, A new Ethics Law now on the books, and, the mild winter takes a toll on the North Country. Here to talk about all this and more from the State House in Concord: Tom Fahey from the Union Leader, and Colin Manning from Foster's Daily Democrat. And here in Durham, Jeff Feingold with the NH Business Review, and Edith Tucker with the Coos County Democrat. PRODUCER/REPORTER: Beth Carroll NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Tom Fahey\The Union Leader, Colin Manning\Foster's Daily Democrat, Jeff Feingold \NH Business Review, Edith Tucker \Coos County Democrat |
| key: State Politics / Governmeny Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 3/31/06 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:00 minutes Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this "Week-in-Review" Edition of NH Outlook. Making News this week: Will opposition snuf out a smoking ban, NH Roads found to be Poor to Mediocre, A new Ethics Law now on the books, and, the mild winter takes a toll on the North Country. Here to talk about all this and more from the State House in Concord: Tom Fahey from the Union Leader, and Colin Manning from Foster's Daily Democrat. And here in Durham, Jeff Feingold with the NH Business Review, and Edith Tucker with the Coos County Democrat. PRODUCER/REPORTER: Beth Carroll NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Tom Fahey\The Union Leader, Colin Manning\Foster's Daily Democrat, Jeff Feingold \NH Business Review, Edith Tucker \Coos County Democrat |
| key: Crime / Legal Issues / Law Enforcement Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 3/31/06 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:00 minutes Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this "Week-in-Review" Edition of NH Outlook. Making News this week: Will opposition snuf out a smoking ban, NH Roads found to be Poor to Mediocre, A new Ethics Law now on the books, and, the mild winter takes a toll on the North Country. Here to talk about all this and more from the State House in Concord: Tom Fahey from the Union Leader, and Colin Manning from Foster's Daily Democrat. And here in Durham, Jeff Feingold with the NH Business Review, and Edith Tucker with the Coos County Democrat. PRODUCER/REPORTER: Beth Carroll NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Tom Fahey\The Union Leader, Colin Manning\Foster's Daily Democrat, Jeff Feingold \NH Business Review, Edith Tucker \Coos County Democrat |
| key: Religion / Ethics Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 3/31/06 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:00 minutes Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this "Week-in-Review" Edition of NH Outlook. Making News this week: Will opposition snuf out a smoking ban, NH Roads found to be Poor to Mediocre, A new Ethics Law now on the books, and, the mild winter takes a toll on the North Country. Here to talk about all this and more from the State House in Concord: Tom Fahey from the Union Leader, and Colin Manning from Foster's Daily Democrat. And here in Durham, Jeff Feingold with the NH Business Review, and Edith Tucker with the Coos County Democrat. PRODUCER/REPORTER: Beth Carroll NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Tom Fahey\The Union Leader, Colin Manning\Foster's Daily Democrat, Jeff Feingold \NH Business Review, Edith Tucker \Coos County Democrat |
| key: UNH Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 3/31/06 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:00 minutes Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this "Week-in-Review" Edition of NH Outlook. Making News this week: Will opposition snuf out a smoking ban, NH Roads found to be Poor to Mediocre, A new Ethics Law now on the books, and, the mild winter takes a toll on the North Country. Here to talk about all this and more from the State House in Concord: Tom Fahey from the Union Leader, and Colin Manning from Foster's Daily Democrat. And here in Durham, Jeff Feingold with the NH Business Review, and Edith Tucker with the Coos County Democrat. PRODUCER/REPORTER: Beth Carroll NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Tom Fahey\The Union Leader, Colin Manning\Foster's Daily Democrat, Jeff Feingold \NH Business Review, Edith Tucker \Coos County Democrat |