Not only is the paper industry dead, all manufacturing jobs have gone overseas. This state is one tough place to make a living for the average Mainer. Taxes are at the high end in the nation, without jobs to back them up.

Our 'empty space' is seriously in jeopardy and fearful desperation is the fuel used to sell the dreaded casino idea in Oxford County and the Plum Creek fiasco in Moosehead. Trying to turn our state into the next Foxwoods or Atlantic City is not going to provide the jobs necessary to maintain a decent lifestyle or keep our college grads in their home state.

If it is a long winter season you are looking for try Carrabassett Valley.