Morning Show 12/23/08

Today on The FOX Morning News, harmony trio Coos Canyon, good friends to the show, spread some holiday cheer with a couple of Christmas songs.

Morning Show 12/22/08

Today on the show, local comedian Bob Marley stopped by to share his unique and hilarious thoughts on the holidays, winter weather, and what it means to live in Maine.

State Senator Bill Diamond joined the show to talk about state issues, including the budget and his role as new head of the Legislature's Appropriations Committee.

Ray discusses these guests, as well as the issues of the day, in the audio post below. Give it a listen, and sound off in the comments section.

Morning Show 12/19/08

Today on the show, Ray's wife Dee Dee stopped by with Pat LaMarche to talk about their efforts as bell ringers for the Salvation Army at the Maine Mall.

State Rep. Tom Saviello spent most of the morning with Ray and Ted, talking about the issues of the day and helping to give away a crown pork roast.

Christian music group Greater Purpose was in the studio to sing their original song, "The Manger and the Cross."

Cindy Michaels, news anchor for FOX22 in Bangor, stopped by to talk about the worldwide attention she received during the presidential election because of her resemblance to Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin.

Listen to Ray's audio post below, and sound off in the comments section.

Morning Show 12/18/08

Tarren Bragdon of the Maine Heritage Policy Center was in the studio today to talk about various issues, including Maine's economy, budget cuts, and federal stimulus money.

Cumberland County District Attorney Stephanie Anderson spent a full hour with the show today (four segments!) to talk about court issues in Maine, including the recent LaPointe trial over the fatal Long Lake boating accident.

Morning Show 12/16/08

Elise Loschiavo, special events and public relations manager for Portland's Downtown District, was on the show today to talk about the big retail event in which downtown Portland shops will stay open until 10 p.m., with entertainment and, snacks, and events planned.

Ray talks about that, as well as the issues of the day (including the auto bailout and a special Ted Talbot announcement), in the audio post below. Give it a listen.

Morning Show 12/15/08

Denise McCourt of the American Petroleum Institute was on the show today to talk about the need to drill for oil on American soil.

Interior designer Kat Powers joined the show to promote her TV special, "Holiday House of Kat," featuring creative ideas for decorating your home and making gifts during the holidays.

Local organizer Kate Donahue called in to talk about the Gorham schools' decision not to recite the Pledge of Allegiance in the schools.

Finally, activist Pat LaMarche was in the studio to talk about her volunteer efforts as a bell-ringer for the Salvation Army at the Maine Mall.

Ray talks about it all in the audio post below.

What Might Have Been

Without the radio show as a platform this morning, Ray's jonesing for some time behind the mike. He lets us know who would have been on the show today, had the weather permitted.

Morning Show 12/12/08

There was no show today due to a power outage at WLOB. Ray calls in a report.

Ringing the Bell

On Friday, December 19, from 4-8 p.m. at the Maine Mall Food Court, Ray's wife Dee Dee and Pat LaMarche will be out ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. If you've got a few hours to spare, Ray urges you to consider getting out there too to ring the bell.

Morning Show 12/11/08

Today on the show, Henry Bourgeois, executive director of the Maine Compact for Higher Education, stopped by to talk about the Harold Alfond College Challenge, a program that will provide $500 towards a college investment account to every newborn Maine resident.

Erika Helgerson, community relations coordinator of the Bath City Manager's Office, is in the studio to talk about holiday celebrations planned for the city of Bath.

Attorney Mary-Anne Martell of Seacoast Law & Title came in to dispel some commonly held myths about requirements for people seeking to refinance their loans or get lines of credit to buy cars and houses.

Mary Margaret Burke, regional sales manager of Boston's Best Coffee, and Janet Acker, owner of Fog Cutter Coffee Company, were in the studio to talk about small business in Maine.

Meteorologist Dave Maddox of the Weather Channel called in to talk about what's in store for us as winter weather kicks in today.

Tarren Bragdon of the Maine Heritage Policy Center called in to talk about national and local issues, including government transparency in the wake of the Illinois governor scandal.

Ray talks about all of these guests, and offers a sneak peek of tomorrow's show, in the audio psot below. Give it a listen, and share your thoughts in the comments section.

That's a Wrap

Ray thanks Gov. Baldacci for his efforts wrapping gifts, along with Ray, to raise money for the Mission Possible Teen Center in Westbrook.

Morning Show 12/09/08

Louis Sigalos of the FCC stopped by to explain and answer questions about the upcoming conversion of all TV stations to a digital broadcast signal. For coupons to get a digital converter box, visit DTV2009.gov or call 1-888-DTV2009. For more information about the conversion, see Frequently Asked Questions About Digital & HD TV.

Alastair Wanklyn of FOX News Radio called in to talk about the ongoing riots throughout Greece in repsonse to the fatal police shooting of a schoolboy.

Ray discusses these guests, as well as the issues of the day (including the horrors and delights of restaurant buffet tables), in the audio post below. Listen up!

Morning Show 12/08/08

Today on the show, Morrill Worcester and John O'Leary from Wreaths Across America were on to talk about their trip to Arlington Cemetery, where they will deliver more than 30,000 wreaths to place on soldiers' graves. (Watch the news story here.)

Also, Marty Mulloy, vice president of labor affairs for Ford Motor Company, joined by phone to talk about the Big 3 automaker bailout.

Ray's comments are in the audio post below. Give a listen.

Morning Show 12/05/08

Today on the show, John and Bunny O'Leary visited to talk about the Wreaths Across America event this Sunday night at the Portland Expo.

State Rep. Tom Saviello joined the show to talk about a wide range of issues, and to field calls and questions from audience members.

Lee Humiston from the Maine Military Museum came in to announce that the museum has all its permits, and it is officially open.

Inanna, a Maine-based, all-female percussion and vocal ensemble, joined the show as part of the FOX Morning News Live Music series.

John Williams of Williams Broadcasting came by with his weekly ski report -- which can also be seen of FOX23 and MyFOXMaine.com. Watch online for a chance to win free lift tickets!

Rodney Rowland from the Strawberry Banke Museum in Portsmouth, NH called in to talk about the candlelight stroll planned for the next few weekends.

Ray comments on all of these guests, and the issues of the day, in the audio post below.

Morning Show 12/04/08

Darryl Wright of Maine Bank & Trust in Westbrook and Evelyn Blanchard of Westbrook's Mission Possible Teen Center were in the studio today to talk about an event being held at the bank next Tuesday at 10 a.m. Ray and Governor Baldacci will be wrapping presents that members of the public bring in, and accepting donations to the Teen Center. Refreshment will be provided.

Dr. Lisa Belisle, a family practice physician, stopped by to talk about her efforts to honor the life of the late Hanley Denning, founder of Safe Passage, a non-profit organization that provides school enrollment and after-school support for poor children whose families scavenge the Guatemala City Garbage Dump in Guatemala City.

The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner John Richardson came in with Jay Weisburg of the Portland Eagles to talk about the great work the Eagles are doing in the community.

John Richardson stayed through the break to talk about Maine's economy, the bailouts going on around the country, and what the Big Three automakers should be doing in response to this financial crisis.

Auburn Mayor John Jenkins visited to about the event he's hosting Sunday, December 7, 6:30-9 p.m. at the Portland Expo. Wreaths Across America/Escort to Arlington, an event to honor veterans, will include music by the Don Campbell Band.

Don Campbell himself dropped in for the next segment to talk more about the Wreaths Across America event and to perform a few songs.

You can see all these interviews on MyFOXMaine.com. Ray talks about them in the audio post below, and invites your thoughts in the comments section.

Morning Show 12/02/08

Today on the show, Elise Loschiavo, special events and public relations manager for Portland's Downtown District, came in to talk about this Saturday's big event: Shop for a Cause, where area retailers donate a portion of their proceeds to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southern Maine.

Ray talks about this guest, as well as current events (including Obama's new cabinet), in the audio post below. Give a listen.

Welcome to Facebook

Ray catches up with technology and sets up his own Facebook page.

Why Wrap?

'Tis the season to buy gifts and trudge them home. Worn out by all that spending? Want to pass the wrapping off on someone else? Ray and Gov. Baldacci are teaming up for charity. On Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 10 a.m., Ray and the governor will be at Maine Bank & Trust on Main Street in Westbrook to wrap your presents for you. All you have to do is to make a small donation to the Mission Possible teen center in Westbrook. Happy holidays!

Team of Rivals

Ray thinks it's obvious that President-elect Barack Obama has read and absorbed the lessons of Doris Kearns Goodwin's Lincoln book, Team of Rivals. Obama, like Lincoln, is recruiting former rivals for the presidency as he assembles his cabinet. So far, while Ray doesn't always agree philosophically with the people Obama is choosing, he very much admires the approach Obama is taking.

Morning Show 12/01/08

On this Monday after Thanksgiving, Ray and Ted welcomed Lisa Madden, Hannah Scully, Mira McKenney, and Nelia McKenney, members of the local baton-twirling group the Saco Jets, who came in to talk about their trip to New York City to be a part of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade.

Ray talks about these guests, as well as the issues of the day, the in audio post below. Check it out, and sound off in the comments section.

Wednesday on the Morning Show

Maine comedian Bob Marley joined the show on this day before Thanksgiving, serving up plenty of laughs as the gang chewed over Thanksgiving traditions, the holiday season, and current events.

Rich Johnson of FOX News called from the White House, where President Bush was fulfilling a Thanksgiving tradition by pardoning a turkey. Johnson also discussed the other presidential pardons announced this week, which, as Ray noted, did not include border patrol agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, who are currently serving over a decade in prison for shooting and wounding an illegal alien drug smuggler.

Auburn Mayor John Jenkins visited the show to talk about local isses concerning his town, including the Wreaths Across America program, as well as his efforts to help residents pay for home heating oil.

Finally, Ray, Ted, and Bob talked turkey with "Mary" from the Butterball Turkey Hotline, which offers emergency advice and counseling to people trying to cook their Thanksgiving bird. (Do you need help with your turkey? Call 1-800-BUTTERBALL.)

Tuesday on the Morning Show

Today on the show, Elise Loschiavo, special events and public relations manager for Portland's Downtown District, came in to talk about the ceremony planned for the lighting of Portland's Christmas tree.

Westbrook Police Chief Bill Baker was in to talk about police and fire department issues in Westbrook, including the recent arrest of a Main Street store owner for selling crack and cocaine out of his store.

Tim Frechette of Biddeford was on to talk about the town's recent vote to keep the Biddeford Airport open.

Monday on the Morning Show

A wide range of topics were covered today, from racial incidents that have been reported around Maine to the prospect of gay marriage in the state. Ray wonders if the fight for gay marriage is really about equality, or if it's about one segment of society trying to force acceptance by the rest of society.

Also, Josh Shea of Independent Publishing Group of Windham came in to talk about municipal budgets and the trouble they're dealing with in these troubled times.

Ray addresses all in the audio post below, and invites your opinions in the comments section.

Season of Miracles

The holiday season can be stressful, but Ray urges us all to focus on the good things, the things we're thankful for, as we head towards the new year.

Friday on the Morning Show

Today, Ray and Ted were embracing the holiday season earlier, asking audience members what they're doing for Thanksgiving and what they're thankful for this holiday season.

45 years ago this weekend, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Gary Mack, curator of The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza in Dallas, and a 25-year veteran of JFK assassination investigations, called the show today in to talk about forensics tests recently conducted that concluded that Kennedy was shot from the sixth floor of the book depository building, the building Lee Harvey Oswald was supposed to have been in.

Don Campbell of The Don Campbell Band called to talk about the lighting of the LL Bean Christmas tree on Friday night, where he'll be performing an outdoor concert.

John Williams of Williams Broadcasting was in the studio to talk about the holidays, NASCAR, and how ski resorts are gearing up for the new season.

Thursday on the Morning Show

Today on the show, Taren Bragdon, CEO of the Maine Heritage Policy Center, called in to talk about Gov. John Baldacci's $80 million in budget cuts.

Attorney Mary-Anne Martell comes in on the third Thursday of every month to dispense legal advice to audience members who call in with questions about the law and their rights.

State Senator Bill Diamond, chairman of Maine Criminal Justice Committee, called in to talk about a couple of crime-related issues, including the ongoing legal fight over the sex offender registry, and also the controversial sign hung at a store in Standish encouraging people to bet a dollar on the date of President-Elect Obama's assassination, along with other racist responses to Obama's election.

Finally, FOX News Radio Chicago correspondent Jennifer Keiper called from Chicago, where she was reporting from the scene of the Chicago Toy and Game Fair, the largest toy fair in the country.

Wednesday on the Morning Show

Today on the show, Bob Morrill and Mike Hammer came in to talk about reverse mortgages, which are financial packages available to people 62 years or older which allows them to tap into their home equity without having to pay a tax.

Political analyst Joe Bruno, who's also a Dirigo Health board member, stopped by to talk about that troubled institution.

Fred Forsley of Shipyard Brewing called in live from Ft. Lauderdale, where he's down with other Maine business owners talking to cruise ship companies about what's so special about Maine.

Donald Canaday, President of Kiwanis International, came in to talk about the mission of Kiwanas, and to talk about a special event honoring WWII veterans at The Woodfords House in Portland at noon on Thursday.

Dean Scontras came in to kick off The Republican Project, an effort to regroup, refocus, and reform the Republican party.

In the audio post below, Ray discusses these guests, the issues of the day, and what's on tap for tomorrow's show. Give it a listen.

Tuesday on the Morning Show

Today on the show, Ray and Ted fielded calls from audience members on a variety of topics, including the use of ethanol or E-10 in gasoline products, and what the unintended consequences it might have. There were a lot of questions and opinions thrown out, and Ray promises to get a mechanic on the show to sort out some of these issues.

Also on the show, Ray read and reflected upon the famous "Bixby Letter," written by President Abraham Lincoln to a Massachusetts mother who lost five sons in the American Civil War.

Finally, in what promises to be an ongoing issue in the state, Ray and Ted discussed the looming battle Maine faces over gay marriage, making specific mention of the Maine clergy members who recently gathered to support same-sex marriage rights in the state.

Monday on the Morning Show

Talk about a political football: Ray and Ted sparred over remarks President-Elect Barack Obama made on "60 Minutes" regarding college football needing a playoff system. Ray thinks Obama has enough to worry about without poking his nose into collegiate athletics.

Interior decorator Kat Powers joined the program to talk about her Thanksgiving show, "Harvest House of Kat," which airs on FOX23 throughout November. She is offering helpful, creative, inexpensive ways to make your Thanksgiving more memorable.

Elias Thomas of the Sanford-Springvale Rotary was in the studio today to talk about his organization's efforts to eradicate polio from the face of the earth.

As always, Ray and Ted fielded calls from audience members to get their opinions. Today's callers included State Rep. Doug Thomas, who weighed in with his concerns about federal money for home heating assistance in Maine, which has doubled since last year.

Ray comments on all these guests and issues in the audio post below. Give a listen, and sound off in the comments section.

Friday on the Morning Show

Interim Portland Police Chief Joe Laughlin visited today to talk about his years with the Department, crime trends in Portland (including some alarming drug stats), and the search for a new Chief.

State Rep. Tom Saviello came in and shared some frugal ideas for cash-strapped folks trying to plan for Christmas.

Peter Barnes of the FOX Business Network called from the White House to talk about the upcoming G20 (Group of 20) Summit, a meeting among 20 of the world's largest economies.

Ali Locke, a young lady from Norridgewock, was in the studio to talk about her experience filming an episode of "Aqua Kids," an award-winning children's program dedicated to educating young people about marine life. Ali's episode, "Casco Bay Life," airs on FOX23 at 7 a.m. on Nov. 15, 2008. Ali was joined in studio by Curtis Bohlen, director of the Casco Bay Estuary Partnership, and Sue Schaller, a wildlife ecologist.

In the audio post below, Ray talks about all these guests, and serves up a sneak peek at next week's topics (including gay marriage in Maine). Give a listen.

Thursday on the Morning Show

Tarren Bragdon, CEO of the Maine Heritage Policy Center, came in for his weekly visit to the show to talk about national and local issues, including how the recent vote on Question 1 will affect the Dirigo health care system.

Bruce McToose, the intrepid traveler from Down Under, stopped by with tales of his many travels and explorations around Portland.

As part of the FOX Morning News Live Music Series, local singer-songwriter Taylor Mesple, from The Maple Room in Lewiston, joined the show today to perform an original song.

Ray remarks on all of these guests, as well as Henry Paulson's revision of the $700 billion Wall Street bailout plan, in the audio post below. Give a listen.

Wednesday on the Morning Show

Dan Nathanson of the NFL Network called in today to talk about why the NFL Network is not on Time Warner, Comcast, and other cable companies -- meaning tomorrow night's game between the Patriots and the Jets is not available to local sports fans.

But most of the day was devoted to you the audience, and Ray and Ted took lots of calls from listeners and viewers who wanted to weigh in on President-Elect Barack Obama, the state of the Republican party, and other issues of the day.

Tuesday on the Morning Show

On this Veterans Day, politics were laid aside as we heard from and honored some true heroes, our nation's veterans.

Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard Gen. Bill Libby and Peter Ogden, director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services, were in the studio today to talk about what the day means and ways in which we can and do honor our veterans.

John and Bunny O'Leary of Wreaths Across America came in to talk about their upcoming event on Dec. 7, the Wreaths Across America Escort to Arlington.

Also in the studio were Specialist Jeff Lewis with Pam Payeur and Donna Chapman of Operation Homefront, an organization that works with military families during deployments to get them help ranging from home and auto repair to urgent financial assistance. Operation Homefront just finished installing a new furnace in Specialist Lewis' home while he was deployed in Iraq.

133rd Battalion's Executive Officer Lt. Col. Dwayne Drummond and Lt. Lisa Sessions, commander of the 136th Engineer Company, stopped by, as did Lt. Julie Rand, Sgt. Amie Phelan, and Specialist Katie Britt (Soldier of the Year for the Maine Army National Guard).

We also heard from Lt. Col. Mike Backus and Master Sgt. Harry Dumont, and Sgt. Jim LeBlanc and Sgt. Dan Thibeault.

Finally, Col. Marv Milbury, a chaplain, came in to talk about his long military career, which began in the '60s.

Ray comments on all the guests in the audio post below. Give a listen, and share your Veterans Day thoughts in the comments section.

We thank these (and all) veterans for their service to our country, and wish everyone a happy Veterans Day.

Monday on the Morning Show

Jerry Mathers, who played "The Beaver" on the classic TV sitcom "Leave it to Beaver," called the show this morning from Fort Kent, Maine to talk about the "Help is Here Express" bus tour, which is sponsored by the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, the same group Montel Williams talked about when he visited the show. The bus tour is part of a nationwide effort to call attention to the rising rate of chronic disease in the U.S. and to the assistance programs that can provide free or nearly free drugs to the needy.

FOX News Radio Chicago correspondent Jennifer Keiper called live from Chicago to talk about transition preparations underway by President-Elect Barack Obama, including Obama's plans to issue executive orders reversing the ban on stem cell research and reinstating the ban on offshore oil drilling in the U.S.

Ray comments on these guests, as well as the issues of the day, in the audio post below. Give a listen, and share your opinion in the comments section.

Friday on the Morning Show

Today on the show, political strategist and frequent guest Roy Lenardson sat in to talk about the results of Tuesday's election -- specifically the local elections here in Maine.

Pam Payeur and Donna Chapman visited from Operation Homefront, an organization that works with military families during deployments to resolve issues ranging from home and auto repair to urgent finacial assistance. They talked about the projects they're working on now, including the installation of furnaces into military families' homes.

State Rep. Tom Saviello was on to talk about where the Maine legislature is likely to go from here after this week's election. He also announced an event in Farmington this Saturday that will honor prisoners of war from World War II, Purple Heart recipients from the Korean War, families of vets killed in action in Vietnam, and veterans who served but were never recognized for their sacrifice.

John Williams of Williams Broadcasting stopped by for our weekly dose of NASCAR news.

As always, Ray and Ted (with an assist today from Roy) fielded calls from audience members, as people offered their opinions on the election, local events, and other issues.

Be sure to share your opinion in the comments section.

Thursday on the Morning Show

Tarren Bragdon of the Maine Heritage Policy Center was in the studio today to talk about the presidential election and local issues affecting Mainers. He talked about the disconnect between the fact that people tend to vote right-of-center on policies but left-of-center on politicians. Case in point would be the people's repeal of the beverage tax enacted by the legislature in the spring, but the re-election of the legislators who passed that tax.

Michael Dow of Dow Investment Group discussed the state of the economy, and offered advice on how to deal with investments in this volatile market.

Josh Gottheimer, a former speechwriter to President Clinton, called in to discuss the transition of power to President-Elect Barack Obama, and the process of choosing a new Cabinet.

Portland guitarist/singer Adam Kurtz was in the studio with bassist Keith Mann to chat with Ted about music and to perform two original songs.

In the audio post below, Ray talks about these guests, and gets fired up about the state of the Republican party. Give a listen, and then share your opinion in the comments section.

Wednesday on the Morning Show

The day after this historic election, which didn't go exactly the way Ray would have wanted, Ray remains philosophical. He's not thrilled with the outcome, but he's thrilled with his fellow citizens, who turned out in record numbers to cast their vote.

Today on the Morning Show, State Rep. Scott Lansley and Raymond Selectman Joe Bruno stopped by to talk about the election results.

In addition, Maine House Leader Josh Tardy called in with his thoughts, and FOX News' Alastair Wanklyn called in with a reaction from Europe.

Also on the show, Matt Jacobson, president and CEO of Maine & Company, was in to talk about where the state of Maine goes from here as it tries to generate more jobs.

As always, callers' opinions were welcomed on the show, as people from all over the state called in to chew over the election results.

We want to get your opinions too. Listen to Ray's audio post below, in which he reflects on last night's election (and actually breaks into song!), then sound off in the comments section.

A Heavy Turnout

Judging by the heavy activity at the polling station in Ray's town of Westbrook (and reports from around the state), it looks like voter turnout in Maine is going to crush every old record. Ray mulls what an awesome privelige (and responsibility) Americans enjoy with their right to vote, and he expresses his high hopes that McCain might pull this one out.

Tuesday on the Morning Show

On this historic Election Day, Ray and Ted welcomed back to the show Professor John Frary, the cantankerous second district Republican congressional candidate, who stopped by to talk about the campaign he's run against incumbent Mike Michaud.

But for most of the show, Ray, Ted, and guest host Joe Bruno turned the show over to audience members, fielding call after call about the candidates and the issues people are voting on today. You can check out every last call from today's show on MyFOXMaine.com.

In the audio post below, Ray talks about the fun they had on the show today, and urges each and every one of you to get out and vote. Listen in, cast your vote, and sound off in the comments section.

Monday on the Morning Show

Today on the show, Newell Augur, chairman of Fed Up with Taxes, and Alisa Coffin, owner the Great Impasta restaurant in Brunswick, came in to talk about their opposition to the new tax on beverages and health care claims, and their support for the ballot question (Question 1) which will repeal that tax.

Oxford County casino project spokesperson Pat LaMarche discussed her support for ballot question 2, which would allow a casino to be built in Oxford County. If you'd like the newsletter Ray put together on this issue, e-mail him at ray@myfoxmaine.com.

Portland Mayor Ed Suslovic stopped by to talk about his run for Portland City Council and to refute some hit pieces that have been put out against him in the final days of the campaign.

Ray talks about all these guests in the audio post below, as well as the issues on his mind on the eve of the election. Give it a listen, and weigh in with your own views in the comments section.

His Own Words

Ray plays a clip from an interview Barack Obama gave in 1995 to demonstrate why he thinks Obama is a racist.

Against the Grain

Ray wonders why no one isn't talking about Joe Biden's recent statement that Americans making more than $150,000 a year would see higher taxes, a significant difference from the ongoing campaign promise that only people making more than $250,000 would see higher taxes.

A Spooky Postscript

There was a "ghost talker" on the show today, something Ray is normally pretty skeptical about. She said that there was a ghost named "Alice" hanging around Ray, that Ray may have had the croup or some lung problem as a child, and that she saw the ghost of Babe Ruth next to Ray.

None of these names or details had any resonance or special meaning for Ray, but the guest from the previous segment, Mighty John Marshall, called in later to say that those readings may have been meant for him. His mother-in-law, who has passed away, was named Alice; he's had lung issues all his life; and his daughter lives in Babe Ruth's house.

Coincidence? Who knows. Ray's still skeptical, but he wishes everyone a happy Halloween.

Friday on the Morning Show

With the election just days away, a number of local candidates are making their final pitches to Maine voters. Today on the show, Maine State Senate Candidates Eric Lusk and Nick McGee, both from Portland, were in the studio to talk about their respective campaigns, as was Maine House candidate Bob Morrill from Westbrook and Portland City Council candidate Dory Waxman.

The Westbrook High School Blue Blazes boys soccer team came into the studio again to talk about their playoff win over Portland and their upcoming game against Greeley.

Record collector John Marshall fielded calls from audience members and lets them know just how much their old records are worth.

Finally, on this Halloween episode, medium Jacki Mari calls in to talk about the ghosts she's communicated with, including Christopher Reeve, Marilyn Monroe, Ronald Reagan, Abraham Lincoln, and more.

All of these interviews can be found on MyFOXMaine.com. Ray discusses all these guests in the audio post below. Give it a listen, and share your own views in the comments section.

Thursday on the Morning Show

Tarren Bragdon of the Maine Heritage Policy Center was on the show today to talk about transparency in government and his organization's new web site, MaineOpenGov.org, which track what Maine's government spends tax dollars on..

Also, Mark Dubois, the natural resources manager for the Poland Spring water company, was in to talk about how anti-business advocates in Maine are killing jobs.

Meredith Strang Burgess and Julie Marchese were in one last time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month with another Think Pink idea.

South Portland police officer Jimmy Fahey came on to talk about a costume ball to benefit the Kidney Foundation.

You can see all these interviews at MyFOXMaine.com. Ray discusses them all in the audio post below. Listen in, and then sound off in the comments section.

Go Westbrook!

Many of you saw Ray's son Tripp and the rest of the Westbrook High School Blue Blazes boys soccer team in the studio on Tuesday. Happily, the boys won their playoff game against Portland. Ray has game details.

Heads Up

On Monday, Nov. 3, from 7-8 a.m. on The FOX Morning News, a variety of people will be on in support of Question 1 on the Maine state ballot, the initiative to repeal the beverage tax.

Everyone's Invited

Ray wants to let people know about the annual Halloween on Main Street in Westbrook, this Thursday, Oct. 30, 4:30-6 p.m. All are welcome to this great family-friendly event.

Wednesday on the Morning Show

Today, former congressional candidate Dean Scontras and his business partner Richard Benoit were in to talk about their company, RA Power Solutions, which researches alternative energy resources, from geothermal to solar to wind.

Harris Parnell, who directs Maine's League of Young Voters, was on the show for a spirited discussion with Ray about which candidates her organization endorses, as well as its recommendations on the ballot issues.

Maine House candidates Kevin Crocker and Wayne Parry were on the show to talk about their campaigns.

The man who put the "awe" back in Auburn, Mayor John Jenkins, a morning show regular and friend to the program, was in the studio to talk about his support for U.S. Senator Susan Collins and local State Senator Lois Snowe-Mello.

And of course, election issues ramained on the table throughout the program, including Question 1 (beverage tax) and Question 2 (Oxford County casino).

Ray comments on all in the audio post below. Give it a listen, and sound off with your own opinions in the comments section.

Keep the Pressure On

Ray urges everyone to to vote Yes on Question 1, sending a message to the legislature that selfish, foolish taxation policies will not be tolerated.

Tuesday on the Morning Show

Ray asks his audience's forgiveness for his "darkness" on Monday's show over the prospect of an Obama administration. But the conviction of Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens has cheered Ray up with its small proof that the system sometimes works.

In the studio, political analyst Roy Lenardson and Raymond selectman Joe Bruno (both regular morning show contributors) were in the studio to talk about the presidential campaign, local races, and other issues of the day.

Also, U.S. House candidate Charlie Summers, Maine State Senate candidate Phil Csoros, and Maine House candidate Jeff Martin all stopped by over the course of the show to talk about their respective campaigns.

Rich Johnson of FOX News called in from Pennsylvania to talk about the presidential campaign one week out from Election Day.

Members of the Westbrook High School Blue Blazes boys soccer team (including Ray's son, Tripp) came into the studio today to show off their mowhawks and to talk about their upcoming playoff game against Portland.

Ray discusses all the guests in the audio post below. Give a listen, and sound off in the comments section.

Monday on the Morning Show

Portland Mayor Ed Suslovic was on the show today. He talked about Question 1 on the Portland ballot, which would establish a charter commission for the city, and he took calls from audience members.

Also, Donna Champman from Operation Homefront joined the show to talk about some of her organization's current projects, including getting furnaces for some military families, and putting together 100 Thanksgiving baskets. If you or someone you know can help out, contact Donna at 207-321-1321.

Today's show also continued the ongoing conversation about Barack Obama, whom Ray accuses of harboring socialist tendencies.

Ray discusses his guests, Barack Obama, and other issues of the day in the audio post below. Listen now, check out more Morning Show segments, and weigh in with your own opinions in the comments section.

Eye on Casinos

Next week, Ray is putting out a special edition of his newsletter, "Consent of the Governed." The publication will be absent of Ray's bias, but instead will give voice to advocates on both sides of the issue.

If you'd like a copy, send an e-mail to ray@myfoxmaine.com, and put "casino newsletter" in the subject line.

Taking on the King

Ray addresses best-selling author Stephen King's recent comments about Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin.

Glorious Sunday Afternoon

As hunting season begins, Ray urges all Mainers who cherish the second amendment to think twice before voting for Barack Obama.

Concrete Proof

Ray points to Barack Obama's comments to "Joe the Plumber" as evidence of Obama's socialist tendencies.

Ray Gets E-Mail

Ray responds to an audience member who e-mailed Ray to tell him to stop "whining."

Are You On the Team or Not?

It "irks the pure fire" out of Ray that Sen. Susan Collins made that disparaging comment about Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin.

Friday on the Morning Show

U.S. Rep. Thad McCotter of Michigan called in to support Charlie Summers, Republican candidate for United States Congress in Maine's 1st congressional district. McCotter also slammed the $700 Wall Street bailout bill, which he vehemently opposed.

Four Portland-area teens who are world champion archers -- Kendal Nicely, Adam Gallant, Joey Hunt, and Levi Cyr -- came into the studio to talk about their recent win.

Brian Wilson of FOX News called from St. Petersburg, Florida to talk about the Presidential race, which he thinks is a lot closer than many people are claiming.

Emmitt Pickett (better known to Mainers as Barney Martin) of the Maine Hysterical Society burst in to share his brand-new political song about the Presidential race, which he co-authored with an "unknown writer."

Lee Humiston and Steve Webster of the Maine Military Museum came in to talk about the many struggles the museum still faces with the code inspector from city of South Portland.

FOX News entertainment reporter Jill Dobson called in to talk about "American Idol," High School Musical 3, and many other pop culture stories.

Ray discusses all of these guests, as well as the issues of the day (including Sen. Susan Collins' comments regarding Sarah Palin), in the audio post below. Give a listen, and sound off in the comments section.

Thursday on the Morning Show

Today on the FOX Morning News, Ray and Ted talked about the revelation that the RNC has spent $150,000 on Sarah Palin's campaign wardrobe, something Ray calls a "tone deaf" move.

Also, Shanterra McBride of PLOT (Preparing Leaders of Today) came in to talk about what parents can do to help their kids deal with cyber-bullies.

Interior decorator Kat Powers visited to talk about her FOX23 Halloween special, "Haunted House of Kat," which shows you how to throw a great Halloween bash for kids.

The Maine-based southern rock band Coyote Drifters were in the studio to play a couple of live numbers.

Matin Sheehan, communications director for the Maine Heritage Policy Center was in to talk about the center's new web site, MaineOpenGov.Org.

Ray talks about all these guests and the issues of the day in the audio post below. As always, your responses are welcome in the comments section.

Wednesday on the Morning Show

Today, Raymond selectmen Joe Bruno and Dana Desjardins joined the morning show to talk about the recent unanimous vote the Raymond selectmen council took to begin secession talks from Cumberland County and potentailly join Oxford County. This move comes in response to Cumberland County tax bills.

State Rep. Meredith Strang Burgess and Julie Marchese were in to talk about their work on behalf of breast cancer awareness.

Also, Chris Foster of FOX News called in to talk about this year's World Series.

Ray remarks on all of these guests, as well as the issues of the day, in his audio post below. Listen in, and please share your views in the comments section.

Tuesday on the Morning Show

State Senate candidate Eric Lusk was on the show this morning, talking about the contrast between the health insurance costs in New Hampshire and Maine.

Former state Rep. (and current District 24 Republican Senate candidate) Kim Davis, who is running against Libby Mitchell, was also on the show.

Elise Loschiavo, special events and public relations manager for Portland's Downtown District, came on to talk about the city's search for the perfect Christmas tree for Monument Square.

Alastair Wanklyn of FOX News called in to discuss the ongoing world financial crisis.

And of course, the presidential campaign, which has just two weeks to go, was also discussed throughout the show.

Ray discusses all in the audio link below, and your views are welcome in the comments section.

Monday on the Morning Show

Today on the show, Ray and Ted talked about Colin Powell's endorsement of Barack Obama, as well as Ray's perception of Obama's real agenda. Also State Rep. Rich Cebra stopped by to talk about how the tourist industry fared this summer and RNC spokesman Alex Conant called in to talk about the final days of the presidential campaign.

Today on the Morning Show

Ray recaps what happened on today's installment of The FOX Morning News, including an interview with Gen. Bill Libby, a visit from MCLU head Shenna Bellows and Paula Silsby, the US Attorney for Maine, and a conversation about card check legislation. For these segments and much more, visit the Morning Show page at MyFOXMaine.com. And share your thoughts right here in the comments section.

Thoughts on Gay Marriage

Ray responds to a comment in a previous post about gay marriage, and the Connecticut Supreme Court's decision to allow same-sex marriage in that state.

And the Crowd Goes Wild!

Ray records the wild cheers for Gov. Sarah Palin as she arrives in Bangor.

Snowe and Palin Arrive

After a rousing speech by Maine House Republican Leader Josh Tardy, Sen. Olympia Snowe and Gov. Snowe descend from their plane in Bangor. The crowd is at a fever pitch, and Ray is right in the thick of it.

Dispatch from Bangor

Ray calls in live from Bangor as Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin's plane touches down.

Just an Observation

Ray comments on the Congress' passage of the $700 billion Wall Street bailout bill, wondering where the money came from when the cash wasn't there to fix our crumbling infastructure or supply our military properly.

Let's Stay Focused

With less than 30 days before the election, Ray urges us not to get distracted by the nonsense and noise of the national campaigns and focus our attention on our broken state legislature.

Think Pink

Ray offers kudos to State Rep. Meredith Strang Burgess for her work organizing the annual breast cancer awareness luncheon in Maine, as well as her efforts to launch a specialty license plate to raise money for breast cancer research.

Calling Shenanigans

Ray notes a big conflict of interest in the Westbrook City Council's vote on Stroudwater Place, the big retail development proposed for Westbrook.

And So The Beat Goes On

Ray calls the Market on its fickleness, as the Down Jones Industrial Average shoots up just one day after a record point drop.

Whom do you trust?

Not to minimize the seriousness of the Wall Street crisis, but Ray wonders if the situation really is as calamitous as people are claiming. With all sides putting their own political spin on the $700 billion bailout proposal, it's hard to know whom to trust.

RIP Paul Newman

Ray was saddened to learn of the death of actor Paul Newman, a man he admired for his acting ability and his monumental charitable efforts.

Ray Says 'Yes on 1'

Ray makes his case of the People's Veto of Maine's beer, wine, and soda tax.

Let Her Loose!

Ray says it's time for the McCain campaign to take the shackles off of Sarah Palin, the campaign's "biggest weapon."

Ray Says 'No on 2'

Ray explains his opposition to the Oxford County casino effort, and invites everyone to look at the specific language of the casino referendum.

Optimism and Pessimism

Ray reflects on the optimism about our country that he perceives in people, and the pessimism he perceives about the current crop of candidates for the House, Senate, and Presidency.

Just How Urgent is This?

Ray remarks on the sense of urgency that's being conveyed by Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson regarding the Wall Street financial crisis. He wonders if Congress really needs to act right now, or if a bailout is being pushed through quickly before too many questions are asked.

Dispatch from the Cumberland Fair

Ray calls in a live report from the 137th Annual Cumberland Fair.

Something is Broken

They used to say, "As Maine goes, so goes the nation." Now (unfortunately), it's more like "As California goes, so goes the nation" -- which Ray says we need to worry about because a California appeals court has ruled that homeschooling of children is illegal unless their parents have teaching credentials from the state. What makes the goverment think it knows better than us what's best for our children?

Beyond Philosophy

Ray is fundamentally opposed to the government interfering in the free market. But since we're beyond that philosophy and into the reality of a Wall Street bailout, Ray weighs in on how that should be handled.

Just How Free is the Free Market?

Ray weighs in on the Wall Street crisis and the $700 billion bailout that's being considered in Washington D.C.

Idle Threat

Ray weighs in on the Portland City Council's approval of a new plan limiting the time drivers can leave their vehicles idling.

Don't Panic!

Ray identifies the trouble spots in our economy, but says we must not talk ourselves into a recession. A recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of negative growth. That hasn't happened yet. Let's not make more of this than it is.

Buyouts, Bailouts, and Downturns

Ray weighs in on Merrill Lynch, Lehman Brothers, and the Wall Street crisis, wondering why some industries receive government bailouts and some don't.

The Blind Leading the Blind

Last summer, Maine lost $20 million in a bad investment recommended by Merrill Lynch. With the return of that money this summer, State Treasurer David Lemoine declared that Merrill Lynch was back in good standing with the state. But as news breaks of Merrill Lynch being bought out by Bank of America, Ray thinks the state's relationship with the troubled Wall Street institution must give us pause.

Reckless

Ray has some words for all the residents who refused to evacuate before Hurricane Ike hit and are now pleading for help from first responders.

Seeking Energy Solutions

State Senate candidates Russ Pack and Corey Troup were on the morning show this morning to talk about the Maine Energy Solutions for America (MESA) Project, dedicated to finding alternative energy solutions for Mainers.

Where's the Judgment Come From?

Ray has something to say about Charles Gibson's interview with Republican VP candidate Sarah Palin, marveling at what he calls Gibson's "condescending demeanor."

Seven Years Later

On the seventh anniversary of the 9-11 attacks, Ray recalls where he was and what happened on that fateful day.

Stop the Flow of Illegals

Ray shares his thoughts about illegal immigration reform, and what should be done to secure our borders.

Fears and Smears

Ray casts a skeptical eye on Barack Obama's claim that if John McCain were elected President, he would outlaw abortion. He also questions Joe Biden's answer to the abortion question.

Spotlight on Sarah Palin

Ray says it's not the media's job to vet Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin. It's ours.

Stop the Madness

Trish Riley, Director of the Maine Governor's Office of Health Policy and Finance, Maine State Sen. Libby Mitchell, Maine House Majority Leader Rep. Hannah Pingree, Maine Gov. John Baldacci, and many more state politicians are all advocating for the retention of the beer, wine, and soda tax to support the Dirigo health initiative, a program Ray says has failed miserably. He says that claims that a repeal of this tax will cause Dirigo to go away are lies.

Incomes Flatlining

The Maine Center for Economic, a liberal think tank, has reported that incomes in Maine for 2007 are indistinguishable from incomes in Maine in 2002. When you factor in the high cost of gas and heating oil, Maine people are going backwards. Ray asks why we keep sending the same people back the the state legislature over and over again, despite the fact that they're not helping Mainers.

Time to Get Serious

At the conclusion of both conventions, Ray assesses where both parties stand, singles out what he thinks is the best line of all the speeches, and reflects on the media's response to the Bristol Palin pregnancy story.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Ray asks what Barack Obama has done in his career that qualifies him to be President more than Alaska Governor Sarah Palin.

Out of the Park

After Sarah Palin's speech at the Republican National Convention, Ray's feeling electrified -- and he predicts the rest of the country will soon follow.

Prescription for Savings

When the price of simple prescription seems preposterously high, Ray calls his doctor and makes a surprising discovery.

What Really Matters

Ray reflects on the frenzy that has surround the nomination of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as Sen. John McCain's running mate.

4-Day School Week?

State Senator Nancy Sullivan has proposed a 4-day school week in the state of Maine. Ray hasn't had a chance to look at the nitty-gritty details of the proposal, but he's intrigued by the idea.

Astounded by the Ignorance

Ray challenges a caller's assertion that Republicans are salivating over Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin only because "she has a womb."

Almost Unbelievably Evil

Ray calls out liberal blogs for spreading the rumor that Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin's fifth child isn't actually hers.

A Beautiful Saturday in Maine

Ray congratulates the Maine Military Museum for its official opening today.

It's Getting Ugly

Ray calls out the DNC for denigrating Sarah Plain instead of welcoming her to the campaign and congratulating her on her historic nomination.

Kudos to Claude Berube

Claude Berube, political science instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy, was a guest on the morning show back in July, and he said back then that he thought Sarah Palin was the best pick for John McCain's running mate.

That Giant Sucking Sound

Ray says that the air has been sucked out of the Obama campaign with the Sarah Palin announcement, which has turned this election on its ear.

Ray Gets Excited

With John McCain's announcement of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate, Ray is feeling almost giddy about the campaign.

Who's It Gonna Be?

As John McCain gets closer to naming his Vice Presidential nominee, Ray thinks the choice comes down to former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and current Alaska Governor Sarah Palin. Ray thinks either would be a good choice, and takes time to make the case that Palin would be a great choice.

Ray Was Wrong

After Hillary Clinton leads the Democrats in making Obama the official nominee, Ray acknowledges that he was wrong: there was no power-play in the works; Hillary and Bill weren't scheming for a back-room deal to secure the nomination for her. But he goes on to suggest that maybe they should have been.

Harsh Winter Ahead?

Peter Geiger, editor of The Farmer's Almanac, will be a guest on the morning show this Friday. The Farmer's Almanac is predicting a harsh winter this year, raising fears that the weather, combined with rising cost of heating oil, is going to lead to a crisis in Maine. Ray's very interested in what Geiger has to say about this issue, and Ray's also planning an energy summit in September to talk about every option available to Mainers trying to heat their homes. Listen below to find out more.

Obama's VP Pick

Ray disagrees strongly with Joe Biden's politics, but he admires the man for not letting Washington D.C. to change or corrupt him.

Eye on the Convention

After two days of the DNC in Denver, Ray assesses the speeches he's heard so far, including Michelle Obama's and Hillary Clinton's. He also reflects on Obama's strategy so far, and how Americans seem to be responding to it.

Dispatch from Lewiston

On a glorious late-summer day in Lewiston, Ray calls in from a soccer field as the fall season kicks off.

Playing the Game

Ray thinks that the recent rumblings that John McCain might pick Tom Ridge or Joe Lieberman as his running mate are just head-fakes, and that when he makes his actual pick (Ray's betting Romney), that person's conservative credentials will not be questioned.

Let's Stay Off This Tangent

Ray criticizes the ridiculous attention that's been focused on the "scandal" surrounding China replacing a little girl singer at the Olympics with a "cuter" lip-syncher. He wonders why we're not focusing on the many good and wondrous things happening in Beijing this week.

Just a Stunt

The Maine House and Senate Republicans have called upon the Governor to call a special session to deal with the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), but Ray thinks that's really a job for the incoming Legislature.

Advice for Obama

Ray lays out what Barack Obama needs to do as he moves forward towards the Democratic nomination. Short answer: Pick Hillary Clinton as his running mate.

Listen to the Music

Ray has enjoyed the live music that's been featured on the morning show recently, including bands featured in the FOX23-sponsored free concerrt series, Alive at 5. If you know of a local musician or band whom you'd like to see get more exposure, let Ray know about it.