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W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 7 J U N E 1 5 , 2 0 2 0 Association (MEREDA), which pre- sented its annual index. "I don't know that we'll be able to avoid a lost first half of the decade in the economy as a whole," said Colgan, who is a senior research advisor and professor emeritus of public policy and management at the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine. Maine saw a loss of 100,000 jobs in one month. e drop in employment goes far beyond the recession of 2008- 09. "So much of the recovery doesn't depend on economic factors, per se, but on how fast the public health system and the medical system can respond to the health emergency," he said. Tight industrial market boosts value of Westbrook building — And provides space for a business expanding production of COVID-19 rapid-test kits UNE 2020 grad wins 'Greenlight Maine' college finale with crab bait venture — The world needs entrepreneurs now more than ever Maine college leaders map out plan for safely reopening this fall — Here's hoping they can carry out their plans King bill to tweak small-biz bailout program heads to Trump's desk — More help is on the way MEREDA forecast: 'Lost first half of the decade' — Let's hope this isn't the optimistic forecast Testing alternative for Maine visitors 'as bad as the quarantine,' tourism industry says — But probably not as bad as the disease $1.4M attachment ordered in Trenton lobster racketeering case — A rare RICO case in Maine COVID-19 calendar: Virtual golf replaces pro tourney; bicentennial events pushed back — Will anyone be interested in the bicentennial next year? C R E D I T S & D E B I T S Houlton, Maine Neighbors buy $100,000 in gift cards to keep shut-down businesses in business. We are a community of open arms. Kindness is spreading. See and share more stories at bangor.com/spreadkindness ® Member FDIC

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