PORTLAND — Occupy Maine protesters who have camped in Portland’s Lincoln Park since October told a judge Tuesday that their occupation of the park is protected political speech.

AUGUSTA — A legislative committee endorsed an anti-bullying bill Tuesday that would set guidelines for schools statewide.

WASHINGTON — Republican Patrick Calder, a merchant mariner from Portland and a self-proclaimed “long shot,” is challenging Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree in Maine’s 1st Congressional District.

Mainers will have two strong contenders to root for when Oscar time arrives this year.

SKOWHEGAN — A proposed tax increment financing district for the Kennebec Valley Gas Co. pipeline in Skowhegan will be 4 feet wide and more than 8 miles long and would hold an estimated assessed value for taxation of $4.67 million.

CANAAN — Daniel Swain, a Democrat from Canaan, has announced his candidacy for state House District 28.

MADISON — As the town and a competing company gear up for another vote on a proposed town-owned natural gas pipeline, the company is trying to persuade residents that they don’t need to borrow $72 million to hook up to natural gas.

A story on page B6 Monday about Radon Action Month contained incorrect information that was provided to the newspaper. The radon refresher training course, sponsored by the Maine Coalition of Home Inspection Professionals, is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Augusta Civic Center. Pre-registration is required by Jan. 31. Email Bill Flanders at [email protected] or call 582-1334 to register.