Kerry supporters plan parties in Maine homes

PORTLAND – Maine supporters of the John Kerry-John Edwards ticket plan to gather at house parties across Maine on Thursday as the Massachusetts senator accepts the Democratic Nomination for president.

Party activists will gather around televisions for Kerry’s acceptance speech. They also will hear from national delegates from their areas and in some cases from congressional representatives. Some will participate in a conference call with Edwards, the Kerry campaign said.

Among the sites for the gatherings is Momma Baldacci’s Restaurant in Bangor, owned by Gov. John Baldacci’s family. Get-togethers are also planned in Lewiston, Portland, Bethel, Norway, Sanford, Belfast and other sites around the state.