An article on how North Carolina-based FairPoint Communications, which succeeded

An article on how North Carolina-based FairPoint Communications, which succeeded in its bid to buy Verizon\u27s landline operation, plans to drive economic development in Maine with a buy local philosophy and an effort to gain input from businesses as it expands broadband access. Once the switchover is complete, FairPoint intends to launch an economic development model used successfully in other states and developed by the consulting firm ViTAL Economy in Riderwood, Md. There have been recurring questions about FairPoint\u27s ability to finance the $2.7 billion agreement with Verizon. FairPoint\u27s stock, selling at around $19 per share in January 2007, is now down to around $3 per share