Judges in Maine are making Medical decisions

We are told that Judge Andre Janelle ordered a party into therapy, and on the first visit with the therapist, the client/ patient was asked what was the reason for seeking therapy.

The client reported saying that he/ she "was upset and disappointed with society". The therapist indicated that would not do, as it had to be a technical reason – such as depression or the sessions would not be paid for. The client stated that he/ she was glad to be divorcing, and not depressed, but the therapist continued to press the “depression” issue. The therapist had a struggle in trying to come up with a diagnostic category for this court ordered therapy. Finally the client told the therapist to put down whatever he/ she wanted. The client was never interviewed or counseled by the therapist for this diagnosis. There was no reason for the therapy other than Judge Janelle ordered it to be done. There was no depression experienced by the client/ patient. The “reason” was being fabricated for billing and court purposes, so a state (taxpayer - funded) agency would pay. It would also label the patient for the record as being depressed and this could be used in future court appearances against the patient/ client.

When Judge Andre Janelle forced this parent into “junk therapy” based on a Guardian ad litem “junk science” recommendation did he consider any of the following questions before forcing therapy:

1. Is the therapy really necessary?
2. Is there an accepted diagnosis of a problem for which therapy is indicated?
3. Is the treatment a valid, recognized form of treatment?
4. Is it approved of by professional societies?
5. In the end is it really effective therapy?
6. What us the aim of the Judge's prescription and can it be defined?
7. Will this therapy work on someone without a diagnosis?
8. Does this forced therapy have the potential of causing harm?
9. Is the treatment ethical? Or does it force treatment that humiliates with no definable therapeutic purpose?

Judge Andre Janelle probably also didn't consider some other very real issues like: Human Rights violations – where courts and their officers who are unqualified (both in training or background in diagnosis, counseling and or therapy) are forcing innocent people into unnecessary sessions. These therapies such as recommended by Judge Janelle appear to be methods of control and punishment and not of treating an actual problem. In this case as in many the judge forced the release of therapy records by the party. What ever good that may have come from the “therapy” was dissolved from that point on. The trust necessary for any form of therapy – which is founded on near absolute confidentiality – was broken with that request. Confidences are ended. No privacy = no therapy. Forcing the release of information to be shared with the opposing lawyers and their clients – can be damaging in unforeseen ways to not only the client but also those innocently mentioned in therapy. Will Judge Andre Janelle or the Guardian ad litem be held libel for possible damages? Will the lawyers, therapist or 3^rd party payers be held accountable? In the examples provided above – probably not as they either have immunity or deep pockets. It will come down to the person with the most to loose that will risk the cost of liability. This poses some interesting legal questions and issues.

The question that should be asked is why insurance companies and government health agencies – who are paying for this – are accepting this sham of forced therapy being prescribed by the likes of Judge Janelle? Do they realize what they are paying for? These Judicial/ Guardian ad litem prescriptions are frequently 'pro forma', and executed with little thought and no diagnosis but as a means of “Judicial Outsourcing” - about saving time for the judge in court that effecting any helping change in patients/ clients.

All third party payers - government (tax payer funded) or private - should have an interest in this set of issues; especially, if they are made aware of it. The money spent by these organizations is being wasted because of a Judicial recommendation that often has little or no bearing on a court case. Or is abused as a means of controlling a situation. The professional organizations, like the American Psychiatric Association have long had an interest, and have written volumes on the issues of confidentiality, informed consent, human rights - and the plethora of legal and ethical issues associated with these questions.

If you are or have been in a situation where the Guardian ad litem or the courts have ordered court sanctioned therapy please contact MeGALalert@gmail.com or like them on Facebook for up to date information on reform within the Judicial system and how you can help bring about change.

Fifth Amendment Rights are being Violated by Maine's Judges

“Nor shall be compelled in any criminal case be a witness against himself” These are one of the the lofty, important human rights guaranteed to all US citizens by our world famous Constitution. Yet in state after state these 5th Amendment citizen rights are being violated by family courts, the very institutions that are supposed to protect those rights. This has been going on unnoticed by many for some time and has almost become accepted as a regular way of doing business by the courts, Judges, lawyers, officers of the courts and uninformed consumers.

What Judges are condoning- whether directly or indirectly- are asking one or both people involved in a custody to sign over their rights to privacy in confidential, privileged transactions, without explaining how this confidential information will be used- for or against the party. In the example provided below, the judge has ordered the defendant to provide proof of not only the attendance of counseling, but to allow the counselor to speak with the Plaintiff on the Defendants progress.

Why is this a violation of the defendants 5th Amendment rights? There may be those who will say that the defendant has a choice. He/ she does not have to agree to follow the judge’s order. And this, in theory, would be true. In this case, however, the defendant was faced with the following:

1. He/ She was threatened with contempt of court and jail if he/ she did not comply

2. He/ She could agree with the release of information to his/ her ex and the courts without knowing how his therapy records might be used by the opposing attorney and the alienated spouse: in his favor, or against him, to argue that he/she was an unfit parent, should not have time with his/her child. He is being asked to risk testifying against himself, if his therapy records are released. Self-incrimination versus contempt of court and jail. Tough choices!

Although both choices are horrible and personally damaging, What would you do? In going to jail there is the potential of losing one’s job, having a jail record and the loss of income during jail time. These are all tangible concerns and fears. We know what the potential consequences are in going to jail.

On the other hand by agreeing to the release of information by the defendant there is no way of knowing in advance how that information is going to be used. It is impossible to give his/her “informed consent”, because it is impossible to know every possible or likely outcome of this action, and how it may affect your case. There is also no way to know that the information gained by the plaintiff and court will not be used as part of an attack by the plaintiff against the defendant. This is seen by many people as a sneaky, indirect way to get the defendant to testify against him/ herself. It is a violation of the defendants 5th Amendment rights, and it is all too frequently used by Judges that preside over family courts in custody disputes. It is also one of the many examples of how the Judicial process in family cases has corrupted itself. This process is in danger of becoming very ingrained in the system and it violates the constitutional 5th Amendment rights - to say nothing of common law principles about forcing consent.

The courts in the state are showing a lack of respect for the privileged, confidential information that is conveyed between the therapist and patient as an absolutely necessary part of therapy. In this case (as well as many others that we are aware of) under the threat of contempt of court, the defendant buckled and was forced into making a “release of information” decision that had ramifications that the Judge, plaintiff and most of all defendant had no way of knowing how it would play out. The Judge was in effect telling the defendant that he/ she would have to potentially testify against him/ her self – thus violating their rights under the constitution. The judge also unwittingly destroyed therapy by destroying the confidentiality necessary to make therapy work!

Please note - that this topic is not party specific. It affects people on both sides of the aisle and is very damaging. There currently is a movement in Maine that is trying to tackle Guardian ad litem reform that has gained National and International attention. The idea of fifth amendment rights that are being violated stem from this movement. For more information on Guardian ad litem reform we encourage you to visit: MeGALalert. 

Is the Republican Party Right Enough?

Or is it too Right?

There are some that are suggesting that Republican's in general and more specifically in Maine should be more conservative. That Republicans have lost the values that are at the core foundation of the party. In addition Republican's are at a crossroads in selecting a new leader for the party. Charlie Webster in stepping down has opened up possibilities.

There is a very real need for Republican’s to embrace the future and the influence of social media on the voter. If the Republican party is to survive and grow - young voters will need to be groomed and courted. The use of Facebook, Twitter, blogs, Tumbler and Linkedin to name a few as a means to get the candidates message out. Updating the websites maintained by various county committees so that they have a slick and professional look. The information on these sites all need to be current. There is no greater turn off than to have outdated information. If the most recent information you have is from a year ago then you have lost the battle. Media needs to be kept current and fresh. Emails that target constituents in a personal way as opposed to generic mass mailings. 

The Democrats manage to pull all of these points and more off. They have appealed to the old and young at heart. They get information out for support and do so weeks ahead of time. Not last minute. The Democrats market themselves as they party that cares and wants to help the individual, community, state or nation. Republicans have always been the party of change but recently the party has lost a bit of its groove.

If the party becomes more conservative as some would suggest there is the very real chance that moderate Republican's will defect. The goal should not be to narrow the focus of appeal but to broaden that appeal. To capture those that were lost in this past election cycle.

The Republican party is and always has been the party of aspiration. The Republicans are for the middle class and the upwardly mobile. It is the party of both blue and white collar workers, of race and creed. Conservative ideals and principles are good for every single voter.  We encourage you to comment on what the party should do. Comment here or email us at RepubliCANofMe@gmail.com.

Is this whats coming to America?

There is growing anger being displayed in Europe over austerity measures. People are upset with spending cuts by various governments and the threat of increased taxes.

There are budget crisis and governments no longer have the resources needed to cover the expenses associated with years of very generous entitlements. The protests that we are witnessing are coming about because many that will be impacted claim their livelihoods will be compromised by these changes. Unions are showing solidarity with the protesters - often encouraging them. They claim the protests are necessary to show the scale of opposition to these austerity measures. Governments are feeling the squeeze between what they know has to happen and what the protesters are demanding. There is not a lot of room to maneuver.

Is this what we can expect to happen here in America? Today we find ourselves on the edge of a cliff - teetering one way or another. Come January America will either fall over the cliff or get pulled back. In either case we as a country will find ourselves having to make some very unpleasant decisions. We run the very real risk of taking the path that Europe is going down. We cannot, though, continue upon the path that we find ourselves on. Raising taxes and cutting back so that we can live within our means is the only way to get us out of the hole we are slipping into.

There are going to be some very tough decisions that our leaders will be making. Decisions that will affect the entitlements that many in this country have become dependent upon. Pensions that can not be funded in the manner that they once were. There seems to be three options available to us:

1. Raise taxes on those that are still paying taxes. Do this across the board. There should not be any segment that gets a free ride. Raising taxes will in theory keep the entitlements that are out there and would cause the least harm to those receiving them.

2. Raise taxes and reduce entitlements. Do this across the board. As above no segment of society should get a free ride. Everyone will feel the pain.

3. Raise taxes, reduce entitlements and encourage job growth. The idea of getting more people on a payroll and paying taxes means in theory that taxes would not have to be raised as much and entitlements would not have to be reduced as much.

There are many ideas that could work - what is not working are the current ideas because it is only delaying what is inevitable - what we are seeing in Europe. If that is what this country wants then I suspect we will be seeing it soon. America is not like this - I hope

There is an image problem for the GOP – Grand Old Party – and that in itself is part of the problem.

Republicans took a hammering this past election across the board. We want your opinion on what worked – on the national, state and local levels. We also want to know what didn't work. Then finally what should change for Republicans – to appeal to more people. To convince those that are on the edge to look to conservative ideas and ideals.

The hammering that the party took ends with this election. We need to learn from what happened with this election so that it does not happen again. Republicans need to market themselves better. We want your thoughts.

Please comment here or email us at RepubliCANofME@gmail.com

There is a little over 1400 days until the next election.

Does District 94 candidate Terry Hayes have your interest at hand - or her own?

With this election it may be time for District Candidate 94 Terry Hayes to retire. It would appear that Terry has lost sight of who she works for – you and I. Instead as we have been finding out Terry Hayes has been working to promote the interest of her business and profession – that of Guardian ad litem.

For the past year there has been growing controversy over the management and oversight of Guardians ad litem. There have been two reports one in 2006 and the other this year that draws attention to this fact. Terry Hayes feels otherwise. Why shouldn't she – she has a business that caters to Guardians ad litem, she is a member of the Guardian ad litem Institute (a trade organization that promotes the interest of Guardians ad litem – which is often contrary to the child’s best interest) and in her position as the minority whip leader Terry has used her position to get any and all correspondence relating to Guardians ad litem.

Is this what Augusta needs? A candidate that shamelessly promotes her interest over those of her constituency. District 94 deserves to represented by someone who will look out for their interest. Tim Turner offers a fresh perspective for District 94 as a man with integrity and honor. Vote Terry Hayes out in District 94 this election cycle.

Chris Rector State Senate - on voter misinformation

Dear Voter,

It is personally distressing to me that there has been more misinformation, half-truth and outright lying in this election campaign about my voting record and positions on issues than I could ever have imagined possible. I am disheartened to think this is the new direction of politics in Maine.

The ability to discuss issues in a frank and candid manner is very important, and I certainly don’t mind honest disagreement about policy. I do, however, object to misinformation being spread as truth by those who do not even make an effort to verify its veracity. I hope you’ll agree that this behavior represents the worst form of subversion of our election process. Voters deserve to be armed with the facts, not the rumors or lies that someone presents as facts. We all know better than this!

To begin, the statement that I am a rubber stamp for the LePage administration is simply false. I have supported the Governor’s policies when I believed they were appropriate and I have objected to them when I have disagreed. For example, I fought hard to overcome the Governor’s veto of the R&D Bond proposal that would help to power Maine’s economy into the future. And I objected to the advance of “right to work” legislation as a distraction from a focus on serious issues affecting the Maine Economy such as spending priorities, debt, taxation and regulations.

Early in this Administration with seven of my Senate Republican colleagues, I signed a letter to the Governor, and met with him, objecting to the tone and the style with which he presented his message. It was offensive to many and unproductive for Maine.

I am proud of my record of protecting Maine’s Environment, as evidenced by my endorsement by Maine Conservation Voters.

I am also proud of my support of the business community, and the recognition of that effort, I have received the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Businesses. This stands as proof that Maine can certainly have a healthy environment and a strong economy.

I am proud of my support of education, including an increase in the current biennial budget of $62M to support K-12 public education that also helps to reduce property tax burdens back home.

And I am particularly proud of my record of reaching across the aisle to colleagues, evidenced by my endorsement by One Maine. Contrary to common belief, virtually all of the major initiatives in the 125th Legislature were supported by both parties. Legislative reforms of taxes, pensions, government regulations, small business and insurance reforms were all supported with bi-partisan votes in the Legislature. I am a leader of the effort to find common ground.

I have always taken my legislative responsibilities seriously. I have labored to represent the many diverse interests of my district and the best interests of the State of Maine. I am proud of my opportunity to be the Senator from Knox County and hope that I can return to that role in the126th legislature. Win or lose, I believe it is essential that voters have the truth about the many issues that have been circulated in a less than honest manner.

Please feel free to circulate this letter as you see fit to any who you think may not have all the facts, and please contact me directly if you have specific questions. I can be reached by e-mail at cwrector@hotmail.com, or by telephone at 354-6571. Everyone deserves to be informed when they vote.

Sincerely,Christopher Rector
State Senator District 22,
Knox County

Todays youth and Educational Reform - Bob Carter and Chris Rector

Many are saying that throwing more money at the problem will fix what is wrong with education. There are those who feel otherwise. Candidates such as Chris Rector and Bob Carter are taking a chance and advocating for a change in the education system – to stir things up a bit so that our education system is the best that it can be. So that our children can change and adapt as our future changes.

Facebook is an engine of change and reveals who we are. If also shows and reveals who we are as a society. We are presenting actual posts that were found on Facebook. Reading them should scare you and should solidify any doubt you may have as to why there needs to be a change in the way we educate our children:

“We have to work together all racist hand & hand.” - what this person is saying is that all races must work together hand in hand. Or maybe what the author is saying is that the Black Panthers and ku klux klan should be holding hands.

“I told u before I'm voting for Obama because he is black” - for no other reason than this?

“Plus the fact they have disrespected him. Plus the fact he worships $.” - what the writer is saying here is that the GOP has disrespected Obama and that Romney worships the dollar. You wouldn't know it by the way it was written though.

“Here is why because GOP party started changing again. Now the party has moved all the way to the right.” - does this mean that the GOP was middle of the road and they are now right leaning or that the GOP are now Nazis?

Or how about this one:

“Obama don't want people to be on warfare Cathy why u think his daughters are so smart.” - what does this mean?

Although these are only a few quotes you should get the picture. The money that you are paying in taxes for education is being thrown away. We have kids who are being passed along through the grades that cannot construct an intelligent sentence. Does this reflect well on the educational system? You be the judge. If the above sentences are any indication it shows that the current educational system is in need of a major overhaul.

Vote Republican, vote for change vote for your future.

Socialism the Rich will be Poorer -- but the Poor will also be Poorer

1944 in the basement of a hospital in Budapest Hungary Thomas Peterffy was born during a Russian air raid. Twenty one years later (in 1965) Thomas emigrated to the United States to escape communism and fulfill the American dream. With hard work, dedication and determination Thomas started a business that today employs thousands of people. He bought a seat on the American Stock Exchange in the 70's and was key in developing electronic trading of securities.

Peterffy is quoted as saying “I think the way a CEO runs his company is a reflection of his background. Business us a collection of processes, and my job is to automate those processes so that they can be done with the greatest amount of efficiency”

Petterffy is also quoted “America's wealth comes from the efforts of people striving for success. Take away their incentive with badmouthing success and you take away the wealth that helps us take care of the needy. Yes, in socialism the rich will be poorer -- but the poor will also be poorer. People will lose interest in really working hard and creating jobs."

Petterffy exemplifies what America is about and what American needs to stimulate a resurgence. View his ad on YouTube here: Thomas Peterffy - Freedom To Succeed. It is a powerful statement.

For more on Republicans in the state of Maine visit and like us on Facebook

District 94 candidate Tim Turner - a candidate for the people

If there is a race where change would benefit Maine it is the race in District 94. This race pits Rep. Terry Hayes vs. new comer Tim Turner. Terry Hayes is running for a forth term and it is clear that the focus she had in the past has been lost. Terry Hayes in our opinion has thrown the values she entered into her position with years ago, away. It is time for a fresh take, a fresh face in Augusta. Tim Turner offers values that are badly needed in Augusta. He has the interests of the people at hand. Terry? While Terry Hayes gives the appearance of working for the people in reality Terry Hayes appears to use her influential position for political and economic gain. Does Maine need more cronyism or is it time to retire Terry so that Maine can give new ideas and direction a chance to grow. Vote Republican, vote for change vote for our future - Support Tim Turner November 6.

Running for Office is a True Test of Character - Can Your Candidate handle the Pressure?

The political season is fast coming to a close and the attacks will only become stronger and more pointed. The attacks will come from both sides and aimed towards the other. What is interesting is the fallout from these ads. For instance we have seen the fallout from PAC ads against Jeff Evangelos running in district 49 against Bob Carter. Supporters for Jeff have come out in local papers where people have expressed their outrage about these negative ads and rightly so. The character of this man is being called into question. Are the statements untrue or are they just a little to close to home? That is something you as the voter will have to decide in just a few days.

As a voter you should look to see how your candidate handles being under the gun. Is this person a poor sport in the way he/ she handles criticism or does he/ she show grace under fire. Brushing aside the attacks and not falling for being set up. Does the candidate respond from the heart or the head. Running for office is a test of character. Do we really want someone in Augusta that ignores the competition and acts in a childlike manner? Of course not.

That is why we ask that you cast your vote for the Republicans in Knox, Lincoln and Waldo counties. They have come under fire and have shown grace that one would expect our political leaders to display. Vote Republican, vote for change and vote for our future.

Heather Sirocki – sets the record straight in District 128.

There has been some outlandish claims that have been made recently against Heather Sirocki. Heather is one of the citizen legislators that was elected two years ago. That was when Maine changed course from the almost 40 years of politics being rammed through Augusta. During the past two years there has been a change where promises of meaningful health insurance change, pension reform, welfare reform, education reform and regulatory reform to help small businesses in the state.

Despite this hard that Heather and others have done there are others who are distorting the record:

Claim: “Eliminated funding Head Start programs for low income preschoolers“

Truth: Head Start is federally funded with $28 million/ year. Maine is one of eleven states that allots additional funding for Head Start. The General Fund money of $2.4 million is being eliminated while $1.3 million of diverted tobacco settlement funding will be retained. Thus Head Start remains fully funded with an additional $1.3 million supplement.

Claim: “Eliminated the Drugs for the Elderly(DEL) program”

Truth: The national average to fund DEL is at 100% of poverty level. Maine was generously funding DEL at 185%. We trimmed this to 175% of poverty level, which means the DEL program in Maine is still being funded at 75% above national averages.

Claim: “Making healthcare more expensive”

Truth: Healthcare is different than health insurance. Healthcare fees are set by medical providers like your doctor. Legislators do not set fees. A portion of the insurance reforms enacted by the legislature have been in effect just few weeks, and some portions do not go in to effect until 2014. Initial reports, however, show the price of insurance products stabilizing with a yearly increase of only 1.7% in the individual market. And Harvard Pilgrim recently posted a 6% increase in the small group market. These numbers are promising when compared to the double digit increases that Maine has routinely endured for many years.

If there is a question as to Heather's record she is asking that you call her at 883-5609 to get the simple and straightforward truth about her record. Better yet come out and support Heather in her election on November 6 for district 128.

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For more up to date information on Heather - find her on Facebook

Sage advice from the leader of one of the greatest leaders in history - Cicero of Rome

The budget should be balanced,
the treasury should be refilled,
public debt should be reduced,
and the assistance to foreign lands
should be curtailed
lest Rome become bankrupt.
People must again learn to work,
instead of living on public assistance.

Cicero
55 BC

Message from Bill Guay to the citizens of Maine House District#137

Bill Guay: As you know, recently the York County Coast Star held a candidate's forum which I did not attend. Because of a prior family commitment, I regretfully declined the invitation. I am grateful to the York County Coast Star for affording me the opportunity to send along a statement to be read at the forum.

My personal challenge is to try to visit every home in District 137 before the election but I still have many more to visit. I am confident that I will be able to personally speak to the citizens of Kennebunkport and Biddeford that I missed at the forum.

Again, I want to thank the York County Coast Star for their continued effort to inform the citizens of the Kennebunks and Arundel of the choices in the upcoming election.

Chris Rector and his promise for Health Care Reform in Maine

2010 Chris Rector promised Maine families that he would reform the health care system in Maine. Chris Rector kept that promise to Maine's families with more choices and lower costs.

Mainers will soon be able to purchase health care coverage plans from other states - Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut as well as Maine. This will broaden the choices and increase the competition for all of us.

Because of this competition amongst these out of state plans for your business the cost for health care will be driven down. This will keep more of your money in your pocket.

There will be no loss of consumer protection as these out-of-state plans are subject to the same consumer protections that Maine plans are.

Senator Chris Rector is concerned about about health care for the families of Maine. In 2010 he made a promise and because of this Chris Rector has delivered. Support Chris Rector this coming election on November 6.

What is going on with Angus Kings Independence Wind?

 On Saturday in Bath after being introduced by Bruce Poloquin Charlie Summers spoke to a packed house at the Elks Lodge about what he sees are the issues we face as a state and a nation.

One of the concerns that Charlie spoke at length on was his opponent Angus King and his wind farm. Back in 2007 Angus King decided to take advantage of a law that he passed back in 1997 that would require utilities to generate 30% of their energy from “Green” sources. Wind being one of those sources. In 2007 Angus King founded his wind company called Independence Wind and from there the cronyism started.

We all know that the Obama administration has wasted hundreds of millions on “investments” in green energy development. Independence Wind was one of those companies that received this stimulus money. Few people in the state benefited from this money – and just under 500 people worked on this project – most for a few days to a few weeks. As if this were not bad enough Angus King went back to the Feds asking for more money and he got it to the tune of $33 million in “grants” which was for covering the cost of the loans Angus King and his company had. But why did this company need all of this money when they had on the books over $120 million? That is the question.

Listen to Angus King today and you do not hear about his wind company – he bailed out at the last moment – which Angus was quoted as saying was an “amazing coincidence”. Is this what Maine needs down in Washington or do we want someone who is honest and well respected. Who has integrity in what he has done with his personal and political life. Charlie Summers has an energy plan for Maine – that does not include lining his pockets with our money. Charlie Summers is a man for Maine in Washington.

To read more about Augus King and Independence Wind click here. For more information about Charlie Summers and the idea and values he stands for click here. Support Charlie Summers

Maine Coast Television Channel 7 - Republican Candidate Schedule

10/22  2pm & 9pm  Carole Gartley

10/24  2pm & 9pm  Bob Carter

10/27  2pm & 9pm  Les Fossel

10/29  2pm & 9pm  Deb Sanderson and Jethro Pease (will play back to back)

10/31  2pm & 9pm  Mike Collins and Chris Rector (will play back to back)

11/03  2pm & 9pm  Jon Courtney

11/05  2pm & 9pm  Carole Gartley and Deb Sanderson (will play back to back)

These are interviews with the Republican candidates and it is a good opportunity to become familiar with the issues that your candidate stands for.

Where does District 49 candidate Bob Carter stand – on Education

It speaks well of the candidate when you understand where that candidate comes from. Education is turning out to be one of those “hot button” topics of this election. People are concerned – they want better education for their children but they also don't want to pay higher taxes.

Bob Carter who is running for District 49 is in the unique position of knowing about education and how to improve the education system in the State of Maine without raising your taxes. Bob Carter's background includes 25 years in banking (he understands fiscal responsibility and saving) as well as 14 years as a teacher and Principal (he understands education and the management of a school system).

Bob Carter likes the idea of Charter Schools in Maine and giving them a chance to compete. Although the idea has been around for awhile it is new to the state with two charter schools opening up in the past few weeks. What these schools do for education is many-fold. Increased school day, competition with public schools and a diverse curriculum that public schools may not be able to offer and support. These are just a few of the advantages to having charter schools. The biggest though – is that your taxes do not go up to support a system that may only provide a mediocre education for your child.

Although money is a big part of the equation it is not the whole equation. Our education system is behind the times. Look at the Japanese, Indians and even Europe to see education systems that are flexible and change as society needs change. Charter Schools have that flexibility that public schools are slow to adapt to. They can keep up with the times.

Bob Carter is the representative that will push for innovative educational ideas and reform – remember he has the background for it. Support Bob Carter this coming election – do it for your kids future.

Charlie Summers - A Fresh Focus on Maine's Future - Bath Maine

                  





Today there was a huge turn out to see Charlie Summers at the Elks Lodge in Bath. Charlie was introduced by Bruce Poloquin (Maine's Treasurer).

Charlie gave the crowd an eloquent speech telling us of his childhood in Kewanee Illinois (south west of Chicago) which is the pork capital of the country – so as Charlie Summers pointed out he is uniquely qualified to know something about the pork in Washington. The audience picked up on his meaning. In relating to us what his early life was like. The values that were instilled early on from working at the family business to his job as Assistant Manager of the Bangor Motor Inn to his ownership of a convenience store in Biddeford. Charlie knows what it means when there is talk about fiscal responsibility and the hard choices that we as a nation are going to be faced with. There was the story Charlie Summers told the crowd of the time when he was younger. He showed up at the family business and his father was tending bar. His father reached down and pulled up a stack of parking tickets and asked if Charlie realized how many beers would have to be served to pay off those tickets. It was not until years later as the owner of a convenience store and sorting bottles and cans that the question hit home and he realized what his father was getting at. Tough choices – where the federal government will have to make cuts – but if we as a nation encouraged business development that we can grow our way out of the trap we are currently falling into. Angus King – his opponent feels raising taxes is the better choice.

In Maine Charlie Summers has a track record of working with both sides. To him it is not what party you are affiliated with but what you can do when working together to bring about meaningful change. When in Iraq or Afghanistan and going into combat Charlie was never asked what party he belonged to. It didn't matter. What mattered was getting the job done no matter how hard the choices were. The idea that Charlie Summers was trying to get across to his audience was that despite what we think – we are all on the same team and should be working towards the goal of a stronger country, stronger state but most important – stronger family.

Charlie Summers is a leader that is needed in Washington for Maine – as his campaign states – he offers a “Fresh focus on Maine's future”. Charlies Summers stands for spending cuts, reducing the obscene debt and energy independence to name a few. Charlie Summers showed us tonight that he is a candidate of integrity and insight. He is a leader rather than a follower and his roots are with you and me – not the special interests.

Let's get out and support Charlie Summers for Senate

Invitation: Oct 20th Town Hall Meeting

Date: Saturday, October 20th
Time: 4:30 PM
Place: Elks Lodge, 9 Lambard St., Bath, ME 04530

Plans this afternoon? Why not come out and support Charlie Summers who is going to be at the Elks Lodge on Lambard Street in Bath. This is one of a series of Town Hall Meetings that have been going on through out the state - all of which have been getting great responses.  This is going to be a packed event!

Tell everyone you know!

Meet the Candidate Chris Rector today and tomorrow

Today you can find Chris Rector knocking on doors in Owls Head. Tonight there is a forum starting at 6:30 pm at the Rockport Opera House - this is going to be a great chance to hear what the candidates stand for. This forum is sponsored by PenBay Pilot and the Rockport Public Library.

Tomorrow (Saturday 10/20) - Chris will be knocking on doors. We don't have the location - yet. The evening will find Chris at the Lincoln-Knox Farm Bureau Dinner in Washington (ME).

What do we know about District 49 Candidate Jeff Evangelos?

We know that Jeff likes a quote from Mark Twain “If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything”. We know that Jeff likes the character Atticus Finch from the movie “To Kill a Mocking Bird” and that his favorite leaders are Dwight Eisenhower and John F Kennedy. Beyond that we really do not know all that much about this candidate running for District 49. Is this what makes a good candidate? I think voters would much rather know that a candidate will do something for them. Like education reforms, limiting government intervention and helping to promote new job growth to name a few of the concerns that voters are dealing with. There is no disputing that Jeff Evangelos has an impressive resume of accomplishments and had a business. As one supporter noted Jeff is a “wicked smart guy”. There is a concern as to what he stands for and if he has a clear understanding of what the current issues that are important. Is Jeff the candidate you should vote for? Well if you are a voter concerned with quotes, movie characters and nifty Red Sox or Patriots schedules - sure. Otherwise look to a candidate who actually stands for something.

Romney- Ryan: Fiscal Discipline

MittRomney.com

Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan know that we just can’t keep spending money that we don’t have.

Our country is heading in the wrong direction.

We need serious leadership to fix these problems and get this country back on track.

Full story and video: Mitt Romney

Insight: Could Obama's "ground game" clinch the election?

This piece from Yahoo! News offers what the other side is doing to mobilize the masses. It could also backfire on them. Give it a read to get an understanding of what the Democrats are doing.


Yahoo! News

CLEVELAND/MIAMI (Reuters) - From the outside, it looked like an abandoned storefront in a run-down part of Cleveland. But inside, dozens of supporters of President Barack Obama gathered on a recent Sunday for an event that was part political rally, part religious revival.

Full Story: Yahoo! News

Washington Post Speaks of the Future and President Obama

By Matt Patterson (columnist - Washington Post, New York Post, San Francisco Examiner)

Years from now, historians may regard the 2008 election of Barack Obama as an inscrutable and disturbing phenomenon, the result of a baffling breed of mass hysteria akin perhaps to the witch craze of the Middle Ages. How, they will wonder, did a man so devoid of professional accomplishment beguile so many into thinking he could manage the world's largest economy, direct the world's most powerful military, execute the world's most consequential job? Imagine a future historian examining Obama's pre-presidential life: ushered into and through the Ivy League despite unremarkable grades and test scores along the way; a cushy non-job as a "community organizer"; a brief career as a state legislator devoid of legislative achievement (and in fact nearly devoid of his attention, so often did he vote "present"); and finally an unaccomplished single term in the United States Senate, the entirety of which was devoted to his presidential ambitions.

He left no academic legacy in academia, authored no signature legislation as a legislator. And then there is the matter of his troubling associations: the white-hating, America-loathing preacher who for decades served as Obama's "spiritual mentor"; a real-life, actual terrorist who served as Obama's colleague and political sponsor. It is easy to imagine a future historian looking at it all and asking: how on Earth was such a man elected president?

Not content to wait for history, the incomparable Norman Podhoretz addressed the question recently in the Wall Street Journal: To be sure, no white candidate who had close associations with an outspoken hater of America like Jeremiah Wright and an unrepentant terrorist like Bill Ayers, would have lasted a single day. But because Mr. Obama was black, and therefore entitled in the eyes of liberal Dom to have hung out with protesters against various American injustices, even if they were a bit extreme, he was given a pass. Let that sink in: Obama was given a pass - held to a lower standard - because of the color of his skin.
Podhoretz continues: And in any case, what did such ancient history matter when he was also so articulate and elegant and (as he himself had said) "non-threatening," all of which gave him a fighting chance to become the first black president and thereby to lay the curse of racism to rest?

Podhoretz puts his finger, I think, on the animating pulse of the Obama phenomenon - affirmative action. Not in the legal sense, of course. But certainly in the motivating sentiment behind all affirmative action laws and regulations, which are designed primarily to make white people, and especially white liberals, feel good about themselves.

Unfortunately, minorities often suffer so that whites can pat themselves on the back. Liberals routinely admit minorities to schools for which they are not qualified, yet take no responsibility for the inevitable poor performance and high drop-out rates which follow. Liberals don't care if these minority students fail; liberals aren't around to witness the emotional devastation and deflated self-esteem resulting from the racist policy that is affirmative action. Yes, racist. Holding someone to a separate standard merely because of the color of his skin - that's affirmative action in a nutshell, and if that isn't racism, then nothing is.

And that is what America did to Obama. True, Obama himself was never troubled by his lack of achievements, but why would he be? As many have noted, Obama was told he was good enough for Columbia despite undistinguished grades at Occidental; he was told he was good enough for the US Senate despite a mediocre record in Illinois; he was told he was good enough to be president despite no record at all in the Senate. All his life, every step of the way, Obama was told he was good enough for the next step, in spite of ample evidence to the contrary.

What could this breed if not the sort of empty narcissism on display every time Obama speaks? In 2008, many who agreed that he lacked executive qualifications nonetheless raved about Obama's oratory skills, intellect, and cool character. Those people - conservatives included - ought now to be deeply embarrassed.
The man thinks and speaks in the hoariest of clichés, and that's when he has his Teleprompters in front of him; when the prompter is absent he can barely think or speak at all. Not one original idea has ever issued from his mouth - it's all warmed-over Marxism of the kind that has failed over and over again for 100 years.
And what about his character? Obama is constantly blaming anything and everything else for his troubles. Bush did it; it was bad luck; I inherited this mess. It is embarrassing to see a president so willing to advertise his own powerlessness, so comfortable with his own incompetence. But really, what were we to expect? The man has never been responsible for anything, so how do we expect him to act responsibly?

In short: our president is a small and small-minded man, with neither the temperament nor the intellect to handle his job. When you understand that, and only when you understand that, will the current erosion of liberty and prosperity make sense. It could not have gone otherwise with such a man in the Oval Office.

On the Campaign trail with Chris Rector

Last night Vianlhaven had a candidate forum in which both Chris Rector and Ed Mazurek participated. Chris Rector managed to do better than hold his own in this traditionally Democrat stronghold. This forum should be considered a "win" for Chris.


Tonight there is a forum sponsored by the Union Chamber of Commerce. There is a pot luck dinner from 5:30 - 6:30 and the forum starts at 6:30. We do not know what the format will be. Other Republicans of note who will be there are Les Fossel (Senate dist 20), Jethro Pease (House dist. 44), Bob Carter (House dist. 49) and Deb Sanderson (House dist. 52). Please come out and support these candidates.
 
Tomorrow (October 12) Chris Rector will find himself in Augusta. He will be co-chairing the Maine Economic Growth Council. This should should keep him occupied until the afternoon. Later in the afternoon expect to find Chris knocking on doors in the Rockport or Camden area.
 
Saturday (October 13) expect to find Chris Rector greeting the guests visiting from the cruise ship visiting Rockland that day. The afternoon will find Chris Rector in Thomaston as part of an Historical tour of the Thomaston Cemetery with the Thomaston Historical Society. Chris will be reading some information about notable citizens buried there.
 
Sunday (October 14) Chris can be found in the afternoon will be attending a meeting at the Second Congregational Church in Warren. The new pastor, Andrew Stinson will be giving a speech about his duty as a military Chaplin.

Republican meeting and potluck in Union 10-11-2012

To All,

Tomorrow, October 11th this event will be held in Union at the Town Hall.  Potluck supper at 5:30.  Meeting to begin at 6:30 with candidates for Senate district #20, Senate district # 22 and House districts #44, #49, and #52.  I urge as many as possible of our Republican base to be there to supply support for our candidates. Hope you will be there in mass.
    
Respectfully yours,

Jan Dolcater, Chair, Knox County Republicans

The Knoc County Republican Committee meeting of 10/09/2012

Last night the Knox County Republican Committee had a meeting that included Michael Collins, Jethro Pease, Carole Gartley, Les Fossel, Bob Carter, Chris Rector and Bruce Poliquin – Maine's State Treasurer.

The meeting started with Bruce who was articulate, engaging and funny. He also laid out what was on the line for the candidates running for office. Bruce’s speech lasted almost 30 minutes in which he covered a wide range of issues that concern Maine's citizens.

Bruce gave encouragement to those that attended the meeting by saying “Look at all of these signs... everybody look at what you've done” and pointed out all of the signs and work that the volunteers have done for the Republican party in Knox County.

He asked the audience “Who saw Obama get nailed” which brought a lot of applause from those attending.

Bruce also pointed out that “things are changing in this state.. the reasons things are changing is because we are doing it differently from the characters in DC”. He went on to point out what everyone knows what the problems and issues are. Everyone knows that our government is too big. What happens with big government? Bruce went on to explain that government will have to charge a fortune in taxes and fees to pay for things. The issue is that in doing so we draw business investment away, jobs are drawn away and out kids end up leaving. What is left? Nothing but a series of fiscal calamities. Greece is a prime example of this very reality.

Bruce Poliquin went on and discussed the National debt as being a 600 lb Gorilla. When the interest rates start to go up we will be saddled with a spike in interest payments. The Gorilla is a beast that is in need of being tamed. To tame this beast is going to require reform. Can reform be done? As Bruce pointed out – yes it can – and he gave an example right here in Maine where government has been able to eliminate 41% of the pension debt. 41%.

What would happen if this mess was fixed? A renaissance. Our country would go through a renaissance where business investment and employment would come together. Investing in business makes them grow, business expands, more people are hired and incomes go up. This idea makes sense and the enthusiasm as displayed by the crowd was resounding.

One of the major points that Bruce Poliquin was making was that in the last few years we have turned this state around. Maine is spending less and borrowing less according to Bruce. There is fiscal responsibility that is being introduced to the state on a level that has not been seen for decades. Supporting the Republican candidates in Maine come November 6 will ensure that Maine continues down the path of fiscal responsibility and that what we have gained will not be lost.

October 9, 2012 - Knox County Republican Committee - Meeting

Come show support for Republican Candidates in Knox County on Tuesday at 6 pm. Jon Courtney, Carole Gartley and Chris Rector will be there to answer questions and this will be an opportunity to hear what is going to happen for the last 30 days of the campaign.

Where in the world was Jon Courtney today?

Cole Farms in Gray, ACE Hardware in Gary, Waldo's General Store in Falmouth, TD Bank in Falmouth and the Republican Party meet and greet in North Yarmouth.

Jon Courtney is covering District 1 again letting the voters know that he is there for them. To find out more visit his web site JonCourtney or like him on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/jonforcongress

Obama Jobs Council Packed With Outsourcing Companies

Huffington Post

WASHINGTON -- During the past two weeks, President Barack Obama's campaign has blasted Republican challenger Mitt Romney as an “outsourcer,” focusing on his career with private equity firm Bain Capital. The Romney campaign hit back on Tuesday, claiming Obama's stimulus package failed to protect American workers and helped create jobs overseas.

If Romney really wanted a juicy example of outsourcing, he would have to look no further than the president's jobs council.

Full story: Huffington Post