If she doesn't like that decision, what are the chances she'll give back the $60,000 tax dollars in exchange for the mural?

You've asked, "Where are they?" Did you forget that some people have to work for a living so they can pay the excessive taxes which support the Extreme Far-Left movement and all of their daily protests. It's a real shame we have so many wagon-riders these days, but that is now beginning to be addressed by our more fiscally conservative leaders in Augusta.

Since a previous article has indicated that $60,000 state tax dollars were spent on the artwork, it belongs in a state museum and not in Portland's City Hall... unless the taxpayers of Portland want to buy it from us state taxpayers.

Brad, since you don't seem to be aware of the related Laws, this will be a teachable moment for you. In 1977 (Abood v. Detroit Board of Education), our U.S. Supreme Court ruled that compulsory dues for politics violates the First Amendment and that it is illegal to withhold forced dues from dissenters beyond the cost of collective bargaining. You can read the facts about this case at http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cgi-bin/getcase.pl?court=US&vol=431&invol=209

In 1986 (Chicago Teachers Union v. Hudson), our U.S. Supreme Court found far-reaching rights in challenging compulsory dues withheld from teachers who refrain from union membership. The Court applied civil rights statutes and found that the teachers represented by NRTW attorneys were denied due process of law under the First Amendment. You can read the facts about this case at
http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cgi-bin/getcase.pl?court=US&vol=475&invol=292

In 1988 (Communications Workers of America v. Beck), our U.S. Supreme Court also ruled that workers covered by the National Labor Relations Act can withhold forced dues from the union for everything but the documented cost of collective bargaining. You can read the facts about this case at http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cgi-bin/getcase.pl?court=US&vol=487&invol=735

In 1991 (Lehnert v. Ferris Faculty Association), our U.S. Supreme Court fleshed out earlier, vague language by establishing a rigorous three-part test, based on the First Amendment, to judge the chargeableness of union activities paid for by forced dues. It also clarified that non-members cannot be forced to subsidize union lobbying and public relations. You can read the facts about this case at http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cgi-bin/getcase.pl?court=US&vol=500&invol=507

Now, if you keep all of the above-mentioned decisions by our U.S. Supreme Court (especially Lehnert v. Ferris Faculty Association), take a few minutes and review the vague spreadsheets for SEIU Local 1989 which serve as their 2009 & 2010 Hudson/Beck Notices (posted for review at
http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/2099942/seiu-local-1989-2009-2010-report...).

If we start with one simple claim from their 2010 report (dated December 31, 2009), such as the $1,202,826 they’ve claimed as a Total Chargeable Expense for their “Field Representatives”, the union bosses at SEIU Local 1989 are unable to give a detailed accountability for those expenses. In other words, they cannot prove that money was used for non-political activities/expenses… and that is only the tip of an iceberg with the accounting practices being used within Far-Left groups like SEIU Local 1989.

BTW, as defined in Lehnert v. Ferris Faculty Association, “the union bears the burden of proving the proportion of chargeable expenses to total expenses.” Since a Procedural Audit of SEIU Local 1989 will surely expose an array of fraudulent accounting practices, it’s now time for that to happen. That labor union has used both Maine taxpayers and fee payers alike as financial puppets for too long, but a Procedural Audit will surely help resolve that fiasco.

Any questions? Class dismissed.

Mr. Hemingway - Since many of Maine's public sector union bosses have been using our taxpayer resources and tax dollars to promote their Far-Left political agenda/activities, do you really believe that's okay? We need to keep labor unions going in our USA but (IMO) they have no right to use our tax dollars for political purposes.

the SEIU Local 1989 spreadsheets from their 2009 & 2010 Hudson/Beck Notices, which are posted at
http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/2099942/seiu-local-1989-2009-2010-report...

Since I'm not going to play the game of Chicago-style politics, in short, the fraudulent accounting practices have been used to inflate the figures within the last column called "Total Chargeable Expenses." The union bosses at SEIU Local 1989 cannot prove those expenses were for non-political items, as required by law. Our honest and hard working state workers deserve a better union!

but countless businesses looking to relocate won't even consider non-RTW states... just ask the good folks down at private sector organizations like Maine & Company. BTW, as for energy costs, what about those colder RTW states illustrated on the map at http://www.nrtw.org/rtws.htm? We need to find some solutions for the current economic fiasco, and it looks like RTW will be part of a good solution that will help almost all workers in Maine and every taxpayer. Are you a current or past union member/boss?

It’s good to remember what Thomas Jefferson once said, "To compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves is sinful and tyrannical."

Mr. Fessenden, the term “forced unionism” is defined as when an employer and labor union(s) have an agreement that makes union membership and/or payment of union dues/fees a condition of employment. This applies for both private and public sector employment in our USA, either before or after the hiring date. The employee has no choice but to join/pay, resign or get fired.

Since the use of Forced Unionism has grown significantly in Maine under Governor Baldacci, as illustrated at http://www.mseaseiu.org/forms/10-Hudson.pdf, more and more tax dollars and taxpayers resources have been used for political purposes. Although this is not supposed to happen, certain labor unions like SEIU Local 1989 have not been held accountable for their use of creative accounting practices.

For example; the spreadsheet listed on page 11 (above link) has critical information that deserves a Procedural Audit. In short, the column titled “Total Chargeable Expenses” has included a large amount of costs related to SEIU’s political activities. In addition, the spreadsheets from their 2009 and 2010 Hudson/Beck Notices are posted for comparison at
http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/2099942/seiu-local-1989-2009-2010-report.... When challenged, SEIU Local 1989 has almost no detailed accountability to prove those expenses were non-political as is required by law. Since SEIU has been a huge campaign supporter for Governor Baldacci and countless other Far-Left political campaigns, they have never been held accountable for the inappropriate use of both our tax dollars and taxpayer resources. When Maine’s new Right-to-Work proposal is passed, some of these problems will be reduced and our local labor unions will even have a chance to grow and earn more revenues.

Maine has some major financial problems right now, and many of them involve the current use of Forced Unionism within our public sector workplaces. Maine workers and taxpayers deserve better, but it seems obvious that some of the greedy Far-Left leaders are primarily concerned about what’s in their own wallets. If you’re sick and tired of being used like a financial and political puppet, please help Maine become a Right-to-Work state. FMI, see http://www.mainertw.com.

Mr. Fessenden has included some very bad information in that editorial, especially his claim that the passage of Maine’s new Right-to-Work legislation “will weaken our economy.” That’s simply not true but it is an example of the typical rhetoric coming from greedy union bosses.

In reality, and as illustrated on the NILRR Fact Sheet at http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/2589175/nilrr-fact-sheet-pdf-february-10..., the Cost of Living-Adjusted Per Capita Disposable Personal Income (2009) is lower in Forced-Unionism States like Maine. Wow, I wonder if the rest of his editorial has any additional false information… if you want real facts about the strong economic and social benefits that will come by passing RTW in Maine, please visit http://www.MaineRTW.com.

must have know who he is... they should have included his position with AFL-CIO next to his name and town. LSJ readers certainly deserve to know all of the related facts, and that's a big one.

All of Maine's honest state workers and the taxpayers alike deserve better! Fortunately, our legislators are now considering two proposals that could help all parties involved. The passage of LD 309 ("An Act To Make Voluntary Membership in a Public Employee Labor Organization in the State") or LD 788 ("An Act To Prohibit Forced Payment of Labor Union Dues or Fees by Workers") will help all types of workers and taxpayers alike in Maine.

Please ignore the Far-Left’s rhetoric and learn the facts. Please get active and help get LD 309 and/or LD 788 passed this year... Maine workers deserve this improvement and labor unions stand to reap large rewards when it’s passed. FMI, see http://www.mainertw.com

After reading that piece of Far-Left propaganda, you might want to know that David McKeone is also a union boss here in Maine… in fact; he’s listed as the Business Manager for LABORERS AFL-CIO Local 327 at http://www.unionfacts.com/unions/unionProfile.cfm?ID=16117.

If either proposal gets passed this year, LD 309 ("An Act To Make Voluntary Membership in a Public Employee Labor Organization in the State") or LD 788 ("An Act To Prohibit Forced Payment of Labor Union Dues or Fees by Workers"), it will actually help all types of workers (in both the public and private sectors) and taxpayers alike here in Maine. The real facts are posted at http://www.MaineRTW.com. Please learn the facts and help get LD 309 or LD 788 passed this year... Mainers deserve this improvement.

BTW… if you'd like to see some proof of what certain labor unions are attempting to do to our USA, just take three (3) minutes and watch at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M3DLGP4UKQ&feature=player_embedded -- in particular, at the 2:08 point, listen to Mike Imbrogna (a union steward representing AFSCME)... this is but one example of how public tax dollars are being used to push for more socialism/communism in our country. Do you really support those actions?

but the truth is out there if you have an open mind for it. Do you even care about the truth, Dan? Do you really support their blatant push toward communism at the taxpayers' expense? Which union are you connectd with?

Dan, if a union doesn't have a monopoly contract, they don't have to bargain for everyone and thus your free loader problem goes away. You're 100% right that nobody should get a free ride. In addition, nobody should be forced to support an organization that violates their personal beliefs. Dan, do you agree with that thought?

the unions will receive an added bonus - a chance to offer better service and more fiscal accountability for their members. If they do a good job, there's no reason why more people won't want to join their union.

resources for years while they promote a 100% pro-socialism agenda. Our tax dollars should not be used for political purposes on either side, but it sounds like you don't agree with that concept.

Brad, I think we agree that our taxpayer resources should not be used for political purposes by either the so-called labor union (SEIU Local 1989) or the current administration. Unfortunately, SEIU has been abusing our taxpayer resources for years under democrats! If you want some proof, just review their public photo albums posted at http://picasaweb.google.com/111658079725768564681/ -- and don't forget, a picture is worth a thousand words. Do you agree?

The best solution for Maine workers is for us to become a Right-to-Work state, but Mr. Tipping and Mr. Quint are certainly too connected with the Far-Left’s political machine to recognize this fact (e.g., see the large donations from their organizations at http://www.maine.gov/ethics/pacs/index.htm).

We have some major financial problems here in Maine that have been caused by 30+ years of poor contract management and weak governmental leadership in Augusta. They made all kinds of promises to win votes for the democrats’ agenda but failed to set money aside to pay for everything. Fortunately, we have a new Captain at the helm who is working hard to steer our ship away from a nasty reef. As for Maine’s new Right-to-Work legislation, it’s not anti-union and it will help solve some of the economic problems in this state… but it is only one step of many we need to take. If you want to skip the Far-Left rhetoric and learn the facts about Maine Right-to-Work, just visit http://www.MaineRTW.com and do some research. It’s time for all of the political games at the taxpayers’ expense to be stopped!

and they're available for review at http://www.maineopengov.org

but we need to beware what's not yet visible. This isn’t rocket science folks, but it’s amazing how many valid questions/concerns a random review of the facts can produce. For example, here are two reasons why Maine taxpayers deserve a Procedural Audit of state programs like Efficiency Maine. If you look at the staff list for Efficiency Maine (http://www.efficiencymaine.com/efficiency_maine_staff), you will notice that the first and last names on the list are Joy Adamson (Grants Administrator) and Tim Vrabel (Strategic Initiatives Specialist). Next, since they are public servants, their 2009 compensation packages (listed at http://www.maineopengov.org) raise some interesting questions. Remember, this example is based on a random review of strictly the first and last person listed on their staff list.

#1. Joy Adamson is listed as “Grants Administrator” on the Efficiency Maine website. However, on the state payroll website, s/he has the following two (2) listings:
a) Adamson, Joy M // Public Service Coordinator III // $55,991 (total compensation 2009);
b) Adamson, Joy M // Utility Analyst // $22,419 (total compensation 2009).
HENCE, Joy’s total compensation in 2009 between those two (2) fancy job titles/positions was $78,410 tax dollars.

#2. Tim Vrabel, is listed as “Strategic Initiatives Specialist” on the Efficiency Maine website. However, on the state payroll website, s/he has the following two (2) listings:
a) Vrabel, Timothy J // Public Service Coordinator III // $78,066 (total compensation 2009);
b) Vrabel, Timothy J // Utility Analyst // $28,498 (total compensation 2009).
HENCE, Timothy’s total compensation in 2009 between those SAME TWO (2) fancy job titles/positions as Joy Adamson was $106,563 tax dollars.

In addition, some quick and easy Google searches under a person’s name will often provide more pertinent information… as it does for both of these two people. Needless to say, I hope Ms. Schalit will continue her investigative reporting in areas like this… the political games with our tax dollars must be exposed and stopped ASAP.

Hey tron, you should learn the real facts before writing junk like that... Governor LePage was indeed at this event yesterday.

our new 'Maine Right To Work State' legislation gets passed and thus reducing some of the fat political bank accounts for so-called unions like SEIU, AFL-CIO and Teamsters. 'Right To Work' will be a great boost for both the Maine economy and Maine workers overall. If you want to stay informed about this important legislation, be sure to bookmark www.MaineTaxpayers.com and www.MaineRTW.com

In case you haven't noticed, the state employees union (SEIU Local 1989) has been using state workers as political pawns for years... not to mention the countless amount of tax dollars they've also used on one-sided political campaigns for the Far-Left.

If you'd like to see some proof, here linked are a few examples:
1) http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t258/Luv2Travel67/MSEA-SEIU%20Local%2...

2) http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t258/Luv2Travel67/100_0983.jpg

3) http://www.keepandshare.com/userpics/a/c/c/o/untabilitymaine/2010-10/sm/...

4) http://www.keepandshare.com/userpics/a/c/c/o/untabilitymaine/2011-01/sm/...

5) http://www.keepandshare.com/userpics/a/c/c/o/untabilitymaine/2010-07/sm/...

6) http://www.keepandshare.com/userpics/a/c/c/o/untabilitymaine/2010-07/sm/...

7) http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t258/Luv2Travel67/MSEA-SEIU%20Local%2...
(SEIU Local 1989 targets state workers at the Cross Office Building)

8) http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t258/Luv2Travel67/051007.jpg

Great rally for our hospitals! It's time for major changes in how our so-called state leaders have been running Augusta and wasting countless tax dollars. Libby and Eliot represent the status quo approach while Paul LePage is the only real fiscal conservative running for the Blaine House. We don't need another fake but polished governor, we need someone with a strong spine who is willing to get the job done... and Paul LePage can do just that. Our kids and other future generations deserve better than what the extreme liberals have been doing to our state... read the facts about Paul LePage’s plan at http://www.lepage2010.com

Although Libby is right about how the DECD and State Planning office have failed the taxpayers in countless ways, Sen. Mitchell will only make the situation worse by merging the two departments. It's time to start cutting the fat at the top of each department.

and this so-called news story is a great example of this fact. 'We the People' are in the process of taking back our USA. Remember in November!

Shame on the Baldacci Administration for not doing a better job with that appication. Read more of the facts about how we've just missed a golden opportunity for Maine's educational systems at
http://mainepolicy.org/5/media/237/Steve_Bowen__Testimony_on_Race_to_the...

but there is also another solution - cut the spending! We must cut the wasteful spending by those Extreme Far-Left running this state. Just look at the countless examples posted on www.MaineOpenGov.org

Sad but true.

Since the AARP has primarily become another PAC with lots of money to support the Extreme Far-Left movement, who cares what they think? It's time for the old status quo mentality to be replaced by a strong and fiscally conservative approach. It's time for Paul LePage to be our next Governor. If you’re still in doubt, please read his website at http://www.lepage2010.com

Madeleine, the only fake Paul LePage is that one being painted by Extreme Far-Lefties like Jonathan and tron.

Mr. Dwight and thinkingman have both nailed it! In light of our major economic problems in Maine, it's time for the Extreme Far-Lefties running this state to step aside and let some fiscal conservatives get us back on track. LePage for Governor!
Find the facts at http://www.lepage2010.com

We owe a big Thank You to our Senators for this vote against more unfunded spending by the Extreme Far-Lefties. Enough is enough!

It's nice to see so many of the Extreme Far-Lefties leaving their cozy nests in Augusta... we need to Remember in November and replace them with strong fiscal conservatives willing to help put Maine back-on-track and headed in a better direction.

The Extreme Far-Lefties like tron will destroy our state if we don't stop their games in November. In short, if you're not familiar with what Paul LePage stands for, please take a few minutes and simply visit his website at http://www.lepage2010.com - note the various position statements and informational videos. If you have questions/concerns, send him an email and see how he responds.
** LePage for Governor 2010 **

This is a great letter (and comments so far) that deserves some attention by our so-called state leaders in Augusta. Since the dollar plays a major role in this issue, especially those monies from special interest groups involved, we might want to take a close look at this root problem... and one of the largest "problem roots" seems to be located at http://www.mseaseiu.org

Remember in November how Libby Mitchell was a strong supporter of pushing 102 new and/or higher taxes on Mainers with Question 1 (which was defeated, thank God). We must also remember that Libby Mitchell is part of the Exteme Far-Left establishment that has created our state's current economic fiasco and she represents the 'status quo' approach. We need a strong fiscal conservative running our state, but Libby will deserve a big "thank you" for her past service as she's walking out of Maine politics for good. Libby, it's time for you to retire.

Voisine is right, the tide is finally turning and it looks like Maine will have a chance to dig itself out of this current economic hole we're in. We need a strong fiscal conservative leading the charge and Paul LePage is the best candidate for that job.

In fact, if you're not familiar with what Paul LePage really stands for, please visit his website at http://www.lepage2010.com and review the position statements and informational videos. The Extreme Far-Lefties will destroy this state if we don't stop their games in November.
** LePage for Governor 2010 **

This lawsuit against the MMA will illustrate how countless tax dollars are being used for inappropriate political purposes and it's time for all of the involved parties to be held accountable. The facts are all posted at
http://www.mainefreedomforum.com/mhpc-sues-maine-municipal-association-o...
and I believe you'll find the Minutes from those MMA meetings quite revealing.

This is a major case against the MMA, but don't forget it also involves a lot of towns and cities all over Maine. Read The Facts at http://www.mainefreedomforum.com/mhpc-sues-maine-municipal-association-o... and take a close look at how your town might also be involved... do it before all of the documents get destroyed as part of the annual "filing" process. You will also find some interesting details aboout this case on www.AsMaineGoes.com

In light of last night’s victory for Maine taxpayers,
please make sure you contact some of the folks involved to say Thank you!”
The Vote Yes to Reject Coalition (http://voteyestoreject.com) includes:
Maine Merchants Association;
Maine Restaurant Association;
Maine Innkeepers Association;
Maine Tourism Association;
National Federation of Independent Business;
Maine Grocers Association;
Maine Professional Guides Association;
Maine Campground Owners Association;
New England Car Wash Association;
Maine Auto Service Professionals;
Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce;
Old Orchard Beach Chamber of Commerce;
Maine Automobile Dealers Association;
Dry Cleaning and Laundry Institute;
New England Fabricare Association;
Coin Laundry Association;
Union Chamber of Commerce;
Caribou Chamber of Commerce;
ABC of Maine;
Maine Motor Transport Association;
Maine Association of Realtors;
Maine Snowmobile Association;
York Region Chamber of Commerce.

In addition, let’s not forget the great people at www.MaineTaxpayers.com, www.MaineRefounders.com, www.MainePatriots.com and www.AsMaineGoes.com ...
BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY … Senator David Trahan, for leading this fight against higher taxes for Maine residents.

In addition; please remember in November that Paul LePage was also a HUGE supporter for this ‘Vote YES on 1’ effort while Libby “status quo” Mitchell supported the other pro-tax side.

Libby 'status quo' Mitchell will keep dragging us Maine residents into the depths of higher taxes and stronger governmental control. Don't our kids deserve better than that? As you probably know, our State has major fiscal issues and we need to make some tough changes within Maine State Government.

With that said, our next leader will need a very strong backbone and Paul LePage has proven he has just that and more. Although nobody's perfect, Paul LePage has the experience and skills that we need for our next Governor.

** LePage for Governor 2010 **
FMI: http://www.lepage2010.com/positions.php

The 'No on 1' ad campaign is full of blatant lies to scare and confuse Maine voters, but I hope you won't fall for their tricks and lies. Please remember: ‘Vote YES! on 1’ campaign to avoid raising 100+ Maine taxes.

BTW, please don’t be fooled by the wording. The actual wording for question #1 on the June 8th ballot is:
"Do you want to reject the new law that lowers Maine's income tax and replaces that revenue by making changes to the sales tax?"

Vote ‘YES! on Question 1’
for No Higher Taxes in Maine
FMI: http://voteyestoreject.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Vote-YES-to-Reject...

+ Vote 'No!' on all Loan/Bond Issues

+ Elect Paul LePage as our Republican Candidate for Governor.

It's time for some positive changes in Maine.

If you're not sure who to trust on next week's Question #1, please note that the ‘Vote YES! on #1’ to Reject New Taxes Coalition includes:
Maine Merchants Association, Maine Restaurant Association, Maine Innkeepers Association, Maine Tourism Association, National Federation of Independent Business, Maine Grocers Association, Maine Professional Guides Association, Maine Campground Owners Association, New England Car Wash Association, Maine Auto Service Professionals, Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Old Orchard Beach Chamber of Commerce, Maine Automobile Dealers Association, Dry Cleaning and Laundry Institute, New England Fabricare Association, Coin Laundry Association, Union Chamber of Commerce, Caribou Chamber of Commerce, ABC of Maine, Maine Motor Transport Association, Maine Association of Realtors, Maine Snowmobile Association, York Region Chamber of Commerce. Source: http://voteyestoreject.com

Please Vote ‘YES! on 1’ to support the Peoples’ Veto of 100+ New/Higher Taxes from LD 1495... and PLEASE spread the word to help defeat the lies.

The list of 100+ New/Higher Maine Taxes is posted at http://voteyestoreject.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Vote-YES-to-Reject...

LD 1495 was designed by the Far-Left's political machine to raise Maine taxes even higher, but the People's Veto campaign (vote 'YES on #1') is a chance for us to stop-this-madness. Please Vote ‘YES! on 1’ to support the Peoples’ Veto of 100+ New/Higher Taxes from LD 1495... and PLEASE spread the word to help defeat the lies.

BTW, just take a quick look at the list of New Taxes at http://voteyestoreject.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Vote-YES-to-Reject...
and you’ll see that most Mainers (not tourists) will get hit with the new/higher taxes of LD 1495. *** It's time for us to stop the lies and Take Back Maine. ***

Did Chellie also have Mr. Sussman and his deep/liberal wallet with her?

By the way, have you noticed where some of their funding is coming from:
“Pingree associate brings $100,000”
at http://www.kjonline.com/news/pingree-associate-brings-_100000_2010-05-13...

In addition, since the question’s sneaky use of words does not reveal the 100+ new/higher taxes that are part of LD 1495, PLEASE don’t be fooled by the wording. The actual wording for question #1 on the June 8th ballot is:
"Do you want to reject the new law that lowers Maine's income tax and replaces that revenue by making changes to the sales tax?"
It's an absolute shame that the question does not explain how LD 1495 will-raise-taxes on 100+ goods/services, so most Mainers will-pay-more taxes under LD 1495. **Plus, in all fairness for Maine voters, the question should also explain how people will lose their ability to claim all of the major deductions like Mortgage Interest and Charitable Donations. This fact alone will make your taxable income Go Up to offset the lower income tax rate (which would have been a great idea if it was done alone).

LD 1495 is nothing but another “Financial Shell Game” by our extreme liberals in Augusta, but the People’s Veto is our only solution. Please Vote ‘YES! on 1’ to support the Peoples’ Veto of the LD 1495.

In all fairness, all Maine voters should become informed about each candidate from both sides, as we have some very good people running for the Blaine House. However, voters should also read those Extreme concepts in the Democrats’ proposed platform (read it at www.AsMaineGoes.com) for Maine. Can you say higher taxes? Can you say more regulation? Can you say more government? Can you say higher taxes? We need a new Governor who will Cut Spending. Period.

BTW, here's how the question is worded for Maine's June 8th ballot: 

"Do you want to reject the new law that lowers Maine's income tax and replaces that revenue by making changes to the sales tax?" 

Needless to say, the wording might cause a little confusion... it's a shame it doesn't explain how it will also raise taxes on countless goods/services so people will end up paying more taxes. 

 Please ‘Vote YES! on 1’ to support the Peoples’ Veto of this actual tax increase.se numerous other taxes. Please spread the word, 'Vote YES on Q.1' on June 8th. 

FMI, www.MaineTaxpayers.com

While these two guys fight about what’s true and what’s not, Maine voters have a great chance to learn more about the best candidate for Governor – Paul LePage.  If you don’t already know Paul LePage, I sincerely hope you’ll take a few minutes to listen to his ideas.  For your convenience, the following links have a variety of interviews and campaign information:

Paul LePage January 16, 2010 - Maine Tea Party - Part 1 of 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RENFSoe8z8g&feature=related

Paul LePage January 16, 2010 - Maine Tea Party - Part 2 of 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BexCKJTr0E&feature=related

Paul LePage January 16, 2010 - Maine Tea Party - Part 3 of 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeXTC47I8jU&feature=related

MaineFreedomWatchdogs: Paul LePage Interview

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFpx6qOK0FI

MaineFreedomWatchdogs: Paul LePage Interview 2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1fEN1C2LnQ&feature=related

MaineFreedomWatchdogs: Paul LePage Interview 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRbMdBEp69Y&feature=related

MaineFreedomWatchdogs: Paul LePage Interview 4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnvNckmNUQ0&feature=related

PLUS more at http://www.lepage2010.com/

Save-The-Date:  Election Day is Tuesday, 08 June 2010.

If you look at http://www.ironworkersdcne.org/news/, you'll see that Jimmy Cook seems to be working for Mr. Richardson in another manner now.

Since a large amount of our “excise tax dollars” are actually being used to fund political campaigns (not road & bridge repairs), doesn’t this fact bother any of the liberals? Here are a few examples as proof:

1. http://www.memun.org/public/publications/townsman/2009/10-09.pdf - produced with 100% tax dollars

2. http://www.memun.org/public/MMA/svc/SFR/initiatives/default.htm - produced with 100% tax dollars

3. Massive donations by Maine Municipal Association (100% tax dollars) for groups like “Citizens Unified for Maine's Future” as reported at http://www.mainecampaignfinance.com/public/entity_summary.asp?TYPE=PAC&I...

Rob has made a great point, and you can simply look at the State of Maine workforce for one large example of how it's being abused... at the taxpayers' expense.

It will be interesting to see what kind of lies and scare tactics the Far Left will try to use against this campaign... it is indeed time for the concerned taxpayers to stand up and voice their frustrations with our so-called state leaders.

If you would like to become part of the solution, please visit Maine Taxpayers United at www.MaineTaxpayers.com
and on Facebook.

Wow... read the emails at http://www.tabornow.com/uploads/FOIA_Emails.pdf

Now what do you think? It's time for one major investigation!

If you read the overly generous “ARTICLE 63. SICK LEAVE” (pages 57-59) of the state employee’s contract,
posted at http://www.mseaseiu.org/forms/admin07-09.pdf,
you’ll find a significant example of related fraud/abuse/waste at the taxpayers’ expense… and now Libby wants to push the same mess onto our private sector. Folks, what’s wrong with this picture? How long before we become a full communist state?

So does this means that our nanny state status is actually creating some jobs for a change?

Robert61 and the Editorial Board are 100% right on this one, as We The People of Maine deserve better! True tax reform will only come if we break the status quo mentality in both Augusta and throughout many town offices around Maine... so, please vote on November 3rd and remember three importanr things:
1) Vote YES on Q.2! (lowers the Excise Tax)
2) Vote YES on Q.4! (TABOR NOW will reduce governmental power in Maine)
3) Get active and help us fix the Maine mess!
FMI: www.MaineTaxpayers.com
Your voice really does count,
but you must first speak in order to be heard!

Since it was reported that Senator Snowe voted this way "with some reservation", we need thousands of upset Mainers to call her various offices and let her know this is a bad idea.

It's not too late, and We The People do have a say in what she is doing on behalf of our state. We need health care reform, but this path will only bury our USA in debt and an even worse system... but we still have time to help Snowe change-her-mind!

Please call Senator Snowe's offices today:

Washington, DC 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5344
Toll Free: (800) 432-1599

Auburn State Office:
Main: (207) 786-2451

Augusta State Office:
Main: (207) 622-8292

Bangor State Office:
Main: (207) 945-0432

Biddeford State Office:
Main: (207) 282-4144

Portland State Office:
Main: (207) 874-0883

Presque Isle State Office:
Main: (207) 764-5124

tron, are you a member of ACORN?

Our state leaders have failed Maine taxpayers for too long, and it's time for a positive change with TABOR NOW! It's time for us to cut the roots of this cancerous government that's growing with no regard to how it will be paid for by our children and their children. As they say; if you're not part of the solution, you are part of the problem! THE SOLUTION: Get out and vote on Nov. 3rd:
YES on Q.2! & YES on Q.4!

C-Span is probably the best way to go, because it's obvious the major networks (CBS, NBC and ABC) are even more corrupt and slanted than FOX.

Since Deborah Hutton is married to a man who has spent the last 20 years working for the pro-tax union/PAC called SEIU Local 1989 (Tim Belcher), has she taken this action to protect her husband's organization? Just take a few minutes to review their VERY political website pages at
http://www.mseaseiu.org/Story91.html and http://www.mseaseiu.org.

The public deserves to have more transparency on both sides of important issues like this, but people like Deb Hutton are clearly on the pro-tax and pro-socialism side of the aisle. IMO, the best solution for our Maine tax problems is to cut government spending. In order to do that, we need to Vote YES on Q.2! (lowers the Excise Tax) & Vote YES on Q.4! (TABOR NOW to reduce governmental power in Maine).

What are the chances that this so-called "public forum" will be another one-sided pro-socialism speech from the greedy Far Left? If you would like to review more than 2,000,000,000 reasons why Maine spending should be cut, and why TABOR NOW should get passed, please take a few minutes and look at the '2009 Maine Piglet Book' - it's posted at
http://www.mainepolicy.org/library/resources/203.pdf
and plenty of additional facts are available at
www.MaineOpenGov.org

Our Maine governments have become too big, too expensive and too powerful! 'We The People' need to regain control before it's too late and our kids have to pay the price with even less freedoms and higher taxes.

While our state revenues continue on this downward spiral, our so-called state leaders are still wasting countless taxpayer dollars in a variety of ways. Since the '2009 Maine Piglet Book' is now hot off the press, it illustrates "More than $2,000,000,000 in wasteful government spending" and is a great read for all Maine taxpayers. It's now posted online at the MHPC website,
http://www.mainepolicy.org/library/resources/203.pdf

Since revenue will continue to be down, and our state is spending more than it should, don't you think it's time for some spending cuts in Augusta?

Tony's 100% right, and I sincerely hope the schools do not get closed early! In fact, here are a few alternative ideas for how we can solve our current fiscal crisis in Maine:
1) Get active in the politics which shape our USA;
2) Pass TABOR NOW, http://www.tabornow.com;
3) Cut Excise Taxes, http://www.moregreennow.com;
4) Defeat the so-called “tax reform” by Maine’s liberal democrats, LD 1495, http://www.stillfedupwithtaxes.net;
5) Keep a close eye on all of the wasteful spending within Maine State Government, http://www.maineopengov.org;
6) Get active with a growing grassroots effort in Maine to “Reduce our state and local tax burden and promote prudent government spending,” http://www.mainetaxpayers.com;
7) Read our Constitution of the United States of America, http://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/constitution.overview.html;
8) Keep a close eye on what Far Left pro-socialism groups like ACORN and SEIU are doing, http://www.acorn.org and http://www.seiu.org;
9) Elect a new Governor for Maine who knows how to run a business with a limited budget (i.e., Mayor Paul LePage from Waterville);
10) GET ACTIVE and know that your voice really does count!

Let's keep the schools open and cut spending in other areas like government waste!

While this lawsuit sounds like a good idea for all of our honest and hardworking state employees, the same workers might want to file a second case against their so-called union itself. The membership of that "union" deserves better, whether they are voluntary members or victims of the Forced Unionism agreement signed by Governor Baldacci.

From an array of highly questionable accounting practices, which is linked to the now infamous ACORN group, to the poor contract terms received this year, it seems obvious that members of this SEIU Local 1989 Chapter are being used as political puppets for their votes and financial contributions. How fair is that?

Hence, this one issue of longevity pay seems to be the tip of an iceberg that's worthy of a Federal investigation... but the political cards in Maine are currently stacked against the truth being told. It's a sad fact, but 100% true.

It's nice to see that this side of the media has finally decided to inform people about what's been happening with ACORN for more than a week now... especially since the ACORN "roots" already stretch deep into Maine politics and many aspects of life here.

In case you don't already know, some of the Maine connections per ACORN’s “Support From Organizations” list
(http://www.acorn.org/index.php?id=17853)
include the following organizations:

1. SEIU (which is VERY deep within our State Government & more, http://www.mseaseiu.org);
2. Maine People’s Alliance;
3. AFL-CIO;
4. AFSCME;
5. National Education Association;
6. United Federation of Teachers'
7. ACLU;
8. Campaign for America’s Future;
9. and even the Sierra Club.

Do you know anyone who supports or belongs to any of the above-listed groups? As you can tell, ACORN has developed a major network throughout both Maine and our USA... and their staff have now been caught doing corrupt actions like these recent examples:

a) ACORN in San Bernardino, CA:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7s8w9GEpSzw&feature=player_embedded#t=237

b) ACORN in New York City, NY:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrpRGZq7Z-U&feature=player_embedded

c) ACORN in Baltimore, MD:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbL-dDMpbSw

d) ACORN in Washington, DC:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVDi7SH0ofo

e) ACORN San Diego, CA:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkj_OqfXypQ

Needless to say, IMO, we don’t need more corruption like this in Maine. Since some media outlets seem to be camping with the Far Left activists, I encourage folks to keep an eye on what’s happening via two good websites - http://acornwatch.org & http://biggovernment.com.

Is this the kind of change you’ve been waiting for? I hope not, and it’s up to us to clip the roots before it gets even worse here in Maine…but please know, it is already here!

Now, for the most important question, how do we get rid of this cancerous problem before it does more harm to our state and country!

If/When you have time, here are some other interesting and related articles about the Maine connection with ACORN:

1. Unions gave ACORN nearly $10 million,
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/blogs/beltway-confidential/Uni...

2. ACORN’s “Muscle for Money” does the bidding of SEIU,
http://www.sfexaminer.com/opinion/ACORNs-Muscle-for-Money-does-the-biddi...

3. ACORN Covering Up SEIU Ties?
http://spectator.org/blog/2009/04/22/acorn-covering-up-seiu-ties

4. NPR exposes ACORN-SEIU $$ connection,
http://theunionnews.blogspot.com/2008/10/npr-exposes-acorn-seiu-connecti...

It's time to stop the corruption and take back our good old USA!

Don’t forget what then-Senator Obama said to his friends at ACORN (toward the end of this video clip):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vJcVgJhNaU&eurl=http://www.dakotavoice.c...

Remember, the facts are the facts!
Are you ready yet to help institute some positive change for our USA?

It sounds like Maine is now ready to support positive economic changes, and here’s a simple list of how we can do just that over the next year:
1. Pass TABOR NOW, http://www.tabornow.com
2. Cut Excise Taxes, http://www.moregreennow.com
3. Defeat the so-called “tax reform” by Maine’s liberal democrats, LD 1495, http://www.stillfedupwithtaxes.net
4. Keep a close eye on all of the wasteful spending within Maine State Government, http://www.maineopengov.org
5. Get active with a growing grassroots effort in Maine to “Reduce our state and local tax burden and promote prudent government spending,” http://www.mainetaxpayers.com
6. Read our Constitution of the United States of America, http://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/constitution.overview.html
7. Keep a close eye on what Far Left pro-socialism groups like ACORN and SEIU are doing, http://www.acorn.org and http://www.seiu.org
8. Get active and know that your voice does count!

It seems like our current president is going to keep pushing the people until they either roll over or it turns into another revolution.
Are you and your family prepared for whatever is going to happen? If not, you better get ready just in case.

While I appreciate your suggestion, who oversees the Ethics Commission? When you have a corrupt system do you really think the system administrator will be fair and impartial? In reality, what we need is for the Fed's to come look under some rocks and complete some Procedural Audits within select departments of our Maine State Government, MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 and the SEIU Headquarters...and then some of the real dirty truths would get exposed...We The People deserve better than these political games that are wasting our tax dollars. Follow the money...it leads to the truth!

What about the massive political contributions which come from MSEA-SEIU Local 1989? If you look at their actions, especially since Governor Baldacci captured the Blaine House, you will also discover some very inappropriate uses of our Maine tax dollars. How long are the Maine taxpayers going to tolerate this crap? The ACORN roots are running pretty deep in Maine, and they go directly into this local chapter for SEIU…and a Procedural Audit will surely expose the dirty truth.

Susan nailed it with that letter, but it's unfortunate the liberals just don't get it... and that ACORN seems determined to ruin our USA.

We need reform, but a government run health care program will surely fail... just like what Dirigo has done, which was discussed in last Friday's WSJ article called "No Maine Miracle Cure - Another state 'public option' that failed" and is posted at
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB1000142405297020461900457432240181650118...

Don't our elected officials recognize Dirigo as a failure? If not, how low must that program go before they see that fact? Just look at the crazy spending by Dirigo at www.MaineOpenGov.org,
and you'll see countless examples of poor management IMO.

Shame on Senator Snowe, as Maine taxpayers have a right to meet with her for a Town Hall discussion.

Mr. Albrecht, Do you believe Socialism would be good for our USA?

Mr. Albrecht has stated, "If you are not a member of a union you are being screwed. Simple." While I respect your right to hold that opinion, if said union is using 100% inaccurate accounting practices in the determination of their dues/fees structure, aren't the union members actually the ones getting screwed by their greedy union bosses? A good local example is MSEA-SEIU Local 1989, and all of the 12,000+ people they're supposed to represent...and a Procedural Audit would prove this is a fact. Don't forget to Vote NO on the terrible new contract, and it's time to sever the relationship with SEIU and get a more qualified leadership team to run this union.

Hey Tron, are you a member of ACORN? Have you seen the playbook of dirty tricks that was created by their sister organization? It’s posted at
http://nygoe.wordpress.com/2009/08/06/seiu-front-group-declares-war-on-t...

Based on some of the above comments, ACORN is certainly alive in Maine...God help us!

Great letter Wayne, but it's unfortunate we have so many pro-ACORN people in Maine. All they know how to do is spread lies and drag us deeper into Socialism. It's time for the concerned taxpayers to stand-up and protect our rights and freedoms. Here are three great organizations that are working hard for the non-ACORN folks of Maine:
1) www.tabornow.com;
2) www.moregreennow.com;
3) www.MaineTaxpayers.com.

We The People deserve more accountability from our governments, and it's truly time for some positive change!

Mr. DiMillo is doing a great service for us Maine taxpayers, and we should all take notice of these facts. Our state government has proven they have no desire to reduce their wasteful spending, and this so-called "tax reform" will indeed make us all pay more in taxes if we look at the big picture. However, in light of the current campaign for another People's Veto, it's great to see more taxpayers are getting active and taking a stand to fix our problems with fiscal management in Augusta. In addition, the other two campaigns to cut taxes need to get passed at the November ballot. If we Cut Excise Taxes and approve TABOR NOW, we will all benefit from true tax reform. IMO, it's time for the shell games to stop!

No tron, I never joined the ACORN School of Reading & Writing. How about you?

In light of their comments, it seems that both Barack Hussein Obama and Prof. Gates are racists. Let's hope tonight is indeed a "teachable moment" for them.

We need to axe-this-tax before it hurts most Mainers. If you're sick and tired of the status quo politics in Maine, I urge you to get active and help implement some positive change.
FMI, please visit http://stillfedupwithtaxes.net
and www.MaineTaxpayers.com
IMO, Maine taxpayers deserve better! It's time for some positive change.

Since Governor Baldacci has launched an investigation and audit for this case, I wonder why he's still avoiding a major concern right in his own backyard. Since his past campaign buddies over at the Maine State Employees Association (MSEA-SEIU Local 1989) and their parent union/PAC (SEIU) seem to have been using some very questionable accounting practices for their "fee calculations", we should ask ourselves if the Governor is avoiding this major problem as some form of payback for his union/PAC buddies?

While this Canadian problem certainly deserves a thorough review, since this MSEA-SEIU issue also involves a significant amount of taxpayer dollars, their highly questionable accounting practices deserve a procedural audit. Mr. Governor, it's time to end this expensive political game with your buddies.

There is no good reason why our tax dollars should be used to fund abortions or to give free healthcare to illegal aliens. While I believe we need major health reform, IMO, those two elements must get removed from ObamaCare.

Tron, just wondering if you're a member of Maine's ACORN group?

While I believe we do need major reform in our healthcare system, I hope people will realize who's behind the so-called "Consumers for Affordable Health Care" group. Just look at their website, www.mainecahc.org/coalition/memberlist.htm, and you will find a Top-10 list of the Who's Who from the Far Left special interest groups. Please don't fall for their tricks, because we need to do healthcare reform the right way. Unfortunately, they don't see it that way. Look out for the ACORN nuts, as they will surely challenge this fact.

Join the fight to help lower Maine taxes, and make this People's Veto the beginning for a better Maine. FMI, www.MaineTaxpayers.com

There are two big reasons why the current version of ObamaCare should not get rushed through the review process. They are:
1) ObamaCare will provide free health care for illegal aliens.
2) ObamaCare will use taxpayer dollars to pay for abortions.

Although there are also countless other unanswered questions and concerns with ObamaCare, there is no reason to rush on this important issue. We need major health care reform, but ObamaCare would send us in the wrong direction.

While I agree that ObamaCare is a bad idea that will surely result in higher taxes and no solution for the real problem, which is the out-of-control costs for healthcare, the liberals and their special interest groups are planning a rally in Portland for this Saturday (July 18th, from 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM in Monument Square). In fact, you’ve probably seen some of these liberal groups at other pro-tax events as well - MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 (state workers and more), SEIU Change that Works, Health Care for America Now, Maine People's Alliance, the League of Young Voters, and AFSCME (www.mseaseiu.org/Story48.html & http://action.seiu.org/page/s/healthandjustice).

Since it appears that some of these pro-tax groups are even using taxpayer dollars to organize this and other similar events, it’s time for these inappropriate actions to be challenged. This is nothing but another political stunt at the taxpayers’ expense. If passed, the so-called “free” healthcare will be anything but free for most American taxpayers.

Don’t forget, We The People do have a say in how in how our USA should be run. It’s time to voice your concern. We deserve to know all of the facts before ObamaCare gets forced down our throats. If you’re sick and tired of the negative direction we’re headed in, please join the peaceful Counter Rally at 1:00 PM in Monument Square. FMI, please call 207-321-2550. See you at the rally!

We need someone like Waterville Mayor Paul LePage to step into the Blaine House and help put our state back on track and going in a better direction. The Far Left has destroyed Maine, and it's time for We The People to take it back. It's time for all of our jellyfish-like state leaders to swim away for good.

Hello Mr. Baldacci, are you awake in there yet? You can't keep ignoring the real problems within Maine State Government; it's just too big and expensive. It's time for some major cuts in programs and related job positions. It's time to cut!

If you recognize this problem and are will to help implement positive change within our state government, please join Maine Taxpayers United at www.MaineTaxpayers.com, and now on Facebook. We are a grassroots organization with a good mission: "To reduce the Maine tax burden and promote prudent government spending." It's time for action in Maine.

It's sad that the MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 PAC/union has made out like a bandit this year, while the people they're supposed to represent are getting hosed in a big way. That union/PAC was able to use their membership to get the current democrats into position, and Gov. Baldacci rewarded his friendly union/PAC by imposing Forced Unionism (a.k.a., "UnFairShare Fees") on all state workers...despite the fact that the union/PAC has even used inaccurate accounting practices in determining that fee.

In fact, it's time for the FBI to get involved, and I'm sure a lot of people could point them in the right direction to stop-the-corruption. The honest state workers and all Maine taxpayers deserve better than this!

Meanwhile, here's a "fat & happy" partial list of the 2008 total compensation packages for the staff at MSEA-SEIU Local 1989:
$96,782 = Timothy Belcher as Executive Director //
$89,144 = Mary Anne Turowski as Political Director //
$82,617 = Steven J Butterfield as Director, Information Ser //
$25,487 = Steven J Butterfield II as Field Representative
(He’s now a State Legislator who sits on the Labor Committee) //
$80,920 = Michael Sylvester as Director, Organizing //
$79,507 = Rodney Hiltz as Director, Field Services //
$77,577 = Roberta de Araujo as Legal Counsel //
$74,489 = C. Patrick Reardon as Field Representative //
$70,747 = Frank E Porter III as Field Representative //
$67,257 = Elizabeeth M Cousins as Director, Finance & Admin //
$61,162 = Thomas Farkas as Communications //
$66,578 = Chester G Hillier as Reclass Representative //
$65,377 = Pamela Morin as Field Representative //
$60,730 = Stephanie von Glinsky as Field Representative //

There is a solution for their so-called tax reform (a.k.a., LD 1495), and it's called the People's Veto. The petitions are now beginning to circulate, and We The People can defeat/reject this overall tax increase. Don't forget, We The People are supposed to run this state/country, despite what the greedy and crooked politicians want to believe.

While the reduced income tax is a great idea, that does not justify the major expansion in sales tax and lost exemptions. We taxpayers are going to pay more in the end, and that just isn't right. When will our legislators realize we need major spending cuts in state government? This should be done by reducing the amount of wasteful programs and all of the related state jobs. It’s time for these wasteful political games with our tax dollars to stop!

It won't be easy, but it has to be done! If you believe the state should cut spending, come join the solution at Maine Taxpayers United, www.MaineTaxpayers.com
and now on Facebook. BTW, the mission of ‘Maine Taxpayers United’
is to reduce the Maine tax burden and promote prudent government spending. BTW, Here's another good website for us concerned taxpayers of Maine: Citizens Alliance of Maine at http://mainealliance.com.