OXFORD – At the April 8 Oxford County Republican Committee meeting at the Oxford Advent Christian Church which provided a fine dinner,

Kim Pettingill, secretary of the Maine Republican Party, took party activists through some of the steps necessary to compete successfully in the 2004 elections at a recent meeting of the Oxford County Republican Committee at the Advent Christian Church.

She emphasized the importance of caucuses in the political process and outlined ways to challenge voters who may not be residents of the places where they are attempting to vote. She also detailed the process for questioning the legality of votes that are cast as well. In addition, the state committee officer offered a number of handouts to help Republicans on the local level become more effective in keeping the political process fair and balanced.

Following her presentation, vice chairman Jim Hamper of Oxford, who presided in the absence of chairman Paul Billings, called on members of the legislature present for a few remarks. Rep. Ted Heidrich (R-Oxford) reported on the efforts of the Democrats on the Labor Committee to change Workers’ Compensation legislation that will make it more expensive for businesses operating in the state.

Rep. Sawin Millett (R-Waterford) reviewed the bond issues that the governor is proposing as well as his no tax pledge in light of continuing deficits and a proposed handling tax to benefit dairy farmers.

Diane Jackson from Sen. Snowe’s Auburn office briefed the group on the state’s senior senator’s recent activities. Carlene Trembly of Sen. Susan Collins’ Lewiston office introduced herself and said she would be present at many of the meetings to report on her boss’s efforts on behalf of Maine. Former state Sen. Norman Ferguson of Hanover briefed the audience on the re-appointment status. The House and county commissioners plans seem to be agreed to, but the state senate and congressional districting may have to be referred to the Maine Supreme Court for a decision. David Heidrich was introduced as a member of the Youth Legislative Council and advised those present on issues that group is focusing on. He also expects to be a page in the U.S. Senate during the summer.

The next meeting will be May 13 at the Wilkins House in Waterford. The dinner will be provided by the Hannibal Hamlin Republican Women’s Club. Former U.S. Congressman David Emery will be the featured speaker on the reapportionment process for the 2004 elections in Maine.