OXFORD – Brian Hamel, former president and CEO of the Loring Development Authority in Limestone, a Republican candidate for the 2nd Congressional District nomination, was the featured speaker at the April 13 meeting of the Oxford County Republican Committee at the Oxford Advent Church.

Hamel, who with his team, transformed the former Air Force base into an economic engine for northern Maine and brought jobs to the region. In his remarks, he said he would pledge to do the same thing for the Second District.

He said he understands small business from his many years in the private sector and can apply that knowledge to job creation.

After a chicken dinner served by members of the church, Chairman Paul Billings of Woodstock called the business meeting to order. The resignation of Kathleen Rhoten of Oxford was read and accepted. Barbara Robinson of Paris was elected to fill out her term of office.

State Committee representatives Beck Kendall and Stan Howe asked as many as possible to advertise in the convention book to keep Oxford County in the front row for the state convention on May 14 and 15 in Augusta.

State Senate candidates Rob Cameron, Dave Hastings and Caldwell Jackson made brief remarks along with House candidates Paula Smith and Bruce Hanley and County Commission candidate Dave Duguay.

The next meeting of the committee will be Tuesday, May 11, at the Wilkins House in Waterford.