This country and state are in the most severe economic crisis since the Great Depression.

To survive, everyone is going to have to learn to live within their means, individually, as a nation, and the state of Maine. Everyone is going to feel the pain.

With that said, I am absolutely appalled at some of the topics being discussed and some of the frivolous bills being written for submission in Augusta; for example, whoopie pies, pets on drivers’ laps, and snow and ice on vehicles, etc.

It is a waste of time and a disservice to the people of Maine to spend any time writing or discussing such topics. Those responsible should be ashamed of themselves. Priorities first.

To be elected to office is a privilege. It is not a job, a career, or about stroking an ego or a private agenda. It is about doing the work that the people of Maine elected a person to do.

The best way to lead is by example; therefore, I challenge Maine’s elected officials to forego all compensation (money and benefits) awarded them until Maine is in better shape. That would put the meaning back in the phrase “to serve,” and they could contribute toward a true balanced budget while setting a good example.

Timothy Bragg, Turner