MEXICO – Dave Duguay and Steve Merrill, Oxford County Republican candidates for two seats on the county commission, were the speakers at the September meeting of the Oxford County Republican Committee at the Mexico Congregational Church. A chicken dinner preceded the meeting.

Duguay cited his extensive experience in the grocery and auto parts business and his long involvement in his community as good qualifications for seeking a seat on the commission.

Married 25 years with two daughters, Duguay said if elected he would continue to work with his colleagues in making county government as efficient and responsive as possible.

Merrill, completing a decade as a commissioner, cited his long experience in the construction and building supply business and extensive community record as qualifications for the office. Merrill cited the fact that Oxford County delivers services to its people at the lowest cost per capita in the state.

Both candidates promised a vigorous campaign based on fiscal responsibility and efficient and effective provision of services for Oxford County residents.

Prior to the meeting, Oxford County Republicans and candidates gathered on Congress Street in Rumford to open the Rumford headquarters.

During the business meeting presided over by Chairman Paul Billings, Penny Tucker, president of the Hannibal Hamlin Women’s Republican Club, reported that the club took pride in providing the funds that paid for the Republican headquarters, 333 Main St., Norway, which was opened last month. Refreshments served at the opening were also provided by the club.

Andrew Simon of the Bush-Cheney campaign, with responsibilities for Oxford County, spoke on the progress of the campaign, the importance of telephone banks in Republican effort and the execution of the 72-hour plan for victory. His telephone is 773-6838 and e-mail, [email protected].

Josh Reny reported on behalf of Second Congressional candidate Brian Hamel, who has risen in voter surveys to be competitive with the Democratic incumbent, who has spent thousands of dollars on opposition research while professing to run a positive campaign.

Chuck Mahaleris, representing Sen. Susan Collins, reviewed the senator’s recent work as chairwoman of the Government Operations Committee to enact recommendations of the 911 Commission, her efforts to elect Republicans all over Maine, and her welcome of the First Lady to Lewiston. Diane Jackson of Sen. Olympia Snowe’s office also reported on the visit of the First Lady to Lewiston.

Erlon Jones, Oxford County Republican campaign coordinator, spoke on the progress of the campaign to date, the need for more volunteers and his focus on working with each candidate to be certain that all bases are covered to ensure victory on Nov. 2. The phone number for the headquarters is 739-2350 and the e-mail is [email protected].

State Rep. Sawin Millett (R-Waterford) spoke on the bipartisan Maine Economic Research Institute ratings, which should give voters an indication of which candidates support small business. Information on the institute ratings can be gained by visiting www.fixmaine.com.

Other Republican officeholders recognized were Sheriff Lloyd “Skip” Herrick and Register of Probate Tom Winsor. Remarks were also heard from Rep. Arlan Jodrey (R-Bethel) and Rep. Ted Heidrich (R-Oxford).

State Committeewoman Becky Kendall announced that the Republican booth at Fryeburg Fair would be operated by 24 teams of volunteers for its eight-day duration.

The next committee meeting will be on Tuesday, Oct. 12, at Franklin Grange in Bryant Pond.