Nemitz: Call it class struggle: How politics went too far
By Bill Nemitz bnemitz@mainetoday.com
Staff Writer
Some called it a political convention. But in reality, it was where worlds collided.
This poster, "War Has Begun," is part of the decor in teacher Paul Cliffords classroom at King Middle School in Portland.
Courtesy photo
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Late Friday afternoon, as Maine's Republican State Convention fanned out from the Portland Expo to county caucuses at nearby King Middle School, GOP loyalists from Knox County found themselves directed to Classroom 110 – the domain of eighth-grade social studies teacher Paul Clifford.
Now this, in case you haven't heard by now, was no ordinary county delegation.
The insurgent Knox County conservatives, heavily steeped in the Tea Party Movement, would manage by the time the convention was over to replace a run-of-the-mill party platform with a new set of planks imported from, well, another political planet.
It's a place where all of the borders are sealed, global warming is a myth (and a potentially illegal one at that), health care is by no means a right, Austrian economics rule and you will never, ever witness the creation of "a one world government."
It's also a place where, according to Section V, item k, "It is immoral to steal property rightfully earned by one person, and give it to another who has no claim or right to its benefits."
Which brings us back to the worlds colliding – and a more-than-slightly irritated Paul Clifford.
When he went home for the weekend on Friday, one of Clifford's most prized teaching tools – a collage-type poster depicting the history of the U.S. labor movement – was affixed to his classroom door. Clifford uses it each year to teach his students how to incorporate collages into their annual project on Norman Rockwell's historic "Four Freedoms" illustrations.
The poster includes this quote from the labor organizer and one-time presidential candidate Eugene V. Debs: "Intelligent discontent is the mainspring of civilization. Progress is born of agitation. It is agitation or stagnation."
"It's one of my favorite posters," said Clifford. "I've had it sitting there for seven years."
Enter the Knox County Republicans, whose weekend convention coup has attracted national attention as a harbinger of a movement that knows a thing or two about agitation.
Details are sketchy – as they often can be when political passion gives way to apparent criminal activity. But this much we know: When Clifford returned to school Monday morning, his cherished labor poster was gone.
In its place, taped to the same door, was a red-white-and-blue bumper sticker that read, "Working People Vote Republican."
"So I start laughing at first, thinking, 'All right, that's funny,"' said Clifford. "But then I go inside my room thinking the poster will be on my desk – and it isn't. And so now I'm like, 'You know what? This is baloney!"'
It gets worse.
While Clifford used his break time Monday to bang out a few pointed e-mails to GOP leaders asking for help in getting his poster back, King Middle School Principal Mike McCarthy started getting phone calls from rank-and-file Republicans who were upset by what they said they had seen in Clifford's classroom.
They objected to other "freedom" posters produced by kids from past years – one depicts former President George W. Bush with no eyes over the caption "I feel like I can see evil."
They objected to a sticker attached to a filing cabinet in the corner that reads, "People for the American Way – Fight the Right." (Clifford says he didn't put the sticker there – it was on the cabinet when he salvaged it from another classroom.)
They also objected to the contents of a closed cardboard box they found near Clifford's desk. Upon opening it for a look-see, they found copies of the U.S. Constitution printed and donated to the school by (gasp) the American Civil Liberties Union.
McCarthy, who happens to be this year's Maine Middle Level Principal of the Year (for the second time), tried to reason with the one of the anonymous callers.
"What you saw was a snapshot after school of what was up in the room on that day," he noted. "You haven't been privy to all of the different ideas that have been talked about in that classroom."
The caller's reaction?
"She just got more and more agitated," McCarthy said.
That's when McCarthy reminded the caller that a teacher's poster actually had been stolen. Her response, he recalled, was, "Well, it should have been because it shouldn't be in that classroom!"
"Well, that's not how we do business around here," replied McCarthy, by now somewhere between simmer and full boil. "We're more than willing to discuss ideas, but we don't steal."
Contacted on Tuesday at his home in Rockport, Knox County Republican Chairman Bill Chapman said he has no idea who took Clifford's poster.
As for the classroom's decor, Chapman said, "We were wondering just what kind of picture he was painting to the students. (The posters) all, as I saw them, had the same theme behind them, which was very anti-American, anti-free enterprise, anti-religious."
Christie-Lee McNally, executive director of the Maine Republican Party, struck a more apologetic note. While she has no idea who took Clifford's poster, she said, she'll do everything she can to have it returned or replaced.
"That's not something we condone," McNally said. "I apologize for the bad behavior of a few people. It's unfortunate that it happened. It does give us a black eye."
As for the critiques of Clifford's classroom, McNally said, "If my child was in that particular classroom, it might be a different story. But other than that, I don't think it's my place" to call the principal and complain.
Speaking of the children, they got into the act Tuesday after a note from "a Republican" was found in Clifford's classroom. "A Republican was here," it read. "What gives you the right to propagandize impressionable kids?"
Responded eighth-grader Lilly O'Leary, one of several students who sent e-mails to this newspaper decrying the behavior of their weekend guests, "I am not being brainwashed in his class under any circumstances. I am being told that I have the right to my own opinion."
She added, "These people were adults and they were acting very immaturely."
Time will tell whether its dust-up with the Knox County Republicans will land King Middle School back on the national stage – only three years ago, the school's policy on contraception for sexually active students was the buzz of the cable news circuit.
But should the fallout continue, Principal McCarthy just might supplement that Republican platform plank about how it's "immoral to steal property" with a wall hanging of his own.
He's thinking something authoritative. Something weighty. Something that will remind future visitors, in no uncertain terms, to keep their sticky fingers to themselves.
Mused McCarthy, "Maybe we should have the Ten Commandments up there."
Columnist Bill Nemitz can be contacted at 791-6323 or at:
bnemitz@mainetoday.com
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Copyright ©2010 MaineToday Media, Inc.
319 COMMENTS
jm said...
Copies of the Constitution in the classroom? Good grief! What next? Copies of that famous Communist document...the Declaration of Independence?
May 12, 2010 at 12:58 AM Report abuse
louisH2Ovill said...
The Knox County Republicans who took over the Maine Republican Party demonstrate that Goldwater adage: he 'would rather be Right than be President'! Great, you can only make headway if you have political power and these right-wing wingnuts who have taken over the Maine Republican Party will assure that the Republicans remain a permanent minority out-of-step with the majority of Mainers as well as the majority of Americans. Hopefully, they will mount primary challenges and dump successful politicians who can win in Maine like Snowe and Collins with candidates who will rather be Right than be Senators! Then we will have two Democratic senators from Maine!
May 12, 2010 at 3:59 AM Report abuse
dfghdfghdfgh said...
The story sounds very similar to one where children were sent home from school for wearing tee shirts with the American Flag on them. I call it class struggle, How Liberal left wing nut bags went to far. Speaking of Left wing, Bill, do you have a left handed putter in your golf bag?
May 12, 2010 at 4:22 AM Report abuse
ell01 said...
First of all, what the he!! werd Knox county politicians doing inside a Portland school? Second, what makes them think they have the right to search a teacher's desk? And third, what makes them think they should be aiming their hogwash at 8th graders, who can't vote? Idiots, criminally irresponsible idiots. Hope they chargve them with theft, at the very least.
May 12, 2010 at 4:23 AM Report abuse
heyjoe said...
It gets worse.... The teacher drives a "foreign" car.... Hard hitting journalism Bill...Now take your crayons and sit in the corner...Don't eat the paste!!!
May 12, 2010 at 4:45 AM Report abuse
MainelyJack said...
Now just how did Numbnutz get this story? From Mr. Clifford.
May 12, 2010 at 4:54 AM Report abuse
scotsman said...
Typical behavior by self-righteous zealots. When you disagree with someone, you should immediately resort to theft and vandalism. I wonder if these clowns were all wearing Brown Shirts.
May 12, 2010 at 5:46 AM Report abuse
Scrib said...
IF the Republicans did this they were obviously wrong. This piece, however, is masterfully woven from the beginning to get you to hate the tea party and to ridicule the state Republican platform. As far as having quotes of America's most famous socialist, anti- American slogans or a picture of Bush with his eyes gouged out- hey, welcome to a government school. It's your tax money at work.
May 12, 2010 at 5:54 AM Report abuse
dfghdfghdfgh said...
I would at least put up an American Flag in its place. Or a picture of Obama with his eyes scratched out.
May 12, 2010 at 5:59 AM Report abuse
Govt2Big said...
As illustrated by this example of our lamestream media, the Far-Lefties have created a powerful machine that is destroying this country... but we can take her back!
May 12, 2010 at 6:02 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
Whoever took the poster should be arrested and charged with theft. Depending on their record imprisonment shouldn't be out of the question. This is nothing by an act of a common criminal.
May 12, 2010 at 6:08 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
I might add wonderful expose by Mr. Nemitz. It's time some of these right wing hypocrites were shown up for what they really are. Their over the top antics have blinded them to the facts when their own actions are criminal. My sympathies to Republicans who are honest, principled, and want to work within the system. How do you put up with these lunatics?
May 12, 2010 at 6:15 AM Report abuse
wmweber said...
teabaggers have no respect for personal property or expression of opinions other than their own. As a citizen of portland who has kids in public school Im outraged that they feel they can deface public property with impunity.
May 12, 2010 at 6:22 AM Report abuse
lovinit said...
The Republicans stepped in it again. The party that just keeps on giving, last week their hate filled platform, now King Middle Gate. They are done, done. Watch your property, repubs have sticky fingers, probably from giving secret hand signals under the bathroom stall. Mission Accomplished!
May 12, 2010 at 6:28 AM Report abuse
fattubbo said...
This hard-hitting expose on evil Republicans is one huge reason why the print media is spiraling downhill fast. Why would I pay to be indoctrinated into a belief system I may not necessarily agree with? If I'm going to pay for news, I want facts. I don't want some reporter's opinions or ideas on how they perceive the truth to be. As for opinion pieces, I'd like to see something more balanced rather than just a liberal point of view only.
May 12, 2010 at 6:29 AM Report abuse
Sam said...
What do you expect. The Tea Party is the same group who have been smearing the latest nominee to the supreme court for saying that the original constitution was not a perfect document. In other words these people are actually claiming to be convinced that slavery, calling blacks 3/5 of a person and not allowing women the right to vote are examples of perfection. The blatant ignorance of history, government and logic itself leads to these kinds of reactionary anti freedom activities - allegedly in pursuit of freedom. I would accuse them of cognitive dissonance but they would have to have at least some small degree of cognition for that to be true.
May 12, 2010 at 6:32 AM Report abuse
Sam said...
Um fattubbo - Nemitiz writes opinion pieces (aka editorials). That's what he does and that's how they are labeled. What exactly do you expect opinion pieces to contain if not opinion? Maybe recipes or the weather??
May 12, 2010 at 6:35 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
Cliffotd should really file a police report. His property and that of his students was violated as was their privacy. The GOP was allowed to use the premises as a matter of courtesy. They were guests there and stole part of the decor. Just as a guest in a motel can be arrested and charged with theft if he steals part of the decor. And if I were the neighbors of some of these supportive posters here, I'd lock up my property. You never know what's going to happen when you live near people with a misguided sense of right and wrong.
May 12, 2010 at 6:37 AM Report abuse
MainenCrisis said...
Im not sure what spin to what end Billy is trying here but fact on file is the teachers are known for giving a liberal spin all day everyday in the classrooms - they are union democrats how could they not?
May 12, 2010 at 6:44 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
That may be true. But they are entitled to the security of their property and that of their students. If Republicans had objections to the material they could have moved elsewhere in the building, ignored it, and had Portlanders in their party complain through the proper channels. What was done here was theft, vandalism, and violation of privacy plain and simple.
May 12, 2010 at 6:48 AM Report abuse
cablegirl said...
What a bunch of malarky as usual from Nemitz. He "went to far" does he work for the Democratic party? What a loser he is.
May 12, 2010 at 6:50 AM Report abuse
NMR said...
But Sam the changes you cite were all corrected through the amendment process
May 12, 2010 at 6:57 AM Report abuse
Scrib said...
And whover's got em- would you please return the statuette of Chairman Mao and the Che Guevara poster...
May 12, 2010 at 6:58 AM Report abuse
Sam said...
Anyone declaring support for the criminal activities of these thieves is soft on crime and should be forever labeled as such. Stealing kid's artwork, defacing a classroom and complaining that they have copies of the US Constitution? You can disagree about the politics, but come on - These jerks are common criminals and should be treated as such and given the scorn and disrespect they deserve for their anti social CRIMINAL acts.
May 12, 2010 at 7:00 AM Report abuse
reader04074 said...
It is a sad testiment that any visitor to a local school would feel entitled to make the type of judgments that were made in that classroom. I certainly hope that the teacher files a police report because whomever took that poster is a thief. It doesn't matter if the teacher and the thief have different moral, ethical or political views, the thief was in the teacher's classroom. Perhaps the Knox County Republicans should be more careful as to who they elect to represent them at the state convention in the future. As for the thief....I hope they are caught and prosecuted.
May 12, 2010 at 7:01 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
Great to see the amoral, hypocritical, right is at work again. They can't even admit their wrong when they're caught with their pants down.
May 12, 2010 at 7:07 AM Report abuse
brightOne said...
GOP is co-opting stupid people because they need the votes. That's their strategy in a nutshell.
May 12, 2010 at 7:11 AM Report abuse
Scrib said...
Would have been great to see all this outrage last fall when hundreds of traditional marriage signs were stolen and defaced with swastikas.
May 12, 2010 at 7:15 AM Report abuse
PhyllisY said...
As you can see from the RW nutcases here, the Knox loonies are standard fare in the Republican party now. Ignorant, thoughtless criminals.
May 12, 2010 at 7:18 AM Report abuse
JulieP said...
Knuckledragging, anti-American thieves!
May 12, 2010 at 7:18 AM Report abuse
mtc said...
Some of the worse writing I have ever read in the PPH. A bunch of fragmented ideas trying to be colorful only using gray.
May 12, 2010 at 7:19 AM Report abuse
Refbean said...
Call me skeptical, but I highly doubt that this occurred in the manner it's being portrayed. This has all the makings of a setup!
May 12, 2010 at 7:20 AM Report abuse
MSH said...
Isn't this act somewhat akin to what the Taliban do when confronted by an "unbeliever." Remove him (stone him to death) and then purge their lungs (so they won't be "contaminated" by the "unbeliever's" CO2).......
May 12, 2010 at 7:26 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
And the signs stolen off of my property that urged support of SSM. Not to mention windows broken many years ago when I had Clinton for President signs posted in them? The point is this issue. And stealing out of a classroom because one doesn't agree with what's inside it is just plain WRONG!! Not to mention against the law.
May 12, 2010 at 7:27 AM Report abuse
homeboy said...
It is hard to believe that people would sink so low as to vandalize the contents of a classroom, public or private, and exercise censorship of ideas in the process. Imagine the lesson that these young people have received from this experience! These people from Knox County were guests in our community and in one of our schools, and this is how they conduct themselves? I most definitely think charges should be pressed if those responsible, if you can call them that, are found.
May 12, 2010 at 7:27 AM Report abuse
Bunkie said...
It is sickening that the theft, vandalism and invasion of private property took place. But many of the responses here are just as sickening. I am afraid for our country. The hatred and disrespect displayed is appalling. The lack of ability to have a dialogue about differing ideas without launching into personal attacks. Our country is in deep, deep trouble if we can't work together.
May 12, 2010 at 7:30 AM Report abuse
taxpayer said...
simple...the right believes in free enterprise. Next time, they can rent a room and spread the wealth around. Plenty of convention places looking for business.
May 12, 2010 at 7:32 AM Report abuse
MainenCrisis said...
Biddy I complained for years to my kids schools about the assignements that painted Bush in abad light and many other examples of political slant in the classroom, even met with the principle and teacher in one case. It does no good. Its like a battered spouse. Everything is great but when the doors close all bets are off.
May 12, 2010 at 7:34 AM Report abuse
MainenCrisis said...
Let us also not forget that this is just one side of the story from Bill's perspective. all stories ahve three sides. Each party's side then the truth.
May 12, 2010 at 7:36 AM Report abuse
jude said...
The Republicans may be on to something: that a majority of the country has shifted from the political center to the radical right. If they are correct, they will win the next two elections. If they have misjudged the mood of the country they are looking at another 1964 when they moved to right and crashed and burned with Barry Goldwater.
May 12, 2010 at 7:37 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
I don't agree with everything taught in school either. However, one needs to work through the process. If one loses one has to remember that the best and most important teachers are the parents. Coming from a GOP background I was one of 4 kids in my class that supported Goldwater. And of the 4 I was chosen to give the supporting speech. That taught me that one's beliefs are important to hold onto even if not popular. There's a lesson that can be taught from any experience. And while my political beliefs have changed the lesson in integrity is still as fresh as then. What lesson do actions like this teach children?
May 12, 2010 at 7:45 AM Report abuse
Chainyanker said...
GOP candidates for Governor who do not condemn this idiotic wing nut platform need to not be taken seriously.
May 12, 2010 at 7:45 AM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
This is a good article: It portrays the intention of the Republican right wing. They don't support the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution when they protect their political foes. How could everyone not be outraged that a classroom was desecrated and teaching materials were stolen for political purposes (you don't have to use much imagination to remember other parties that have done similar things). It's clear: The Tea Party is not here to protect your freedoms.
May 12, 2010 at 7:47 AM Report abuse
Sam said...
Yes NMR - the amendment process did correct the problems with the constitution that I mentioned. That just demonstrates that the original document was in fact imperfect. It would not have been necessary to ever amend a truly "perfect" document, would it? The Tea Party folks have actually taken issue with the SCOTUS nominee saying that the original document was imperfect. This position by the Tea Party could only be true if they believe the original document should never have been amended at all! Thus their position is actually one in support of slavery and denying women and blacks the right to vote.
May 12, 2010 at 7:48 AM Report abuse
FedUpToo said...
This belongs on the front page? Why? Give them back the poster and trade a poster of the White House with the heading "Danger child in charge" for the Bush poster. I especially liked the part where the zombie states "I'm not brainwashed." Nice touch Billy. " Its like a battered spouse. Everything is great but when the doors close all bets are off." Except Billy would say," The woman said she fell. Why won't you believe her?!" Or that's Bush's fault. It probably depends on what he had for breakfast that day. Watch the next BIG story will be GOP eats junk food in classroom. Two candy bars and a bag of chips found on the scene in plain view.
May 12, 2010 at 7:51 AM Report abuse
MainelyJack said...
No great surprise that someone who admires the Socialist leader Debs would be hired as a teacher in Portland. Taking the poster was wrong headed. So is Mr. Clifford.
May 12, 2010 at 7:59 AM Report abuse
KJC said...
The party has been permanently connected to the person in current discussion which in my mind is a flaw - it makes teaching a challenge when someone will see analysis of a president's actions as an attack on their ideology. Are we not to note the severe flaws of the Harding or Johnson presidency or the achievements of FDR, Ike, Lincoln? Studies of labor movements, conservativism, civil rights movement, communism, women's suffrage, etc. are some of the best ways to track the path of our history. It allows us to look through party politics. The Dixie-crats had the same message as the Tea Party when it came to state's rights and individualism.
May 12, 2010 at 8:00 AM Report abuse
AFVET said...
Meinkampfincrisis: You "met with the principle"? Really? Explain.
May 12, 2010 at 8:03 AM Report abuse
thompsi said...
Wholly despicable and shameful acts by the Knox County Republicans. They have absolutely no idea what they're talking about. Utter disgrace to Maine.
May 12, 2010 at 8:06 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
I'll bet it was cablegirl who called.
May 12, 2010 at 8:06 AM Report abuse
mutt said...
Is that fat guy from wlob involved? He spews this far right crap all the time. The poster is probably at his house with darts in it. Man and to think I have voted republican in the past. No more what a bunch of losers. Actually the two party system is not working for me.
May 12, 2010 at 8:13 AM Report abuse
windjammer said...
Hang on folks-it's coming- a coup d'etat from the so far right out of sight teabaggers attempting to establish a dictatorship of the-you damn well better do it our way or else. Clearly-those in the tea party movement who scream the most about freedom-never heard of free speech for all. How are they any different from the muslims who attacked the swedish artist who depicted Mohammed as a dog? There is no difference. Tea Party people are hypocrits.
May 12, 2010 at 8:15 AM Report abuse
juanepstein said...
Every single one of the people that trashed this classroom was a Paul LePage's supporter or volunteer. Paul LePage is the leader of this gang of angry idiots, and he needs to explain himself. LePage is already running damage control by trying to calm these jerks down through his facebook page, but the people of Maine reject this crap and they will reject their ring-leader, Paul LePage, as well.
May 12, 2010 at 8:23 AM Report abuse
CapeDem said...
Maine Republican Party 2010 = NSDAP 1933 I looked in vain for the word Democracy in the "Party Platform".
May 12, 2010 at 8:25 AM Report abuse
Jane said...
I'm a Democrat, but I believe most Republicans have enough class not to do something like this. Whoever did this is making the rest of his or her party look worse.
May 12, 2010 at 8:28 AM Report abuse
Biddy said...
You're absolutely right Jane. The Republican party has allowed itself to be muscled into oblivion here in Maine by the far right lunatic fringe. There are many fine Republicans here in Maine with solid values who are I'm sure sickened by this activity. Nominate LePage or some other far right candidate and Republicans will find themselves in third place this November.
May 12, 2010 at 8:37 AM Report abuse
CEMan said...
Theft is against the law conservatards! Correct?!! Did you even read your platform idiots? Oh that's right, it has words with more than two syllables. Just more irony from a bunch of lying, stealing dim bulbs!! You people make me sick
May 12, 2010 at 8:37 AM Report abuse
Riml said...
And who said? "Nothing is more true than that excess of every kind is followed by reaction; a fact which should be pondered by reformer and reactionary alike. We are face to face with new conceptions of the relations of property to human welfare, chiefly because certain advocates of the rights of property as against the rights of men have been pushing their claims too far. The man who wrongly holds that every human right is secondary to his profit must now give way to the advocate of human welfare, who rightly maintains that every man holds his property subject to the general right of the community to regulate its use to whatever degree the public welfare may require it." - Theodore Roosevelt, 1910
May 12, 2010 at 8:38 AM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
I hope this is enough of a warning to the Republican Party about where the Tea Party wants to take them. I hope this is enough of a warning to everyone about where the Republicans want to take us.
May 12, 2010 at 8:47 AM Report abuse
Jon said...
The Republican Party platform is an affront to every American and to the Constitution. It contains every nativist, homophobic, bigoted fantasy of the last 50 years. Confirms that the Republican Party has been taken over by the lunatics of the far right.
May 12, 2010 at 8:49 AM Report abuse
Steve0 said...
While stealing the poster was wrong and Nemitz is trying to paint the republicans in a negative light, he may end up opening a can of worms that he won't want open. After all, a lot of people will now get a good example of the liberal point of view that is pushed on kids in the classroom.
May 12, 2010 at 8:52 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Nemitz is not trying to paint all Republicans as bad. He is pointing out the fact that there is a fanatical and lunatic fringe. Most people will not put up with this. The republicans think they are the defenders of the Constitution? That's a joke. When are they planning a book burning or a night of breaking windows of those they disagree with?
May 12, 2010 at 9:00 AM Report abuse
Larry said...
The Nazis are here. They call themselves the Tea Party, but the parallels are ominous.
May 12, 2010 at 9:06 AM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Nemitz would welcome the discussion about how critical thinking is addressed in classrooms. Of course, the classrooms that teach there is only a single correct way of thinking and that all others are wrong are the classrooms of religious schools. This is a good reminder that voucher programs that support religious schools are not only morally wrong, but also why they should be deemed unconstitutional - since we should not be using public monies to "respect" religion.
May 12, 2010 at 9:07 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Wjat is even more offensive and distrubing are the posters defending this act just because it was done by a republican. Get your people in order if you want to win anyhting in an election. This fringe of the republican party is unamerican at best.
May 12, 2010 at 9:09 AM Report abuse
redbike said...
The irony is that the Teabaqqers are calling for freedom from government intrusion. Yet they have no hesitation to intrude on the lives of anyone who disagrees with their views. They are the American Taliban.
May 12, 2010 at 9:10 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Agree grumble. These people have stayed in lockstep with whatever they are told instead of really being informed about it all. If they do their research and still keep the same opinion, well ok. But at least they looked at the other side deeply, not blindly.
May 12, 2010 at 9:11 AM Report abuse
Freida said...
I find it frightening that the tea party is trying to take over the Republicans. This incident just illustrates how insane and uneducated the tea party people are. Unfortunately, it also brings down the Republicans with them. I feel the Republicans had a chance to stand up to their "fringe" by not accepting that platform. By not doing that, the Republicans have lost control of their party and have also lost all credibility with independent voters. I wonder if any Republican candidate will denounce not only what happened here but also the approval of a party platform that is not really Republican values.
May 12, 2010 at 9:16 AM Report abuse
Caveman said...
Hoooorah! See you in November.
May 12, 2010 at 9:16 AM Report abuse
Merrigan said...
The school agenda is dictated by academics, politicians and the unions, which of course are pro Democrat. Islam is good, Christianity is bad. Cupcakes are evil, wheatgrass is good. The US is imperialist, everyone other country is a victim. Etc., etc. I read an article by a Colby prof recently who noted that every kid in a middle school speech contest in Waterville parroted this kind of thing, but knew very little actual US history beyond the tag lines. The poster should not have been taken, but I can understand the outrage. You'd sure never see this headline if it were the other side because the Left can never, ever go too far for Nemitz.
May 12, 2010 at 9:18 AM Report abuse
c3R1ZGlvOGg%3D said...
Tea Partiers are worse than any religion. They should have never been in a public school to begin with. And their theft and mutilation of teaching materials is a crime. If those are the kind of people you want running the country, party on. These are the New Extremists, flailing out blindly in their stupidity.
May 12, 2010 at 9:19 AM Report abuse
singer said...
Maybe the school should post the Ten Commandments with THOU SHALT NOT STEAL in big letters. I have no use for thieves, so I'm changing from the Republican party to Independent. Going through a teacher's desk is unconstitutional.
May 12, 2010 at 9:22 AM Report abuse
AR5 said...
What a bunch of whack jobs. I keep hearing people talk about the sane members of the Tea Party, but they have yet to put those folks in the forefront....leading me to believe that they are all like this....crazy, stupid and useless.
May 12, 2010 at 9:22 AM Report abuse
JustLiberty said...
A black eye??!! What an understatement...
May 12, 2010 at 9:23 AM Report abuse
freerightman said...
Wow, well call tea party members whatever you left loony nut jobs want now but in november you will call them VOTERS HA HA HA HA HA
May 12, 2010 at 9:25 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Merrigan: it's all a big conspiracy isn't it?! Wow!
May 12, 2010 at 9:25 AM Report abuse
JulieP said...
I want to hear the GOP candidates for Governor on this un-American crime. Or Olympia Snowe? Susan Collins? This was done by your Convention - your party. Do any of you have the courage to stand up and denounce these Tea Baggers?
May 12, 2010 at 9:26 AM Report abuse
pphreader said...
Welcome to the Tea Party World.Facist closed society where different ideas are squelched and free speech is a thing of the past.Heil Hitler.
May 12, 2010 at 9:27 AM Report abuse
MaineHiker said...
WoW! Just when I was beginning to consider voting for a republican candidate next Fall.
May 12, 2010 at 9:30 AM Report abuse
AR5 said...
frerightman, these people are too stupid and whacked to find their way to the polls, so no worries here.
May 12, 2010 at 9:30 AM Report abuse
trisailer said...
Im I the only one who gets the irony of a Mr. McCarthy DEFENDING free speech and crtical thinking and challanging the actions of a group who are out of order? It is no surprise to me that the teaparty movement is underway. These people are stuck in their dogma and are unable to pry themselves free from the idea that change is bad. They cling to a set of ideas that represent an ideal that never actually existed in anyones reality. Their paranoia is increasing as the whip themselves into a frenzy of resisting change. This story is as old as time. When I learned of McCarthyism I couldn't understand how such a movement could gain such momentum. One reason is because in it's early stages it seemed innocent enough which is why we have to be vigilent before this turns into a full blown inquisition movement. This is all about change and fear of change.
May 12, 2010 at 9:33 AM Report abuse
Swede said...
My advice to readers of Bill Nemitz's columns is to bring a lot of salt. He is far from an objective observer of events - particularly with respect to the Tea Parties. His sneering condescension towards them is well documented. Further, I doubt he could ever envision an example of liberal politics going too far. And if he could, I doubt he would dedicate a column to it.
May 12, 2010 at 9:34 AM Report abuse
Sam said...
So it is now officially here for all to see. The right wing folks posting support for these Tea Party criminals are publicly on record as being 100% in favor of: - Breaking the law & - Breaking any of the Ten Commandments when it suits your political opinions to do so. OK then. Thanks for the clarification. You pro law breaking anti Christianity Tea party supporting folks --- carry on. We now all know where you stand.
May 12, 2010 at 9:34 AM Report abuse
7199 said...
Knox County GOPers are Tea Party members who feel that it is appropriate to place bumper stickers in a classroom and to remove posters they don't agree with. Talk about an educable moment! Go get 'em teacher.
May 12, 2010 at 9:35 AM Report abuse
AXeL said...
The message: Tea Party Activists are bad. Gee, Bill, just getting on this train? The real journalists are already on the next one making the connection between Tea Party Activists and domestic terrorism.
May 12, 2010 at 9:37 AM Report abuse
taxpayer said...
What I think is sad is that the actions of a vocal few are defining the course of a political party with a long and proud history. Unfortunately, being more vocal does not grant one more votes. They'll drive the moderates to the democrats, just for simple, but stupid reasons described in this story. I guess someone forgot to invite some conventional republicans to the republican convention. Can you say Hi jack, the party?
May 12, 2010 at 9:38 AM Report abuse
pphreader said...
Many moderate republicans voted Democratic in 2008 because of people and incidents like these.They will do so again.There is an upside to the idiotic acts of the tea baggers.Let them continue to show their true colors.It benefits Dems,progressives and independents.
May 12, 2010 at 9:39 AM Report abuse
JulieP said...
The vandalism rampage this mob went on in King Middle School needs to be investigated by the District Attorney. If she can go after kids for a Senior Class prank she surely can investigate an out of control mob of racist 'adults'.
May 12, 2010 at 9:40 AM Report abuse
dilligaf said...
Great article Bill, and thanks for the laugh. It's pretty scary and pathetic to see what these knuckle-dragging buffoons will resort to and how simple-minded they all are. Between the far-left and the far-right is very far off, but at the same time they pretty darn close. I feel bad for Mr. Clifford and can only imagine that he is the type of teacher that will turn this into an immense learning-opportunity in which to further enlighten and/or brainwash his students depending on which side your on!
May 12, 2010 at 9:42 AM Report abuse
slcmsw said...
This well-written article prompted lots of responses! It got people thinking and communicating and bouncing ideas off each other. This is why I love freedom - we all get to express opinions in a public place without fear of heavy-handed repercussions. Love it or hate it, at least you get to talk openly about it.
May 12, 2010 at 9:43 AM Report abuse
AR5 said...
AXel, interesting and a good point. Thankfully, the GOP candidates for governor here in Maine are keeping a good distance from this group, which will help them in the long run.
May 12, 2010 at 9:43 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Axel, stop! Why do you defenders of these actions just go carte blanche with all are bad. Can you people/republicans admit that there are some real fanatics involved in this?
May 12, 2010 at 9:43 AM Report abuse
David said...
The Tea Party members are simply looking to be heard. They have their fundamental principles right, but they need a rational, reasonable leader to help articulate them. Right now, we have a government that represents one end of the continuum that is equally radical -- a philosophy of taxation and entitlements that is likely to cripple the economy. We need an organized response that says, "Enough taking from the productive members of society." As Margaret Thatcher aptly put it, "The problem with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people's money."
May 12, 2010 at 9:45 AM Report abuse
AXeL said...
Taking a poster is nothing when you think that Bill Nemitz and his ilk believe Tea Party Activists will blow up the school next week and assassinate Obama the week after that. The effort to paint them as monsters is as great as their fear of them. Of course they are monsters!
May 12, 2010 at 9:46 AM Report abuse
Joe+Blow said...
I haven't posted on this dopey board in weeks (I still hate the 'new format') - it's good to see most of the regular crackpots are still around. Speaking of crackpots, we'll see how far the attempted hijacking of the Maine Repub Party by the libertarian right wing teapartiers goes between now and November. Is it too late to get a referendum question on the ballot to remove Knox county from the state?
May 12, 2010 at 9:47 AM Report abuse
BT said...
For everyone bad-mouthing the teacher here, are any of you teachers? Does anyone know Mr. Clifford personally? Have you taken a class from him? Do you have kids at King Middle School? Or are you just subjecting us all to your short-sightedness and your ignorance? Here's a thought, before forming (and sharing) an opinion about something, EDUCATE YOURSELF!!! On the other side though, one of my favorite quotes of all time is, "Never argue with an idiot. They'll drag you down to their level and win with experience."
May 12, 2010 at 9:48 AM Report abuse
upnorth said...
The Knox GOP had NOTHING to do with this theft. This was done by the same cowardly 'Indians' who dumped tea into Boston harbor many moons ago!
May 12, 2010 at 9:50 AM Report abuse
backwrdstate said...
This were acts of cowardice. Moral and intellectual cowardice. Typical of a movement steeped in hypocrisy. Bill Chapman, like most Republicans, looks first to dodge any accountability for his minions. And these pants-wetting weenies think people should elect them to run something?
May 12, 2010 at 9:50 AM Report abuse
ProConserv said...
"We're more than willing to discuss ideas, but we don't steal." replied McCarthy:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: hahahahahahahahahahahahaha! What the hell do you call all of the tax increases, the national debt, the economic depression democrats have given as? You dont steal...bull$hit! Thats all you wacked out liberal loons do and then you turn around and teach this garbage to our children and call it public education! Yes...WORKING PEOPLE DO VOTE REPUBLICAN...slugs vote democRAT! Thats a fact, jack!
May 12, 2010 at 9:56 AM Report abuse
Freida said...
The Tea Party in Maine has just ensured that a Democrat will be our next governor. The Republican candidate will have to answer whether he agrees with the (Tea Party) Republican platform and if he does - he loses all independent voters (and probably some moderate Republicans as well). If he disagrees, he loses all conservative Republicans and likely won't gain enough votes from Independents and moderate Democrats. This platform has pretty much solidified the Democratic win this November. Amazing coup for the Tea Partiers (perhaps they're democrats in disguise!)
May 12, 2010 at 9:56 AM Report abuse
Joe+Blow said...
Right you are, freida. The moderates are going to get as far away from the Maine Repub party and its wacky platform as they can. "Return to the principles of Austrian Economics . . ."? Yikes!
May 12, 2010 at 10:00 AM Report abuse
johnlovell said...
This column is a nice follow-up to the Forecaster's recent report on the incident.
May 12, 2010 at 10:00 AM Report abuse
JulieP said...
School Vandalism: This Tea Bag mob stole. They rifled through teacher's desks, boxes and personal items. They defaced school walls and doors. They left the place trashed. What are you going to do about this crime DA Stephanie Anderson???
May 12, 2010 at 10:03 AM Report abuse
SL said...
This simply reinforces the point that schools should be used for teaching and that you can take the idiot out of Knox County but they are still idiots.
May 12, 2010 at 10:03 AM Report abuse
trisailer said...
You underestimate these teabaggers at your peril. This movement is a reinstatment of McCarthyism and don't think for a second that they will stop at this. They clearly have no respect for free and open debate and they would use any power available to them to quiet their opponents. Meanwhile the country that had the respect of the world is looking more and more like a backwater for neanderthals. This needs to be investigated and the thieves prosecuted. Change happens. It is a normal progression of human society and it will happen regardless of teabaggers. The question is are we who are not afraid of change willing to let them hold us back. There is ample room in this country for folks who do not want to change. Look at the amish, they have their own niche and are doing ok with it. The problem is that these teabaggers what us all to conform to them and that ain't gonna happen.
May 12, 2010 at 10:05 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
You are right Frieda. They will not speak up because it's all about the votes. The republican party is a mess, worse than the democrats.
May 12, 2010 at 10:05 AM Report abuse
Ayuh23 said...
Regardless of your political beliefs, it is blatantly unfair to judge a teacher on the posters in her/his classroom, especially a social studies teacher. For all you know, he could have been teaching a lesson in propaganda and was using the so-called offensive poster as an example. Wonder why there's a Maine Education Association that insists on just cause and due process before a teacher is fired? This is a perfect example!
May 12, 2010 at 10:06 AM Report abuse
Chainyanker said...
Maine appears to be in goose step with Arizona. Arizona has now outlawed ethnic studies in high school. What's next some book burning? True Republicans need to be repulsed by these activities. Irrational intolerence will lose every time. Moderate Democrats and Independents are standing by watching this and wondering what's next. Angry conservatives need to stop listening to the hate mongers on FOX and start thinking for themselves.
May 12, 2010 at 10:10 AM Report abuse
Beanbad said...
Hey, You! Get off of my cloud!
May 12, 2010 at 10:15 AM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
Tempest in a teapot. A typical liberal slanted piece by Nemitz. The evil, boogie man tea party monsters will eat your first born if you don't submit to their nefarious ways. Of course the rabid libtards lap it up. Nationwide the Dems and RINO's are in for a severe beating in Nov. Washing my hands with invisible soap even as I type.
May 12, 2010 at 10:15 AM Report abuse
trisailer said...
This teaparty movement is all about control. Not the control of their own behavior but the control of mine. They will never be happy until they can control how I think and that's what's really bugging them. They have the freedom to go form their own society like the amish if they don't want to move forward with the rest of us.
May 12, 2010 at 10:19 AM Report abuse
Sam said...
So please enlighten us ACHILLES. Do you support breaking all laws and all commandments or should we limit ourselves just ones we disagree with politically?
May 12, 2010 at 10:23 AM Report abuse
JulieP said...
ACHILLES said... "Tempest in a teapot." If this were your kid's Middle School and it was criminally vandalized by a mob at an ACORN convention I'm sure you would take the same stand. Right. Hypocrites.
May 12, 2010 at 10:25 AM Report abuse
brightOne said...
"Nationwide the Dems and RINO's are in for a severe beating in Nov." - - - - - ...as the country continues to move to the left as they see the right devolve into fractured and segmented groups of unemployed, undereducated, angry people that are gullible enough to believe what the GOP is feeding them.
May 12, 2010 at 10:26 AM Report abuse
PaulPortland said...
Want to know why Nemitz wrote this column? Because TEA Party members think he's a dumb snob and it drives him nuts.
May 12, 2010 at 10:27 AM Report abuse
RickD said...
As long as we have BHO in the White House, this is exactly the type of information that needs to be circulated. BHO said in a speech over the weekend, "information becomes a distraction, a diversion" that is putting "pressure on our country and on our democracy." Of course he was only referring to information from the wrong side of the isle. So I guess we should all embrace Bill Nemitz for his vision and colums that cut to the chase. Not! Left wing lunatic reporting is why the PPH circulation is in the toilet.
May 12, 2010 at 10:30 AM Report abuse
MSH said...
Tea PARTY bagels don't think....They are only capable of EMOTING....
May 12, 2010 at 10:34 AM Report abuse
jake007 said...
a very big yawn Bill to this whipped up frenzy.....but I will give you this,you are clever at finding this dribble and crafting into a 'story' for the masses
May 12, 2010 at 10:36 AM Report abuse
trisailer said...
arch-lilly, still the troll, still not making sence, still attacking and not defending your nonsensical positions. I am going to so enjoy gloating over your losses politacally and otherwise. Keep posting, your a one man wrecking ball for the right.
May 12, 2010 at 10:41 AM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Not one ounce of contrition from the Republicans. I can't imagine why they are either only silent or outraged at the people who are deeply offended by this act of denying this teacher his civil rights. How can anyone take down someone else's posters and put up their own in the name of free speech? I am surprised we're not seeing comments like "There are extremists on both sides and these idiots just happen to belong to my party: But they don't represent us and they don't speak for the party as a whole." Maybe we're not seeing that because Republicans simply don't feel that way.
May 12, 2010 at 10:43 AM Report abuse
trisailer said...
keep posting arch-lilly. your a one man wrecking ball for the left.
May 12, 2010 at 10:44 AM Report abuse
Sue01 said...
I've been reading about the Great Depression and the New Deal lately. There are many troubling parallels. Today's political movements - Tea Party furor, anti-immigrant fervor - are hiccups from 80 years ago. "Those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it." Heaven help us.
May 12, 2010 at 10:45 AM Report abuse
UGF0cmlvdGlubWU%3D said...
I think we are witnessing a transformation in Maine, similar to the one in Massachusetts. The outlying areas are flipping back to Conservative and Republican. Towns which hve struggled like Auburn, Rockland, Rumford and Waterville are tired of liberals from Portland getting in the way of their prosperity. The dividing line runs through Windham, Gray, Durham and Bath.
May 12, 2010 at 10:47 AM Report abuse
Jim04574 said...
I can't imagine what gave those folks the right to touch ANYTHING in that classroom, let alone a closed box. Have they no sense of decency? Unfortunately some of those people were from my town and I'm not surprised by their actions since one of them got upset at our March town meeting and went stomping off calling his fellow townspeople "idiots" I think they have no intention to have rational political discourse.
May 12, 2010 at 10:50 AM Report abuse
DuaneL said...
So it seems that if one disagrees with the tea baggers they are leftist liberals. Knox County should be ashamed of its representatives to the Rep. COnvention. Before the baggers get too excited about their influence, they should remember that Utah is not mainstream America - far from it (nor are Knox County Baggers). My prayer to GOD, wherever SHE may be, is that these miscreants be forgiven.
May 12, 2010 at 10:59 AM Report abuse
Page5Girl said...
my intent this november was to vote republican. not any more. time to go shopping, for an independent.
May 12, 2010 at 11:06 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
These teabaggers from Knox County are probably the hidden leaders of the skinheads in Bucksport.
May 12, 2010 at 11:06 AM Report abuse
gw said...
I've been looking over the comments. . ." Liberal left wing nut bags", "I wonder if these clowns were all wearing Brown Shirts", "Knox loonies", "this gang of angry idiots", "a bunch of lying, stealing dim bulbs", "The Nazis are here", "democRAT" and so on and so on. Everybody relax! It's alright to have an opinion. It's not alright to feel that anyone who disagrees with your opinion is somehow unpatriotic, or unfit to hold public office. That's my main concern about the Tea Party - they seem to think that they are right and everyone else is wrong. And as far as the Austrian economic model plank of the platform is concerned, it proposes a laissez faire approach to the market place. That approach has thankfully been thoroughly discredited by the current economic crisis and recession (which started and intensified during the last administration, by the way)
May 12, 2010 at 11:06 AM Report abuse
notspot said...
"Taking a poster is nothing..." Thanks, axEl...What can I take of yours that isn't a big deal?
May 12, 2010 at 11:11 AM Report abuse
AR5 said...
Hey Achilles, instead of bashing posters, please share why you are defending this group.
May 12, 2010 at 11:13 AM Report abuse
henryelm said...
me thinks the R's of Knox county are about to get a lesson in the constitution from the 8th graders at King Middle School. I'm guessing the kids will win!!! They actually HAVE read the document. Go get them kids!!! Really of all the rooms for them to steal from, the one that is teaching about the FOUR FREEDOMS!!! How ironic is that??Insteed of being happy they are reading the constitution. they are upset about "where" they GOT the constitution. BY he way the ACLU job is to UP HOLD the constitution. Irony and lessons all around.
May 12, 2010 at 11:14 AM Report abuse
Jawest said...
So Sam I guess you believe that all ILLEGAL Aliens are criminals as well
May 12, 2010 at 11:16 AM Report abuse
backwrdstate said...
The original ACHILLES had a fatal weekness in his heel. Our Maine version also has a fatal weakness, but it is between his ears.
May 12, 2010 at 11:17 AM Report abuse
RobertAT said...
Stealing is against the law and it is especially egregious in a school. The Knox County delegates who were in that room should be made to come to King and apologize to the teacher and students. They should also replace the poster. All they've done is prove that they are untrustworthy, ignorant, and narrow minded. The Republican party needs to get a grip. They all look like crazies when they have these kinds of people in their midst.
May 12, 2010 at 11:18 AM Report abuse
bastaa said...
player; move to a country where the good working intelligent common folks get led to the bullring for mass indocrination via the musket and then by your tone you will be home.
May 12, 2010 at 11:19 AM Report abuse
bastaa said...
jawest; define socialism.
May 12, 2010 at 11:21 AM Report abuse
henryelm said...
"to get you to hate the tea party and to ridicule the state Republican platform." No, once again their own BEHAVIOR has brought them shame, all on their own. THEY STOLE a poster from a CLASSROOM and went rummaging around a room, like thieves in the night with out permission. Reeks of big brother and McCarthyism. And God forbid they FOUND the constitution!!!HOW DARE he teach the constitution and freedoms.
May 12, 2010 at 11:21 AM Report abuse
AR5 said...
Achilles, again, why are you defending this whacked criminals from Knox County?
May 12, 2010 at 11:22 AM Report abuse
Portcitylive said...
I wonder what compels people to dismiss a theft from a classroom? I hope that the Republican party does a more energetic job of apologizing for this incident. I also hope that they find a way to get across their ideals with out alienating the majority.
May 12, 2010 at 11:25 AM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
AR5 I'm not defending their alleged actions. I only read an obviously biased piece from a leftie who received his intel from a teacher who by all accounts is a leftie. If the folks from Knox Co. behaved in manner as described then I condemn their childishness. I just find it rather amusing that you lefties are all in a lather over this non story. I don't recall any outrage being voiced when the ACORN goons carrying clubs were prowling outside of voting areas, or when ACORN was busted multiple times aiding and abetting would be frauds and prostitutes, or the 'peaceful' demonstrations being held in behalf of the anti-american mexicans. Liberals are the ultimate hypocrites. Do as I say...errr... demand, not as I do. Win at all costs, dam% the truth and who gets in their way. Games over, the majority of the public has finally caught on since O has been in office. The far lefties hve emerged from under their rocks and will be crushed inNov.
May 12, 2010 at 11:27 AM Report abuse
bastaa said...
achilles; the fbi is simply dropping clues of an ongoing investigation as to the trail of the bumbling idiot who tried bombing. i personally hope that he was trained overseas if this is indicative of results. i expect not since success at these tragedies elsewhere is rampant. republican and tea klux klan political opportunists will be forever ACHILLIED by nine eleven which inconveniently happened on their watch. i see it as not their fault. i also see the defense to stop one person from accomplishing the horrible deed as full of infinite holes. israel knows this as well and there are NO civil liberties in their defense system.
May 12, 2010 at 11:30 AM Report abuse
AR5 said...
So, Achilles, you agree that these people are idiots that are damaging the GOP? I am not a leftie. I am searching desperately for a GOP candidate for governor that I can support. These losers are not helping, so your idea that this will help the GOP in Nov is really, really warped.
May 12, 2010 at 11:34 AM Report abuse
ProConserv said...
I believe Mr. Poliquin will be the next Governor of Maine!
May 12, 2010 at 11:37 AM Report abuse
PhyllisY said...
The lunatic fringe have taken over the republican party and brought it down to the most ignorant base level, one of paranoid schizophrenia which is clearly illustrated in their belief of a conspiracy to form one world government, et al. They have become the party of the ignorant, uneducated and downright sociopathic portion of the population.
May 12, 2010 at 11:37 AM Report abuse
henryelm said...
"If Republicans had objections to the material they could have moved elsewhere in the building" and since the whole school studies the four freedoms well... they wouldn't have escaped learning about the four freedoms. I guess they found them and the constitution repugnant.I think everyone using that room owes the kids an explanation and an apology. I can't wait to hear "the other side" and how stealing a poster and rummaging thru closed material is justified.
May 12, 2010 at 11:38 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Poloquin will never be governor. he has some quite heavy handed dealings with his property at Popham. Does not work well with the Mainers. He won't get any votes in the Mid Coast area.
May 12, 2010 at 11:41 AM Report abuse
bastaa said...
they can move to texas where the mind set of the karl "marxist" rovarians are currenrly rewriting history books according to john birch standards. i agree with their governor and beg for them to secede.
May 12, 2010 at 11:42 AM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Remember: By voting Republican, you are empowering clowns like the Tea Partiers who trashed this classroom and trampled over the civil rights of this teacher whom they robbed.
May 12, 2010 at 11:44 AM Report abuse
henryelm said...
I think the two sides should meet,the kids and the thieves. It will be a lesson for all I'm guessing."After all, a lot of people will now get a good example of the liberal point of view that is pushed on kids in the classroom" And find out It is NOT what they fear it is. That is where the "lesson" part comes in. Heck they might lEARN something, these newbie "we embrace freedom " R's.
May 12, 2010 at 11:47 AM Report abuse
PhyllisY said...
Looks like Rethugs are expanding their programs..... http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/143144.html
May 12, 2010 at 11:48 AM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Sean Hannity said on his radio program that he personally saw Mr. Poliquin tear down the poster and set it on fire to light a Cuban cigar when they were having a fat cat backroom brandy meeting in that same classroom. Colmes then laughed so hard he peed himself. Honest.
May 12, 2010 at 11:48 AM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Sounds like that Bangor Group is going to lay down some heavy competition for the Tea Party.
May 12, 2010 at 11:55 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Phyllis is that the story of the hate group in Bucksport? I made the comment on that earlier but someone got rid of if. Wouldn't be surprised if a teabagger is the leader with that group. The guy comes from Utah. Enough said!
May 12, 2010 at 11:59 AM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
AR5 - it doesn't take long in life to realize there are idiots on all sides, and if the people from Knox did behave as alleged then they didn't do themselves any favors. As far as finding a viable gubernatorial in Maine, good luck. Let me know when you do. I'm not impressed thus far. Sadly I'm beginning to think our state is beyond salvation. Too many years of rewarding the takers and punishing the providers. The scales have tipped. Hope I'm wrong.
May 12, 2010 at 12:01 PM Report abuse
trisailer said...
Keep talking arch-lilly, your the best guy on our team.
May 12, 2010 at 12:04 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
I "believe Mr. Poliquin will be the next Governor of Maine!" keep guessing and hoping. The GOP is DONE, all of their own doing too, crash and burn. Gotta love those Palin R's. I say the kids and the thieves should get together for a lesson on freedom and tolerance.I'll bet there is plenty of learning done all around. was there not ONE sane member in the room to say "stealing is wrong""?? The immoral minority.
May 12, 2010 at 12:06 PM Report abuse
UGF0cmlvdGlubWU%3D said...
A month ago, we had several leftwing blogs actively organizing to infultrate the tea party rallies. The purpose was to cause mischeive and mayhem, to discredit them. Make them seem extremist. So the Republicans meet in Portland, and this class room in a school had a poster torn down and a conservative bumper sticker put up in it's place... would it be a stretch to consider that it was a left wing smear... is this a possibility?
May 12, 2010 at 12:08 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
One should question the wisdom as well as the integrity of those who can only condemn a reporter as a "leftie" when they are caught in the midst of criminal activity with their pants down. What about taking some responsibility for their acts, turning the perp over, and fixing the problem? Apparently personal responsibility is fine for Conservatives to preach but not practice? These people need to GROW UP!! And be kept very far from governing anything.
May 12, 2010 at 12:14 PM Report abuse
heyjoe said...
I wish people could play nice....
May 12, 2010 at 12:15 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"would it be a stretch to consider that it was a left wing smear... is this a possibility?" Nope. They were Republican delegates.
May 12, 2010 at 12:19 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
grumblestilt said "Of course, the classrooms that teach there is only a single correct way of thinking and that all others are wrong are the classrooms of religious schools." What a mutt u are!! Ever been IN one.Loser. I graduated from Cheverus High and u didn't get the degree until u had the critcal thinking skills to examine ALL sides of issues.The teacher here sounds like a typical liberal union smoker but so WHAT it was his poster his classroom u don't like whats happening ? there are ways to challenge it. Although THAT requires a brain.
May 12, 2010 at 12:21 PM Report abuse
backwrdstate said...
Of course, you know what Conservatives fear most. Ideas, and open discussion. Not for nothing are they called "The American Taliban". Next they'll be throwing acid in teacher's faces to "learn them a lesson".
May 12, 2010 at 12:28 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
Mutt makes a good point about challenging what one doesn't agree with. No one, not even the teacher, rationally expects everyone to think the same or agree on everything. But there are accepted ways of discussing ideas and issues. Stealing someone else's property or invading one's privacy is not part of those methods. Perhaps this should be named "Schoolgate" because it seems eerily like the Watergate incident. Is G. Gordon Liddy in the Knox County delegation?
May 12, 2010 at 12:33 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
so have the knox county Republicans apologized OR returned the poster?? Have the organizers of the convention spoken to the knox county delegation assigned to the room. Have they asked for the posters return? And the reply was what?? Listen someone's got a list of who was IN the room. There's got to be someone with moral fiber in the room or were they all a bunch of hooligans?
May 12, 2010 at 12:37 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
so have the knox county Republicans apologized OR returned the poster?? Have the organizers of the convention spoken to the knox county delegation assigned to the room. Have they asked for the posters return? Listen someone's got a list of who was IN the room. There's got to be someone with moral fiber in the room or were they all a bunch of hooligans?
May 12, 2010 at 12:41 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
BTW where is Knox county???!! Oh wait doesn't matter I don't care.
May 12, 2010 at 12:45 PM Report abuse
ProConserv said...
Guy goes into a bar, there's a robot bartender. The robot says, "What will you have?" The guy says, "Martini." The robot brings back a martini and says to the man, "What's your IQ?" The guy says, "168." The robot then proceeds to talk about physics, space exploration and medical technology. The guy leaves, but he is curious...So he goes back into the bar. The robot bartender says, "What will you have?" The guy says, "Martini." Again, the robot makes a martini gives it to the man and says, "What's your IQ?" The guy says, "100." The robot then starts to talk about Nascar, Budweiser and John Deere tractors. The guy leaves, but finds it very interesting, so he thinks he will try it one more time. He goes back into the bar. The robot says, "What will you have?" The guy says, "Martini," and the robot brings him another martini. The robot then says, "What's your IQ?" The guy says, "Uh, about 50.." The robot leans in real close and says, "So, you people still happy you voted for Obama?"
May 12, 2010 at 12:46 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
It's getting harder and harder to claim "isolated incident". NO ONE in the room said "Gee you probably shouldn't do that??" herd mentality. Maybe a lesson on courage and respect for individual rights is called for. Maybe Mr Clifford needs to become their teacher.
May 12, 2010 at 12:46 PM Report abuse
raji said...
What a joke.
May 12, 2010 at 12:46 PM Report abuse
Zm9yZXN0d29uZGVy said...
Within these comments, I have read that teachers and public school systems are perceived as "liberal". While I don't agree, I wonder if they appear "liberal" to some due to the fact that teachers and principals are generally educated,and open minded people dedicated to the common good; that they have learned to explore thoughts and ideas and are not afraid of the truth. For some, reality is a good thing. I appreciate educators who have to deal day in and day out with a massive and entrenched ignorance within the general public.
May 12, 2010 at 12:47 PM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
Lefties demand apologies, self flagellation and resignation from anyone not in their camp who commits the slightest of transgressions yet excuse and ignore when their own drown their dates, run male prostitution rings from their DC apartments, hide bribe money in freezers, smoke crack, attempt to sell office seats etc. Liberals are the worst hypocrites. Anyone with a shred of objectivity is repulsed by their ugliness.
May 12, 2010 at 12:50 PM Report abuse
SMGray said...
Stealing property is wrong. Opening up a box that isn't yours is wrong. Messing up the rooms is wrong. It's a shame that this can't be boiled down to the above. Go after those who did the acts. Make them pay for their actions. That's the responsible thing to do. As for those who are calling the principal, that doesn't make sense. Learning Results curricula comes from the State Dept of Education which our legislators voted in years ago. Knox County republicans - go visit your own 8th grade classrooms and take a good look around. Make some noise in your own county. I'm a republican, too, and I'm sorry that these hooligans did what they did. They need to grow up.
May 12, 2010 at 12:50 PM Report abuse
common_cents said...
Louis...you are very wrong...exercising political power via citizen referenda is alive and well in Maine; as are low turnout elections where a small group can influence them. Confiscating union propaganda could be a prelude to a lawsuit on use of unauthorized curriculum materials in a public school or unapproved controversial subject matter.
May 12, 2010 at 12:51 PM Report abuse
common_cents said...
Was the poster approved or the personal choice of a union activist teacher who decided to make 'our' classroom, their personal soapbox for union causes. Republicans are wusses anyway, and whimpered away.
May 12, 2010 at 12:54 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
ACHILLES, You left out treasonistically lying the nation into war in Iraq as well as toe-tapping in airport men's rooms.
May 12, 2010 at 12:58 PM Report abuse
common_cents said...
It isn't your 'public school' anymore, "the domain of eighth-grade social studies teacher Paul Clifford." Arrogance personified...gets a Numbnutz tee shirt.
May 12, 2010 at 1:01 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
(loudspeaker crackling at King Middle School) ATTENTION! ATTENTION! " All Knox County Republicans will report to detention after school for the next 2 weeks. Copies of the US Constitution will be provided to all for your edification. That is all. (crackle, crackle)"
May 12, 2010 at 1:04 PM Report abuse
gowens said...
'There are many fine Republicans here in Maine with solid values who are I'm sure sickened by this activity' -----------------------Where are they? I haven't heard many of them. I hope they are out there. I hope the moderate Muslims are out there too but we don't hear much from them either.. Hmmmmmm..
May 12, 2010 at 1:10 PM Report abuse
barrylincoln said...
nemitz must have been aroused when he had the opportunity to write this article. i'm wouldn't be surprise if he had ALL the same left wing stuff in his office. i read his articles with a chuckle as he is so transparent.
May 12, 2010 at 1:12 PM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Contacted on Tuesday at his home in Rockport, Knox County Republican Chairman Bill Chapman said he has no idea who took Clifford's poster. "As for the classroom's decor, Chapman said, "We were wondering just what kind of picture he was painting to the students. (The posters) all, as I saw them, had the same theme behind them, which was very anti-American, anti-free enterprise, anti-religious". ------------ Was Chapman in the room? Hmmm.
May 12, 2010 at 1:14 PM Report abuse
BonusEleven said...
The original party of slavery and supporters of segregation are showing their true colors once again! Support freedom of speech, so long as it is the speech they support. Fight the liberal indoctrination of our children into a life of slavery and the new "service based economy", AKA serfdom!
May 12, 2010 at 1:16 PM Report abuse
notspot said...
"slightest of transgressions" Fine...What can I steal of yours, achilles?
May 12, 2010 at 1:17 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
Nice try BonusEleven. Dems and Repubs today have ZERO resemblence to the and Repubs of the Civil War era. In fact, after Nixon's 'Southern strategy' sucess, he sucked all the racist Dixecrats into the GOP. But please, continue your rewriting of America's history. Idjit.
May 12, 2010 at 1:22 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
PS - Iffen tharda bin a gun in thet thar skoolroom thar wernta bin no theevin by cracky!
May 12, 2010 at 1:25 PM Report abuse
Kingstudent7 said...
Excuse me, but I am a student who is personally involved in this issue, and I have the FACTS. First, Paul Clifford is a great man and a great teacher who certainly does not deserve the criticism leveled at him. He does not let his own political views color what he teaches my class, and we are NOT being brainwashed. Also, his views, while they are leaning towards the left, are well within the ordinary spectrum. Also, the collage that had Bush with his eyes missing was an example of work that a student had done for a four freedoms project in the past. Lastly, the things stated in Mr. Nemitz' article are correct.
May 12, 2010 at 1:25 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
So now a King student has posted with real facts about his/her classroom. Ok wingnuts! Ding ding! Time to attack the student!
May 12, 2010 at 1:28 PM Report abuse
hoffenpot said...
Just when you think the ReTHUGlicans couldn't stoop any lower-now this. Go ahead & support the wackadoodles. Mainers will answer back this November, it won't be pretty.
May 12, 2010 at 1:40 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
Geez upnorth I was enjoying your post and thought u reasonably intelligent until ur last one. REALLY a bonafide student posting here at 1:25 in the afternoon. Tough school day! And if it actually is a student posting and not paying attention in class he ain't gonna learn much here. But ur from upnorth so where the heck is Knox county and does anyone actually live there?
May 12, 2010 at 1:40 PM Report abuse
Jim04574 said...
Thank you Kingstudent7
May 12, 2010 at 1:42 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
Geez back at ya muttly. Did it ever cross your mind that with laptops in schools these days that Teacher Clifford might use today's PPH story as a learning opportunity and to allow a student to post a comment on it?
May 12, 2010 at 1:47 PM Report abuse
Page5Girl said...
mutt, with all the technology today, did you ever think this kid could have study hall in a computer room? maybe a cell phone that connects to the web? it is 2010. yes, king middle school students are reviewing these boards, unfortunately, this one does not offer a lot of substance for a decent lesson.
May 12, 2010 at 1:48 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"A month ago, we had several leftwing blogs actively organizing to infultrate the tea party rallies." Really? Or was that just another partisan conspiracy? Why don't you name names.
May 12, 2010 at 1:50 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
PS mutt, Knox County is apparently where Salem's Lot is. Some very creepy residents (Knox GOP) live there!
May 12, 2010 at 1:50 PM Report abuse
AR5 said...
Kingstudent7, Thank you for posting. And, thank you for reminding us that the students being taught by Mr. Clifford are much more intelligent and reasonable than many of the posters on this site. It is reassuring to know that our future is bright. This is a small group of whacked out, frightened, uneducated people that should be punished for their crime and made to apologize for their stupidity.
May 12, 2010 at 1:56 PM Report abuse
Kingstudent7 said...
Excuse me, mutt, but I did not post my first comment during class. On Wednesdays, Portland students get out at 1:25 PM. I posted my comment as everybody was getting ready to leave. Also, to satisfy curiosity, every middle school student is issued a laptop, and that is what I am commenting with.
May 12, 2010 at 1:56 PM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
Chapman must know who took the poster. From what I read he knew exactly what the room looked like and had an opinion on its contents.
May 12, 2010 at 1:58 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
upnorth & pagegirl DUH Yeah. Ur responses like true liberal idiots. it did but I was hoping that they use technology to further their education not troll and waste their time here!! It is a middle school yes? As a parent I certainly would want my child learning about readin writin and rithmetic then defending poor union liberal lovin school teacher. The "kid" didn't deny them apples. What is clear is that the mutts that were invited into the school behaved badly and SOMEONE should PAY for the poster!! The rest of this is not worthy of study or time. I think Iam suppose to be working i don't have union protection LOL
May 12, 2010 at 2:03 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
gowens, not every Republican and not every Democrat posts here. O spoke to a couple of Moderate Republican friends this morning who are sickened and embarassed by this episode. The Knox County delegation could be penalized by the party for this in the future. For an example if the same people are still delegates the Party could refuse to seat them in future conventions. Not all Republicans are bad people. However, as the party steers far to the Libertarian Right many of them will likely become Independents. Who with any integrity would want to be associated with thieves, thugs, hypocrites, and liars?
May 12, 2010 at 2:05 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
There ya go mutt! Kingstudent7 has respectfully and articulately provided you with a bit more knowledge than you had at 1:24 pm.
May 12, 2010 at 2:06 PM Report abuse
Notamainah said...
Mr. Clifford went on the record with his name. If members of the new Maine GOP have the courage of their convictions they'll do the same thing.
May 12, 2010 at 2:08 PM Report abuse
notspot said...
What a wonderful parent you must be, mutt.
May 12, 2010 at 2:08 PM Report abuse
Kingstudent7 said...
I would like to say to all those calling Lilly O'Leary and the rest of my class "zombies". How would YOU like it if I called YOU a zombie. Name-calling only exposes your immaturity. I would like to restate that we are NOT brainwashed.
May 12, 2010 at 2:09 PM Report abuse
Page5Girl said...
ya, ok azzwipe. i voted for ron paul and charlie summers. take a good look in the mirror, that's why i won't be voting conservative this fall. your party is fubar.
May 12, 2010 at 2:11 PM Report abuse
Haiku said...
Politics already goes too far in Maine, thanks to self-righteous demigods of the far-Left. They're still busy establishing a church-state, alternative styled, regarding any free speech supposedly violating some kind of "love" code. These days if certain words are said about anyone and it's outside the world of misogynistic rap music, then the peaceNjustice "love" police want to slap down on that free speech with "hate speech" retaliation. Is that First Amendment freedom? And then what? Alternative fascism has a way of growing just like traditional fascism. Down the road, will the far-Left "love" police put in jail any non-racist dissenter, who lovingly criticizes far-Left fascism?
May 12, 2010 at 2:16 PM Report abuse
AR5 said...
Mutt, glad to see you are leaving us and going back to work. Please check to see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement as you would benefit greatly from some education. And, reread Kingstudent7's posts as they are articulate, intelligent, thoughtful and calm. You could use those qualities as well.
May 12, 2010 at 2:17 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
The fact is Commoncents that this delegation had no business touching anything in that classroom! They were guests in the school. Would you want your guests stealing from your home? Or maybe with your disposition you have no guests? There are accepted procedures for handling differences in a democracy. And if your point of view doesn't prevail you can try again or run for election. The Knox delegation acted no differently then the Communists the Conservatives love to hate. Additionally they committed a crime. In some states being present while that crime was committed would be enough for prosecution.
May 12, 2010 at 2:19 PM Report abuse
yoda said...
I think Kingstudent is Catsome/henryelm...
May 12, 2010 at 2:24 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
Thanks notspot I am. My kid is above average in everyway. And it ain't from her mothers side of the house! LOL Although I would have prefered her going to Cheverus she is getting an excellent education at cape. Although not getting the same "diversity" at portland high it is Maine for Gods sake! Hey student from king I have no beef with u or ur teacher for that matter. Well I would if my kid went there but like i said before I would have taken that up in a different forum. God Bless
May 12, 2010 at 2:24 PM Report abuse
upnorth said...
Road sign: Thank you for visiting Knox County and thank you for taking anything you wanted to take during your visit ... especially our teabags.
May 12, 2010 at 2:28 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"My kid is above average in everyway. And it ain't from her mothers side of the house!" Including grammar and respect for women?
May 12, 2010 at 2:31 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
Mutt. What a comment about the mother of your child!! That's no way to treat a woman even if you're not currently a couple.
May 12, 2010 at 2:32 PM Report abuse
AR5 said...
Hiaku, seriously?
May 12, 2010 at 2:33 PM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
haiku, speak to us in haiku i beg of you
May 12, 2010 at 2:39 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
You Mutts take the bait EVERYTIME! Especially you lefties well thats not really true.LOL
May 12, 2010 at 2:44 PM Report abuse
kay said...
Teachers have one of the hardest jobs around. Most don't get enough credit for all they do. They are damned if they do and damned if they don't. (And don't forget the "not my child" parents!) Learning doesn't end at the end of a school day. It's our responsibility to take the time to sit down with our children at homework time, and talk about what they are talking about in school (or even on the playground for that matter.) To talk about your family views about the subject. It wouldn't matter what the heck anyone was saying to them if you take the time to talk to tell them how your family feels about it and why. It's like your saying that anyone that your children will ever meet has more power than your family. The most impressionable people to a child is his/her parents and family!
May 12, 2010 at 2:44 PM Report abuse
AR5 said...
For those of you defending these people, try this.......USM offers public space for events. If members of the Democratic Party left their event, went through a political science teacher's things, stole from that person, would you still be saying this is all ok? What about the public space at MMC? Tea partiers going through a Doctor's office and taking things? The defense of these losers is unbelievable to me.
May 12, 2010 at 2:46 PM Report abuse
whoa said...
"the sh*t they believe in has got their mind all f##cked" Frank Zappa
May 12, 2010 at 2:48 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
I would have thought you mutts would have bitten on the diversity comment not the mother side of the house go figure? Ok I need to get over on that murder trail page and stir things up there. Nice job Numbnuts on this one keep up the good work
May 12, 2010 at 2:49 PM Report abuse
MSH said...
I love the conspiracy theory, that the "libs" are "infiltrating" the TEA PARTY MOB and are trying to give them a "bad" name.....Want to spot an "infiltrator?" Check their teeth....if they're in reasonable condition, you've found a "lib."
May 12, 2010 at 2:53 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
The proper way to handle this is to file a police report and let the detectives question those in the room at the time these crimes happened. Why try to be nice? The Righties aren't and won't be. Let the police do their job and the DA's office prosecute it. The fact that the DA is a Republican might make her more inclined to push it. Even if the poster is returned a crime was committed and the criminals should be exposed for who they are and punished. They don't belong in politics. A criminal record will drum them out quickly.
May 12, 2010 at 2:53 PM Report abuse
pphreader said...
prosecute the perps.
May 12, 2010 at 2:55 PM Report abuse
Leesadee said...
Stealing a sign and rifiling through someone else's stuff? Sounds like drunk teenagers, not leaders! Grow up, people!
May 12, 2010 at 3:00 PM Report abuse
yoda said...
Good idea about the police report, Biddy. If the righties did it, they will be found out. If the lefties tried to smear the righties, they will be found out. Either way, the investigation will give us at least a week of commenting on the PPH site! :)
May 12, 2010 at 3:03 PM Report abuse
backwrdstate said...
The politics and tactics of Bill O'Reilley, Rush Limbaugh and Glen Beck. When you cannot debate, try to silence the opposition. Pathetic.
May 12, 2010 at 3:08 PM Report abuse
Swede said...
Attempts to silence critics is a tactic almost exclusive to the left. When I see liberal speakers having to employ bodyguards on our college campuses - as conservatives are often forced to do - then I will take claims of conservative mis-behavior more seriously. As of now, they are amateurs in comparison to the left.
May 12, 2010 at 3:32 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
Biddy u serious?! Yeah thats how I want the police to spend their time WOW get over yourelf will ya? Your starting to remind me of my daughters mother. In a word self absorbed.
May 12, 2010 at 3:35 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
Well Mutt I look at it this way. A thief is a thief. No matter if he steals for drug money or steals for a self appointed higher purpose. And if it was my personal property he was stealing and I came across the jerk I'd use the same manner of force on either. And I'm not going to take your "bait" once again. You sound like an Xer to me. I never understood why they called that generation that when they should have used Z for zeros.
May 12, 2010 at 3:42 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"The proper way to handle this is to file a police report and let the detectives question those in the room at the time these crimes happened." If there is not an individual apology, I agree. The GOP makes all this noise about taking personal responsibility, so the culprit should apologize: And since the GOP knows who met in that room, it would make sense to interview those individuals. In that light, how could the responsible individual(s) not come clean? That might be personally painful for a few people, but it would probably do a huge amount to deflate political tensions surrounding this since it's happening in the context of Tea Partiers spitting on black Congressmen and hurling racial slurs at them. Nothing could do more to heal this than to have the people responsible apologize to the teacher, the students and the school who have been affected by this. If they do that, who wouldn't accept that apology? I certainly would.
May 12, 2010 at 3:49 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"A thief is a thief. No matter if he steals for drug money or steals for a self appointed higher purpose." I disagree: This is about infringing on the right to free speech. This is a first amendment issue - that's why this is a big deal.
May 12, 2010 at 3:50 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
'The Knox County delegation could be penalized by the party for this in the future." so why wait???UH common threats of lawsuits again we know how well the ones in the post have turned out. KING has a approved curriculum on the FOUR FREEDOMS. Maybe you don't like the kids learning about freedom. Maybe you don't like them learning . Maybe you just don't like them learning in a PUBLIC school.
May 12, 2010 at 3:55 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
I always think it's a riot when the right call all teachers "union loving libs". There is not a more conservative group. I'll bet over half are registered R's, or used to be, before the right decided to put a target on PUBLIC education. YUP discussing US FREEDOMS and reading the constitution is "controversial" apparently. DID you know one of the charges of public schools is to create good citizens. OH the horror!!! HOW dare they!!
May 12, 2010 at 4:04 PM Report abuse
Biddy said...
My point was that police are there to investigate theft. Why is this one any different? Because the perp belongs to the local political club? Yes, it is an infringement on free speech. But unless there is a statute that raises the charge, the complaint here would be misdemeanor theft. And when detectives lean on these people who knows what else might come out?
May 12, 2010 at 4:05 PM Report abuse
Thedude said...
As a convention-goer news of this activity saddens me. Keep in mind that there is a lunatic fringe to every group in existence. Trying to sterotype this behavior as an example of tea-partiers or republicans in general makes you look ignorant...
May 12, 2010 at 4:08 PM Report abuse
heyjoe said...
Bring back gay marriage....
May 12, 2010 at 4:11 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
The biggest irony is the so a called freedom lovers are complaining about posters created for a freedoms class and about the constitution being in the classroom. IF they REALLY care about freedom they should be celebrating that the kids are learning about it and more importantly talking about it and expressing opinions about it IN their posters.
May 12, 2010 at 4:14 PM Report abuse
notspot said...
True, Thedude...Let's stick to the "facts" that a group of Republican convention goers apparantly ransacked a classroom and then called to complain...
May 12, 2010 at 4:19 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
So if this is the "lunatic fringe" (aka an isolated incident) where is the mainstream republican outrage, or better yet, the consequence for it?? Absent here. Republican leaders can and should UN-delegate this crew.
May 12, 2010 at 4:28 PM Report abuse
DasBoot said...
Typical PPH Communist, Union, left wing, drivel. Hopefully in November we see a change, but I doubt it. The demise of print news can't happen soon enough.
May 12, 2010 at 4:47 PM Report abuse
Thedude said...
"lunatic fringe" does not imply and is not synonymous with "isolated incident" It is a term used to describe people who associate with a group, but don't always (often) represent the groups beliefs, values, desired actions or best interests... not too sure how you came up with "isolated incident"?? although I do hope that is the case. Have some patience on the GOP leaders. Many people, like myself, are just finding out what took place at the Knox County Caucus. So quick to jump down another's throat when the shoe's on the other foot
May 12, 2010 at 4:48 PM Report abuse
Kingstudent7 said...
To notspot: I do not like what you are insinuating when you put the word "facts" in quotes. I assure you, the things stated in this article are true, and I have seen the proof. The poster that went missing in Mr. Clifford's classroom was a favorite of his, and I remember noticing it. I have also seen the poster they put up in it's place. So, keep your silly conspiracy theories to yourself.
May 12, 2010 at 4:51 PM Report abuse
notspot said...
Good luck, TheDude! We all need to police ourselves.
May 12, 2010 at 4:54 PM Report abuse
notspot said...
I do believe that you are misreading me, student...
May 12, 2010 at 4:56 PM Report abuse
notspot said...
What part of "ransacked" mislead you?
May 12, 2010 at 4:58 PM Report abuse
Scrib said...
Ah, the feigned outrage... In fact, the palpable delight of leftists sniffing at some nitwit who was, perhaps, shocked that a Maine middle school truly lives up to the "government school" reputation that has been well documented for years. But oh the possibilities here, of generalizing to the tea party, conservatism and Republicanism itself. How ripe the opportunity to show the sheer hate of those backward thinking folks who are shocked by posters of a blinded President Bush or quotes from America's most famous socialist... Give me a break.
May 12, 2010 at 5:10 PM Report abuse
S01TdHVkZW50NQ%3D%3D said...
I'm a King student, Mr. Clifford is my Social Studies teacher. We've been learning about our rights as students, we're able to express ourselves and use critical thinking in our work. The teachers at King never criticize student's opinions, in fact, having opinions and being able to discuss them is encouraged. It's fascinating, learning about our rights as students and as individuals, and it's also fascinating to now be involved in a real event involving our rights. Those posters were encouraging students to know and express their own freedoms, to ridicule and insult them is a petty act; we're not being brainwashed, we're being educated on the country that we live in.
May 12, 2010 at 5:11 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
I guess my point is there are increasing # of bizarre incidents attributed to the "lunatic fringe" trying to suggesting these yahoos behavior is unique. After awhile it starts to look pretty typical of the party. The majority supported the crazy platform. There was apparently more then ONE incident in the room. Apparently NO ONE in the room acted to stop the activities.( herd mentality) and the R apology was weak at best.
May 12, 2010 at 5:18 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
It's the candidate's job to control their followers. It the parties job to control their followers.If they can't or won't, they loose the rank and file and well they leave the party. YUP it's called exerting peer pressure. The R's have lacked the courage and fortitude to control the fringe element. It's not showing leadership. Maybe THIS behavior and THIS platform IS what they stand for. The silence is deafening.
May 12, 2010 at 5:29 PM Report abuse
SL said...
Hey hey hey, for the record, a few years back that held a Democrats Convention in South Portland HS gym. For some reason the looneys, I say that as they were true lunatics, thought that meant they had run of the school. As I waited for a SPHS play to begin a man barged into the auditorium, screming about his car being blocked in..he was from the convention, and he was quite sauced. He was escorted out by the SPPD...and someone gave him a ride home, I guess it's illegal to even drive a Subaru when intoxicated. There are lunatics in both parties, and they certainly like to strut when it come convention time...then again if they were that brilliant and what they had to say was that important why aren't they running for office?
May 12, 2010 at 5:35 PM Report abuse
wmweber said...
The teabaggers and their repug apologists are cowards. They hide behind acronyms and cute tag lines but just like vermin when you shine a light on them they scatter. Republicans have been cowed by these losers.
May 12, 2010 at 5:47 PM Report abuse
Notamainah said...
Members of the Tea Party support smaller government. In order to shrink the government we as individuals have to step up and become more responsible for ourselves and our behavior. This isn't a great way to start that agenda.
May 12, 2010 at 6:12 PM Report abuse
Freepitboy said...
A self-ordained professors tongue Too serious to fool Spouted out that liberty Is just equality in school "equality," I spoke the word As if a wedding vow. Ah, but I was so much older then, Im younger than that now.-Bob Dylan
May 12, 2010 at 6:24 PM Report abuse
Scrib said...
What a propaganda piece. Will we now see PPH printing King students' dribbling "letters" under teacher's guidance, of how terribly hurt and confused they are that fellow Mainers could do such a horrible deed? My guess is yes...
May 12, 2010 at 6:46 PM Report abuse
Kingstudent7 said...
Scrib: I strongly object to your insulting my and my fellow student's intelligence, and insinuating that we cannot write a simple letter without teacher's guidance. Since I am writing this at a time that is obviously after school, it is plain to see that we can do such things on our own. Your condescending manner exposes your own ignorance. My class is not, as you seem to believe, a bunch of idiotic puppets echoing our teacher's opinions, we are politically conscious, independently thinking individuals. shame on you for insulting us like this.
May 12, 2010 at 7:16 PM Report abuse
MaineHiker said...
Kingstudent7, Welcome. Please don't leave wherever Nature may take you. Maine needs "students" like you.
May 12, 2010 at 7:48 PM Report abuse
HesterPrynne said...
Everytime I begin to worry that maybe the progressives are really in trouble, the conservatives pull something like the recent change to the GOP platform and follow it with destruction of property and theft. Then I chuckle and think, 'naw, we're safe. We just need to sit back and give them enough rope to hang themselves, for surely they will.' Normal every day republicans are pooping in their pants over the platform change. I genuinely feel sorry for them. They really didn't deserve this.
May 12, 2010 at 7:49 PM Report abuse
MaineHiker said...
,
May 12, 2010 at 7:55 PM Report abuse
pphreader said...
Anonymous Repug posters,picking on a 13 year old middle schooler.That is low, even for that crowd.Big men...HAH
May 12, 2010 at 7:58 PM Report abuse
iliketobike said...
Wait, I thought it was called communism when you get to take things that belong to other people. Just what does the Republican party stand for now?
May 12, 2010 at 7:59 PM Report abuse
common_cents said...
My class is not, as you seem to believe, a bunch of idiotic puppets echoing our teacher's opinions, we are politically conscious, independently thinking individuals. REALLY? So prove by showing us contrary political philosophies presented by your beloved(Idolized?) teacher. He hung political propaganda that was pro-union; so where is the contrary viewpoint? and in what context is this poster put? The problem with 'brainwashing' is the subjects don't have a clue it's happening to them. Wanna bet you've been inculcated with pro-union viewpoints, and who knows what else from a SOCIAL STUDIES teacher? Open your classroom's curriculum to outside scrutiny. Let those of us with extensive experience and an advanced education judge it. I dare you to to.
May 12, 2010 at 8:14 PM Report abuse
pphreader said...
CC... Are you calling out a middle schooler? Challenge the teacher,not the 13 year old.Were you raised by a pack of wolves?
May 12, 2010 at 8:23 PM Report abuse
a2luZ3N0dWRlbnQ%3D said...
I am a student in Mr. Clifford's social studies class, and I am actually really surprised at all of the comments against Mr. Clifford! Mr. Clifford is a great teacher who is not "brainwashing" us in any way shape or form. This unit that we are doing is showing us that we do have the freedom to have our own voice and our own opinions. How interesting that in the middle of a freedom expedition, we find ourselves in the middle of a controversy all about freedom.
May 12, 2010 at 8:24 PM Report abuse
null said...
I am sixth grader at King Middle School and the fact that these republicans ransacked Mr. Clifford's room, quote "a look-see" really puts a stain on the republican name. It will be a few years before I vote but I will remember this the first time I go to the poles. Obviously this will influence my political opinion.
May 12, 2010 at 8:39 PM Report abuse
mutt said...
Wait wait will some one call the cops! Someone stole my poster and hurt my feelings! Get some detectives on this !! Omg u people have to be kidding!!
May 12, 2010 at 8:50 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"Wait wait will some one call the cops! Someone stole my poster and hurt my feelings!" Seems to me that anyone who values the Constitution would value the First Amendment. Why don't you, Mutt? Why is it okay to trample on the Constitution just because someone disagrees with you?
May 12, 2010 at 8:57 PM Report abuse
Do2nT said...
Odd how the most thoughtful and respectful comments here are by the students from King. Someday, soon I hope, the venom from both sides will be spent and we might be forced to rise above anonymity and post to each other as adults.
May 12, 2010 at 9:01 PM Report abuse
mrrogers said...
Pathetic, cowards, and losers who took this teachers poster. Just like J Edgar Hoover and McCarthy, insane, insecure, and hate filled distrust of their own mothers, fathers, and families. Their only attached to this World is the paranoia that we may find out who how insecure they really are.
May 12, 2010 at 9:08 PM Report abuse
TheCaptain said...
Thieves. You'd think that, as guests in the classroom, they might not steal from their hosts.
May 12, 2010 at 9:15 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"Odd how the most thoughtful and respectful comments here are by the students from King. Someday, soon I hope, the venom from both sides will be spent and we might be forced to rise above anonymity and post to each other as adults." Why is that odd? Doesn't it make sense that the people whose civil rights have been trampled would be in the best position to understand that and comment about it? And why should their venom be spent? What if Ben Franklin's, John Adam's and George Washington's "venom" about injustice were spent? What is Martin Luther King, Jr's was spent? What if Lincoln's was spent? The suffragettes'? These children have been wronged. This school has been wronged. This teacher has been wronged. Sorry, but there would be no America if we had just rolled over and said "okay, taxation without representation is fine." And we live in America.
May 12, 2010 at 9:18 PM Report abuse
AXeL said...
I think we'll never know that this "teacher" removed the poster himself and called in a hate-crime the way 95% of all nooses in trees were placed there by blacks hoping to make a statement about racism.
May 12, 2010 at 9:19 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
I can't get anything posted today. quite simply: Common, I will go with you to their class. I tried to post my email and the paper won't put it up. If anyone else wants to go, that would be great, but Common says he's highly qualified and I am saying I am (Waterville High School, Bowdoin, public school teacher, taught middle school, taught special ed, sports coach, taught college, taught graduate students, taught elder hostel, have been on a Maine state education committee, etc....). I say, let's edumacate 'em.
May 12, 2010 at 9:23 PM Report abuse
edgemere said...
Good debate is the foundation of good democracy. I know Mr Clifford welcomes good debate. Keep it up. Thanks
May 12, 2010 at 9:31 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
That's a very interesting Republican talking point, AXeL: 95%, huh? We get your point, though: this noose seems to have been placed by the GOP itself.
May 12, 2010 at 9:31 PM Report abuse
JulieP said...
A Teaching moment for our District Atty: School vandalism by adults - OK or Not? The GOP Tea Bagger mob committed theft. They rifled through teacher's desks, boxes and personal items. They defaced school walls and doors. They left our school trashed. Why isn't DA Stephanie Anderson investigating and prosecuting this crime???
May 12, 2010 at 9:34 PM Report abuse
Dino90000000 said...
They might attempt to talk or yell a good game, but these people want freedoms only for themselves
May 12, 2010 at 9:40 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"I guess I'll just stand here with my guns and laugh at you from my property that I own outright and produce my own food on." Would you be laughing if the GOP delegates took down your signs - or took away or your guns? If they did, friend, I wouldn't be laughing. I think it's terrific you grow your own food and I think it's fabulous you value your rights. I just happen to think it would be be better if you spoke up for the rights of the rest of us - what better way to protect your own...
May 12, 2010 at 9:47 PM Report abuse
Caveman said...
The Guy from Boston tells it like it is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_VE2d0NV0I&feature=related
May 12, 2010 at 10:02 PM Report abuse
null said...
I have a student in Mr. Clifford's class. In early September, at the parent open house, he urged all parents to read our kids assignments, to discuss the articles that they were assigned to read with them. He was clear that as kids grappled with issues such as Civil Right, the Civil War, Public Art, and the meaning of freedome that parents needed to weigh in. It has been a fantastic and intellectually challenging year for these students. They are learning their history, studying Supreme Court Cases, and writing all the time. Right, Left, Center - we are all lucky to have a teacher and a school that actully pushes the kids to learn about the world.
May 12, 2010 at 10:03 PM Report abuse
CivilDebate said...
Even though I disagree 100% with the Tea Party politics, I was of the opinion that it was healthy because it engages so many people in democracy. But if they go and break the rules like this and fail to respect the rights of others, it's not healthy at all. Cuccinelli's witch hunt in Virginia to persecute a climate scientist feels like a precursor to Stalin.
May 12, 2010 at 10:09 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Great note, null! I have a question - If this sort of action was going to be carried out against anyone, do you feel your kid's teacher and/or your kid's school is capable of protecting and advocating for your child so that s/he will be able to take a positive experience away from it? It seems to me that the class had been focused on how not to be a victim of ideological oppression, and yet here they are - victimized. I wouldn't wish this on anyone, but I do hope that you and and the staff of the school find a way to make this a constructively teachable moment for our kids.
May 12, 2010 at 10:13 PM Report abuse
ProBiz said...
Privatize education. Public school system is an absolute joke. It wastes more tax dollars than healthcare could dream about. Love what Rhode Island did and just fired everyone. All the liberal Union minions...gone.
May 13, 2010 at 8:05 AM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
I wonder how the bored and/or unemployed liberal posters on this site would react if the teacher in question had a conservative slant and had a poster showing Obama with his eyes scratched out, or more aptly behind bars. Hmmmmm....I wonder.... I'll say it again, nothing but a tempest in a teapot.
May 13, 2010 at 10:32 AM Report abuse
PhyllisY said...
Achilles, they would condemn it and that's the clear difference between the left and right. The right follows orders like goosestepping soldiers without any thought of whether it's right or wrong. Not that they can tell the difference....
May 13, 2010 at 11:13 AM Report abuse
Roxieow said...
http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/143328.html Thanks so much PPH for this follow up story.
May 13, 2010 at 11:38 AM Report abuse
v255504 said...
I bet if Nemitz actually did some investigation into this alleged heist he woulod find it was the teacher who "stole" the poster knowing the story would end up in the PPH.
May 13, 2010 at 12:16 PM Report abuse
stinkyspot said...
***(The posters) all, as I saw them, had the same theme behind them, which was very anti-American, anti-free enterprise, anti-religious."*** Most people on here know by now that I am a pro 2nd amendment independent. To radical left wingers that makes me a republican... they would be wrong... I just wanted people to know where I stand before commenting... the statement from the article I posted above is about the most ridiculous thing I have ever read... """Anti-American, anti-free enterprise, anti-religious""" So, the alternative is mandatory American Ideology and mandatory Religion? If these people think that kids cannot think for themselves, or even worse SHOULD not think for themselves I just hope they do not have children. And, Nemitz... political platform - plans simile... that was lame.
May 13, 2010 at 12:33 PM Report abuse
ZmFydGtub2NrZXI%3D said...
$100 says it was one a liberal maggot posing as a Republican. It would be pretty easy for a couple liberal maggots to blend into a group of 900 people, then commit acts of vandalism to make the Republicans look bad.
May 13, 2010 at 12:44 PM Report abuse
stinkyspot said...
I expressed my opinion Maybe you all should too :)
May 13, 2010 at 12:47 PM Report abuse
henryelm said...
hey zz how did that acorn 'infiltration" work out anyhow?? The filmmaker was arrested!!!
May 13, 2010 at 1:10 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Apparently, Stinky, there are a bunch of people who don't realize that just as it's fine to believe in capitalist ideas in America, you have just as much right to believe in socialist ideas - or anything else you want. There are a bunch of people who think that anyone who is looks or thinks differently from them is an evil threat. These people are being "PC" - but not just in the sense that most "PC" types simply voice their opposition to bigotry and such - but literally attacking those whom they believe do not agree with them. Some people have heard Glenn Beck chanting "the march to socialism" and "socialism is evil" long enough that they actually believe it - and coupled with a myopic sense of vigilantism, they are acting to squelch the rights of people who aren't from their ideological corner of the map. That's what the Tea Party is. I don't think this is going to help the Republican Party.
May 13, 2010 at 1:13 PM Report abuse
ZmFydGtub2NrZXI%3D said...
Maybe grumblestilt did it. He sure hates Republicans and Tea Partiers. I bet he'd pretend to be one long enough to commit a crime and get it blamed on them.
May 13, 2010 at 1:19 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Now, ZmFydGtub2NrZXI%3D (if that is your real name), don't you think this should warrant a criminal investigation - especially if liberal moles like me did it. I would appreciate such an investigation because it does look suspicious that I happened to go to the GOP convention with my 16 year old girlfriend, upnorth, and my dog, stinkyspot. They asked us to prove we were Republicans and we said that we weren't who we were saying we were and that was proof enough for them. So they let us and we trashed the place.
May 13, 2010 at 1:42 PM Report abuse
ZmFydGtub2NrZXI%3D said...
"don't you think this should warrant a criminal investigation" ======= Over petty theft? All the cops I know would laugh in your face if you asked them to file a report over a stolen poster. You only care about this because you hate Republicans.
May 13, 2010 at 1:47 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
While I am genuinely concerned this is an extension of Tea Party culture, I care deeply about civil rights and civil liberties and the Constitution. I wouldn't care if they stole this guy's pencils or even his coat, but goes much further than that: They invaded the teacher's privacy; they stole from him; they denied his right to free speech; and they desecrated his classroom - and THEN they complained about him to the principal. All this while touting the First Amendment and passing a platform that claims to support rights and says stealing is bad. I don't like the Republican Party - that's true - but this is WHY I don't like it. Would you support a party that does this at its official convention?
May 13, 2010 at 1:56 PM Report abuse
root66 said...
Wow the RightWingNuts are out in force.This must have hit a nerve
May 13, 2010 at 2:49 PM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
PhyllisY said... "Achilles, they would condemn it and that's the clear difference between the left and right." Like when the left repeatedly voted in Ted Kennedy after commiting manslaughter, like when the left immediately attacked any woman who claimed abuse at Clinton's hand, like when the anti Az immigration types violently protest, like when Barney Frank's boyfriend was running a gay male prostitution ring from his apartment, like when Mass democrats change appointment to Senate laws to solely suit there needs, like when the ACORN thugs carrying clubs prowled outside of voting polls, like when D.C. dems repeatedly voted in a crack smoking, prostitute using mayor ad infinitum. There are people of questionable character (look it up, you may learn a new word) on both sides. The dems look the other way EVERY time if that person is one of theirs. Democrats are the worlds biggest, most arrogant hypocrites, bar none.
May 13, 2010 at 3:11 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Right? Why wouldn't the GOP and Tea Party types simply stand behind what they claim to stand behind and come down hard on the group of jerks that did this? That not only is the right thing to do, but it makes the most political sense. I am more annoyed, for example, at the lack of outrage being expressed by conservative than by the actions of a few stupid people in a whipped up moment of ideological frenzy. People do dumb things sometimes and, when they do, they should take responsibility and apologize - instead of running around with a huge flag that says "hypocrite!" screaming at their victims.
May 13, 2010 at 3:13 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
Wow, Achilles: We're not talking about the actions of a candidate on his own time - we're talking about an incident at the GOP Convention and involving a group of elected delegates. Biddy is right and Democrats do take responsibility: You see "No one died when Clinton lied" stickers on Democrats' cars. We acknowledge wrongdoing. I would love it if conservative types put this on their cars: "Bush might have lied, but war was justified." I am not, however, holding my breath.
May 13, 2010 at 3:18 PM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
Grumble - You lie
May 13, 2010 at 3:27 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"Grumble - You lie" Great point! Republicans interrupting the President during the State of the Union: Democrats didn't do that to Bush. Democrats didn't spit on GOP Congressmen and yell "honkey" at them. Democrats don't go around preaching "responsibility" and then refuse to take responsibility. The GOP hypocrisy here is painful: Did you read the new platform they passed?
May 13, 2010 at 3:42 PM Report abuse
Kingstudent7 said...
I would like to say first: to those who say that either Mr. Clifford stole it or Democrats posing as Republicans stole it: PLEASE, ENOUGH WITH THE CONSPIRACY THEORIES!!! I know that not all Republicans and people in the Tea Party are thieves, it is only those misguided people who did it. There are nuts on both sides of the aisle. The only people who would look at this and believe that it is an indicator of the disposition of the whole party are the extremely naive. And to those who want proof that I am not brainwashed, and want an example of a major difference in political opinion between me and my teacher, here's one: I believe that the Second Amendment should be removed from the Constitution, and he doesn't. If that doesn't convince you, I don't know what to say.
May 13, 2010 at 3:44 PM Report abuse
null said...
More domestic terrorism from the Republicans.
May 13, 2010 at 4:30 PM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
Kingstudent7 - picked up my new Benelli shotgun today. Nice addition to my collection consisting of HK, Kimber and LWRC weapons. You're entitled to your opinion but I suggest you study history with a passion. Pay attention to the regimes that forbid and/or forcibly removed weapons from their citizens. Get back to me in 10-15 years after you've lived a little and hopefully experienced a lot.
May 13, 2010 at 4:33 PM Report abuse
ACHILLES said...
null is void
May 13, 2010 at 4:35 PM Report abuse
AYuodsnukis said...
I'm a public school social studies teacher. You may not agree with what I teach or how I teach it, but I can guarantee you that my students: A) Are encouraged to develop their own points of view and articulate them effectively. B) Will be shown respect by me and their peers while they are in my classroom. D) Show a higher level of maturity and critical thinking skills than are on display in this forum. E) Stand behind what they say without hiding behind anonymous pseudonyms.
May 13, 2010 at 4:40 PM Report abuse
notspot said...
AYuodsnukis...Is there a point "C"?
May 13, 2010 at 4:55 PM Report abuse
PhyllisY said...
Yes Grumble, he did and he got so excited over it that he went out and bought a top of the line compensation device!
May 13, 2010 at 4:58 PM Report abuse
Kingstudent7 said...
Achilles: I do not actually believe in completely abolishing guns, in fact I believe that deer hunting is a both noble and useful pastime. I simply believe that we should have strict gun control laws that make sure anyone attempting to buy a gun will take both a rigorous psychological evaluation and a background check. Also, I think that the 2nd amendment should be replaced with a more loosely worded amendment saying that the right to bear arms will not be abolished, instead of saying that it will not be abridged. I believe that strict gun control laws could prevent many of the approximately 35000 gun deaths per year.
May 13, 2010 at 5:09 PM Report abuse
AYuodsnukis said...
Notspot (whoever you may be)...There was a point C, but after a close editing of my work before posting it, I decided to delete it because it was redundant.
May 13, 2010 at 5:11 PM Report abuse
Routone said...
This shows who and what Republicans really are: the most ignorant, irrational, and childish of American society. Most of these buffoons can't think their way out of a paper bag. Of course they don't like "ideas," it's why they choose to seize upon the anti-logic of the Republican party. Republican: Irrationa. Angry. Worthless.
May 13, 2010 at 7:00 PM Report abuse
stinkyspot said...
Interesting. I posted the email address of the GOP leader chick, and PPH edited it out. PPH... YOU GUYS SUCK... there, stick that in your editorial pipe and suck on it.
May 14, 2010 at 12:58 PM Report abuse
lovinit said...
Right out of the Nixon playbook. Steel and deny and ruin your party. Mission Accomplished!
May 15, 2010 at 8:34 AM Report abuse
UofA said...
Biddy- You should have your windows and house stoned if you supported Clinton for President or her husband! They are worst thieves for their Whitewater episode that the dodged.
May 15, 2010 at 8:58 AM Report abuse
Ladydiodes2 said...
Why were these people allowed to come into a classroom and go through this man's desk and what right do they have being on campus anyway???? It's time for this principal to be replaced, as he/she should not have allowed this group of people on campus let alone the class room. Whoever took the poster, is a thief and a moron. It goes to show you how right wing some people are and they are very dangerous.
May 15, 2010 at 9:33 AM Report abuse
UGF0cmlvdGlubWU%3D said...
To AYuodsnukis ... I can think of one position MSAD 11 could do without... dump the social studies teach, teach music.
May 15, 2010 at 1:45 PM Report abuse
Routone said...
Republicans offer nothing except failure. They brought America to the brink of another Great Depression. It's so appropriate that ignorant RepubliCONS use their secret handshakes and talk abnout "communism." It shows they are irrational, clueless, and ignorant. They are for COMMUNISM FOR THE WEALTHY and don't even know it. Any of the Democrats running for Governor would be much better than another worthless Republican in office. Republican: We're worthless!
May 15, 2010 at 2:07 PM Report abuse
AKMaineiac said...
What has been reported is indefensible and shouldn't have occurred in any classroom used by visitors to the school. There is no defense to pointing out where extremists from the other side of the political spectrum have done such things either. Ray Richardson has roundly and soundly condemned what was reported, by the way. I condemn it myself. But I see there is no shortage of open minded and tolerant people who do not believe in stereotyping and assigning things to groups of people on the basis of the actions of a few here. Awful glad their morals and values are so much more solid than that of the Republicans. What would we do without the lunatics and whackjobs from either side? Oh yeah, probably live a happy, normal, life.
May 15, 2010 at 2:21 PM Report abuse
AKMaineiac said...
I believe that strict gun control laws could prevent many of the approximately 35000 gun deaths per year. *** You mean the way drug laws prevent drug abuse, right? The way laws against rape, murder, breaking and entering, burglary, drunken driving, and a host of other things prevent those things from happening? Really? Consider for a second the costs associated with your position. BILLIONS of dollars annually, not to mention the immediate commencement of MASSIVE civil disobedience, and some of it not so "civil". Better let that sleeping dog lay friend. We have laws now, enforce them. They can't even investigate and prosecute the people they "stop from buying a gun" because they lied on the 4473 to initiate the NICS check when they were ineligible to buy a gun. That's a felony by the way. The vast majority are not even investigated. They say, "No" and forget it. Charge them, all of them. Then come back and ask for more. Not until then.
May 15, 2010 at 2:50 PM Report abuse
lovinit said...
Ray Richardson is very roundly. Heart attack waiting to happen.
May 15, 2010 at 7:02 PM Report abuse
Routone said...
The Republican party is a plague upon Maine and America. The fact is that Maine and America has succeeded DESPITE the RepubliCON party! If given enough rope, the RepubliCON party will hang America in favor of its most crass wealthy, facilitated by its most ignorant. It's not for no reason that the Republican party call anything and everything truthful about it merely "proof" of the "liberal media." If Americans are presented with who and what the Republican party is now and has always been, they will reject it into the dungheap where the whig party now resides. Republican: Ignorant. Angry. Worthless.
May 15, 2010 at 10:28 PM Report abuse