How about that, the voters showed their clout by turning out in record numbers. People from around the state have called me to let me know that the veterans turned out in big numbers, too. It’s now time to let our legislators know they represent us — we the people — and not the special interest groups, the multitude of lobbyists who roam the halls of our State House, or the professional politicians who try to control things. It’s now time for some civility in politics.

Congratulations to Gov. Paul LePage and his First Lady, Ann. Also, to all those elected to represent “We the People.” To all the candidates who took time from their personal lives to campaign for the various offices, we say thank you for your service and dedication. Now that the election is over, a word to our elected legislators: Remember your constituents. Don’t look at us as belonging to a political party, but as citizens in your community and the state of Maine.

With the coming of the first session of the new legislature, Gil and I will again be busy chasing our legislators to get them to support the needs of the people. We will continue to work with our Governor to eliminate homelessness in Maine, especially our veterans. Also, a wider group of us veterans are looking forward to working with our state legislators, and our Governor of course. We have put together a very motivated, talented and dedicated committee of veterans to monitor veterans-related legislation. Some of us are senior citizens, so we’ll be looking to take care of our older citizens, too.

It’s been a nice change to watch TV and listen to the radio without all those negative political ads. Go to the mail box and pick up your bills — no political junk mail! And for a little while anyway, no phone calls asking for your vote. Enjoy the peace and quiet for a few months. I hate to remind you, but 2016 is practically knocking on our door.

I want to thank the volunteers at the Mid-Coast Veterans Resource Center on Brunswick Landing. Director Read Rich works 50-60 hours a week as a volunteer. There is Paul Loveless and his many helpers in the Retired Affairs Office, a very dedicated group of individuals who volunteer their time to help veterans and their survivors. Also, I thank all those who donate their time to greet those coming to the Center for assistance. We all thank these people for what they do.

Here’s some news only for veterans who are currently enrolled in the VA medical system: You can expect to be issued the new Veterans Choice Card by the end of January — part of the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014, enacted in August. The Choice Card allows veterans to choose to receive care outside of the VA system when they qualify for the new program — based on the distance of their residence from a VA care facility, or when wait times for VA healthcare exceed established standards. The Choice Card does not replace the identification card you already use to access other VA benefits, however, so don’t throw away that ID card when you receive your Choice Card.

Today, Nov. 10, is the United States Marine Corps birthday. Tomorrow at 11 a.m., the Mid- Coast Veterans Resource Center will host a Veteran’s Day Program at P-3 Park to honor our veterans, living and departed. The public is invited to this program, which will include a Blue Star Banner presentation to families who have loved ones now serving in the military and a Veterans Recognition presentation to honor past service in the military. Also, the program includes a special ceremony honoring the memory (sacrifice) of those killed in action, with an emphasis on two NAS Brunswick-based VP- 26 aircrews that went down in Vietnam. After the program, the Brunswick Elks Club (downtown on Park Row) will provide a free lunch for veterans, from noon until 2 p.m. The general public is also invited to this event.

It’s nice to see our friend and fellow veteran Denny Barrett up and around again. He’s back doing something he enjoys — working with sports officiating. Meanwhile, the Coffee Crowd is excited about the Patriots’ winning streak. Dante went to New Jersey for a visit (I kinda miss his morning tunes). He’s happy for our Governor and First Lady, and Jim wants us to keep doing what we’re doing for our veterans. Don’t worry, Jim; as long as this paper will allow me, I will keep tabs on what’s going on and let the readers know.

So ‘til next time, keep the faith.

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Chick Ciciotte is the legislative chairperson for the Mid-Coast Veterans Council. He lives in Topsham.