The Bureau of Economic Analysis released figures recently that showed Maine's economy grew at a slow 1.3 percent last year. The Bureau reports on Gross State Product (GSP), which is a measure of all the goods and services produced within a state.

Maine's GSP did increase from 2006 when the state's economy only grew by 1 percent. However, 2007 figures put Maine near the bottom of states with GSP growth, and well under the national average of 2 percent growth.

Despite a slight increase in economic output, Maine residents have lost confidence in the state's overall economic outlook. A recent poll conducted by Market Decisions showed that 55 percent of those polled say they are worse off economically than they were a year ago.

In addition, a full 73 percent of those asked feel that there will be difficult times ahead for Maine businesses. More than two-thirds responded that they believe the bleak economic outlook will last for at least the next five years.

The only way this is going to change is with the personal involvement of every one of us. Maine government in Augusta left with our anticipating positive results or some kind of magic will only result in our paying more taxes for a worsening financial situation. We ALL have to be present and accounted for and actively overseeing what our elected people are doing, how they are voting, and above all, dealing with the core issues that are causing the above results.

If you had a business that was in the shape Maine is economically (jobs, economic growth, and debt) you wouldn't stand by watching it disintegrate further. It's time for change like we've heard all politicians say who are running for office. One of the more important changes in my view however, is that we become more responsible personally, and rely less on laws to protect us. Maine is a big neighborhood of many strengths. They all however have to do with our personal stewardship and hard work. Our parents and grandparents weren't afraid of hard work so why are we so hesitant to get involved? Probably because we watch too much television where we become convinced there is no hope without some pied piper to follow.

"The nice thing about teamwork is that you always have others on your side." -- Margaret Carty

Skip Sunnell
Gorham, Maine