Peace, love, and fraud in Somaliland East

who will empty our bed pans? apply our fixodent?

No word whether John Cooper or any of the other Greenwich Invisibles were wheeled up for the event, but a large contingent of the elderly from various diverse locations came into Lewiston, Maine yesterday from to show their support for the Bantus. Billed as a public event, open to all, the reporter for Maine’s sole conservative news service discovered that he was not among the “all”. Wonder what they’re hiding, besides food stamps?

A Rally for Dignity—Until the Maine Wire Arrived

…. As I entered the public park, I was stopped by a person in a yellow vest—”security”—who asked, “Who are you with?” I joked that I came by myself. “No, you are the media. Who are you with?” I answered plainly and proudly: The Maine Wire. As I walked on, I heard the radio call behind me: “A guy from The Maine Wire is here.”

Near the gazebo, another man stepped in front of me and again demanded to know who I was with. He grabbed my press credential, which was hanging from a lanyard around my neck. “Stay here,” he said.

Standing next to Mayor Carl Sheline, I asked a basic question: Was there a permit for the event? “It’s a public park,” the man replied. I agreed. “So, no permit?” I excused myself and walked toward the gazebo.

That’s when a masked man grabbed my arm and told me I couldn’t be there. I explained I was taking photos in a public park and would be done in a moment. He pushed me toward the exit. I moved to the front of the park, spoke with attendees, and continued photographing.

…. After a beautiful rendition of the national anthem was sung by all in attendance, attendees were invited to walk across the street to the former church, now the Agora Grand Event Center, for Somali dance performances, tea, and snacks, a welcome warmth on a cold day.

…. At the door, a smiling volunteer told me, “No press.” I stayed outside, speaking with people in the parking lot, petting dogs, and interviewing Dr. Nirav Shah, the Democratic frontrunner for governor. …. When other media outlets arrived to interview him, I was told press was now being allowed inside.

Escorted Out

I entered with three other news organizations and set up for the speeches. U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner spoke first, delivering the same campaign speech I’ve covered before. As he wrapped up, a hand came down on my shoulder.

“You need to leave.”

Startled, I asked why. “You have to go.” I asked whether all media were being asked to leave or just me. “Just you.”

As I was escorted out, I asked who had made the decision and whether I could speak with them. “Nope. Private event. Get out.” Meanwhile, the other outlets remained.