LEWISTON — The Diocese of Portland has named Dawn Theriault the new principal of Saint Dominic Academy’s Lewiston campus. She will assume the role at the beginning of the 2024-25 academic year. Theriault has a 25-year career as an educator and leader at Saint Dominic Academy. Theriault will succeed John Patrick “J.P.” Yorkey, principal since […]
Alex Lear
Staff Writer
Alex Lear is a lifelong Mainer who has spent 25 years in journalism -- the first 20 as a reporter for newspapers in Damariscotta and Falmouth, then as Opinions section editor for the Sun Journal and now a digital producer with the Maine Trust for Local News. His long-running “Learics” column won first place in the Maine Press Association’s 2023 Better Newspaper Contest. He and his wife Lauren are kept young by their 9-year-old daughter Alaina. Send feedback and suggestions to Alex.
Franklin Savings Bank promotes new officer in Jay branch
JAY — Franklin Savings Bank has promoted Mariah Labbe to consumer loan officer at its Jay branch. Labbe has spent her nearly eight years at Franklin Savings Bank learning the intricacies of the lending process. Her comprehensive understanding of the industry and her dedication to helping customers achieve their financial goals make her an ideal […]
Greater Lovell Land Trust names conservation director
LOVELL — Rhyan Paquereau has been named conservation director at the Greater Lovell Land Trust. He will oversee the management of the more than 7,500 acres under conservation: developing plans for the management and improvement of Trust properties for public access, stewarding conservation easements, and managing seasonal and other supporting staff. Paquereau served as interim […]
OTIS Federal Credit Union donates $5K toward Jay Union Hall renovations
JAY — OTIS Federal Credit Union has donated $5,000 to the Western Maine Labor Council which purchased the Local 14 Union Hall at 6 Intervale Road. This donation will go toward renovations and preservation of the building’s historical artwork. The Western Maine Labor Council, formerly headquartered in Lewiston, is comprised of labor unions whose members […]
Peter van Oosten: Sex education literature needs guidance about responsibilities, rights
There is a debate going on in several school districts. The bone of contention is the material labeled “sexually explicit” and how this may fit in an educational environment. It would seem that for many, “sexually explicit ” means ” pornographic.” This is incorrect; explicit means detailed and specific to a subject. It has nothing […]
Abby Dix: Lewiston school budget deserves voter support
As a teacher in the Lewiston school district, a parent, a widow and a homeowner in the district, I understand the fear of increased taxes due to increased spending. I also know if we don’t pass this budget, many people will lose their jobs. These educators play important roles and if we cut them, it’ll […]
Diane Grandmaison: Rep. Cloutier deserves thanks, votes, for her work for Lewiston
State Rep. Kristin Cloutier is running for House District 94. She is a compassionate, no-nonsense woman who gets things done. Her experiences of being on the Lewiston School Board, City Council and serving as City Council president led her to be appointed the mayor of Lewiston after Mayor Shane Bouchard resigned. The voters of Lewiston’s […]
Froma Harrop: Older voters may rescue the democracy
The Greatest Generation fought in World War II and saved the world from fascism. Its aging children now have an opportunity to do the same.
Rebecca Austin: The truth is clear: Domestic abuse is a matter of community safety
Too often, our community sees violence against women as isolated incidents that are private in nature. In fact, data shows that domestic violence is a profound indicator of risks to the broader community.