We can do without the nostalgia unless it helps us to deal with the challenges of today’s world.
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.
David Gustafson: Golden demonstrates integrity
I wish to support the reelection of U.S. Rep. Jared Golden. I haven’t always agreed with his positions. However, I was so impressed when, after the Lewiston shooting, he went on TV and apologized for voting against stronger gun laws. It is rare for a politician to admit they were wrong; that to me is […]
Richard Whiting: Sheats well qualified to serve Senate District 20
I support Bettyann Sheats’ candidacy for state Senate District 20. She is well qualified as a former state representative. She graduated from West Point, then served our country as a helicopter pilot for eight years. She owned a small business and supported responsible development while on the board of the Finance Authority of Maine. She […]
Steve Bien: RSU 73 should offer clarity, leadership in inclusivity discussion
We often have much to learn from our children, as any parent knows. This is certainly true right now in Jay, where students at Regional School Unit 73 showed how fair-minded and principled they are about inclusivity. Moreover, they showed the courage of their convictions at the recent School Board meeting at which a school […]
Joan Macri: Sheats listens, learns and leads
Listen. Learn. Lead. Bettyann Sheats, candidate for the Maine Senate representing Auburn, Durham, New Gloucester and Poland, keeps these words at the forefront as she knocks on doors and meets people across the community. Listen. She wants to hear people’s concerns so that she can best represent them in Augusta. Learn. Many people are well […]
Froma Harrop: Biden’s America is doing fabulously well
Stock prices are hitting record highs. Unemployment is at its lowest level in 50 years. Violent crime — murder, rape, aggravated assault and robbery — has dropped to a near 50-year low. The net worth of American households stands at record levels.
Audrey Murphy: Rep. Libby ‘is on our side’
My main concern is the ever-ballooning state government and budget. We are at a record high of over $10 billion, and soon will top $11 billion. Where will it end? The current government in Maine doesn’t seem to understand that its role is to do the job of governing and not to take over the […]
Gary Bain: Rep. Libby will fight for Mainers’ rights
Maine Citizens need to keep abreast of the issues and legislation in Augusta. One state representative, Laurel Libby, is efficient and consistent in getting the information about the good, the bad, and the ugly to her constituents. We need a representative who is passionate about our state, willing to keep us informed, and transparent about […]