It’s truly disheartening to think that the Lewiston shooting suspect was hospitalized in June due to hearing voices and making threats to harm others and, yet, the system allowed him to be released without taking any steps to secure his firearms. It’s a stark reminder of the shortcomings in our society’s ability to provide the […]
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.
Patty Baumann: Vote for candidates who oppose high-powered rifle sales
Another heartbreaking mass shooting. Thoughts and prayers are not working so well. For those of us who feel hopeless and helpless, try this … vote for a candidate who wants to stop the sale of high-powered rifles, or favors a waiting period. Stop voting for the cute candidate or one who shares your religion, or […]
Richard Cherwitz: Prevent mass shootings, prohibit assault weapon access
I am horrified and growing increasingly impatient. Let me be blunt: I no longer wish to hear National Rifle Association-funded Republicans simply offering thoughts and prayers to those who lose family members in senseless mass shootings. Those sentiments don’t solve the problem. Moreover, no longer will I sit idly by and listen to these Republicans […]
Weldon deMeurers: Kudos to Golden for position change on assault rifles
Early Thursday afternoon, the day after the horrific and senseless murders in Lewiston, I wrote a note to family members and close friends, telling them the sad news and assuring them my spouse and I were fine. I included in my letter the following: “I particularly hope that this tragedy will cause our congressman, Jared […]
Bob and Linda Lux: ‘We are heartbroken for all of you’
To all people of Lewiston and Maine,As two who grew up in Maine and revere its people, we are devastated and in despair over the horrific, unfathomable and sickening massacre that we all now must face. Our annual visits to what we still consider our home remind us of the beautiful and loving people of […]
Kerry Daly: Bond remains between Auburn-Lewiston, Australia
In 1966, I had the privilege of winning an American Field Service Scholarship to travel from Queensland, Australia and live in Auburn, graduating in the class of 1967 from Edward Little High School. My year of living among you in Auburn-Lewiston was a highlight of my life, and the warmth and generosity of the local […]
Jean Dubé: Thoughts and prayers with our Maine family
The deep ties between New Brunswick and Maine go far beyond mere geography. Our histories, cultures and families are intertwined, knitting us together in a bond that few can truly understand. The shared joys and challenges we’ve experienced over the years have made our connection unbreakable. When one of us hurts, we all feel it, […]
MarieTherese Martin: Do you feel safe in your home?
I had my annual physical the other day and was asked this question: “Do you feel safe in your own home?” I was triggered. Questions asked, don’t obligate an answer. Just ask, check off the box, and move on. When neighbors who are gun owners target practice at night, I lay awake listening to the […]
Dallas Adams: Kudos to Golden for changing mind on gun control
I lived in Maine for 20 years. The mass shooting and loss of life in Lewiston broke my heart. I appreciate U.S. Rep. Jared Golden’s change of mind and announcement regarding gun control. U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and U.S. Sen. Susan Collins gave him a lot of cover and support. I look forward to hearing […]