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.
Elaine Makas: Rabasco should be tri-counties’ next D.A.
Edward Rabasco Jr., a highly qualified trial attorney with 35 years of experience in both criminal and civil law, has announced his write-in candidacy for district attorney. Mr. Rabasco has been endorsed by the Democratic Committees of Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties, the three counties served by the DA’s office. As a former Androscoggin County […]
Gail Shelley: Candidate Libby offers ‘a refreshing face and a strong voice’
Laurel Libby is once again running for the state Legislature, for District 90. She is one of the most driven, honest and dedicated people I have ever met. She is well known for “going live” on Facebook, and by watching and listening I have learned more about politics in the past year than in my […]
Marlene Keene: Lake Auburn a ‘beautiful gift’ that must be protected
A few years back, when folks were starting to pay attention to the environment and forming committees to protect it, I recall a commercial that began to appear randomly on television. This commercial portrayed a Native American in full dress, standing on a mountain looking out over his native land that had become a mecca […]
Susan Martin: Sheats offers listening, collaboration, civility to Augusta
I write to call attention to Bettyann Sheats, who is a superb candidate for Maine Senate District 20. Bettyann has lived in the area for almost 30 years, raising her family and starting a small business. She is a veteran and is well known for her balanced opinions and her ability to listen and bring […]
Ellen Field: Gun control issue needs more than ‘prayers and thoughts’
Why do we allow this country’s gun policies to be run by the National Rifle Association and its pet politicians who receive hundreds of thousands of dollars from the gun industry? The U.S. has far more mass shootings than other countries that don’t let civilians buy military guns. No one objects to Americans having ordinary […]
Leonard Pitts Jr.: The Janes: ‘We thought it was over’
“The Janes” is a compelling history that feels like an ominous prophecy. In the painful serendipity of its timing, it reminds us that there is nothing quite so bitter and emotionally exhausting as defeat snatched from the jaws of victory. As one Jane says of the 1973 ruling, “We were thrilled and we thought it was over. Who knew what would follow?”
Jason Lavoie: Candidate Rotundo will deliver results for Lewiston
I am writing in strong support of Peggy Rotundo for Lewiston’s open state Senate seat this fall. Peggy is amazing example of someone who should be in public service. Her past service at Bates College and in the Maine Legislature, and her commitment to Lewiston and Lewiston people, is very evident every time Peggy is […]