Kristen Cloutier worked tirelessly as Lewiston city councilor and mayor, and now state legislator, to represent her constituents fairly, advocate for policies sustaining families and garnering resources for sustainable economic development and healthy communities. Serving on the Appropriations and Finance, Transportation Study, and Taxation committees, Kristen led efforts toward solutions addressing immediate needs — tax […]
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.
Cherie Downing: Question 2 on RSU 16 ballot deserves ‘no’ vote
I have been carefully watching, with concern, the community discussion about Regional School Unit 16’s attempt to educate the voters about Question 2 in the June 14 referendum vote. There appears to be a concerted effort by some public officials from Poland and Minot to make the school budget process harder. From my observations they […]
Don Berry: Rabasco should replace Robinson as tri-county DA
I am pleased to see District Attorney Andrew Robinson nominated and confirmed as Maine District Court Judge. Andrew’s outstanding service to Oxford, Franklin and Androscoggin counties was exceptional. But we now need a replacement who can carry on this good work. Edward Rabasco has announced he is a write-in candidate for this important office. Ed […]
Cal Thomas: Predictable commencement addresses
Time was when many commencement speeches at major universities were about America and its values and what graduates could expect in the future. In recent years, they have become a political capstone on the progressive ideas imposed upon them in their classes and textbooks.
Mary Roussel: Support Rabasco for tri-county DA
Ed Rabasco, a write-in district attorney candidate for Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties, is exceptionally qualified for the position. A University of Maine School of Law graduate, he’s a member of the Maine State Bar, Federal Court, U.S. Supreme Court Bar, and has experience with civil and criminal litigation. Maine Statute Title 21-A, Subsection 692 […]
Rep. Richard ‘Dick’ Pickett: Schmersal-Burgess is best replacement for House seat
I have spent much time finding the right candidate to replace me. The candidate I endorse must voice the needs of our home district and Maine. My replacement must go to Augusta with an open heart, an open mind, and a strong belief in traditional family values. We now have the right person. I am […]
Froma Harrop: Sometimes you need a really big screen
The super attendance numbers for “Top Gun: Maverick” has theater owners flying at Mach 10.
Pete Laverdiere: Bring Poliquin back to U.S. Congress
Let’s not mess this up. This upcoming primary we have a clear choice to defeat liberal Jared Golden. Let’s consider the following facts: Only one Republican has won the 2nd congressional district in 25 years. Only one Republican has done the hard work of raising the money necessary to compete against the President Biden/Nancy Pelosi/Golden […]