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.
Froma Harrop: Republicans don’t want to pay their own bills
Republicans will not win hearts by insisting that they don’t have to help America repay its debts — especially since they racked up so much of them.
Kathleen Meil, Grant Provost and Mary Kaszynski: Build Back Better: Common ground is common sense
A more sustainable planet, thriving economy, and stronger communities are just a few votes away from becoming a reality. We urge Maine’s entire federal delegation to support the Build Back Better Act alongside the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework. We have the power to truly transform our nation with these pivotal bills.
Jennifer Hutchinson: Expanded Maine State Grant Program is a powerful investment in Maine’s future
One of the biggest and most impactful actions taken by Gov. Janet Mills and the Legislature this year was the $10 million increase in funding for the Maine State Grant program. This one action may well be that gateway for thousands of Mainers to enroll in, and complete, their post-secondary degree.
Bob Neal: The Countryman: Chattering at us from above
The minute-to-minute news feed, often jammed with messages from above, can spin the head of even the most devoted news junkie. Many of those messages miss the mark. Some badly.
Cal Thomas: The death, debt and debauched Democrats
After last week’s House vote that saw all but one Democrat, Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), and no Republicans vote for the Women’s Health and Protection Act, a bill that would establish a federal right to an abortion, the party that once claimed to stand for “the little guy” — the littlest being the unborn baby — has now hit the trifecta.
Roger Philippon: Sheline a ‘forward-thinking advocate’ of Lewiston
As a member of the Lewiston Finance Committee and former Lewiston city councilor, I know that effective municipal governing is about bringing people together to tackle the many challenges a city faces. That is why I am supporting Carl Sheline for mayor. A committed, enthusiastic, and forward-thinking advocate of this city, Carl understands the importance […]
Dick Wagner: Sheline should be Lewiston’s next mayor
When I heard that Carl Sheline had decided to run for mayor of Lewiston, I thought, “Of course! He’s perfect for the position.” Carl is an energetic, resourceful man who cares deeply about his community. Over the past decade, he has been on numerous committees promoting the Lewiston/Auburn area. He doesn’t just “sit” on a […]
Ernestine ‘Tina’ Gilbert: Leroy Walker ‘an asset to his constituents’
I was so glad to recently learn that Leroy Walker will be on the ballot for Ward 5 in New Auburn. He is definitely an asset to his constituents both as a catalyst for progressive change and as a knowledgeable resource in meeting their individual needs. As a past councilor in Ward 4 I was […]