University of New Hampshire announces dean’s list DURHAM, N.H. — The following area students have been named to the dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire for the fall 2020 semester: Faye Taylor of Brownfield, honors; Kaia Staples of Brownfield, highest honors; Jasmine Taudvin of Gray, highest honors; Olivia Toole of Naples, high honors; […]
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.
Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Bob Neal: The Countryman: A new religious divide
Mainline and fundamentalist Protestants have differed for decades over how to get to heaven. Mainline Protestants and Catholics believe we are judged on how we live our lives. Whence the social gospel, by which Christians such as St. Francis of Assisi and Mother Teresa dedicate their lives to serving others.
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Posted inConnections
Jay man follows father’s tradition, wins Christmas contest
FARMINGTON — Dave Poulin of Jay won the best overall category in the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area’s “Deck the Halls” contest this year. He donated his $100 prize back to United Way, saying he didn’t enter for the prize money. An employee of Androscoggin Mill, Poulin said Christmas decorating is his passion. Participants […]
Posted inLetters, Opinion
Jamie Beaulieu: Tax cuts, ‘military adventurism,’ haven’t helped
Despite promising to better the lives of Americans through tax reforms and military adventurism, the legislators responsible have in fact made life in America less comfortable for the majority of us. They have committed more than $14 trillion in debt spending to these initiatives since 2002, leaving us with little to show for it. The […]
Posted inConnections
West Paris church announces February services
WEST PARIS — The First Universalist Church of West Paris has announced its February services. Worship begins at 9 a.m., and all are welcome. The church is following COVID-19 safety practices of wearing masks and social distancing. Members are not singing during the hymns, but Tom Coolidge is providing music. The schedule is as follows: […]
Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Cal Thomas: Is modern media more biased than before?
There is a perception, supported by many surveys, that what passes for contemporary journalism is more biased, even propagandistic, than in earlier times. One of the definitions of “journalism” on Dictionary.com will affirm that attitude for many: “writing that reflects superficial thought and research, a popular slant, and hurried composition…”
Posted inLetters, Opinion
Catherine Ferrell: Prioritize vaccinations over impeachment
Maine has a troubling number of new COVID-19 cases daily. Residents are struggling to put food on the table, educate children, keep family members safe, and just come out on the other side of the pandemic intact. Life as we knew it is a thing of the past. Neighbors are now afraid to help neighbors. […]
Posted inLetters, Opinion
Cathy Newell: Praise for online learning opportunities
The Sun Journal’s Jan. 24 article about the online opportunities that School Administrative District 52 Adult Education is providing to brighten the lives of folks during the pandemic was a highlight of that issue. My years in adult education in SAD 44 and at the Maine Adult Education Association covered the introduction of technology and […]