The residents of Auburn and Minot are incredibly fortunate to have such a capable legislator in Bettyann Sheats. As a West Point graduate and veteran of the U.S. Army, she knows about service. As a legislator, service means doing her homework. In all of my questions to her about the issues, she has been remarkably […]
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.
Well done news for Friday, Oct. 16
MORRISVILLE, N.Y. — SUNY Morrisville has announced that Finneas Goodwin, of Auburn was named to the dean’s list for the spring semester. Goodwin is majoring in wood products technology. To be named, a student must achieve a 3.0 to 3.99 grade-point average for the semester and complete 12 credit hours. CANTON, N.Y. — A […]
Androscoggin’s annual hospice fundraiser goes virtual
LEWISTON — Androscoggin Home Healthcare + Hospice (Androscoggin) has announced the annual dinner/auction Autumn Night Out will transition to a virtual event— Autumn Night In. Committee Chairwoman Rebecca Swanson Conrad said, “As a healthcare organization it is incredibly important for us to keep the community safe, but at the same time continue to raise critical […]
NAMI Maine launches men’s mental health website
HALLOWELL — Maine’s chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Maine) has announced the launch of Mantherapy, a new web-based mental health resource platform for males in Maine. Mantherapy is designed for men who align themselves with traditional roles of masculinity, who may be reluctant to seek help for or who struggle with […]
Ellen Grunblatt: Reelect Riley to House District 74
I’m writing in support of Tina Riley’s reelection campaign. She has represented us in House District 74 for two terms. She is a member of the Joint Standing Committee of Energy, Utilities and Technology. She has sponsored or cosponsored bills that would enhance energy efficiency and conservation, improve conditions for people with disabilities, and increase […]
Cathy Newell: All need a voting plan this year
This year everyone needs a plan to vote; this may include voting by mail, or voting early in person at your town office, or in person on Nov. 3. People should consider their situation relating to the coronavirus and issues such as work schedule, transportation and child care. The Newells voted early in our local […]
Vicki Amoroso: Term limits should apply to Collins
There aren’t many things Democrats and Republicans agree upon in this derisive political climate, but there does seem to be one: term limits. Most Mainers do not believe in having career politicians in Washington. Maine voters have a chance to remove one of its career politicians from office in the November election. Sen. Collins once […]
Sarah Strong: Reelect Sheats to House District 64
As a West Point graduate who served seven years as an Army helicopter pilot, and as the owner/operator of a small business, Bettyann Sheats has brought a background of practical experience and leadership to her service in the Maine House. As a mother, nonprofit volunteer, and longtime resident of Auburn, she has the knowledge and […]
Rebecka Campbell: ‘Hard-working reps’ like Libby needed
Seeing yet another letter from a political candidate in my mailbox, I was tempted to throw it away — I’m glad I didn’t. Laurel Libby’s letter was personal and down to earth, free from political jargon and smear tactics. How refreshing. Ms. Libby recounted life lessons learned through quilting with her grandmother. She learned to […]
James Doar: Cole would make ‘solid’ Oxford commissioner
In 2009, I became the town manager in Bethel, following Scott Cole, who is now running for Oxford County commissioner. It was nice to step into an operation that was already running well. In the months and years to follow, I found Scott to be an encouraging professional who was always willing to answer questions, […]