While we often hear about a domestic violence problem in Maine, those who can do the most to improve it are not doing enough. We’re talking about victims.The latest example is the ex-girlfriend of Dwight Knox, a 39-year-old Jay man sentenced this week to laughable probation for aggravated assault, despite being accused of stabbing a […]

The news that Hannaford Bros. is the victim of fraud, including the pilfering of more than 4 million customer credit card numbers, is a devastating blow to the sense of security consumers should have about their financial information.Most of us who carry credit or debit cards know and take security precautions; after all, the threat […]

If a child, Iraq would be packing its first schoolbag, taking its first school bus rides, knowing its first tastes of independence. It would come home from kindergarten as a master of modern construction-paper art.Five is a magic age where children can emerge from their formative years, causing parents to reflect:Is this my child, my […]

In his mind, Scott Poirier was doing the right thing. By raising his rifle, Poirier was repaying his father Roland for a lifetime of abuse. In the aftermath, most of Scott Poirier’s family sided with him, and agreed his conduct was justified.His punishment, however, is not.Justice Joyce Wheeler, on Monday, handed Poirier a 12-year prison […]

Maine, you’re not alone. The Associated Press examined the budgets of all 50 states and found the same revenue shortfall, sky-is-falling scenario is occurring coast-to-coast.For such a diverse country, the state storylines are eerily similar.Many are cutting low-income health care and other social services, education funding and workers. Common tax and revenue proposals are centered […]

By proposing to balance DirigoChoice, in part, upon a 50-cent per-pack tax increase on tobacco makes us wonder what is being smoked in Augusta.The political notion of taxing smokers for a health insurance program is understandable; the health risks of smoking are undeniable, and the burden of smoking-related illnesses and diseases drives the cost of […]

If not Byron, then where?This is the new question for Maine regarding wind power, following the town’s rejection of turbine construction. A Brunswick company, Independence Wind, had proposed to build eight, with 20 more in neighboring Roxbury.Roxbury approved the turbines earlier this month, but hard feelings abound in Byron.Residents feel wronged by town officials who […]

Asking for an extension to implement Real ID, despite being the first state to reject it, shouldn’t be construed as Maine’s surrender. Given its strong opposition, the state’s unwillingness to accept the mandate is clear.Rather, asking for an extension recognizes the March 31 deadline set by the Department of Homeland Security to request one has […]

The town of Roxbury was rocked last week when a local firefighter was arrested and charged with setting fire to a vacant building. Joseph R. Gallant, 26, was accused of setting fire to a building just down the street from his Roxbury home.While certainly unusual, the idea of a firefighter turned firebug is not without […]

Plurality vote.Quorum of three.Home rule.How about common sense?In ousting two members from its ranks, Rumford selectmen made the wrong choice.Punishing selectmen for violating procedure doesn’t mean inventing procedure by which to remove them. Nothing in the town’s charter dictates the removal of selectmen; this responsibility – in common practice – lies with voters.It’s a terrible […]