René Zaldumbide: America at a ‘fork in the road’

Once again as in Robert Frost’s poem, we find ourselves at a “fork in the road.” We decidedly took the wrong path in 2016 and got saddled with a weird combination of carnival barker, snake oil salesman and a flimflam man — the most unqualified person for the office of president of these United States, […]

Church filling shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child

MEXICO — The First Baptist Church of Mexico is this year’s Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child Shoebox drop-off point for this area of Western Maine. During National Collection Week, Nov. 16 to 23, the church will finish their own boxes and gathering others. For many years, Franklin Graham’s ministry of Samaritan’s Purse has spread The […]

Ben DeTroy: Vote Coolidge for House District 65

I’m pleased to support Misty Coolidge for House District 65. A dynamic entrepreneur, she understands all too well the challenges of running a successful small business. Her sincerity and can-do attitude will help us all move on from these difficult times. We are fortunate to have her as a candidate. Ben DeTroy, New Gloucester

Michael Boom: Go play in the mud

I would like to say a word or two about the virtues of playing in the mud. When I was young and got under my mother’s skin, she would say to me, “Get out of my face and go play in the mud.” Please, parents, don’t stop encouraging your children to go outside and play […]

West Paris church conducts services following CDC guidelines

WEST PARIS —The First Universalist Church of West Paris holds services at 9 a.m. Sundays while observing the safety practices of wearing masks and social distancing. The congregation is not singing during the hymns, but music is being provided by Tom Coolidge. Service topics are as follows: Nov. 1: “Let Us Never Forget” led by […]

Oxford County Spirit of America Award winners announced

SOUTH PARIS — The Oxford County Commissioners recognize groups and individuals for their exceptional volunteer work within the county. The commissioners normally honor the Spirit of America award recipients in person, but this year due to COVID-19, the certificates will be mailed. This years’ winners will also be invited to attend the 2021 ceremony. The following […]

Austin Dumont: Time for new U.S. Senate leadership

Susan Collins was an independent leader, serving the best interests of Maine. In recognition, Mainers rewarded her with an overwhelming victory in 2014. However, a lot has changed since then. On the key votes, she stands with Mitch McConnell and President Trump. She supported Trump’s tax cut plan, of which 40% went to the richest […]

Cindy Elias: The facts back Rep. Sheats’ reelection

I have seen a disturbing amount of outside negative advertising in the House District 64 race. I urge all voters to get facts about both candidates from credible sources: for example, the Maine Ethics Commission has thorough, accurate information about campaign finances. Rep. Bettyann Sheats has publicly denounced these negative ads. She stands ready, as […]

Community briefs for Thursday, Oct. 29

Halloween Walk to change to drive-thru event DIXFIELD — The area Halloween Walk that is usually on Weld Street will be a drive-thru event from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, at Mountain View Campground.   Perpetual Holy Rosary to be recited with prayers for election LEWISTON — The month of October is dedicated […]

Cartoon for Thursday, Oct. 29