Alex Lear
A Maine native and Colby College graduate, Alex has been covering coastal communities since 2001. He lives in the Portland area with his wife Lauren, 4-year-old daughter Alaina, and 7-year-old bulldog Walter. He has released four CDs of original music and does occasional research work for Marvel Comics' collected editions.
Franklin Savings Bank names new commercial underwriting officer
FARMINGTON — Franklin Savings Bank has promoted Christopher Raymond to commercial underwriting officer. Having joined the bank in 2021, he will oversee its commercial underwriting processes. “Christopher’s strategic thinking and thorough approach to underwriting have been instrumental to the growth of our commercial lending department. His leadership and vision will be key as we continue […]
William LaRochelle: Donald Trump: Prevaricator plus
As Rep. Jamie Raskin stated in his Democratic National Convention speech concerning Donald Trump, “Make no mistake: A man who uses fraud, theft and violence to take power will commit any crime to keep it.” Yes, and the self-avowed Christian who’s lied outrageously for ages, who’s stated he doesn’t need God’s forgiveness because he doesn’t […]
Michael Boom: ‘Imagine history coming back to haunt us’
The GOP, otherwise known as the Grand Old Party, has become a party of toadies. A toady is a person willing to yield to the will of the rich or powerful. Far too many toadies are being propped up in order to promote their proxy mouthpiece, Donald Trump. Trump and his toadies will stop at […]
Bill Trommer: Golden ‘an independent thinker’ who deserves reelection
As a Democrat, I am enthusiastically supporting Congressman Jared Golden again this year in his quest for reelection. Jared is an independent thinker who bases his decisions on what he feels is in the best interest of the people of the Second District. I don’t always agree with his positions on issues, but I do […]
Paul Gilbert: Bryant ‘a proven leader’ for Senate District 17
When seeking to hire, one looks for someone who is competent and knowledgeable. The same holds true when we vote for a state senator. Maine needs proven leaders in the Maine Legislature. In electing Bruce Bryant, we are not only voting for a state senator, we are electing a competent and knowledgeable leader for our […]
In rebuttal: Rep. Margaret Craven: Legislature has made responsible investments to benefit all
In his Aug. 14 letter (“Maine’s Legislature spent our money like drunken sailors“), Mark Wood concluded by referencing a quote from the movie “Jaws,” which is fitting given that his letter is full of fear mongering and misinformation. Over the last two years, the Legislature has made significant — but responsible — investments in Maine […]
Sarah Ward: Rep. Cloutier ‘a true champion’ for Lewiston’s children, families
Rep. Kristen Cloutier is a true champion for the children and families of Lewiston. Her continued advocacy is needed in Augusta. Her accomplishments include introducing and passing legislation to provide grants for family caregivers who may have to forego income in order to care for loved ones. She worked hard to get $10 million to […]
Debbie Morin: Hunters must be sure before they shoot
I always read the hunting columns in the newspaper, I guess hoping to see much-needed changes in the laws making hunting season safer for everyone. Instead, this week I was appalled to read, in Bob Humphrey’s column (“Hunting: If you can stand the bugs and the heat, early season can’t be beat,” Sept. 1), how […]
Kevin Scott: Martin offers alternative to career politicians
I have known Joe Martin of Rumford for years. Joe and his girlfriend Trisha run a store in Andover. Their place is well known for great food and great conversation. Quietly and without great recognition, Joe has worked tirelessly as chair of the Oxford County Republican Party for well over 10 years. His success has […]