An unguarded election process is a threat to all of us. If only a few votes make the difference in the choosing of one candidate over another, as is often the case, then every vote is critical to ensure an accurate and secure election. Without this confidence in the integrity of Maine’s elections, the will […]

This letter is a plea to local communities and businesses to stop using the corporate, for-profit, information gathering, Facebook, to be their sole means of announcing local events. I do not want to go to a town’s website to be redirected to Facebook for further information about local recreation or entertainment opportunities. I am not […]

I served more than 35 years as the town clerk for Lisbon. My favorite part of the job was preparing and running elections. I took great pride in making sure it was convenient and secure for eligible voters to vote.  Question 1 provokes fear, claiming our system needs to be more secure. The truth is […]

On that sunny No Kings rally day in my hometown, I held my “NO KINGS” sign high, with enthusiasm and hope. I was inspired by the signs and smiles of fellow Mainers. I returned to my home, placed the sign in the corner and wondered, “What should I do with it? Throw it away? But […]

In October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we reflect on both our progress and the work still ahead here in Maine. According to the Maine Department of Labor, our state continues to face more than 40,000 open positions. At the same time, thousands of capable Mainers with disabilities remain unemployed or underemployed. As someone who […]

The coverage of “No Kings” day was extensive, page after page of photos and words. But these papers barely mentioned the momentous, history-making arrangements changing the Middle East. Pledges of up to 30 countries to spend their money to rebuild war-torn Gaza; Hamas returning hostages; an invitation to Iran to rebuild its economy instead of […]

Why do I strongly support a red flag law? Because gun violence is the leading cause of pediatric deaths, and states with these laws have lower gun violence rates.  A red flag law, or Extreme Risk Protection Order, streamlines the temporary removal of a firearm from someone who is at risk. Family members can petition […]