Fireflies shone like constellations in 2009 when I moved into a new development in Falmouth. Once we started spraying our lawns with pesticides, the fireflies retreated to untreated open spaces. Now their stars have almost disappeared. Pesticides kill more than pests. They kill fireflies, butterflies and bees — species we enjoy, species that pollinate our […]
Letters
Letters to the editor.
Posted inLetters
Resignation in Kennebunk sparks concern for teachers’ rights | Letter
I’m writing to express my dismay at the resignation of teacher Richard Klatt. Surely Superintendent Grimm and school leadership could be doing more to protect the free speech of teachers. As a lifelong educator, I know that the example we set for our students goes far beyond what we teach in the classroom. Speaking up for […]
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We must limit the harmful effects of pesticides in Falmouth | Letter
A campaign based on merit doesn’t need to trick people. Which leads me to wonder, is the “Yes” on Falmouth Article 1 campaign deliberately misleading or ignorant of pesticides? Yes on 1 asserts Falmouth’s existing common-sense pesticide ordinance is “unfair” and “illogical.” False. It is endorsed by Maine Audubon, Cumberland County Soil and Water Conservation […]
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South Portland chemical stench must be addressed | Letter
I live at the Fore River end of Sawyer Street in Ferry Village, South Portland. In the morning, almost every morning, there is a petroleum smell in the air. It is distinct, unmistakable, foul and smells harmful. I would not go for a jog and breathe deeply. I do not know if it is related […]
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Maine Marathon did Portland proud | Letter
In the midst of national and international turmoil, the event brought smiles and a sense of possibilities.
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Vote ‘Yes’ on 1 because every vote should be protected | Letter
Once I was registered, when I went to vote for the first time after moving to Maine 20-plus years ago, I was shocked to learn I wasn’t required to prove who I was in order to vote. I only needed to state my name and address. Maine’s process contrasts with the state I moved from, […]
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Portland doesn’t need to be cleaned up, it needs to demonstrate compassion | Letter
In the Oct. 9 edition, this newspaper ran a story announcing Jonathan Bush’s run for governor. In it, Bush pledged to “clean up” Portland. He claimed that “Portland should be livable for its residents.” I’m a Portland resident who attends choir practice from 7 to 9 p.m. each week at First Parish. Many people from […]
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Voter ID is about security, not exclusion | Letter
Maine’s elections are a cornerstone of our democracy, and ensuring their integrity is paramount. Requiring voter ID at the polls is a common-sense measure to protect the process, boost public confidence and deter potential fraud. Adding a straightforward ID requirement can further safeguard our votes without compromising access. Voter ID laws address a critical need: […]
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US colleges should resist government interference | Letter
Inundated by negative news about how problematic American culture has become, it’s hard to escape the fact that the ultra-wealthy have assumed control — we are now a plutocracy. Billionaires now want to dictate how we are governed, how we are taught, who deserves opportunity, what religions are acceptable rather than let a dynamic marketplace […]
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Thanks to all the letter writers | Letter
I just wanted to write to show how much I appreciate these letters to the editor. It’s my second favorite part of the paper (after the comics) and is like social media without the bad parts. I get to hear five opinions per day from literate people (real people, not AI), and those people aren’t […]