It’s July in Maine, which is always a lush, green time of year. Our garden is doing great, and the bees are bringing in lots of nectar. The fields where I live in Arundel have had their first cutting of hay, and the grocery stores and farmers’ markets are bursting with fresh, local produce. Maine’s […]
Courier Opinion
Beyond the Headlines: Students recognized for civic leadership
One of my favorite times of the year is high school graduation season. It’s such a special time to celebrate the hard work and dedication of student achievement with the excitement of further career preparation ahead. I have fond memories of donning my maroon and gold at Thornton Academy, as I walked across the stage […]
From Augusta: Addressing the costs of climate change
Earlier this month, the Portland Press Herald reported that Maine homeowners are experiencing the second-largest home insurance premium increase in the country. It’s no coincidence to receive this news at the same time that Maine endured more severe weather, including a historic heat wave and a rare tornado watch. In 2023, northern New England experienced […]
Ruralist Lament: Growing discontentment without health care for all
The growing season so far has been less punishing than last year’s when rain was a too-frequent and unwelcome visitor. But as our planet is pushed into a less human-hospitable climate regime, these unfriendly swings and swerves are to be expected. As a strawberry grower reminded me recently, it’s always “Wait ’til next year” in […]
Beyond the Headlines: Pride represents a celebration of progress, diversity
While it’s gotten more divisive in recent years, I do believe pride can be a great unifier and bring us together in celebration and recognition of our shared humanity, love, and diversity. While the basics of the human experience might be universal, there are different groups of people who have struggled with the pursuit of […]
From Augusta: Recovering from the storm, planning for the future
Flooding and erosion is not new to coastal communities, like ours. Camp Ellis has long been the canary in the coal mine for communities experiencing severe flooding and erosion. However, between the increase in both frequency of extreme weather events and the damage caused by these storms, it’s clear more action and support is needed. […]
From Augusta – Recovering from severe storms, preparing for climate change
In the weeks and months following the devastating severe winter storms, I heard loud and clear from folks across the district: “We need help.” That’s why, in the most recent legislative session, I was determined to vote for the $60 million storm relief package that would help people and businesses rebuild and recover. I heard […]
Ruralist Lament: No country for old men
In 1970, I entered the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Sanford office looking for some soils maps of the homestead place. A man named “Sid” was behind the counter that day. He asked about the farm’s location. He brightened in recognition when I described it. “Oh, I know that place,” he said. “That’s only good for […]
Feed a bird, soothe a soul: bird feeding helps seniors
There really is no time of the year when feeding birds isn’t productive and rewarding. Winter, spring, summer or fall … once the birds know there is something to eat, they’ll spread the word and start flocking to feeders. I’m not sure how it happens. Does one bird find the treasure trove and subsequently alert […]
From Augusta: Reflections on the end of the legislative session
On May 10, the 131st Maine Legislature came to a close after making significant progress on a number of issues most important to the people of Maine. In this column, I will share some updates on critical measures funded in our supplemental budget and reflections on my first term in office. Last month, Democrats in […]
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