The Sept. 28 op-ed on how Maine’s property taxes are choking residents was timely (“Maine is choking its future. It’s time to loosen the grip.”). National political developments suggest that the move to pass more responsibilities onto the states, while not equitably passing on the funding for these responsibilities, will only make local problems worse. […]

While on holiday in Spain, my daughter-in-law, my granddaughter, her friend and I hosted a farewell dinner for the friend’s partner, his mother and aunt. We had a bits and bobs feast: paella, empanadas, salad, sautéed vegetables, cheese, bread, wine. Lots of talk, exchange of family history, a touch on world affairs, opinions about people, […]