The turning of the calendar begs for New Year’s resolutions, even though, as adults, we know – whether it’s giving up ice cream or promising to hit the gym at least five days a week – the best of intentions might well be a distant memory by March. As students head back into the classrooms […]
Forecaster opinion
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly
Through My Lens: Maine embodies true American dream, not Hollywood version
New immigrants to Maine quickly find that Maine is not the America portrayed by Hollywood. I shockingly learned that firsthand 10 years ago. Maine is not the bustling streets of Boston, the iconic skyline of New York or the glitz and glamor of L.A. or Vegas. Crowded streets, taxis zooming around and bars frequented by […]
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Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Let’s get practical and ditch those grand resolutions
It’s a new year! So much potential. So much promise. And, you guys? I have exciting news to share with you. This year is the year. This is it. This is the year I finally complete my edits on the book I wrote and get it off to the publisher. This is also the year […]
Posted inForecaster Opinion, The Forecaster
Forum: Ill-conceived Drowne Road project would negatively impact Cumberland
The Cumberland Town Council is poised to move ahead with a controversial affordable housing project that compromises the integrity of the town plan for the neighborhood at Tuttle and Drowne roads. This project calls for the construction of 107 units and has provision for approximately 200 parked cars and over 200 residents – more than […]
Posted inForecaster Opinion, The Forecaster
Forum: Town’s climate action plan omits a key threat: idling motors
The town of Falmouth’s Climate Action Plan just landed in my email inbox. Town leaders deserve kudos for the years of work that produced the plan, which “contains strategies and actions that will guide decisions and development for the town until 2050.” The above quote from the plan is important. These sorts of documents are […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Head healthily into winter by heading out to the woods
Well, here we all are. The holiday season has peaked, and now we are slushing and sliding into the new year. How are you holding up? The question might sound flippant, but I mean it. Winter is hard and while the holidays, with all of the lights and the “making merry” and whatnot, are intended […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, The Forecaster
Through My Lens: Help immigrants navigate threat of Trump’s return
Former President Trump’s recent derogatory remarks on immigrants, including the alarming statement, “They are poisoning the blood of our country,” have sent shockwaves through Maine’s immigrant community. The looming prospect of Trump’s return, coupled with his policy proposals like advocating for the “largest deportation operation in history,” has instilled fear as the 2024 election approaches. […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Christmas tree farmers take note for next year: Add dogs
Right, so I realize this is a little late in the game, but for those of us who celebrate Christmas, there is a farm, a tree farm, out there doing it right. Not that all you other Christmas tree farms are getting it “wrong,” but this farm just really nailed the Christmas vibe. How, you […]
Posted inForecaster Opinion, The Forecaster
Portland Superintendent’s Notebook: Joyful celebrations and a budget update
This year, the Portland Public Schools will face a particularly challenging budget. While the challenges are many, they fall into three primary categories. First, COVID relief funds from the federal government have provided districts across the country with significant funding, but that is ending. For Portland, that will mean a loss of more than $9 […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly
Mainewhile: Think outside the box for gift giving this year
The odds are good that, no matter what your religious affiliation, you are currently in the midst of the holiday gift giving bonanza also known as the month of December. I’ve heard tales of people so organized, so prepared, that their holiday shopping is already complete. Can this be true? Who are you people? My […]