Happy Fourth of July, everyone! This holiday is such an interesting one. It doesn’t follow the holiday norms. I mean, it’s not connected to a religious faith like Christmas, Rosh Hashanah or Eid. It isn’t tied to the seasons like a solstice or Thanksgiving. It is not connected with a national identity, like St. Patrick’s […]
Forecaster opinion
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Northern Forecaster, Portland Forecaster, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry
Mainewhile: Rent-a-cat business may be answer to mouse problem
Built in the year 1818, my parents’ home is an utterly charming little post-and-beam Cape, set on the corner of two tiny roads in a rural Maine town. Surrounded by trees and meadow, it paints an idyllic picture and has welcomed, nurtured and cocooned the family for years now. Sit in it quietly, though, and […]
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Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Through My Lens: New Portland-Lewiston bus service a big relief for immigrants
The announcement of the new commuter bus service between Lewiston-Auburn and Portland starting in July is great news for Mainers, especially for the immigrant communities in the area. This new service from the state is a big step forward in improving transportation and promoting inclusivity in Maine. Transportation has always been a critical issue for […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: My mother’s deliberate life, and gender roles
I write to you all this week from my mother’s bedside. She’s in hospice care. These are our last few days together. I know. That’s a lot. I’m sorry I sprung that on you. As you might imagine, though, this is what I am thinking about right now, so this is the conversation. Well, sort […]
Posted inForecaster Opinion, The Forecaster
Portland Superintendent’s Notebook: Finishing the school year with awards and distinction
Did you know that Portland Public Schools recently received a School of the Year award for environmental learning? Or that two Casco Bay High School students won highly competitive 2024 Maine Literary Awards? Or that one of our custodians is an accomplished artist whose duck painting took the top prize in Maine’s 2024 Migratory Waterfowl […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: School’s out and I’ve got a summer syllabus
Lazy days and fishing holes, summer camp and cookouts. I grew up “knowing” this tradition dated back to the beginnings of our nation so kids could work the family farm. Alas, as with so many “truths” from my youth, that’s not quite it. In fact, our current school calendar is more of a hybrid compromise […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Curious minds just may find solution for ospreys
Dang it. If there is one thing I really hate, it is having a perfectly good rant ruined by facts. That is so profoundly annoying. I pass through Bath just about every day. For years and years I have loved watching the osprey that nest atop the power pole. Then, earlier this spring – the […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Through My Lens: Bittersweet memories of very real culture shock
You often hear the term “culture shock” when immigrants and native Mainers meet. It is one of my favorite topics, provoking bittersweet memories of my arrival in Maine and how I adapted. Merriam-Webster defines culture shock as “a sense of confusion and uncertainty sometimes with feelings of anxiety that may affect people exposed to an […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Invasion of lilacs a great thing. Invasive plants? Not so much
Oh happy, day, oh happy day. The lilacs are out at my house. This year, the floral display is a little bit extra because the hawthorn bush has grown up and interwoven with the lilac so there are delicate white blossoms wound around the heavy purple clusters. It is really special. Lilacs are one of […]
Posted inNorthern Forecaster, The Forecaster
Letter: State rep endorses Abbott for Yarmouth council
I wholeheartedly endorse Heather Abbott for reelection to the Yarmouth Town Council on June 11. Heather’s unwavering commitment and inclusive approach have significantly contributed to our community’s progress on important issues like affordable housing and passing a Climate Action Plan. I especially appreciate Heather’s support on an issue that is near to my heart, restoring […]