Any veteran of World War II can tell you stories. But for Frank E. Bryer, his story—one he could never forget—was a terrible one. It began the moment his ship, called the Rohna, was sunk. When that ship went down on Nov. 26, 1943, Frank’s life changed forever. And very few people beyond the men […]
Journal Tribune Opinion
Like to fly the Confederate battle flag?
To those Mainers flying the Confederate Battle Flag from the backs of trucks and porches or sporting patches and T-shirts emblazoned with the flag, I ask this: What would you say to Joshua Chamberlain if he walked up to you and asked what’s up with this flag you so proudly display? Being that you live […]
Trump faces growing opposition of his own creation
The government seems to be operating without a president. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican like President Trump, questions if his presidency can be saved. The 2016 campaign continues. Trump attacks Republicans, Democrats, and the media. He implies that he has no “moral” concern about Nazi and white supremacist demonstrators. If Democrats won’t support […]
Small town, known plans
It was Thursday again. Mabel Adams asked at the desk to be sure. “Thursday all day, Mabel,” the girl said. “Don’t forget to get your hair done today. Two o’clock … right?” “Right,” Mabel said, locking the time away in her mind. “Two o’clock. On Thursday.” She took her purple walker and went half a […]
Some successes, some failures during 128th Legislature
Earlier this month, I traveled back to Augusta for one last day to finally conclude the first legislative session of the 128thLegislature. On this day, we voted on two dozen bills that had been vetoed by the governor and took up all outstanding business. This proved to be another long day in Augusta, but I’m […]
Choosing a quality child care provider
Choosing a quality child care provider is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. A great provider will nurture your child and provide a safe, supportive environment in which to grow. To find the right fit for your family, be prepared to ask a lot of questions and be observant. Ask for […]
There are worse role models than athletes
Twenty-four years ago a Nike television ad featuring Charles Barkley, then one of the National Basketball Association’s top stars, got a good deal of attention. While viewers watched him dribble a basketball, powerfully grab a rebound, and perform an emphatic slam-dunk, Barkley sternly voiced-over 41 memorable words. “I am not a role model,” he intoned. […]
Saco Taxpayers – ‘Shock at Your Tax Bill’
Saco Taxpayers, You probably received your property tax bill recently. Some taxpayers were fortunate to see a decrease; there are many who did not. Though the mil rate is less than last year, the major reason for the increase is the assessed value of your property (house and land.) Property assessments are based on fair […]
Essential parenting
If you believe everything you read, then kids are doomed. If both of their parents work outside the home, then it’s hopeless. If one parent is a pastor, then forget about it. If one parent is missing, too bad. What if you skip on piano lessons, or soccer? What if you are in a bad […]
GOP faces Trump’s ‘base’ in Charlottesville
The white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia provides strong evidence of the widening division in American politics. President Trump’s reaction shows a new stage in the rightward evolution of the Republican Party, one rejected by many GOP leaders. He would not single out the far right demonstrators for responsibility, even after one of them had […]