Observing Hollywood’s posturing poseurs deliver their goods at the Oscars, as they ooze self-righteousness and narcissism, triggers a pesky thought that no doubt erupts in the minds of normal people. That is, few of those luminaries strutting across the stage are affected by the events or ideas targeted by their ego-driven drivel. Thus, the question […]

 Happy Sunshine Week. (March 12 to 18) This week, newspapers across the country will publish stories about the importance of public records and measure how well their local governments allow access to information. Public records are very serious business for newspapers because they form the backbone of most newspaper stories. Newspapers are the loudest ones screaming when legislators have […]

One of the most brilliant, influential Catholic intellectuals of the past half century has died at age 83. He was Michael Novak, theologian, philosopher, and gentleman—truly, a gentle man. I had the privilege to know Michael well. One of the great, undeserved honors of my life was sharing the stage with him at Franciscan University […]

Every so often, the political news gets so rich in misinformation or distorted facts, that it becomes time to expose some myths. The first myth: President Trump deserves our respect, because he was elected president.  In fact, it’s the presidency that merits our respect.  The U.S. is unusual in combining the head of state, the […]

The president has refocused government resources in apprehending and deporting undocumented immigrants. At the same time the Department of Justice has rescinded an order to phase out the use of private prisons. This move seems to indicate that private prisons will be needed (and utilized) to house the thousands of individuals who will be apprehended […]

Legislating by referenda — a bad idea? Once again Maine voters will be asked to become legislators for a day next November when there will be at least two citizens’ initiated referendum questions to vote on. To date, the secretary of state’s office has certified — and we will be voting on — another attempt […]

At the last Sanford City Council meeting, I decided to voice my opinion regarding the commercial elements of Maine’s new Marijuana Legalization Act.   I chose to make my feelings known because I continuously hear about the wonderful financial benefits of marijuana sales in places like Colorado and Washington State.  There seems to be a […]

It took some time for the nation to appreciate the services offered and sacrifices endured by men and women who served during the Vietnam War. In addition to 58,000 deaths, there remains the enduring physical and psychological trauma experienced by many Vietnam veterans. Those of us who served during the Vietnam War appreciate the belated […]

Free speech has always been one of our most cherished rights. It has come under attack repeatedly by those who find it to be an inconvenient and unwanted obstacle to the attainment of their political goals. Sometimes, those in positions of power ignore the First Amendment and issue laws and regulations to silence their opponents. […]

Donald Trump is an honest man. When the president says the traditional media, sometimes labeled “heritage,” “main stream.” or “lame steam,” is publishing “fake news,” he believes it. How can he think that traditional media reports, backed by sound evidence, are fake, while his claims are accurate? task because he got the facts about Sweden […]