Excerpts from recent editorials in newspapers in New England: The Times Herald-Record of Middletown on the Supreme Court ruling on cellphone privacy and law enforcement: In 2012, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. told a university audience that the challenge for the Supreme Court for the next 50 years would be: “How do we adapt […]

There’s nothing new about politicians using their offices to enhance their power. The word “gerrymander” was coined in 1812 after Massachusetts Gov. Elbridge Gerry signed a bill creating a legislative district that resembled a salamander. But gerrymandering, which shields lawmakers from any sort of political accountability, is a major contributor to the current paralysis in […]

Thumbs up to Community Library in Lyman and the efforts of Librarian Leila Roy, who has been on the job for about a year. Thanks to Roy’s enthusiasm and work, the library is boosting its offerings, which this summer means twice-a-week drop-in craft sessions ”“ on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m. […]

Excerpts from recent editorials in newspapers in the United States and abroad: Wall Street Journal on Iran’s hand in Gaza: More than 200 Palestinian rockets have descended on Israel in recent days, triggering an Israeli counteroffensive that was still taking shape as we went to press Tuesday. But as the drama plays out in the […]

With the deep partisan split, it is appealing to think that divided government is both a check on political excess and a driver for compromise. With no middle-of-the road influence in government, divided government should protect against extremes while forcing deals. At least in theory. A closer look suggests divided government doesn’t work as well […]

Controversy has arisen surrounding the plans for the new Sanford High School and Regional Technical Center, which is currently in the planning stages and set to be constructed by 2018. Tech Center Director Jim Stopa was unceremoniously fired from his position ”“ only one day before his planned June 30 retirement ”“ for speaking out […]

The Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Wells Water District is considering sending the question of whether of not the district adds fluoride to the water back out to the people, despite a serious lack of evidence that the mineral credited with protecting against tooth decay causes adverse health effects. The water district has been adding fluoride to […]