As 2024 comes to a close, I look back positively on the influence that many engaged community members have had on notable efforts this past year. The year started with fresh results of a community survey – the second in three years – as well as other feedback on various topics from residents ranging from […]
Leader Opinion
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: The wondrous world of libraries, hearts of our communities
Ah, the fresh, clean start to a brand new year. So much promise, so much potential. I am setting aside the “traditional” resolutions this year and focusing instead on this idea: What is out there already that I want to pay attention to and be a part of? First on my list: Libraries. Man, I […]
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Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Social Security Fairness Act a great start to 2025
The new year is upon us. Farewell, 2024 and… welcome 2025? Sure, why not? Let’s hope for the best and ring in this new year with much joy and celebration. After all, who knows, it might just be the best year yet. None of us can see the future. As the late, and truly great, […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Tap into something real and serve one another
Hello, hello, hello and Yuletide greetings to all. Last week, I gave myself the present of writing down some notes, a quick sketch if you will, of my ideal community. I had more to say – so I am keeping that rolling right through the holiday season up to the end of the year. OK, […]
Posted inScarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry
From Augusta – Preparing for the 132nd Legislature
On Wednesday, Dec. 4, I was sworn in for a third term as your State Senator. It is an honor to continue representing the people of South Portland, Cape Elizabeth and part of Scarborough in the Maine State Senate. Over the past four years, I have enjoyed speaking with you about your concerns and the […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: A rough draft of how life should be
Here we are in mid-December. Everyone doing OK? I hope all of you are getting an ample supply of cookies, eggnog and merriment. I have decided to give myself the gift of using this space to sketch out my ideal community. Right here, in black and white, the way I wish life would be. Now, […]
Posted inScarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry
Forum: Abdi Nor Iftin belongs here as much as anyone does
I read, with deep sadness, the column by Abdi Nor Iftin last week where he stated he was “taking a step back, but not giving up.” I am not sure what has happened in this country, but this level of hatred is mind boggling. I have known Iftin for three years and have read his […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Instead of consumerism, try this Icelandic gift tradition
Sometimes things we think of as “usual” are not. This is how I have felt in the wake of the “I’m sorry, what now?” questions and comments, received following my mention that my family has adopted the Icelandic tradition of books on Christmas Eve in lieu of big gifts under the tree. To be honest, […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Mainewhile: Holiday spending is breathtaking; choose thoughtfully
The last of the cranberry sauce has been eaten, the first of the Advent calendar doors has been opened … I suppose we are well and truly in The Holiday Season. I am speaking here (or writing here to be exact) specifically about Christmas. There are, of course, many other holidays, both religious and secular, […]
Posted inAmerican Journal, Forecaster Opinion, Lakes Region Weekly, Scarborough Leader, South Portland Sentry, The Forecaster
Through My Lens: Taking a step back, but not giving up
Since the summer of 2020, writing for the local paper has been my greatest joy. Through my columns, I have built a community by sharing my love for this beautiful state I now call home, celebrating the culture, food and opportunities I’ve found here. As an immigrant and a proud naturalized American, I have used […]