Lately, it seems, American culture and politics are increasingly focused on fairness and equality. We have attempted during the last decade to create several new individual "rights." The right to healthcare, the right to faster internet speeds, income equality and a whole bunch of other rights that are intended to level the playing field. I call these "feel … Continue reading The “fairness” doctrine
Why I am a Republican
From time to time, my friends on the other side of the political aisle ask me why I choose to be a registered Republican. As the 114th Congress begins to ramp up, and because the debate between "true conservatives" and "mainstream moderates' in the Republican Party once again manifested itself during the selection of House Speaker … Continue reading Why I am a Republican
Ginger or Mary Ann?
It's become an age-old question: Ginger or Mary Ann? And more often than not, men between the ages of 40 and 60 do not hesitate with their response. With the passing yesterday of Donna Douglas (Elly Mae Clampett), I once again started thinking about the television shows of my youth. And more than any other … Continue reading Ginger or Mary Ann?
‘Tis the Season; my two favorite Christmases
Another Christmas is right around the corner, and this holiday feels different from so many others that have come and gone. I suspect some of you may be feeling the same way, considering the stress that too often accompanies the holiday season. I'm not sure why I am having a harder time getting into the spirit of … Continue reading ‘Tis the Season; my two favorite Christmases
Facts are stubborn things
I am at a distinct disadvantage writing these words. I am white. I am also the husband of a former police officer, thus I am somewhat biased. But I will proceed regardless; because all the news, all the commentary, and all the passionate debate about what happened in Ferguson, Missouri has sparked my memory, jarred my … Continue reading Facts are stubborn things
A hidden message
My friend Alan Caron has some sage advice that each and every newly elected member of the Maine Legislature should read. Alan's column regulary appears in the Portland Press Herald, and an excerpt of his latest piece ( Last election had a hidden message for Maine's leaders) can be found here: "Given the many challenges … Continue reading A hidden message
Just another new kid in town
Last week, I introduced two new legislators who are both Democrats from Biddeford.This week, we take a trip to the other side of the political aisle and the town of Cornish to meet Nathan Wadsworth, a young man who has been an acquaintance of mine for almost a decade. Nathan's father, Jack, owns and operates … Continue reading Just another new kid in town
We were only freshmen
Democrats in Maine and across the country took a drubbing during last week's elections, but there were a few bright spots, including the city of Biddeford, where State Senator David Dutremble easily fended off a challenge by Republican James Booth; and where two political newcomers held their party's seats in the Maine Legislature. In fairness, … Continue reading We were only freshmen
Take Five
My wife, Governor Paul Lepage, Bill Nemitz, a charity auction and the in-patient psychiatric unit at Maine Medical Center. How did these random things become connected last week, causing a bit of a stir on my Facebook page last night? Let's start at the top. Last week, just days before the election, Governor Paul LePage joked … Continue reading Take Five
We’re the kids in America
WARNING: If you are a partisan Democrat or Republican, you may not want to continue reading because this post will surely piss you off. Nearly 24 hours after the polls closed, there is still a fair amount of wailing and gnashing of teeth going on here in Maine, where Republicans had much to celebrate last night. … Continue reading We’re the kids in America
NOTES TO CARL | LESSONS IN MEDIOCRITY 