I have some dueling feelings, and would like to know what you are doing today? Are you headed to the Maine Mall for some holiday shopping? Putting up your Christmas tree? Football game? Browse social media and offer your political opinions? How are you making the world around you a better place? I am not … Continue reading Let’s stick together
Meet the ‘new’ boss
In about 24 hours, I will have the privilege and honor of being the first to introduce members of my community to the new members of the Biddeford City Council. I will be the master of ceremonies at the inauguration of Mayor Alan Casavant, the nine members of the city council and the seven members … Continue reading Meet the ‘new’ boss
Thanksgiving 2013
What I am thankful for this year . . .
Dangerous Type
During the last official meeting of the 2011-2013 Biddeford City Council, Mayor Alan Casavant said, " . . . history will look favorably upon this council." I think he was right, but that may be a hard pill to swallow for the four councilors who lost their re-election bids: Roch Angers, David Bourque, Rick Laverriere … Continue reading Dangerous Type
Feeling gravity’s pull
At first glance, the two men who represent the city of Saco in the Maine Legislature seem worlds apart. One is 22 years old and openly gay; the other is 62 and married with children. While Justin Chenette is serving his first term in the Maine House of Representatives, Barry Hobbins is serving his seventh term in … Continue reading Feeling gravity’s pull
Another Tricky Day
It was -- at best -- a bit of a stretch. The Maine Chamber of Commerce held its annual dinner and awards ceremony Friday and landed U.S. Senator Angus King as its keynote speaker. Thus, the event's theme was Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. You probably remember the 1939 movie that made actor Jimmy Stewart … Continue reading Another Tricky Day
A whiter shade of pale
I found it in the most unlikely of places. It was written by the most unlikely of authors. It intrigued me, and its aftermath terrified me. It was a column headlined: "Let's talk limits," a well-written and balanced piece about the hype and rhetoric that surrounds our nation's gun control debate. It was published in Guns … Continue reading A whiter shade of pale
Detroit, rock city
Ward One City Councilor Mike Swanton Even with the best of intentions, it's too easy to screw up. Case in point: The way Biddeford City Councilor Mike Swanton objected to a state law that allows municipalities to share a portion of proceeds seized following the conviction of a drug crime. On Wednesday, fewer than 24 … Continue reading Detroit, rock city
Smoking in the boys’ room
I have a friend --- let's call him Todd --- who thinks that the city of Portland, Maine is so hip, so cool and oh so wonderful. Todd fled the pace and grind of Boston in order to raise his family in place that is consistently ranked as one of the country's most "livable" cities, whatever that … Continue reading Smoking in the boys’ room
Dead letter office
I was speaking with a friend yesterday about the recent municipal elections in Biddeford. "I bet you're glad it's over," he said. "Over?" I responded. "It's hardly over. Already candidates are lining up for local legislative races that will be decided next November. There's always another election around the corner." He shook his head and … Continue reading Dead letter office
NOTES TO CARL | LESSONS IN MEDIOCRITY 