Congratulations to my youngest son who is turning 18. I think Alice Cooper sums it up best, so enjoy the video and see this boy grow into a man. Happy birthday, Matthew! https://youtu.be/_pAMfkoGVBo
Category: BLOG POSTS
Commentary that has not been published elsewhere.
When things go right
Regular readers of this blog know that I believe strongly in the power of social media. Social media has been used to topple governments, connect people globally around a common cause and to highlight awareness of issues that may otherwise go unnoticed. You can also use the awesome power of social media to put pressure … Continue reading When things go right
Ship of fools
There's a right way and a wrong way to handle social media, and in the city of Biddeford, orange can now step aside because Facebook is the new black. Biddeford's political machinations have always been colorful and somewhat interesting. But lately, our city's colorful political landscape has gone from an interesting mix of pastels to a nightmarish blend … Continue reading Ship of fools
Dime Store Mystery
Moments after learning that she had been ousted from the mayor's seat, Joanne Twomey declared that the citizens of Biddeford "don't deserve me." She was right. We deserve better. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mON5exIv60Q In my last newspaper column, published in December 2005, I tried to explain what motivated that column for so many years. "Political bullies are very … Continue reading Dime Store Mystery
When All Else Fails
Who do you turn to when all else fails? Who has your back? Who's got your six? It occurs to me that I have been blogging here for a little more than three years. We have covered a lot of topics, from politics to my ongoing struggles with a mental illness. I have posted humorous … Continue reading When All Else Fails
No woman, no cry in Biddeford
Critics of the Republican Party often say the GOP is the party of old, white men: a diminishing demographic in a nation with increasing diversity. Roger Hurtubise Clement Fleurent John McCurry Although I am hesitant to generalize the Republican Party, I can say with confidence that the Biddeford City Council is whiter than the Academy … Continue reading No woman, no cry in Biddeford
The “fairness” doctrine
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
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
NOTES TO CARL | LESSONS IN MEDIOCRITY 