While most political pundits and prognosticators in Maine are laser focused on the presidential and Congressional races, I am taking a more local approach and invite you to join me in thinking about the legislative races here in Biddeford, Saco and Old Orchard Beach. Between now and Election Day (Nov. 5), you can expect to … Continue reading Running To Stand Still
Category: LESSONS IN MEDIOCRITY
Hunter Frechette | A profile in courage
Born with Down Syndrome, Hunter refuses to let his diagnosis sideline him or prevent him from living his best life with sheer energy, a razor-sharp wit and a heart that seems to be on high gear constantly.
Interview: Michael Cantara
A retired judge, district attorney, state commissioner and former mayor from Biddeford reflects on his career and the changes in his community. Hollywood movies often rely on stereotypes. Lawyers are frequently depicted as corrupt and self-serving. The district attorneys in those movies are not much better, using their power as glorified crime fighters for political … Continue reading Interview: Michael Cantara
I Wanna Hold Your Hand
Two rather interesting events happened this week, each painting a troubling picture for loyal, solid Democrats at both the national and local level: Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia announced he would not seek reelection, and City Councilor Marty Grohman was elected to become Biddeford’s next mayor. What do Manchin and Grohman have in common? … Continue reading I Wanna Hold Your Hand
Fortunate son | Folding your underwear in six-inch squares
I learned two very important lessons within 30 seconds after stepping off the bus at Lackland Air Force Base. First, if you are considering military service, work with your recruiter so that your first day of training doesn’t fall on July 2 in southern Texas.
Ryan Fecteau: Spotlight Interview
Originally published in Saco Bay News Although he majored in political science and eventually became the Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives, Ryan Fecteau’s political journey had a rather innocuous and humble beginning. Fecteau, 30, said he first became interested in politics when he was appointed as a student representative to the Biddeford School … Continue reading Ryan Fecteau: Spotlight Interview
Tainted Love; Part Deux
It’s July, and according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the “Dog Days of Summer” are finally upon us. This is the time of the year when those of us in the northeast have a pretty good view of the constellation, Sirius – hence the “dog days.” It is also the “quiet” month. The days are … Continue reading Tainted Love; Part Deux
Johnny, we hardly knew ye
For me, it’s hard to know what to think or feel about the recent news regarding former Maine gubernatorial candidate Eliot Cutler. According to several news reports, police allegedly discovered several computer files of child pornography in Cutler’s home this week. Before we go any further, make no mistake about it. Crimes against children are … Continue reading Johnny, we hardly knew ye
The Dangerous Type
Four years ago this week, (the third week of February) I was discharged from Spring Harbor, a psychiatric hospital in Westbrook, Maine. It was my most recent hospitalization. I have been in and out of psychiatric hospitals for more than 40 years, sometimes on a voluntary basis; other times as an involuntary patient. I have … Continue reading The Dangerous Type
Biddeford After Dark | When writing was fun
Biddeford After Dark” is a five-part series of articles that I wrote more than 20 years ago while serving as the editor of the Biddeford-Saco-OOB Courier. According to what I wrote at the time, the purpose of the Biddeford After Dark series was “to explore what was often ignored: what happens in our community after most people have gone to sleep.”
NOTES TO CARL | LESSONS IN MEDIOCRITY 