‘In the absence of science, religion flourishes . . .’ -Unknown One of today’s most hotly debated public policy matters is the subject of Climate Change, formerly known as “global warming.” Before I go any further with a blog post that will surely divide my followers and Facebook “friends,” let’s get right to the meat … Continue reading Climate Change: what your parents never told you
Wag the dog
If I had any doubts about the increasingly dominating role of new media over traditional media, they were vanquished yesterday while watching ABC’s World News Tonight. In the A-block of the evening news program (ranked second between NBC and CBS) Anchor David Muir told us a story about a tweet that Donald Trump sent earlier … Continue reading Wag the dog
Dealing with the media
Do you know the definitions of "lede," "nut graf" or "B-roll?" These are common terms used by members of the media. Reporters and editors have their own jargon and their own way of doing things, but it's important to remember that they are also human beings. They value honesty, courtesy and respect. I've said it … Continue reading Dealing with the media
Advocacy: The power of testimonials
How do you build support for your project, business or campaign? There are a lot of tools at your disposal, but one of the most effective tools is garnering support via third-party testimonials. Third-party voices reinforce your own messaging and they build credibility for your project. The most powerful persuader in the marketplace, apart from … Continue reading Advocacy: The power of testimonials
Political shakeup in Saco
Following the unexpected announcement that State Sen. Linda Valentino (D) will not seek re-election for a third term in the senate, there has been a seismic shift in the city of Saco's political landscape. State Rep. Justin Chenette -- Valentino's protegé -- announced simultaneously that he would seek Valentino's seat. Both moves were kept secret … Continue reading Political shakeup in Saco
Bad News for Saco, Good News for Saco
BREAKING NEWS . . . And this just in from over the transom: According to multiple sources, State Senator Linda Valentino, a Democrat, is expected to announce Sunday (March 6) that she will not seek reelection to the Maine State Senate. Valentino, who has served two terms in the Senate and is now a member … Continue reading Bad News for Saco, Good News for Saco
So long, and thanks for all the fish
I have a lot in common with my hometown of Biddeford. I am at a crossroads, and I have decided that all good things must come to an end. It's been an incredibly fun ride, but it's time for me to make some changes. You may have already noticed, but last week I put All … Continue reading So long, and thanks for all the fish
What would you do?
Many moons ago, when I was an editor at a weekly newspaper, we used to run a section in the paper that was known as the Police Notes. It's a common practice for smaller, local newspapers to run such police blotters, but we used to have a little fun with ours by giving each blurb … Continue reading What would you do?
The Outsiders
Up until two months ago, most political consultants within the DC Beltway would tell you that you need a "moderate" candidate in order to win an election. That candidate, the consultants would tell you, should be a centrist, an establishment-type, someone who makes most people safe and secure. Someone predictable. Outsiders, consultants explain, are unknown … Continue reading The Outsiders
Gimme back my bullets
There is a good article in today's Portland Press Herald: Maine boosts reporting to FBI database to prevent gun purchases by mentally ill. As an advocate of both mentally ill people and the Second Amendment, I was pleased to see that the newspaper approached the issue is such a comprehensive manner. During gun control debates, … Continue reading Gimme back my bullets
