Dear Editor:
When Stephanie Hawke was our State Rep a few years ago she quickly earned a reputation for outstanding constituent service. No problem was too large or too small. She always followed up on questions and action plans. Her door was always open at Hawke Motors.
Now we have an opportunity to bring Stephanie back to her desk in Augusta and see what constituent service really means. Please vote for Stephanie Hawke for our Representative in the Maine House.
She’ll answer the phone!... Read more
Elections 2020: Candidate profiles, municipal warrant articles, state questions
The 2020 General Election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 3 with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This is our 2020 Election Resource hub, featuring a myriad of stories pertaining to all elections beginning with the March presidential primaries, followed by the summer annual town meetings and state primaries, and concluding with the November elections.
The sidebar to the right features articles readers are most keen to read in preparation for the November elections: how to vote in the Midcoast, Q&A sessions with candidates, and breakdowns of referendum questions.
Below are all our 2020 election stories including letters to the editor, candidate forums, voter registration drives, and an archive of content published from elections held during March and the summer months.
This election resource hub is populated with new stories nearly every day, so check back often to remain up-to-date on everything leading up to the November elections.
letter to the editor
Hawke will work for all
Dear Editor:
When Stephanie Hawke was very young she was strongly passionate about helping people and animals. As she grew up those qualities blossomed and were joined by common sense and good judgment.
When she served in the House, Steph was admired and respected by her constituents and fellow legislators. Many, many times I heard her carefully explain the often ignored (but critical) details of pending legislation. When her constituents understood what was involved, they understood the... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Hawke
Dear Editor:
I almost never get involved in politics. But this year I’m making an exception.
I urge my friends and neighbors to bring back Stephanie Hawke as our District 89 State Representative.
Stephanie is a refreshingly honest, energetic, conscientious individual who always works for the best interests of her constituents. She was the most accessible State Rep we’ve ever had and she will be again. Her office door at Hawke Motors is always open.
Please vote for Stephanie Hawke for our... Read more
letter to the editor
Half-truth?
Dear Editor:
I was astonished to read in a recent letter from Stephanie Hawke of a “current giveaway program that provides free automobiles for welfare recipients.” No such program exists.
Because there is no consistently available public transportation in this part of Maine it is practically impossible for workers to have jobs at any distance from their homes. In the service sector exemplified by Boothbay most of the jobs are seasonal. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic many of them... Read more
letter to the editor
We need Stephanie Hawke
Dear Editor:
Being a lobsterman for the last 45 years, I would ask you to support Stephanie Hawke for House Seat 89 in the Maine legislature. In my opinion, never during those years, has the Maine lobster business been in such jeopardy as it is now. The proof is found in several arenas. One is the new rules coming into effect to protect whales at the federal level. Another involves politicians, including our governor, and her green new deal coalition, who are advocating to industrialize the... Read more
letter to the editor
Rhetorical questions
Dear Editor:
Why are many people in my town of Boothbay voting to have me live under socialism?
Why do these same people themselves want to live under socialism?
Why do they vote in order to deprive me of items needed to protect myself?
Why do they want to erase history and not allow me to see a display of flags, statues, etc., which show me that the past is a lesson to be learned and a legacy to draw from?
York Fischer
Boothbay
letter to the editor
Holly Stover is there when you need her
Dear Editor:
I am writing to express my support for Holly Stover in her efforts to be re-elected as our House Representative in District 89. I have known Holly for over 50 years, having attended school with her at the little schoolhouse in East Boothbay which is now the East Boothbay Fire Station, the Boothbay Center School and BRHS.
As many of you know, Holly is incredibly involved in our community and works tirelessly to help many. I don’t think there is a person reading this letter that... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover gives it her all
Dear Editor:
Rep. Holly Stover chose to become one of my parents when I was 10 years old. There’s something special about people who choose to be parents to non-biological children; the ability to make a child truly your priority and to love them like your own is not something everyone can easily do. This kind of love takes an empathy and heart that Holly still shares with me today.
This empathy, dedication, and compassion are traits that run deep through all aspects of Holly’s life. She’s... Read more
letter to the editor
Stand with Chloe Maxmin
Dear Editor:
When I first heard about the false polling against Chloe Maxmin, I was outraged. Negative politics already is raging across this country, turning what might be productive and collaborative discourse into a free-for-all.
I then read Chloe Maxmin’s response which I felt was measured and conciliatory. Her promise to run a clean campaign was clearly in evidence along with the plea to not have politics as usual, but to have other politicians join with her in a mutual pledge for clean... Read more
letter to the editor
Lincoln County needs Stover
Dear Editor:
As Sheriff and a law enforcement leader here in Lincoln County, particularly one that has spent many hours interacting with our legislature, I have been sincerely impressed with Holly Stover’s passion and commitment, not solely to the communities she serves, but all of Lincoln County.
When I say passion and commitment, as strong as that sounds, it truly falls short of describing Holly’s tenacity when it comes to finding solutions for those in need. For example, she understands... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover deserves a second term
Dear Editor:
As we close in on the final days of the most consequential election of our lifetimes, one cannot overstate the importance of our representation at all levels of government. Here in Maine, where our public and economic health is inextricably linked due to the COVID-19 pandemic, those serving in our state legislature are key to steering Maine out of crisis and toward better days for us all.
Representative Holly Stover is seeking re-election to a second term serving District 89 (... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Stephanie Hawke
Dear Editor:
I attended Boothbay region schools for 12 years. During those years Stephanie Hawke was a strong supporter of the school, our class, and many of my classmates. We could always count on Stephanie to pitch in and help no matter what was needed.
Stephanie strongly believes in quality education that fits the individual needs of each and every student. I know she often gives kids a little push in the right direction, if you know what I mean. I hope Stephanie Hawke is elected to be our... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover has made a difference for District 89
Dear Editor:
We are excited to have this opportunity to endorse Holly Stover’s re-election to the Maine State House of Representatives District 89 this November. Holly has been a crucial factor in Lincoln County’s de-stigmatization of individuals who experience substance use disorders.
She has worked tirelessly with all members of the recovery process: the individuals afflicted, their families, and the agencies that give them support and guidance such as Amistad, ARC, Boothbay Harbor PD, and... Read more
letter to the editor
A tough decision but voting for Hawke
Dear Editor:
A big decision for District 89!
2020 has become a year we would all like to forget. The pandemic has everyone on edge, businesses are on the brink, and the political environment is pitting friends against friends. As a community I was born and raised in, I am so saddened to see what has happened over the past few years.
We as a community have the power to change that. We have two amazing candidates for representative for District 89. Stephanie Hawke, who served us so well for... Read more
letter to the editor
Re-elect Holly Stover
Dear Editor:
It is my pleasure to write a letter of support for the re-election of Holly Stover, for House District 89. I have known Holly for a long time — since our moms — Mrs. Brewer and Mrs. Stover taught together in the region’s schools. As we both worked in our early professional careers, I knew Holly as a caring, compassionate social worker, solving problems and listening to people in every circumstance. She was the go-to person for me — when I was in the legislature. Her dedication to... Read more
letter to the editor
I support Stephanie Hawke
Dear Editor:
I support Stephanie Hawke for House.
I have watched Stephanie grow from a little girl to a kind, caring, loving adult.
When someone has an issue she will help them resolve it and lead them on a path that will rectify the issue.
She totally supports our veterans as anyone that goes to the Sunday breakfast can attend she is almost always there helping out (the Belgian waffles are awesome).
Her drive to run a business, run for office, Rebuilding Together, many other things and... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover supports gender equality
Dear Editor:
What is good for gender equality is good for the economy and society as a whole.
COVID-19 has affected the work lives of women disproportionately and the economic fallout that has occurred is because of existing gender inequalities. Women are effected in all areas of work including not just the service industry as we have seen a lot locally but also in all blue and white collar work. This downturn for women will have "persistent effect on future earnings prospects. Finding a job... Read more
letter to the editor
Holly Stover gets my vote
Dear Editor:
Along with stating the obvious, such as her long history of caring and doing for our community, Holly Stover’s intelligence, grace, and openness to her constituents — embracing our differences, as well as similarities — has made her a great representative for our House District 89.
Not every issue is easily understood through an ideological lens. Listening to Holly makes obvious her ability at grasping the cause and effect of complex features involved in law making, from the... Read more
letter to the editor
Maxmin models democracy ideals
Dear Editor:
For most towns and cities in Maine, the school budget is the largest expense a community faces year after year. And the big ticket item in the school budget, just after personnel, is usually energy to run the district facilities. Heat and lights. And as energy expenses increase, as they do year after year, the town must turn to its taxpayers to foot those bills.
Enter Representative Chloe Maxmin, now running for our Senate District 13 seat. With fresh ideas gleaned from doorstep... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote to save the earth
Dear Editor:
Election Day: our responsibility to decide what sort of future we want and will leave to the next generation. It is acutely obvious that the two options are ideologically opposed, not just in method but in basic human values.
Do we value all citizens human rights, as they are outlined in the U.S. Constitution? Do we believe that all equal citizens deserve the same opportunities and respect?
Do we believe that all citizens deserve protection from violence, sickness, poverty,... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Sara Gideon
Dear Editor:
I want a U.S. Senator who protects me. Why should the greatest tax breaks benefit the wealthiest? What about struggling middle-class workers?
Who will protect pre-existing conditions when the Affordable Care Act is heading for the chopping block?
Who will truly be a moderate voice in the U.S Senate?
Social Security is not an entitlement — we pay into it. I want a senator who will fight to protect it for me and those who will follow.
Shall I support a senator whose president... Read more
letter to the editor
Stephanie Hawke for state representative
Dear Editor:
I support Stephanie Hawke for state representative. Stephanie is an advocate for small business in the region, which I have witnessed this firsthand living and working in Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor. Stephanie is approachable and receptive to any questions and concerns. Small businesses play a vital roll in the economy in Maine and Stephanie backs them 100%. Her being on the Marine Resources committee is also a huge plus for the area since many of the residents are in someway... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote to change the U.S. Senate
Dear Editor:I heard most of an interview with Susan Collins on NPR last week in which she positioned herself as a hurt and outraged victim of her opponent, Sara Gideon. She stated that Gideon’s negative ads misrepresent her record and attack her integrity. That very day I received an extremely negative ad in my mailbox in support of Susan Collins and paid for by the Republican Party. This ad claims that Sara Gideon has no integrity because her husband’s law firm accepted a large sum of PPE... Read more
Towns report large early voting turnout
In the past three presidential elections, Edgecomb Town Clerk Claudia Coffin reports the most absentee ballots requested didn’t exceed 168. In 2020, she has received 496 requests with 263 returned by Oct. 15. Coffin and her fellow town clerks across the Boothbay region are experiencing high early voting numbers due to competitive presidential, U.S. Senate and legislative races, but mostly due to the ongoing pandemic. “It was going to be a high turnout anyway, but the COVID is the biggest factor... Read more
On the issues: U.S. Senatorial Candidate Lisa Savage
Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for U.S. Congressional seats, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state and nation.
Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide.
Lisa Savage, Independent, is seeking election to represent Maine in the U.S. Senate.
What are Maine's greatest strengths, and how do you... Read more
From the assistant editor
The all in ballot
I’ve been noticing Maine veterans’ license plates more lately, not that there are more of the plates or that they don’t usually catch my eye. I guess I have just lingered a little longer than usual on the thought after I see them on the streets and in the parking lots around our towns these days.
Those plates mean someone shopping or working in that store or post office or wherever it is, served their country, served all us Americans and helped keep our gifts of freedom and voting how we want... Read more
On the issues: U.S. Congressional Candidate Chellie Pingree
Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for U.S. Congressional seats, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state and nation.
Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020 Election Resource Guide.
Chellie Pingree, Democrat, is seeking reelection to represent Maine’s First Congressional District.
What are Maine’s greatest strengths,... Read more
Political letters deadline
The deadline for political letters to the editor for the Nov. 3 election is Monday, Oct. 19 at 3 p.m. No political letters will be published online after Oct. 19 or in the newspaper after Oct. 22.
letter to the editor
Proud to vote for Stover
Dear Editor:
It is my honor to offer my endorsement of Holly Stover’s re-election for House District #89. Holly operates with a strong moral compass and serves in the best interest of the people in our community. She has good values and beliefs and is willing to take full responsibility for decisions she makes. Holly has a vast knowledge of various state government agencies and has been someone we have relied on to guide our business, particularly through the complexities we have faced during... Read more
letter to the editor
Holly Stover: A good choice
Dear Editor:
In 2018, the towns of Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, South Bristol (part), Southport, and Westport Island elected Holly Stover to represent us in Augusta. Holly took her lifetime of experience in social work, and her deep understanding of how government works, and turned it into results for us. In two short years Holly has sponsored and passed bills to protect our marine resources by limiting the use of single-use plastic bags, made it easier for those struggling with... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Gideon
Dear Editor:
I support Sara Gideon because she has championed expanding health care access, affordable prescription drugs, and reproductive health care. She has also sponsored bipartisan legislation enacted to reduce poverty and combat the opioid epidemic in Maine including while Paul LePage was governor.
Sara knows how to get things done, find common ground, and make progress on tough issues. She will work for all of us and be independent unlike our current Senator. She is endorsed by many... Read more
letter to the editor
Flashback to the USSR
Dear Editor:
I grew up in Lithuania under Soviet occupation. My grandfather spent ten years in Siberian gulags for “crimes” fabricated by the communist party. He left behind my mom as a toddler and managed to only return home thanks to Stalin’s death. In my childhood, it was a nightly routine for my grandfather to tune into the Voice of America and hear news other than the communist propaganda. It was risky, and the reception was terrible, due to Soviet radio jamming. Yet, for my grandfather... Read more
letter to the editor
Please vote for Stephanie
Dear Editor:
Thank you, Stephanie Hawke, for everything you have done for our communities.
I have known Stephanie for years. Over that time she has demonstrated her compassion and love for our communities. I remember when my son was in school, Stephanie was always there to help with school fundraisers, his athletic teams, and their social activities.
Stephanie is one of the best people in our community. As a legislator, she demonstrated her intelligence and independence in support of this... Read more
letter to the editor
A new, principled voice for the Maine State Senate
Dear Editor:
On November third, those of us in State Senate District 13 who yearn for integrity and fresh thinking in Augusta will be voting for Chloe Maxmin.
The need for her leadership has never been greater: The public health and state economic challenges of COVID-19, our widespread opioid addiction crisis, inequalities in educational opportunity, and the environmental threats of global warming are just some of the issues facing our legislators this year. Old ideas and partisan reactions... Read more
letter to the editor
Send Holly back to the House
Dear Editor:
There are many reasons to be proud of our community. We live in a place where people look after each other, no matter their politics or differences of opinions. This is reflected in our two candidates for Representative for House District 89, where both are well-known as engaged and connected community members. So why do I believe we should vote to keep Holly Stover in the Maine House?
Holly Stover has a long history of dedicated service to our community and our state, as... Read more
letter to the editor
Amused by TV ad
Dear Editor:
I was very amused watching an ad for Susan Collins on TV. A woman from Boothbay states that since Sarah Gideon is a millionaire she is clueless as to what it cost Mainers to heat their homes. Did she not know that Collins is over twice as wealthy as Gideon. Does that mean that Collins is twice as clueless as Gideon?
Mike Thompson
Boothbay
letter to the editor
Don’t be baffled by the Collins bamboozle
Dear Editor:Susan Collins touts herself as a committed savior of those seeking to hold onto their Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) benefits and women’s reproductive rights. She actually used her power to do just the opposite. Don’t take my word for it though; look at her voting record.Collins has installed more than 100 Trump judges on the bench, including every single Trump nominee in 2017 and 2018. These judges, many seated for life, will alter American life for decades to come.Just to name... Read more
letter to the editor
Gideon is a ‘champion’
Dear Editor:
The final voting countdown towards Nov. 3 is ticking madly away; political ads abound. One candidate, Sara Gideon, has accrued a notable list of endorsements. I last counted 27 and you can easily locate that list online.
One recent news item also caught my eye. That item was released on Oct. 2 by the Wabanaki Alliance, a new political organization advocating for tribal sovereignty in Maine. They shared their first legislative scorecard and listed champions and adversaries. On... Read more
letter to the editor
Shout out for Stephanie Hawke
Dear Editor:
I just wanted to publicly give a shout out to Stephanie Hawke as Election Day nears.
I have been on Facebook and seen what people who have known her all of her life are saying, and it is very sad that some of those in the small, usually tight-knit community that I grew up in, and have always been so proud of, have taken to making public negative comments.
I have known Stephanie most of her life and been friends with Holly most of my life. I don’t see any Republicans going on... Read more
letter to the editor
Democrats have the better tools
Dear Editor:
A few days ago I grabbed my camera, sporting an ultra-wide angle lens, to record the rainbow outside our house. Earlier, I used a telephoto to film a small hummingbird.
We all try to use the right tool for the right job. The telephoto would fail to record the rainbow just as the ultra-wide angle would hardly catch a hummingbird.
This came to mind today as I reviewed events of the Great Recession of 2007-2010. The US economy recovered slowly, hampered by government austerity,... Read more
Historian talk on political parties Oct. 13
Historian Heather Cox Richardson, a summer visitor, whose roots in Bristol date back to colonial days, will deliver an online lecture on “The Role of Political Parties in American Democracy,” on Tuesday, Oct. 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., through the Zoom online platform or may be listened to by phone.
While the founders hated the idea of parties, they had become an essential part of American political life by 1800. How do they serve our politics, and how have they distorted the vision of the... Read more
Holly Stover runs for House 89 reelection
Maine House 89 Rep. Holly Stover is running for reelection as Westport Island, Southport, Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay, Edgecomb and part of South Bristol’s point person in Augusta.
Stover received her bachelor degrees in human services (BA) and psychology (BS) from Nasson College, did coursework in health management policy at the Muskie School, and attended Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government for the Local Executives Program.
Stover serves on the Boothbay Region YMCA board (four... Read more
Elections
Stephanie Hawke seeks to reclaim House 89 seat
Local businesswoman and former state representative Stephanie Hawke is running to reclaim the House 89 seat representing Westport Island, Southport, Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay, Edgecomb and part of South Bristol.
Hawke is a graduate of Boothbay Region High School, has served on the Community School District School Committee for 12 years and serves as chair of the board. She has also been a volunteer for over 10 years with local nonprofit Rebuilding Together, spent two years on the Boothbay... Read more
From the editor
The final weeks
Finding political flyers on my doorknob and on my roadside sign post this week (yes, someone put flyers between the “B” and the “U” on my BURNHAM engraving) means the election madness is heating up. For the past few weeks, we have thrown away these political flyers which are stuffed in our post office box.
I am not sure these flyers convince many people to vote for a particular candidate. Most of them don’t contain a lot of information, but the ones I like contain information where you can... Read more
Democrats rally for a blue wave
Democrats rallied around incumbent Holly Stover of House 89 and House District 88 Representative Chloe Maxmin Oct. 3. Stover is seeking reelection and Maxmin is seeking the Senate District 13 seat against incumbent Dana Dow. Over 60 attendees spread across the Boothbay common to hear the candidates and other Democrats speak: District Attorney Natasha Irving, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office's Chief Deputy Lieutenant Rand Maker, Lincoln County Democratic Chair Chris Johnson and Boothbay... Read more
Sara Gideon visits Two Bridges Regional Jail
U.S. Senate candidate Sara Gideon visited Two Bridges Regional Jail in Wiscasset Monday, Oct. 5 with Sagadahoc County Sheriff Joel Merry and Lincoln County Sheriff Todd Brackett to learn about Two Bridges’ substance use disorder treatment program and discuss how the federal government can work with local law enforcement to combat the opioid epidemic. “We need to treat the opioid crisis like the public health issue it is, and Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties are leading the way in providing the... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Chloe Maxmin
Dear Editor:Do you know who Chloe Maxmin is? Let me tell you who she is! Chloe now serves in the Maine State House osf Representatives and is running against Dana Dow for Senate District 13. In the beginning of this pandemic Chloe and 200 volunteers called over 3,000 older Maine residents to make sure their needs were being met. I know, I was one of them. She has been named Legislator of the year by Maine council on aging 2020. And that is just one of many groups that are endorsing her.Chloe... Read more
letter to the editor
Support and vote for Stover
Dear Editor:
I am writing in strong support of Holly Stover, who is a colleague running for re-election to the Maine Legislature. Holly has been effective since her first day in Augusta, where she serves as a member of the Health and Human Services Committee. She brings long professional experience with state government to this committee's work, which deals with some of the most complex and critical elements around health care and social services. As the pandemic and its attendant recession... Read more
letter to the editor
I support Holly Stover
Dear Editor:
In 2005 I moved to the Boothbay peninsula and began working in the St. Andrews Hopsital ER. It was the best job of my entire medical career, especially rewarding because of all the wonderful people I met while working there. This included patients, their family members, and the large collection of people who provide the safety net in our community. That is our police, EMS providers, hospital personnel, and medical professionals. Working closely with them, I was able to provide... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Hawke
Dear Editor:
I am writing to lend my support to Stephanie Hawke in her campaign for State Representative.
As a small business owner, I appreciate her knowledge and support of the issues we face in Maine. Small businesses make up over 60% of Maine’s economy, and we need someone who understands what it is like to run a business and employ people. In 2019 Maine ranked 7th in the country as the worst state in which to do business. I know that Stephanie will work to help Maine become more business... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover has my vote
Dear Editor:
I am writing to voice my support for Representative Holly Stover. Holly's record shows she cares about Maine and she cares about issues supporting the health, wellness, prosperity, and survival of our district, state and planet. I've witnessed Holly take a studied approach to the legislation she works with on the Health and Human Services Committee and on the House floor. She is savvy, thoughtful, and above all, concerned for all of Maine's residents.
I first reached out to her... Read more
letter to the editor
I beg to differ
Dear Editor:
When I ask my Trump supporter friends why they are voting for Trump, they tell me “To make America great again.”
I beg to differ.
You are voting for the President of the United States – an office that represents all of the values of our Democracy and the moral and ethical values of this nation's Judeo-Christian heritage.
You are voting for the head of the government of the United States of America who has consistently undermined our allies’ trust and respect for the United... Read more
letter to the editor
Holly’s leadership lifts us all
Dear Editor:
“Life isn’t easy, and leadership is harder still.” – Walter Russell Mead, Distinguished Academic
We are living through what will surely go down in history as the most divisive, chaotic and dangerous time our nation will have faced in multiple generations. The threat to the physical, emotional and psychological health of individuals and our communities is real as we watch the death toll from the coronavirus mount daily throughout the country. Just as real and perhaps even more... Read more
letter to the editor
The polls
Dear Editor:
With 62% of Americans saying they are afraid to share their political views, one wonders who actually responds to the polls. How meaningful are they?
Edward J. Polewarczyk
Wiscasset
letter to the editor
Keep Holly Stover serving us
Dear Editor:
Since I moved to Boothbay Harbor three years ago, it seems that I run into Holly Stover everywhere — nonprofit meetings and fundraisers, educational events, informal and formal gatherings of joy and grief. As our District 89 representative, Holly takes every opportunity to listen to us our concerns and take them back to Augusta to write bills, serve on committees, and speak up and vote on the issues we care about.
I came to Maine from a state where it seemed that many of our... Read more
letter to the editor
Caveat suffragator
Dear Editor:
In May of 2016, conservative writer and scholar Andrew Sullivan warned his readers: “In terms of our liberal democracy and constitutional order, Trump is an extinction-level event. It’s long past time we treated him as such.”
Four years of executive branch criminal convictions, corruption, human rights abuses, tax evasion, nepotism, authoritarian incompetence and the needless loss of 205,000 American lives have borne this prophecy out.
As you cast your vote this month or next,... Read more
Secretary Dunlap accepts generous election-focused PPE donation from Maine companies
AUGUSTA - Two Maine companies have donated more than $44,000 of personal protective equipment for election workers to stay safe while administering the Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 General Election.
L.L. Bean https://www.llbean.com/ , the outdoor retailer based in Freeport, donated 8,000 face coverings for this election, while Flowfold https://www.flowfold.com/, the Gorham-based manufacturer of wallets, bags and everyday gear, provided 8,000 face shields.
"We are incredibly grateful to have these... Read more
Dow believes lower taxes important to spur economic growth
Since 2004, Dana Dow has served five terms in the Maine Legislature. He was elected four times to the senate and served one term in the house. But his last term was significantly different than the others. Dow was elected Maine Senate Republican leader by his colleagues in 2019. In 2020, the legislative session was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This fall, Dow is seeking re-election against first-term Maine House District Rep. Chloe Maxmin, D-Nobleboro.
Whoever wins faces a series of... Read more
Maxmin seeks District 13 State Senate seat
In her first legislative term, Democrat Chloe Maxmin of Nobleboro saw four of her bills including her Green New Deal legislation enacted. The Green New Deal was the most prominent new law. All four bills emerged after discussions with voters on the 2018 campaign trail. Her Green New Deal originally had five provisions, but was pared down to two in final passage. The final wording called for state workforce initiatives and construction of a grid-scale generation employing a certain percentage of... Read more
Joe’s Journal
Week 29 – Election fever
By the time you read this in print, the first presidential debate will be over. Who won?
I guess your answer depends on which candidate you favor. The national opinion polls say most everyone has already made up his or her mind, so, absent a game-changing event, the debates will most likely not count for much.
The pundits say this election is like a job performance review. It is a referendum on how the nation views how the incumbent has performed during the last three and a half years. After... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Chloe Maxmin Nov. 3
Dear Editor:
I met Chloe Maxmin when she came to my door back in 2018. She was running as Representative for District 88. I invited her in, and we had a long conversation, probably too long since she had many visits to make. She spent time telling me about herself. I was extremely impressed with her empathy, energy, dedication, and youth.
Fast forward two years and Chloe is back on the campaign trail running for State Senator for District 13. However, this time it is vastly different, with... Read more
letter to the editor
In support of Holly Stover
Dear Editor,
I am writing in support of Holly Stover for the Maine House of Representatives and am encouraging others to do the same. Growing up in a small town taught me many things, the most important is the power of community. I've been lucky enough to feel the support of individuals who use their influence to make our town, state, and the world a better place; Holly is one of those individuals. Electing Holly Stover is the responsible thing to do to ensure a healthy and safe future for... Read more
letter to the editor
Vision, courage and fortitude
Dear Editor:
The national tragedy of this epic loss of life, brought about by incompetent and negligent national response to the coronavirus pandemic, demands a more considered course of action. The science of observed and demonstrated evidence is the candle that shows us the path out of this dark crisis.
The light of truth by itself is not enough. We need to be united in consistency of purpose and strive together that we may all survive as a community. We need strong leadership with clear... Read more
letter to the editor
The Trump Coup d’état, coming Nov. 3
Dear Editor:
Trump and his Republican allies have a plan to steal the election; this is verified by multiple sources. Trump alluded to this in his answer to the question: “Would he ensure a peaceful transition of power after the election” yesterday, saying that if he can ‘do away with the ballots’; there will be a continuation of power (not a peaceful transition of power). The existence of this plan is exposed in part by journalistic publications reporting that states such as Pennsylvania have... Read more
letter to the editor
President is an American tragedy
Dear Editor:
I was terrified when I first got my cancer diagnosis. That was over 14 years ago and at this point I am still in remission. But today (Sept. 22) I received news that news that we fear daily. It prompted me to reach out to the Presidential office and submit this short letter.
I am 74 and more vulnerable than many others to the ravages and potential death from COVID-19. I practice concern for others by wearing a mask and distancing. I am in a constant state of anxiety.But, my... Read more
letter to the editor
Hawke for House District 89
Dear Editor:Stephanie Hawke is one amazing woman! She gets things done! When she was elected to the House six years ago she did an outstanding job. To name a few of her accomplishments: Trucks could not haul boats on Route 129 in South Bristol and she got in touch with DOT and got it fixed. Power outages were going on in Trevett, especially at Mill Cove Lobster and Barters Island, and she helped them get it back on. She goes above and beyond to help people and always get back to them to help... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Holly Stover
Dear Editor:
I am writing in support of Holly Stover for re-election to the Maine House of Representatives.
I have known Holly for more than 20 years, and know her to be a woman of integrity and dedication to helping people in whatever ways she can. Holly is a driving force in this community on behalf of those suffering from addiction, as well as those in need of food and housing. She is thoroughly knowledgeable about the availability of resources, and has good working relationships with the... Read more
Meet and greet for Stephanie Hawke
The residents of Westport Island and the general public are invited to a meet and greet party for Stephanie Hawke, Republican candidate for Maine District 89, on Westport Island hosted by her friends and supporters.
The meet and greet for Stephanie is on Sunday, Oct. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m., 24 River Road, Westport. Look for the “Hawke for the House” signs on Westport. There will be a soup and chili lunch, with desserts. Door prizes and campaign signs will be available. Please join us for this... Read more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJdvlFw7yog
Boothbay Harbor gets a Trump boat parade
Lobstermen and powerboaters rallied for President Donald Trump in Boothbay Harbor’s second boat parade Sept. 19. Around 60 vessels got in line for several passes around Tumbler Island and around the outer harbor, topping the first rally of nearly two dozen boats. Maine Women for Trump held that one Sept. 6.
Parade organizer Mark Brewer said his inspiration came after watching Swans Island lobsterman Jason Joyce speak at the Republican National Convention last month. Brewer said Trump has shown... Read more
letter to the editor
Bring back Stephanie Hawke
Dear Editor:
We are supporting Stephanie Hawke to return as our state representative. In her previous two terms she demonstrated the ability to think independently on the issues and the courage to stand up against political pressure to do otherwise. She is a businesswoman who understands the issues her constituents face from the inside. She has worked hard for years to support and provide leadership to our schools, and serve those in need through local nonprofits.
Stephanie has an open door... Read more
letter to the editor
Send Hawke back to Maine House
Dear Editor:
I served four years in Maine’s House of Representatives with Stephanie Hawke. In fact, the last two years we were seatmates. We both were also granted leadership positions as sophomore legislators in our respective committee assignments. I was the ranking member of the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, while Stephanie was the ranking member in Marine Resources.
I had a front row seat to Stephanie’s leadership and representation of the people in Boothbay, Boothbay... Read more
letter to the editor
What the world needs now
Dear Editor:
“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common good, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”
What the world needs now is a more perfect union. The Preamble’s intent was to allow for future adjustments; and to agree to disagree while holding fast to... Read more
letter to the editor
What Democrats hate
Dear Editor:
I admit last month’s letter to the editor entitled “Who is the party of hate?” stung a bit. Having witnessed public outbursts by the person who berated the author, I sympathized and understood her desire to speak out. However, I’m a Democrat and though I don’t shy away from a lively debate, I try to argue the facts without resorting to insults.
But I’ve given that letter more thought and maybe she’s right, maybe Democrats are the party of hate. Dems hate having a president who... Read more
The journey of your absentee ballot
Maine is now accepting applications for absentee ballots which become available the first week in October. Since we have explained the application process, absentee voters want to know what happens to their ballots when their municipal office receives them. The short answer: They are kept under lock and key.
While each town will differ slightly, absentee ballots are kept in a place accessible only by the town clerk or registrar of voters. Town clerks Donna Climo of Southport, Michelle Farnham... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Holly Stover
Dear Editor:
Holly Stover, running for re-election as our Representative in House District 89, is a compassionate and caring human being. She is responsive to us as constituents, but beyond that, she is a skilled legislator.
As a member of Plastic Free Peninsula, I was proud to see that Holly sponsored the bill that banned single-use plastic bags in Maine. She also joined with other legislators to put through a bill to reduce the cost of prescription drugs and supported broadband which is... Read more
letter to the editor
Why I am voting for Maxmin
Dear Editor:
I am a proud resident of Lincoln County. As someone who cares deeply about our neighbors, please, consider voting for someone I am honored to support- Chloe Maxmin. I got to know Chloe when I was working on a handful of agriculture and food systems bills last January and February. I was struck by how engaged she seemed during several hours of testimony from members of the public and how thoughtful her questions were.
As I have gotten to know Chloe better, I am further impressed... Read more
letter to the editor
Holly has everybody’s back
Dear Editor:
Getting a bill passed to expand treatment for opioid use, participating in the bipartisan effort to support Maine families, workers, and businesses during the Covid pandemic, and along with Chloe Maxmin, Holly Stover, who cosponsored the resolution, received 100% ratings on votes to support state workers.
Holly introduced the ban of single use plastic bags to help maintain Maine’s ecosystem.
Holly was appointed to serve on the Commission to Study Long-term Care Workforce Issues... Read more
letter to the editor
Collins has proven her worth
Dear Editor:
This presidential election is turning out to be a shootout over two contrary visions of America with Senator Susan Collins caught in the crossfire. President Trump sees an America where, “If you build a better mousetrap, the world will beat a path to our doorstep,” an America that fosters innovators and entrepreneurs. The Democrats see an America flawed at its conception, racist, and past its prime. They see their job as managing America’s decline. But there’s money to be made in... Read more
letter to the editor
Why I am voting for Hawke
Dear Editor:
Why do I think Stephanie Hawke should once again be our House Representative for Distinct #89 again? It is widely known that she has always held the interests and concerns of the community as a top priority. She was like this before she held the seat, during her terms and now in what is hopefully just a brief hiatus.
People in this district know that they can still (and do) contact Stephanie with questions, those concerns and ideas. She always answers emails and her phone,... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover works for all of us
Dear Editor:
Holly Stover has done an exceptional job during her first term as State Representative to House District 89, and we need to send her back to Augusta in November. Born, raised and schooled in Boothbay, Holly personally knows and understands her constituents. Always a champion of the underdog, Holly’s early career in nonprofits focused on helping at-risk children and families and overseeing a homeless shelter. To make a greater impact in programming and policy development, Holly... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover cares about the community
Dear Editor:
Holly Stover should be re-elected this November.
In the legislature she has continued to serve the local community and the statewide community as she has always done, both in her profession and as a community volunteer. She puts the health and welfare of the residents of our district first. She embodies what is best about our community, caring about and helping others.
She is our representative.
Please vote for Holly.
Sarah Strouss
Boothbay
letter to the editor
Not on his watch
Dear Editor:
Oregonians are repulsed by what is going on in Portland. In Oregon, only seven counties out of 36 are blue, so it is just mob rule, and much the same applies everywhere else in this country. The true Marxists are actually a very small portion of America, and even of traditional Democrats.
It is inconceivable to me that Trump does not know this, and that he is doing nothing about it. I am confident that he has large numbers of undercover agents collecting all kinds of... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Joe Biden
Dear Editor:
This letter is in response to the letter by Smith Climo (Vote for President Trump).
Regardless of Trump's “style, tweets or persona,” I dislike him because he is a clear and present danger to our country. Perhaps you, my dear Republican or independent reader, are struggling with this decision. Please allow me to make it crystal clear as to why one candidate is completely unfit for the job, and the other is, well, Joe Biden.
Trump lies. Compulsively, in fact. He is barred from... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Holly Stover
Dear Editor:
I have known of Holly Stover since the 1980s when we both worked in Augusta area social services. I know her to be a very intelligent, compassionate, tireless public servant. She loves this community and its people.
My admiration for her has grown since I came to Boothbay in 1991. I have seen her work tirelessly with the local addiction program and Chief Hasch. I have seen her work with the Boothbay Region Community Resource Program, which includes the Navigators, Food for... Read more
letter to the editor
Where is the discussion on issues?
Dear Editor:
I have been reading the history and statutes that have been enacted in Maine since it was deemed to be a centrally managed economy in 1976, eight years after the United States was deemed to be a centrally managed economy when The United States Intergovernmental Cooperation Act of 1968, Public Law 90–577 was enacted. The 1968 law instructs states to adapt their constitutions and municipalities their ordinances to the federal law in order to qualify for federal grants.
Due to my... Read more
letter to the editor
Support Stover’s reelection
Dear Editor:
In her first term in office Holly Stover has shown herself to be an effective and caring representative for House District 89. She worked to get us better access to healthcare, and in the midst of this pandemic, has supported the public health measures that have made Maine one of the safest states in the country. She joined with a majority in the legislature to pass a measure which will reduce the cost of prescription drugs. And outside of the legislature she’s been working with... Read more
letter to the editor
Hawke is a person of action
Dear Editor:
I was very pleased to hear that my former boss, Stephanie Hawke, is running to return as our local State Rep. I had worked for Steph for the better part of a decade and got the pleasure to know her well, both as a successful business owner and as an outstanding community member who is always giving back.
I never felt like I was working for Steph; I felt like I was working with her as a team. She treated all of us like family, with respect, appreciation, and genuine care. She had... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Biden
Dear Editor:
“Losers” and “Suckers.” or “Duty, Honor, and Country.” If you were asked to attribute those words describing America’s service members to our current presidential candidates, what would you say? Who reportedly described veterans as losers? Who responded by citing duty, honor, and country as the motivations of every active service member?
Words matter. They reflect our fundamental beliefs, perhaps even a glimpse into our souls. In the Sept. 3 Register, a letter appeared written by... Read more
Press release
County Democrats rally safely in spite of pandemic
In September of 2019, journalist Reid Wilson of The Hill named Maine’s Lincoln County one of the “10 countries across the country that will determine the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.” In a county that is at least purple, if not leaning blue, the local Democrats planned a big campaign focusing on making personal connections with voters of all persuasions, through canvassing and neighborhood and countywide gatherings. COVID-19 put an end to those plans.Faced with this question: “... Read more
Selectmen set special town meeting for Oct. 15
Board member Mike Smith summed up the sentiments of the Edgecomb select board’s unanimous approval of a school committee request for a special town meeting stating, “With asterisks and caveats I agree with moving this warrant forward and allowing our citizens to decide this.” Selectmen approved a 21-article warrant Sept. 9, one day after the school committee voted to seek a special town meeting.
On Aug. 29, residents rejected four of 19 school funding articles on the referendum town meeting... Read more
Town of Edgecomb
School committee presenting nearly identical warrant for special town meeting
Edgecomb voters will have another chance to vote on the 2020-21 school budget. On Aug. 29, residents rejected four of 19 school budget articles on the referendum town meeting warrant. Defeated articles included the $3,312,286 total budget, authorization to exceed the Maine’s Essential Programs Service model by $875,000 and two non-lapsing emergency funds which would place $250,000 in a capital improvement fund to repair Edgecomb Eddy School’s roof and $50,000 to cover COVID-19 related costs. ... Read more
letter to the editor
Chloe Maxmin listens
Dear Editor:
When Chloe Maxmin came to Westport Island recently to speak to local residents about her campaign for state senate she had many good ideas, but what struck me most was that she was actually interested in hearing from us, the citizens. She wanted to know what issues were important to us, what we wanted the legislature to do. It’s refreshing to hear from an elected official who truly believes that her role is to represent the people, someone who doesn’t speak at us but genuinely... Read more
letter to the editor
Let’s talk Mr. Climo
Dear Editor:
Smith Climo (Letters, 9/3) urges his “many Democratic friends” to do what is “best for America” by casting a vote for Trump.
Really?
Mr. Climo seems to believe that an admitted sexual predator, racist, white supremacist, science denier, COVID-19 pandemic denier, tax cheat, advocate of voter suppression, best friend of Putin … [the list could go on and on] is what is best for our democracy. I suspect his “many Democratic friends” will disagree.
These are not matters of “style,... Read more
letter to the editor
The two faces of Susan Collins
Dear Editor:
I was an admirer of Susan Collins in her earlier Senate terms as I felt she represented Maine with thoughtful consideration of the issues important to all residents. In 2014 she voted to protect women’s health from corporate influence (S2578) and in 2016 she refused to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) (S1628) that enables countless working families to obtain health coverage.
But in recent years she has disappointed me and her voting record demonstrates how much... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for Stephanie
Dear Editor:
I am writing this editorial to endorse Stephanie Hawke's election to the Maine House of Representatives- District 89. District 89 covers the following towns: Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, South Bristol and Westport Island.
I have known Stephanie for 25 years and have seen her serve at many events and in many local organizations. She volunteers in positions that benefit others, more then herself. Her volunteer efforts bring improvements to veterans, businesses, schools, the... Read more
letter to the editor
Put Stephanie back in the House
Dear Editor:
When I met Stephanie Hawke in 1989 she was co-owner, manager and cook at the popular Carriage House in East Boothbay. She was hard working, honest, fun-loving and had plenty of joie de vivre. Over the years much has changed --- a family, business --- but Stephanie has stayed the same.
With her lobsterman husband Andy Hawke, she has raised Nicholas, Leila and Andrew from nice kids to responsible, hard working and successful adults. She owns and manages Hawke Motors and Party... Read more
Trump supporters take to Boothbay Harbor waters
In Boothbay Harbor Sunday, Sept. 6, Trump supporters decorated their boats with banners and flags and paraded through the outer and inner harbor.
Maine Women For Trump gathered more than 20 boats to form a flotilla around East Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor, according to MWFT member Elizabeth Printy. Vessels of all sizes were decked with flags, banners, signs and passengers to show solid support for the re-election of President Trump. The mariners came from near and far - some navigated to... Read more
Town of Edgecomb
School committee will vote Sept. 8 on scheduling special town meeting
During a special Sept. 3 workshop, Edgecomb’s school committee and selectmen moved closer together on education spending, but remained far apart on what each believes is best for local taxpayers. During an hour-plus session, the school committee discussed using more of the $565,000 in surplus funds to reduce the local tax commitment.
The workshop was scheduled to discuss if a special town meeting was needed due to Edgecomb voters rejecting four of 19 education spending articles on the Aug. 29... Read more
letter to the editor
Democrats work together
Dear Editor:
On Sunday, close to 200 Democrats gathered at Wiscasset Speedway for a program celebrating our country and its democratic values. The attendees carefully observed the governor’s executive order limiting outside gatherings to no more than 100 people at a time by taking turns being out of their vehicles. They listened to speeches by local and national candidates, stories told by a Maine humorist, and music by several talented Maine-based musicians and groups. It was a joyful... Read more
letter to the editor
Voters must decide
Dear Editor:Nancy Pelosi considers Republicans and other conservatives as enemies of the state.She is correct.Democrats have developed the financial and philosophical lifeline to nationwide criminal, so called “civil rights” groups and “the people” are now the declared ... the enemy.Democrats now announce themselves unequivocally, the party of looting, burning and of shooting police, destruction and death.Black Lives Matter organizer, Ariel Atkins, told reporters after the downtown Chicago... Read more
letter to the editor
How democracy dies
Dear Editor:
The paradox of an open liberal democracy is that its toleration of free speech allows for the growth of fascist movements within it. This happens because fascists will lie, fearmonger and say anything to gain power.. Should a citizen object, defend, or return the name calling, the fascists will immediately stand up with accusations of hypocrisy further de-legitimizing the democratic status quo.
Fascists need a bogeyman to make citizens fearful of “them” and vote for the strongman... Read more
letter to the editor
Vote for President Trump
Dear Editor:
To my many Democratic friends, let's talk. You are in a precarious situation, what are you to do? You have a candidate foisted upon you by the Democratic establishment because they were terrified that Bernie Sanders was going to win the nomination. A man that since it became clear he was going to be nominated proceeded to go incognito and hide away. You know that he has been ensconced in Washington for nearly 50 years, accomplishing next to nothing, and has repeatedly run for... Read more
letter to the editor
Opposite Day: Nov. 3
Dear Editor:
These are difficult times: a global pandemic, the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, and a general election pre-condemned as fraudulent by the president of the United States.
To cope with our uncertainty and anxiety, let’s turn to Seinfeld reruns for guidance, especially the episode in which George decides to reverse his bad luck by choosing to do the opposite of what he would normally do. Miraculously, he turns his life around, dating a beautiful woman, getting... Read more
letter to the editor
Why Stephanie Hawke?
Dear Editor:
There is nobody on the peninsula, working harder, day in and day out, to help these communities. Regardless of title, job or location, Stephanie cares more about these towns and its inhabitants than anyone else I have met here.
There is nobody around who is volunteering their time, resources, and friendship more than Stephanie. The woman doesn’t say no, she doesn’t say can’t, she simply asks what can I do to help. She doesn’t have children in the school system anymore but she’s... Read more
Edgecomb rejects four school funding articles
The Edgecomb School Committee is faced with either funding local education at the past year’s level or seeking a special town meeting after voters rejected four articles in the referendum town meeting Aug. 29. Unlike past town meetings where a defeated article could be funded at a lower level, the referendum format made it all or nothing.
Selectmen postponed the May town meeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ultimately settled on a referendum town meeting in August to avoid the state of... Read more
Gov. Mills signs executive order to ensure safe voting amid COVID-19
AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Thursday she has signed an Executive Order to protect the health and safety of Maine voters, poll workers, and election officials and to facilitate access to safe in-person and absentee voting in the November general election amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“The right to vote is the foundation of our democratic process, and I take seriously our responsibility to ensure that every Maine person has the opportunity to cast their ballot and to do so in... Read more
Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD
CSD’s $10,480,417 budget passes
Around 30 Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor voters passed the $10,480,417 Community School District budget Aug. 25. The budget has a 0.7% increase. Moderator Melissa Holmes Whitt introduced each article asking for floor votes for all except Article 13 which appropriated $5,246,436 and raised $4,667,363 for public education pre-K through twelfth grade.
Prior to the first budget vote on Article 2, Boothbay Harbor resident Tom Perkins thanked all CSD staff including Facilities and Transportation... Read more
Edgecomb selectmen urge residents to vote Saturday in referendum town meeting
Edgecomb selectmen are hoping a letter posted on the municipal website and published in local newspapers will create “awareness” of the proposed 2020-21 school budget. Both the school and municipal budgets appear on Aug. 29’s referendum town meeting warrant. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, selectmen opted to first postpone the annual May town meeting, and later, replace it with a referendum vote.
In a letter to residents. selectmen urged “no” votes on five of the 19 school committee articles. On... Read more
Gilbert elected RNC delegate, not attending Charlotte convention
Last spring, Dawn Gilbert circled the week of Aug. 24-27 as a time she’d be watching President Trump renominated for a second term in Charlotte, North Carolina. Instead, like many 2020 plans, they changed. Gilbert and 21 other Maine Republicans were elected national delegates along with 22 alternates. Due to health concerns, the Republican National Committee paired down attending delegates to 300 and only six from Maine will participate.
Even though she won’t be in Charlotte, Gilbert will be... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Hawke
Dear Editor:
When Stephanie Hawke held our House seat for four years she proved to have every person’s interest in the district at the top of her list. Not only when it came to proposing and voting on bills, but proving so with her volunteering for many community organizations. Whether it was for the American Legion and other veterans’ projects, the Rebuilding Together group, serving on the school board, or just answering her phone for general questions, she was our true voice. But then again... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Chloe Maxmin
Dear Editor:
What’s up with all these hand painted campaign signs that are popping up like wildflowers around here? I first saw them a couple of years ago around Whitefield, and they made me think: this person has real grass roots support; this person has people that believe in her enough to take the time to paint a sign for her campaign; this candidate is not one to spend money if there’s a way to do something without it; there’s something different about this person who’s running for office... Read more
letter to the editor
An undeserved vacation
Dear Editor:
Senators Collins and McConnell seem to think that they have defeated the COVID-19 pandemic. Clad in shining armor atop white horses, they passed the Payroll Protection Program and America's economy was saved! If this sounds ridiculous, that's because it is. The economic crisis caused by the pandemic is far from over, and yet Senator Collins has checked out on vacation without bothering to pass an additional relief bill.
The PPP undoubtedly saved countless jobs here in Maine, but... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Susan Collins
Sara Gideon is running ads right now attacking Senator Susan Collins for voting to lower taxes, and she promises to reverse the recent tax cuts.
While she’d like us to believe that the tax cuts exclusively benefited large corporations, the fact is that 9-out-of-10 Maine families also received tax cuts, which averaged $1,700 for middle class families. It also dropped some of our poorest citizens off of the tax rolls altogether. Prior to this tax cut, America had the highest corporate tax rate... Read more
Republicans hold picnic, LePage attends
The Lincoln County Republican Committee held a good old Great American Picnic Aug. 22 with food aplenty and fellowship galore.
After filling our plates with delicious food, we heard from former Governor Paul LePage. He regaled us with great hope for our state and our country. That we need only to do our civic duty and vote on Nov. 3 to keep the good times going. He was met with cheers and much applause as he shared his ideas for the state of Maine. Susan Collins was unable to attend but he... Read more
State launches redesigned online absentee ballot request service
AUGUSTA — Maine’s newly redesigned online absentee ballot request service is now available for the Nov. 3 General Election.
The Elections Division, in coordination with the State's online service provider, InforME, has improved the design of the page to make the options clearer and easier to read.
In addition, Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap is adding an option for voters to request an accessible absentee ballot, which will allow voters with disabilities to cast their absentee ballots... Read more
Maine Attorney General announces lawsuit to stop USPS changes, secure vote-by-mail
AUGUSTA — Maine Attorney General Aaron M. Frey announced Tuesday he is joining a coalition of state Attorneys General led by Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro in filing a federal lawsuit challenging nationwide operational changes at the U.S. Postal Service, according to a news release.
The lawsuit seeks to halt unilateral changes at the Postal Service and ensure safe, secure vote-by-mail across the country.
Service and policy changes at the Post Office, including limiting staff... Read more
letter to the editor
Hawke for the House
Dear Editor:
I consider myself privileged to have known Stephanie Hawke for much of her life and I am exceptionally pleased that she is running for District #89’s seat in the Maine House of Representatives.
Stephanie held this seat for four years and was a strong advocate for all members of our community regardless of party affiliation. She is a practical, hands-on business owner, wife, mother, and grandmother and a tireless volunteer for various groups who benefit from her expertise, energy... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting in Edgecomb
Dear Editor:
It is time to vote on the 2020 warrant articles in Edgecomb.
Please be aware that voting on the warrant articles will be a different process this year. The ongoing state restrictions related to gatherings greater than 50 people have forced the select board to cancel the annual town meeting this year. Instead, residents will place their votes for each of the 66 warrant articles, along with their votes for elected town officials, by completing a paper ballot. Voters may complete... Read more
letter to the editor
What this election really means
Dear Editor:
When you vote this November you are voting for only one of two outcomes (so don't base your vote on your personal opinion of either candidate’s personality).
1: A vote for Trump (or any Republican) means you want this country to remain the free world power it is.
2: A vote for Biden (or any Democrat) means you want this country to become a socialist nation.
There is no other choice or outcome.
Joe Scorcia
Boothbay
Edgecomb voters heading to polls for first referendum town meeting
The 2020 Edgecomb town meeting will be like no other in the town’s history. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in Edgecomb’s annual May town meeting being first postponed, and later changed to a referendum town meeting. There will be no resident questions prior to voting on each of the 66 warrant articles.
One thing remaining the same is the majority of taxpayer dollars will go toward 2020-21 educational spending. The Edgecomb School Committee is recommending a $3,312,286 budget which reflects a... Read more
letter to the editor
Find something new Senator Collins
Dear Editor:
Maine citizens want to thank the GOP for our “ Foreclosed “40 Acres & A Mule” for President.
The complicit nature of the epic failures are indubitably homemade. The silence and levels of appeasement have not been witnessed since Neville Chamberlain.
Susan Collins is no longer a moderate or a centrist .The empowerment of the petulant 6-year-old who occupies the White House is astonishing. Comrade has learned zero from impeachment.
Supporting Brett “ Belushi” Kavanaugh was... Read more
letter to the editor
Dow taking page out of McConnell playbook
Dear Editor:
Politics in Washington is broken. It’s due, in large part, to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who will do anything, no matter how hypocritical, for political gain.
In 2016, out of supposed concern for the will of the voters in the upcoming election, he refused to even hold a hearing for Judge Merrick Garland’s nomination to the Supreme Court. Yet in a totally hypocritical reversal of his 2016 stance, McConnell said he would fill Supreme Court vacancies ahead of the 2020... Read more
Lincoln County Republican Committee
Bicentennial Great American Picnic Aug. 22
On Saturday, Aug. 22, the Lincoln County Republican Committee will be holding a celebration of the American Bicentennial at its headquarters located at 241 Route 1, Damariscotta from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event will commemorate and honor the founding of this great country and the opportunity it has afford millions of people to prosper and live in freedom. We will join in the hope and belief that we will continue to allow and support all individuals to be all that they can be by taking personal... Read more
2020 elections
Gideon announces climate plan, tours Bigelow Lab
U.S. Senate Democratic candidate and Maine State House Speaker Sara Gideon toured Bigelow Laboratory facilities Aug. 7 after announcing an eight-part climate plan earlier in the day. Gideon said her visit to the East Boothbay-based independent nonprofit underpins the research and development needed to understand climate change and help create environmentally friendly jobs.
Gideon’s eight-part climate plan is to reduce carbon emissions; increase clean and renewable energy production; protect... Read more
Drive in for Democracy event at Wiscasset Speedway
Griffin Sherry, one of the founding members of the Maine-based, nationally-known, ‘roots holler’ group The Ghost of Paul Revere, will perform a solo set at the Lincoln County Democratic Committee’s (LCDC) Drive In for Democracy taking place on Sunday, Aug. 30 from 4-6:30 p.m. at the Wiscasset Speedway. He will be joined by Georgetown-native singer/songwriter Lauren Crosby and the Damariscotta-based Driving Charlie Home.Music stitches together a strong community around The Ghost of Paul Revere.... Read more
Letter to the Editor
Voting for Chloe
Dear Editor:
I fully support Chloe Maxmin for State Senate in District 13. She supports increasing public access to transportation in rural areas. This would better help people with both with and without disabilities who struggle with transportation to get to doctors appointments, get out to have fun on our own, go to day programs, and go grocery shopping among other daily needs.
I am a person with Down Syndrome, I do struggle with this. This would allow us to be more independent. Day... Read more
letter to the editor
I support Chloe Maxmin
Dear Editor:
I first met Chloe Maxmin when she was running for the legislature in 2018. Chloe grew up on a farm in Nobleboro, graduated from Lincoln Academy and was accepted and graduated from Harvard College. She returned to Maine to build her life here in her community.
Chloe worked with people across Maine and New England for 15 years to curb rising healthcare costs, and declining school funding. Student debt, rising property taxes and climate change are also difficult problems that... Read more
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Who’s on first?
Dear Editor:
As a lifetime New York Yankee fan, I was excited to hear President Donald J. Trump announce at a press briefing that he would be throwing out the opening pitch at Yankee Stadium on Aug. 15. (This important announcement came one hour before Dr. Anthony Fauci was to throw the first pitch for the season-opening game in Washington D.C.)
Unfortunately, neither the Yankees’ organization nor the West Wing staff had this honorary event on their calendars.
When it became obvious that he... Read more
Humorist Tim Sample to emcee Drive In for Democracy
Maine born-and-bred humorist Tim Sample will emcee the Drive In for Democracy: A Rally for the People, on Sunday, Aug. 30 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Wiscasset Speedway. The event, hosted by the Lincoln County Democratic Committee (LCDC), will combine music, Democratic candidates from up and down the ticket, and Sample’s droll brand of Downeast humor for what promises to be a memorable afternoon.
Describing Sample’s work as “humor” rather than “comedy” is, according to fellow Mainer and... Read more
letter to the editor
The dog in the manger
Dear Editor:
Today we are faced with multiple crises; the pandemic, economic hardship, and civil unrest. In times like these we look to our elected representatives to lead the way out of these crises.
But Senator Dow and his Republican colleagues are AWOL in this effort to protect the public. Speaking out of both sides of his mouth, Dow says he wants a special session of the legislature; but only for a narrow agenda that suits his political views.
He also criticizes our government’s response... Read more
letter to the editor
History lesson
Dear Editor:
Nero fiddled … but at least Rome got urban renewal.
Hamilton Meserve
Newagen
Press release
County Democrats to hold Drive In Rally
Lincoln County Democrats will hold the Drive In for Democracy: A Rally for the People, at the Wiscasset Speedway, 274 West Alna Rd., from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 30. The “pandemic-safe” event will be hosted by the Lincoln County Democratic Committee (LCDC) and will follow guidelines set by Maine’s DECD for drive-in theaters and large social gatherings.
Featuring home-grown, Maine entertainment, to be announced, and the opportunity to hear Democratic candidates from up and down the... Read more
letter to the editor
Chloe Maxmin goes the extra mile
Dear Editor:
I am pleased to write this letter in support of the candidacy of Chloe Maxmin, running for the State Senate District 13 seat. I know from experience she will consult with and try to be a voice for the people of our district, while looking out for what’s best for our state.
In her first term as Representative for District 88, Chloe always went the extra mile to meet with the people in her economically challenged district. She has never been too busy to sit down at a kitchen table... Read more
Boothbay Harbor primary voting results
Democratic Primary
Rep. to Congress (Dist. 1)
Chellie Pingree 339
Blank 22
State Senator (Dist. 13)
Chloe Maxmin 292
Blank 69
Rep. to the Legislature (Dist. 89)
Holly Stover 335
Blank 26
Judge of Probate
William Avantaggio 289
Blank 72
United States Senator
Sara Gideon... Read more
Updated: Cunningham, Tomacelli win Boothbay selectmen seats, write-in Lowery to serve again
Chuck Cunningham reclaimed a Boothbay selectmen’s seat by receiving the most votes in a three-person race for two seats July 14. Cunningham garnered 588 votes and incumbent Mike Tomacelli won the other seat with 537. Former Selectman Stephen Ham finished third with 390. Cunningham and Tomacelli were elected to three-year terms.
In the Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor Superintending School Committee election, Abigail Jones received 359 votes in defeating Kathleen Pearce with 233 and Steven Edwards with... Read more
Boothbay primary voting results
Democratic Primary
Rep. to Congress (Dist. 1)
Chellie Pingree 471
Blank 0
State Senator (Dist. 13)
Chloe Maxmin 424
Blank 0
Rep. to the Legislature (Dist. 89)
Holly Stover 469
Blank 0
Judge of Probate
William Avantaggio 410
Blank 0
United States Senator
Sara Gideon... Read more
Southport primary voting results
Democratic Primary
Rep. to Congress (Dist. 1)
Chellie Pingree 121
Blank 4
State Senator (Dist. 13)
Chloe Maxmin 110
Blank 15
Rep. to the Legislature (Dist. 89)
Holly Stover 123
Blank 2
Judge of Probate
William Avantaggio 109
Blank 16
United States Senator
Sara Gideon... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Maxmin
Dear Editor:
I’m proud to vote for Chloe Maxmin for State Senate District 13 in 2020.
As a young farmer in Lincoln County who cares about the future of Maine and this planet, Chloe has my support. As a Millennial myself, I’m thankful for the leadership of previous generations -- and see a need for fresh perspectives that will allow every single Mainer to live a dignified life.
The old systems of healthcare, energy production, education and beyond are not working for the majority of Mainers.... Read more
Lincoln County Republicans social July 18
The Lincoln County Republican Committee (LCRC) is hosting a delayed Fourth of July celebration on July 18 at its headquarters located at 241 Route 1, Damariscotta, Maine. This event will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. All Republicans and those interested in a conservative point of view are welcome to participate.
At this event there will be some flag waving, an activity that we have come to love, and for which we receive much positive feedback from the folks driving by.
For the fundraiser at... Read more
letter to the editor
Sara Gideon for Maine
Dear Editor:
Every time we turn on the news, we are overwhelmed with the increased numbers of people infected with and dying from the coronavirus. The coronavirus is an unparalleled public health crisis that requires that all people have access to help; where and when they need it.
Here in America, the President is leading an effort to overturn the Affordable Care Act. People are becoming infected and dying at alarming rates while the President is leading an effort to make it worse by... Read more
letter to the editor
Be wary of mail-in ballots
Dear Editor:
Please everyone, keep your eyes open. My request for a mail-in-ballot carried two mistakes; first, my address was listed in a different town so the ballot took a week to arrive, after the post office corrected the mistake. And after opening it,, I found that I was given a ballot that is not my party.
How scary is all this? If the town office is overworked and/or understaffed, please give them help.
Ursula Smith
Boothbay
Lincoln County Republicans hear from candidates, hold barbecue
Republicans convened for their monthly meeting at the Lincoln County Republican Headquarters on Route 1 in Damariscotta. The agenda was extensive, due to the shutdown, but enthusiasm was clearly in the air. We heard from several candidates in the upcoming elections. Dana Dow, Republican leader in the State Senate who is running for reelection, filled us in on what is happening, and not happening, in Augusta and what we might have to look forward to in the future. He is hoping for a robust... Read more
Boothbay Harbor passes $4.23 million budget
Boothbay Harbor voters on June 20 approved the entire town warrant – $3,039,606 in appropriations and $1,189,335 in revenues – for the next fiscal year. The annual town meeting in the Boothbay Region High School gymnasium came a day after elections for seven seats and meeting moderator Melissa Witt.
Boothbay Register viewed the meeting via Boothbay Region Television.
Town Manager Julia Latter explained the 2.3% budget increase is mostly due to capital expenditure and paving and construction... Read more
letter to the editor
Clerks encourage absentee voting
Dear Editor:
As Southport’s town clerk, I am writing to encourage voters to vote by absentee ballot in the upcoming Primary Election on Tuesday, July 14.
Any registered voter may cast an absentee ballot. Voting absentee in the privacy of your home is for your own safety, as well as the safety of all election workers. Maine’s absentee system is secure, safe, and easy. You may vote absentee with confidence.
To request a ballot, contact your local town clerk, or apply for a ballot online:... Read more
Ruth Macy wins school board seat; all incumbents win
Boothbay Harbor voters reelected all incumbents for local offices June 19. Select board Vice-chair Tricia Warren and Selectman Denise Griffin took 234 and 230 votes with 168 write-in and blank votes. Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor Cemetery District trustee Ralph Welchtook, 291 votes with 26 blank; BB-BBH Water District trustee David Tibbetts, 294, 23 blank; and Boothbay Harbor Sewer District trustee Samuel Morris, 287, 21 blank.
BB-BBH Community School District School Committee was the only contest... Read more
Boothbay Harbor annual meeting, election details on safety
Boothbay Harbor elections will be in the Boothbay Harbor Fire Department 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 19 and the annual meeting in the Boothbay Region High School gymnasium at 9 a.m. June 20. Health and safety guidelines will make the democratic process look different this year.
Municipal officers at the polls will be shielded by plexiglass and only six voters will be allowed into the fire station at one time, said Town Clerk Michelle Farnham. Markings will signify six-foot spacings between voters... Read more
Boothbay Harbor elections, town meeting June 19, 20
Boothbay Harbor will hold its annual elections from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 19 and town meeting at 9 a.m. June 20. Both were scheduled for May 1 and 2, but were postponed due to COVID-19 concerns.
Voters will choose a moderator for the town meeting – Article 1 on the warrant – and seven three-year terms, Article 2, by secret ballot: two selectmen, one Boothbay Region Water District trustee, one Boothbay Harbor Sewer District trustee, one Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor Cemetery District trustee, one BB... Read more
letter to the editor
Say it ain’t so, Susan
Dear Editor:
She’s done it again — voted to enable Trump’s subversion of the executive branch.
In the Senate Intelligence Committee hearing for John Ratcliffe, Susan Collins pitched him a softball question, then voted to send his name along for confirmation as Director of National Intelligence.
Trump’s water boy in the House and member of his impeachment defense team had to withdraw his name from consideration for this post a year ago, when even Republican senators complained about his... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Maxmin in November
Dear Editor:
I look forward to voting on Nov. 3 for Chloe Maxmin to represent me in State Senate District 13 because, like me, she is an avid environmentalist. I was also a member of environmental advocacy groups in college; and upon graduation came back, bringing home the lessons I learned and the experience I gained from working with peers who have new and different perspectives.
I feel so lucky to have a candidate I’m this excited about. I met Chloe in January at a campaign potluck, and I... Read more
Wiscasset cancels July 4 festivities, sets September town meeting
The Wiscasset Select Board rescheduled the annual town meeting and election for Tuesday, Sept. 8, canceled the Fourth of July parade and fireworks, and approved a proposed ambulance contract with Dresden. The board convened by teleconference for two hours Tuesday afternoon, May 19.
In a 3-2 decision, with Jeff Slack and Kim Andersson dissenting, the board delayed the town election and voting on the 2020-2021 budget until September. Andersson suggested having voting coincide with the State... Read more
letter to the editor
Voting for Maxmin
Dear Editor:
I am thrilled to be able to vote for Chloe Maxmin on Nov. 3 (running for State Senate District 13), someone who is devoted to serving her constituents. I received a call from one of her volunteers to check up on me during this pandemic and to offer help, if needed. How timely and kind and neighborly and unexpected! How old-fashioned! But isn't that exactly what should happen? For a young person to be concerned about senior citizens' needs is especially admirable.
But more... Read more
Boothbay sets town meeting, municipal elections for July 14
Boothbay voters will have a little extra time to elect a new selectman this year. Selectmen approved rescheduling the annual referendum town meeting and municipal elections to coincide with Maine’s rescheduled primary and referendum election in July. Both elections will take place from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 14.
Boothbay’s annual referendum town meeting is typically the first Monday in May from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The state’s referendum and primary election were originally scheduled for... Read more
letter to the editor
Volunteering with Chloe
Dear Editor:
Since late March I have been privileged to volunteer with Chloe Maxmin, candidate for State Senate in District 13 (all of Lincoln County plus Washington and Windsor). When the coronavirus crisis hit, instead of politicking, Chloe thought it more important to call every senior in the district to make sure they’re OK and to offer whatever help they might need.
We volunteers with Chloe have made some 11,000 calls and have talked with nearly 4,000 people. Thankfully, most folks are... Read more
letter to the editor
Support lobstermen and vote for Collins
Dear Editor:
A Maine lobster boat is well equipped to pull out of a thick fog, but if Sarah Gideon is ever elected, the entire fishing industry may never recover.
Susan Collins has already established the emergency funding measures that Gideon can only bark about from the sidelines.
Gideon has presented herself as pure poison poised to be injected into our work and way of life.
Along with her environmentalist allies and pernicious right whale regulations, she is promised to drive... Read more
letter to the editor
Sara Gideon fighting for lobstermen
Dear Editor:
The upcoming lobster season is engulfed in fog.
Will there be markets for our catch in Asia, Europe, and even the U.S.? Will the tourists come and lobster processors buy our lobsters?
Sara Gideon is calling on the federal government to include lobstermen and our industry to be specifically included in the Small Business Relief Funding coming out of Congress.
Maine lobstermen never look for a hand-out from the government but they may need a hand-up to get to the 2021 lobster... Read more
letter to the editor
Political rabble-rousing?
Dear Editor:
I'm getting pretty tired of all these people complaining about the Stay-at-Home orders. How selfish are you? I understand that you may be currently unemployed and your worried about your livelihood. Sadly, most of the letters to the editor come from older people who have Medicare and Social Security to help them out. I don't recall seeing any letters from those on the frontline putting their lives at risk. I wonder if this is just political rabble-rousing.
Instead of being mad... Read more
letter to the editor
Trump: Liar in chief
Dear Editor:
During the 2016 presidential campaign, other Republican contenders spoke of Donald Trump as a pathological liar, tax cheat, carnival barker, con artist, snake oil salesman and a crook. Most of them said he was not qualified to be president and they were right.
He has cheated many people out of their hard-earned money and has filed for bankruptcy six times.
In the last three years, according to a Washington Post fact checker, he has made over 17,000 false claims, stretches of... Read more
letter to the editor
Time for Susan to retire
Dear Editor:
Senator Collins cannot have it both ways: staunch conservative/fierce independent.
She has voted with President Trump 67% of the time, representing a state that stands diametrically opposed to the attacks he has made on on our constitutional order and tradition of fairness and decency.
Her attempts to triangulate a course between abject subservience to the authoritarian leader of the Republican party and low-risk, token support for Maine’s Democratic and Independent majority... Read more
Jeff Pierce seeks return to Legislature as District 53 state rep
Former State Rep. Jeff Pierce ran for office three times before his criminal past surfaced in his 2018 campaign. Pierce, a two-term state representative from Dresden, lost to challenger Allison Hepler, a Woolwich Democrat, in an election which saw seven other GOP incumbents lose and Democrats win both legislative branches and the Blaine House for the first time in a decade. Pierce believes he could have survived the “Blue Wave,” but his criminal background check released three weeks before... Read more
letter to the editor
Our kakistocracy and the pandemic death toll
Dear Editor:
The American symbol of conservative ideology may become a death shroud imprinted with the words “less government, more freedom.” As Donald J. Trump chose his cabinet and agency heads, we saw a new concept in American government: aka kistocracy (a system of government that is run by the worst, least qualified, and/or most unscrupulous citizens[Wikipedia]). The best qualification for leading an agency under Trump was and is to have sworn that agency should be abolished.
At the CPAC... Read more
letter to the editor
Trump doesn’t have the leadership
Dear Editor:President Trump can win re-election in November if he solves the coronavirus crisis by Labor Day.Problem is he doesn't have the skill to lead the nation in crisis — except if wise enough to bring in someone who could. One person is Mitt Romney — witness his rescuing the 2002 Winter Olympics, reflecting what Herbert Hoover did speeding aid to Europe after World War I and the Great Mississippi Flood in 1927.Trump's call ... if he wants to eat crow ... but also another term.Hamilton... Read more
letter to the editor
Trump has failed us
Dear Editor:
Donald Trump has failed the American people. His lack of experience and refusal to be responsive to the best medical advice has threatened the welfare of our parents, children and selves. The president's late response and arrogant, cavalier remarks have cast profound doubt that he can lead this nation through this pandemic and crisis.
I am greatly concerned for my neighbor in his late eighties who is sequestered at home without personal care. I am terrified for the welfare of the... Read more
letter to the editor
Collins’ lack of integrity
Dear Editor:
I am a resident of Southport and grew up in Randolph, Maine. During the recent impeachment hearings and trial, I was disappointed that Susan Collins did not pick up the mantle of our former senator, Margaret Chase Smith. Her "Declaration of Conscience” made to the Senate during the McCarthy Era eerily could have been written in response to our current president’s mode of leadership. I have attached a link to that declaration which recently appeared in the magazine, American... Read more
letter to the editor
Democrats urge precaution, not panic
Dear Editor:
The Lincoln County Democratic Committee has made a decision to postpone in-person activities until the threat of the COVID-19 coronavirus has been minimized. We do not want to endanger the health of our friends and neighbors here in Lincoln County.
However, that doesn’t mean that our work stops. We will find other methods of getting the word out about our Democratic values and goals for the upcoming elections, and we will work hard to make sure that our candidates’ messages about... Read more
2020 Elections
March 8 caucus brings purpose for Democrats
Southport, Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay, Edgecomb and Westport Island Democrats met for the 2020 Democratic Caucus March 8. Around 100 filed into the Boothbay Region High School gymnasium to take part in the democratic process following Maine's Democratic primary election March 3.
The main point of the caucus was to vote for local committee officers, establish delegates to attend the 2020 State Convention and for legislative candidates to stump and collect signatures to put them on their... Read more
Elections
Boothbay nominations are in
Nomination papers for Boothbay seats closed on March 5 and three candidates are running for two selectmen’s seats.
Six seats, all three-year terms, will be up for election this cycle: two selectmen, one Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD School Committee member, one BB-BBH CSD Trustee, one Boothbay Region Water District Trustee and one BB-BBH Cemetery District Trustee.
Incumbent Mike Tomacelli will be running to keep his seat in a three-way contest for the two selectmen’s seats. The other... Read more
letter to the editor
Fantastic news
Dear Editor:
The news that Stephanie Hawke is running to regain her seat in the Maine House of Representatives is fantastic. Her announcement at the joint Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor-Southport caucus was positive, inspirational and motivating.
Stephanie works for us all — Democrats, Independents and Republicans.
Hawke for the House.
Laura Honey
Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor nominations are in
Nomination papers for Boothbay Harbor seats are closed as of March 2. Seven seats, all three-year terms, are up for grabs this cycle: two selectmen, one Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD School Committee member, one BB-BBH CSD Trustee, one Boothbay Region Water District Trustee, one BB-BBH Cemetery District Trustee and one Boothbay Harbor Sewer District Trustee.
Incumbents for all but the CSD seats have returned papers to run in unopposed elections: Select board vice chair Tricia Warren, Selectman... Read more
Stephanie Hawke seeking third term in Maine House
Stephanie Hawke is seeking a rematch in House District 89 this fall. The former two-term state representative lost to Holly Stover, D-Boothbay, 2,559-2,447. During the Feb. 28 Republican Caucus, Hawke announced she would seek another term. Hawke owns Hawke Motors in Boothbay Harbor and is a Community School District committee member. She told Republicans from Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor and Southport, who held their biannual caucus at the American Legion Hall, she is concerned the wrong values... Read more
Press release
Meserve to seek third term as commissioner
Hamilton Meserve (R-Southport) announced has announced he will seek a third four-year term (2021-24) as one of Lincoln’s three county commissioners, representing District 1 (Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, Southport, Westport and Wiscasset.)*
Below is his statement released Feb. 21.
“To District 1 voters:
I have the honor to run for a third four-year term (2021-2024) as one of three Lincoln County Commissioners.*
Few Lincoln County residents know what county commissioners do. We run... Read more
Presidential primary March 3 and Democratic Party caucus March 8
Democratic Party caucuses are Sunday, March 8, with a snow date of Sunday, March 15. The caucuses are a chance for registered Democrats to meet local legislative and other candidates, get involved in municipal committees, and become delegates to the Maine Democratic State Convention in support of their preferred Presidential candidate. Any registered Democrat is encouraged to participate. People unenrolled in a political party or who are unregistered may register as a Democrat any time up to... Read more
letter to the editor
Doing their own bullying
Dear Editor:
Sara Gideon's comment (Feb. 13, 2020) “I do know how to stand up to a bully, but maybe more importantly I know how to work around someone like that” raises the question: Is that by she or her staff doing their own bullying? The Freedom of Information Act and Maine's Public Access Law exist to create transparency in government. Speaker Sara Gideon, her Director of Communications Mary Erin Casale and her Chief of Staff Jonathen Asen are required by law to uphold it.
In February... Read more
letter to the editor
Trump’s assault on our rule of law
Dear Editor:
President Trump just attacked every adult citizen of the United States. He tweeted that the lead juror in the Roger Stone case had a bias. For the president to accuse this juror in any way is an assault on our rule of law, and an assault on every one of us who have or will have to serve on a jury. Jurors are citizens fulfilling their civic duty, to preside over our trial system. They are filtered by the court’s process to be “an impartial jury of the defendant’s peers.” They... Read more
letter to the editor
Ranked choice voting
Dear Editor:
In response to Dave Gregg’s letter (2/13), “Where do I sign,” regarding ranked choice voting, I’ll start by citing the Maine League of Women Voters:
“Maine voters will be voting for the offices of President of the United States, U.S. Senate, U.S. Congress, Maine State Senate, and Maine State House. We will be using ranked choice voting in all of the federal elections, including the choice of presidential electors* for the office of President of the United States. We will not be... Read more
Press release
Boothbay Region Democrats hold 2020 election kick-off meeting
An enthusiastic crowd of 40 Democrats gathered at the 2020 Election Kick-Off meeting on February 9 at Ragsdale Studio in Boothbay. Attendees from Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay, Southport and Edgecomb heard presentations from Maine House Representatives Holly Stover and Chloe Maxmin; Geoff Bates from the Lincoln County Democratic Committee also spoke to the group. In addition, attendees learned about the very important election-year events coming next month: the Maine Presidential Primary on March 3... Read more
2020 elections
250-plus attend Gideon bean supper
U.S. Senate Democratic candidate Sara Gideon and her campaign drew over 250 to “Suppers with Sara” at American Legion Post 42 in Damariscotta Feb. 10. Gideon, seeking to unseat four-term incumbent Susan Collins, is running against four other Democrats in the June 9 primary (corrected from previous posting of March 3): Bre Kidman, Ross LaJeunesse and Betsy Sweet.
Gideon said the suppers center on conversation and everyone eating together. “So, Lincoln County – you know how to show up for supper... Read more
letter to the editor
Where do I sign?
Dear Editor:
Show me that petition. Where do I sign?
Both Janet Mills and Matt Dunlap have pulled a fast one on us and placed into law the use of rank-choice-voting for the presidential election in the fall. State republicans need your signature to boot it off the ballot and have a plurality vote put back in.
This is the first step in removing this horrible aberration from our lives that the likes of George Soros have devised and returning to constitutional law and proper American voting, “... Read more
letter to the editor
Re: Four more years
Dear Editor:
Dave Gregg’s recent Letter to the Editor entitled “Four more years” ends with “Enjoy the economy everyone.” Using facts from a New Yorker Column of Jan. 22, 2020 and The Hill article of Feb. 4, 2020, I’d like to provide more detail about this enjoyment he mentions.
In Davos, Trump said that “the United States is in the midst of an economic boom the likes of which the world has never seen before.” The truth is when Trump took office, the economy’s annual rate of growth was 2.2 per... Read more
letter to the editor
It is now up to us
Dear Editor:
I grew up in Lexington, Massachusetts where the first battle of the American Revolution took place. Every year on April 19 the area commemorates that battle with parades and memorial ceremonies. As a child, I participated in events and proudly marched to our common where early settlers stood and died. A statue of Capt. Parker, a leader of the Minutemen, stands on this sacred ground. Being part of these ceremonies led me to a political science major in college and a career as a... Read more
letter to the editor
Four more years
Dear Editor:
The president walked outside the White House this morning, looked down and saw his shadow. I guess this means four more years.
Enjoy the economy everyone.
Dave Gregg
Southport
letter to the editor
About Susan Collins
Dear Editor:
Susan Collins is always about to do something … that she actually does not end up doing.
Susan Collins has been described as a moderate Republican with a reputation as a common sense voice that Maine could trust. Ms. Collins has obviously lost her way during the Trump administration. Her failures have serious implications for Maine.
Susan’s vote on tax reform was not in the best interest of Mainers. Maine is losing a majority of young adults to “brain drain” every year. How are... Read more
Press release
Boothbay Region Democratic election 2020 kick-off gathering Feb. 9
The town committees of Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor and Southport have united, in concert with the Lincoln County Democratic Committee, to positively engage in actions promoting Democratic values of social and economic justice, and the election of our Democratic candidates. One such activity is scheduled to occur on Sunday, Feb. 9, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Ragsdale Studio Gallery at 11 Sproul Lane, Boothbay.
The Election 2020 Kick-Off Gathering will be devoted to dispensing information related to... Read more
Press release
Maxmin announces state Senate campaign for District 13 to challenge Dow
Representative Chloe Maxmin, D-Nobleboro, announced her campaign for Senate District 13 on Jan. 13, 2020. Maxmin will challenge Senate Republican Minority Leader Dana Dow. The campaign will celebrate the launch with a community potluck on Friday, Jan. 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the North Nobleboro Community Center.
Maxmin grew up on her family’s farm in Nobleboro. She is a graduate of Lincoln Academy and Harvard College and has devoted her life to fighting for Maine, working as a community... Read more
letter to the editor
Stover scores 100
Dear Editor:
Tuesday, Nov. 5, marked the 100th anniversary of Maine’s vote to ratify the 19th Amendment, which gave U.S. women the right to vote. The amendment finally was ratified nationwide on Aug. 18, 1920. If that seems like ancient history, consider this: the more than 70,000 Americans over the age of 100 today were born when half of the U.S. adult population was not allowed to vote.
The nonprofit, nonpartisan civic organization League of Women Voters was formed in 1920 to encourage... Read more
Boothbay Region Democrats host candidates in Barrett’s Park
The Boothbay Region Democratic Committee hosted a “Grill and Chill” event at Barrett’s Park July 13. The event was held by the three town partnership – Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor and Southport – to bring over 100 Democrats of the region together to meet with current representatives and U.S. Senate candidates.
Senate candidates Betsy Sweet and Bre Kidman attended. So did Kate McClellan from the office of Maine House Speaker Sara Gideon, and Maine House District 89 Rep. Holly Stover.
Local... Read more
