For far too long we’ve been dependent on fossil fuels to heat our homes, to power our industries, and for transportation. Maine uses fossil fuels for over 80 percent of its energy needs. Thousands of dollars from hardworking Mainers go out the door to oil companies every year. But that doesn’t have to be the future. The state has been working hard, since 2002, to become energy independent from fossil fuels.

Read more ›

Editorial
A new wave of graduates just entered the workplace, searching for jobs. Many wonder if suitable jobs for the 21st century are available here. It may surprise you — new jobs in Maine are actually on the increase.

According to the Department of Labor, for the first three months of this year, Maine added 2,300 actual jobs. That is the first period of job growth Maine has seen since the recession started to take hold.

Over the last seven years, the state has ramped up research and development with bonds. As a result, there are now more positions available at high-tech companies.

Read more ›

When Seth Wescott came from behind the pack of snowboarders and rocketed across the finish line, Maine was electrified with excitement. So was the nation, it was the first time an American had won a back-to-back winter Olympic event since 1960. It was the first time anyone had accomplished it in the new sport, one in which Wescott continues to define.

Read more ›

America has adverted a depression.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is working. So far in Maine 3,500 people have been employed by it. In Maine’s bipartisan way, our U.S. representatives and senators voted for it.

Even during the recession, Maine has been growing its economy in certain sectors, aided by the grants from the Recovery Act. It’s important to remember and reflect on the reasons why that process is possible and how it all began, seven years ago.

Read more ›

Maine is moving forward, becoming a clean-energy exporter, as well as an innovator in renewable technologies. With biofuels, high-tech windmills, and other innovations developed at the University of Maine, the state is progressing its international expertise in the green-energy economy.

Read more ›

Maine is already on the road that is creating a clean-energy revolution in America.

The foundation has been laid, which establishes Maine as a welcoming state, embracing innovative entrepreneurs.

Read more ›

Through the deepest, darkest days of the American Revolution, the liberating spirit that led to victory did not falter. But they were trying and uncertain times. An unknown future for a country yet to be established was ahead.
But undeniable values of our worth led to victory. It was all about equality and being able to look forward to living what we now term — the American Dream.

Those born to wealth became equal to farmers and trades people with our Declaration. The mighty English overlords failed to hold back democracy. Now the mighty overlords of finance have tumbled.

Read more ›

Harpswell Docks with Lobster fishermen

The impact of the global economic recession on the Maine lobster industry is no secret.

The lack of consumer demand for all luxury items, Maine lobster being the closest to our hearts, has made for devastating financial times for thousands of Maine lobstermen and for many others. These difficulties may not end soon. Therefore, it’s more important than ever for our political and industrial leaders to step forward, to work together and to lead. This economic crisis has served as a wake-up call to all who care deeply about the economic sustainability of Maine and especially our fishing communities. Times like this call for leadership and action. Times like this call for optimism and the recognition of opportunity that change can bring.

Read more ›

Rep. Alex Cornell du Houx talks with residents of Brunswick on election day, 2008.

Along with Barack Obama, there was another big winner on Election Day: democracy. As we move into this new era, it’s good to reflect on the electorate that is bringing change to Washington, DC.

Just after 11 pm, when CNN reported that Barack Obama would be the next president of the United States, waves of relief swept the nation as a blanket of oppression was lifted. Tears, cheers, and dancing in the streets ensued. The country has a new mandate, a new direction. Democracy won.

Read more ›

nbarack4

Understanding the importance of state government is key to understanding the needs of a nation. After all, we reflect who we elect. Barack Obama’s experience as a state senator enables him to reflect on his position in that role. That experience prompted him to convene a meeting with the nation’s governors to discuss their needs. It was the first time in history a president-elect brought the governor’s together so soon.

Read more ›