When Thomas Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence that our unalienable rights include life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, he had a very specific definition of happiness in mind. He believed that happiness was the result of living virtuously — that becoming a fully happy human required devoting yourself to service to your […]
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Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Commentary: Teaching your kids to swim this summer? Steer clear of floaties
In the drowning prevention community, we dread hearing the other F-word: floaties. These seemingly innocuous devices give responsible parents a false sense of security with the assumption that the inflatables will keep their kids safe and help teach them to swim. But in practice, consistent floatie use increases the risks of accidental drowning. With U.S. […]
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Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
For an ethical and enjoyable wildlife experience, embrace the space
The opportunity to see fascinating species thriving in their natural environments draws many of us to national parks, waterways and wildlife refuges every year. Almost as alluring is the appeal of getting the perfect picture that captures an animal’s beauty, ingenuity or charisma. But our Instagram aspirations must not be achieved at animals’ expense. Experts […]
Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Community Compass: Why I am proud to support Pride Month
Clearly, we have much to celebrate. But we must also continue working to make it right.
Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Opinion: Court decision elevates municipal concerns over those of the homeless
Maine’s best guarantee of thwarting a crisis of unhoused people is to make sure every municipality has a plan to offer emergency shelter.
Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Maine Compass: Biden’s accomplishments put him far ahead of his lying, immoral opponent
If overlooking one bad night is not enough for people to understand the difference between the two candidates, we are in bad shape as a country.
Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Opinion: Support of Trump leaves me stumped
Why do so many decent and well-respected people support this candidate?
Posted inKennebec Journal, Morning Sentinel, Op-Eds, Opinion
Hilary Koch: After the debate, Biden must step aside. The stakes are too high
The first presidential debate was a wake-up call for everyone who understands the threat poised to this country by Donald Trump.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Morning Sentinel, Op-Eds, Opinion
Commentary: Any day is Flag Day
Be proud of what the American flag stands for, writes a museum curator.
Posted inOp-Eds, Opinion
Douglas Rooks: Leadership, not recriminations, will mend public defense crisis
On June 7, Leein Hinkley, 43, appeared in Maine District Court in Auburn on domestic violence assault charges for the third time. Once again, there was no lawyer available under the state’s indigent defense system, and Judge Sarah Churchill reduced his bail to $1,500 cash, which was paid and Hinkley released. Ten days later, on […]