Describing his view of the state budget, Republican legislator Jeffrey Timberlake talks about children waiting to get on a school bus where there aren’t enough seats. Timberlake, a farmer from Turner and a key Republican member of the  Appropriations Committee, was quoted in a story last week by Sun Journal Statehouse reporter Scott Thistle. Timberlake […]

Heavy is the head that wears the crown of being a newspaper columnist. In my case, every two weeks I’m tasked with compiling 750-800 words of profound insight, subtle wit and topical perspective for billions of (potential Internet) readers, and for the few of us Jurassic Parkers who still enjoy the feel of newspaper in […]

Back when first elected, one of the first things Gov. Paul LePage did was have an “Open for Business” sign placed on the Maine Turnpike. “Open for Business” was the mantra of Republican governors everywhere. Gov. Scott Walker similarly declared Wisconsin “Open for Business.” But the supposedly pro-business policies of LePage and Walker haven’t borne […]

I did not realize that becoming a parent meant that I would never again get a full night’s sleep. The secret is out when it comes to newborns. Everyone knows that time will be measured in three-to-four hour chunks, regardless of whether it is light or dark outside. You’re equipped and encouraged for what’s billed […]

I must strongly disagree with Walter Eno’s assessment of Edgar Allen Beem’s column regarding assisted suicide. I completely agree with Beem’s comment, as quoted by Mr. Eno: “… I am frankly sick and tired of the Catholic Church and religious conservatives trying to force their beliefs on society as a whole.” But Eno puts words […]