Welders and philosophers
Marco Rubio got lots of applause when he said in the “debate” that America needs welders more
than philosophers. Twisting slowly in the wind, the GOP actually could use a philosopher or two to explain the difference between fantasy and reality and between facts and voodoo economics.
Will the Republicans’ magical thinking win them the presidency?
Peg Cruikshank
Corea
Where’s the civil discourse?
Civil discourse by candidates and elected officials is of utmost importance to those of us representing nine denominations at the Maine Council of Churches. We thought it was important to Rep. Lawrence Lockman as well. He was one of the 100 candidates in 2014 who signed our Covenant For Civil Discourse and pledged to uphold six principles, including “to refrain from personal attacks” and “to value honesty, truth, and civility while striving to find workable solutions.”
Unfortunately, Lockman broke his promise.
Last week, Lockman, who lives near Bangor, became involved in the mayor’s race in Lewiston. On social media, he described candidate Ben Chin as “an anti-Christian bigot” and said, “Chin hates America, hates Americans and hates Christians, and he wants to allow non-citizens to vote.”
Actually, Chin is an Episcopalian, licensed as a lay reader and well-versed in biblical study, liturgy and theology. He periodically gives sermons at Trinity Episcopal Church in Lewiston.
The Maine Council of Churches does not endorse nor oppose specific candidates, but we do speak out when hurtful remarks tarnish the democratic process.
What is most disturbing about this most recent attack is that it comes from a state legislator whose title elevates his behavior to a higher standard in the public eye. And he is not alone. Two other legislators apologized publicly earlier this year for anti-Muslim remarks they reposted.
This is a trend we find unsettling. Lively debate is part of politics, but religion should not be used to inflame voters.
Bonny Rodden
Board member
Maine Council of Churches
Falmouth
National park may draw us to Maine
As my partner considers locations for his medical residency program, we weigh distance from our families, job markets and community in each location. I, too, will be making the move, and as an environmental educator I am drawn to areas that boast wide-open spaces and ample outdoor recreation. A robust environmental community appeals to my interests as a passionate environmental advocate. Both of us are drawn to the landscape and the opportunity to spend time doing what we love; summiting mountains and camping, opportunities not available in Connecticut, where we currently reside. Moving to a state with ample mountains and outdoor activities is incredibly inviting.
I also look for communities that appreciate the importance of outdoor recreation and rich quality of life; communities, in other words, which value their natural landscape and invest in the future of that land.
During a recent Maine medical facility tour, I learned of the campaign to create a national park and recreation area east of Baxter State Park. A second national park would certainly add to Maine’s appeal, increasing its image as a vibrant community offering many activities. A national park and recreation area will bring up to 1,000 jobs by attracting to Maine those with outdoor interests, whether for a day trip or, in our case, a permanent move.
Numerous factors must be considered when relocating but, like most people, quality of life tops our list. I hope Sen. Angus King considers this when working to highlight Maine as a great destination.
Michelle Sweetman
West Hartford, Connecticut