We can’t think of a more difficult job in Maine public service right now than that of overseeing county corrections.

Reading the paper is often difficult, but researching stories worldwide can bring tears of sorrow and a lack of understanding why treatment of the poor and homeless seems so cruel and unkind.

This is from a recent NBCnews.com article: “Pope Francis suggested there are limits to freedom of expression, saying in response to the Charlie Hebdo terror attack that ‘one cannot make fun of faith’ and that anyone who throws insults can expect a ‘punch.’

For those of us from away who have chosen to make our home here, there is a process that happens over a period of years that transforms the community from a new home to a home to just home.

As we approach New Year’s Day, we find ourselves thinking about resolutions.

The most common resolutions seem to focus on our bodies. Lose weight. Quit smoking. Exercise more. Admirable goals all.

Before we descend headlong into the Christmas season, we would be remiss if we did not take a moment to mark the 73rd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, coming up this Sunday, Dec. 7.

Once again it is my great privilege to thank and recognize the members of the Miles League and the St. Andrews Auxiliary for their dedication and hard work in support of our organizations.

This has been one of the best Thanksgivings of my life and it was not because the turkey came out moist or the family got along.

It’s time for New Year’s resolutions, particularly those about our health. Although gun violence remains the leading cause of death among young people, our most dangerous weapon is still our fork. Forty-five times as many die of chronic diseases linked to a diet containing animal products, sugar, and salt.

There is a large generation who know Pearl Harbor Day only as a holiday, a day off from school, sales with discounts, and banks are closed.

I would like to agree with “What a shame” by Frank D. Slason in the Dec. 18 edition of The Lincoln County News. I would like to invite Mr. Slason and everyone else to join me in the coming year by saying nice things to others. Beginning with this year, let us make a point to say “Happy new year” to more people every day.

What would happen next year if everyone started wishing people merry Christmas earlier; perhaps beginning the day after Thanksgiving?

If the ignorance of legalizing the personal use of marijuana in Maine becomes a fact, does this mean the employer who tests job applicants for drugs cannot refuse to hire someone who tests positive?

Thank you to all the businesses (way too many to list) for your generous donations to the Ginny Ellison-Herald benefit supper and silent auction Dec. 13. It was an incredible turnout of family and friends to help support and honor the memory of Ginny.

The news of the Genesis Community Loan Fund leaving Damariscotta as reported in the LCN on Nov 21, 2014 prompted me to clarify CEI’s move to Brunswick, as reported in the LCN Aug. 28, 2013 – and to offer this bit of history and concept of community investing.