This week, I want to take this space to say a word about two of our columns – one brand new and one some 500 or so columns in.
First, this edition includes an article (see page 2) about the town of Damariscotta’s recognition of “Damariscotta History” columnists Calvin and Marjorie Dodge.
It is hard to think of anyone who deserves recognition more or seeks it out less than the Dodges.
Mr. Dodge hand-delivers their column every week. He writes the column longhand and always brings with it photos from their museum-like collection.
Mr. Dodge is my first call when I have a question about the town’s history and the first resource I suggest to others with questions. He may not always have the answer immediately, but he usually finds it.
The Dodges’ column, their knowledge, and their efforts to preserve the town’s history provide an invaluable service to our readers and the people of Damariscotta.
Mr. Dodge is an old-time gentleman in his bearing, his character, his words and deeds. He is courteous, kind, and professional.
He is full of wisdom too. Once in a while we chat about politics. I don’t know what his political affiliations are, but he once shared a quote with me: “If you always vote a straight ticket, you’ll vote for a lot of crooks.”
Maybe I don’t have the words quite right, but the idea is to look at the person rather than simply the letter next to his or her name. Neither character nor corruption know party lines.
Calvin himself was a small-town politician once, a selectman in Damariscotta for six years. He still weighs in on town affairs, but only when he thinks it’s really important.
I can think of two occasions in my eight years at the newspaper: during an attempt to eliminate the police department and during the recent hearings about the 435 Main St. development. Calvin was right on both counts.
Also this week, I want to introduce readers to our newest columnist and features reporter, Suzi Thayer. Suzi has a following in the Boothbay region and beyond for her food columns. She has a lively, conversational style we have admired from afar, and are now excited to see in our pages.
Her new column has a working title of “Food, Life, and Manhattans.” It appears for the first time on page 1B. Her coverage of the Damariscotta Oyster Celebration appears on page 16B.
Please join us in congratulating Calvin and Marjorie Dodge, welcoming Suzi Thayer, and thanking all our columnists for their contributions to the newspaper each week.
