Articles by Deb Sayer

Business

Maine must not lose momentum in state-level climate work | Letter

The Maine Energy Plan attempts to balance future electricity demand, clean energy supply, affordable heating options for consumers and sustainable jobs for workers. An Oct. 17 op-ed, “Maine needs a better plan for its electrical grid,” proposes a companion grid planning group to bring together private, public and nonprofit leaders to evaluate these interrelated issues [...]

Technology

Red flag laws save lives by reducing suicide | Letter

Maine has the highest rate of suicide in the Northeast U.S. In 2022, a total of 87% of Maine firearm deaths were suicides. If someone is in crisis and suicidal, having easy access to a firearm is deadly. A firearm allows no time for reconsideration. Referendum Question 2 supports establishing a red flag law in Maine, allowing a family member or law enforcement to seek temporary removal of weapons for safety. These laws allow for rapid response to remove risk. I worked as a crisis clinician in Maine, intervening with people threatening suicide and for two decades supported families and organizations after a suicide loss. Often I hear from families, “I wish I could have done something to save them.” Families know their loved ones and can recognize risk long before law enforcement is called. A red flag law provides a tool that can prevent a lifetime of grief and regret. Vote “Yes” on Question 2. Greg Marley, LMSWRockland