I don’t remember learning anything about Columbus in school except how he succeeded in getting the ships for, and then making, that fateful trip. And the only thing I recall from school about Native Americans was Thanksgiving and some battles, and that they would use all of an animal they killed and would say a prayer for it.

As a reporter and just as an American media consumer, I’ve learned a lot more about both, and am really glad Indigenous Peoples Day has replaced Columbus Day in Maine and several other states. The larger number of syllables is worth it, just as a day honoring Italian heritage would be, without naming it after Columbus. 

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Speaking of honoring, thank you so much to Edgecomb’s Stott Carleton for letting me walk with him and his wonderful dog Skip this week as they continue to honor veterans who gave all, and truckers and others who have been helping get everyone though the pandemic. People are excited about it and, as impressed as I was for his reasons behind the walks with the American flag, I was equally impressed by his selflessness. This is not about him and he was very clear on that. Thank you, Stott Carleton for your service, and for your and Skip’s time Monday. I will treasure it and hope your efforts remind others of all the important things your walks and the flag represent.

Week’s positive parting thought: Best of luck, Wiscasset, on a successful, safe and maybe even sunny Scarecrowfest.