• Read more about To the Editor:

Thanks to up to $500 million in federal and state funding, and the work my colleagues and I in Augusta did to advance access to high-speed internet for rural Mainers, we have a monumental opportunity to close the digital divide once and for all. Our leaders must prioritize solutions that bring broadband connectivity to communities still living without it and avoid proposals that will waste the finite funds we have or do little to address the factors driving our state's internet divide.

• Read more about McCreight earns national recognition from American Cancer Society

AUGUSTA - Rep. Jay McCreight, D-Harpswell, has been named a 2022 recipient of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network's National Distinguished Advocacy Award. The award recognizes lawmakers who have led efforts to fight against cancer and to support patients, survivors and their families.

• Read more about Cloutier earns national recognition from American Cancer Society

AUGUSTA - Rep. Kristen Cloutier, D-Lewiston, was named a 2022 recipient of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network's National Distinguished Advocacy Award at a reception held in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, Sept. 14. The award recognizes lawmakers who have led efforts to fight against cancer and to support patients, survivors and their families.

• Read more about Gramlich earns Defend Our Health's Legislative Leadership Award

AUGUSTA - Rep. Lori K. Gramlich, D-Old Orchard Beach, was recognized by Defend Our Health on Sunday, Sept. 11, for her extensive work to protect the environment and public health. The advocacy organization highlighted Gramlich's work in the Maine House with its 2022 Legislative Leadership Award.

• Read more about Meyer earns national recognition from American Cancer Society

AUGUSTA - Rep. Michele Meyer, D-Eliot, was named a 2022 recipient of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network's National Distinguished Advocacy Award at a reception held in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, Sept. 14. The award recognizes lawmakers who have led efforts to fight against cancer and to support patients, survivors and their families.

• Read more about Gramlich named House chair on water resources commission

AUGUSTA - Rep. Lori K. Gramlich, D-Old Orchard Beach, has been named House chair of the Commission to Study the Role of Water as a Resource in the State of Maine. The commission held its first meeting Monday, Sept. 12.

• Read more about Lookner selected to join Vienna housing delegation

AUGUSTA - Rep. Grayson Lookner, D-Portland, has been selected to accompany Hawaii State Senator Stanley Chang and fellow state legislators and advocates from across the United States to examine social and public housing in Vienna, Austria this month.

• Read more about Gramlich joins leaders from Maine, Quebec to support proposed passenger rail project

AUGUSTA - Rep. Lori K. Gramlich, D-Old Orchard Beach, joined leaders from Maine and Quebec last week to build support for a Montreal-to-Boston passenger train route that would include stops in Old Orchard Beach and other Maine locations.

• Read more about ADVISORY: EMS Blue Ribbon Commission to hold first meeting today

AUGUSTA - The Blue Ribbon Commission to Study Emergency Medical Services in the State will hold its first meeting today, Thursday, Sept. 1. The commission established by the Legislature will examine and make recommendations on the structure, support and delivery of emergency medical services in the State.

• Read more about Home heating and weatherization resources

Summer is still in full swing, and we've seen record temperatures in recent weeks. However, we know that the cold weather will return soon enough. I've heard from a few people recently about their concerns for keeping their homes warm this winter. Fortunately, there are resources available for those who need assistance.

Waldo Community Action Partners (WCAP) Home Energy Assistance Program helps qualified homeowners and renters pay for heating costs. The approval process can take some time, so I encourage you to apply as early as possible.