“As Maine goes, so goes the nation.”

I don’t know who first said it but there was a time when Maine people believed it.

There are thousands of homeless people in need of an opportunity for a fresh start. Let’s see if Maine people are ready to show the world that we can take those families who are willing to come to Maine and start a new life.

The governor could send every state representative and senator home to be in touch with every town in his or her district to compile a list of towns willing to sponsor a family and who will pledge to provide housing, food, clothing and jobs for a fresh start.

Sens. Collins and Snowe and Reps. Allen and Michaud could go to the assembled groups in Texas, Louisiana and elsewhere and announce that Maine is ready, have people sign up and get the ball rolling.

Our National Guard could provide transportation, food and essentials as they return to Maine by bringing these people with them. And the Maine Maritime Academy training ship State of Maine could bring refugees back to the state.

Meanwhile, the towns can work out the details of housing, clothing and their basic needs before they arrive. This could be what we need in this state and it puts everyone to work helping.

Glennice Cline

Greenbush