The woods and waters of what is now Piscataquis and Aroostook counties were largely uncharted territory for the people of European descent in Maine in the years prior to statehood in 1820.

Roughly half or more of all Maine adults -- particularly older and rural people -- are at risk of developing serious illnesses if they contract the new coronavirus, making the state’s older population one of the most vulnerable in the U.S. to the virus.

The Narrow Gauge Riders Snowmobile Club is again conducting the annual Lake Hebron Ice Out Contest. Guess the closest date and time, without going over, of ice out on Lake Hebron and win $150. All proceeds will go to support club equipment, grooming and other trail maintenance.

As we sit right now, we own the building, no debt. The only thing at cost at present is the utilities cost and the insurance cost for the building. We do need to talk about needed maintenance cost.  And where to go from here.

The Center Theatre is now accepting registrations for the 2020 April Vacation Drama Camp. The camp will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, April 20 through Friday April 24 at the Center Theatre.

There’s a symphony going on in the North Maine Woods, and few people know about it. Perhaps a handful of loggers have noticed. A smattering of snowmobilers might have heard the din while pausing on the trail. I rarely run into birders there. Indeed, never.

A 42-year-old Bangor man died on March 8 after he was unable to stop at a snowmobile trail intersection and crashed into the trees.

The Maine Principals’ Association Board of Directors and Interscholastic Management Committee voted on March 13 to delay the start of the 2020 spring sports practices until April 27. The original date was March 23, which marked when baseball and softball coaches were able to begin working only with their pitchers and catchers for a week.

Help is available for them at Project Rachel, The Post-Abortion Healing Ministry of The Catholic Church. Project Rachel, who is open to anyone regardless of their religion, has a network of specially trained clergy, spiritual directors and therapists who provide compassionate “one-on-one care” to those who are struggling with the aftermath of abortion. 

The Piscataquis Regional YMCA is pleased to announce the appointment of Mandy Adams as its new executive director/CEO, effective March 11. Adams was selected by the Y’s CEO search committee, following a 3-month search.