At a University of Maine commencement years ago, a good friend, Al, received his Ph.D. and was “hooded” by my husband, his adviser. When Al’s name was called he made his way painfully across the stage on crutches, losing his mortarboard on the way. The entire audience let out a spontaneous “Oh.” Al received the loudest applause of the afternoon. 

Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday, April 5, and continues through Easter Sunday, April 12.  The Holy Family Parish of Greenville and St. Anthony of Padua Parish of Jackman will live stream services at facebook.com/aaron.damboise.50.

I appreciated Bruce Poliquin's call for unity in his recent column. The times certainly demand it. The times also demand increased discernment. The coronavirus pandemic shines the light on our absolute connection as humans.

Citing a continuing goal of reducing moose density in certain areas in order to cut down the effect of winter ticks on the herd, Maine biologists have proposed increasing the number of available moose permits this year by 11 percent over last year, up to 3,135.

The day dawned gray and blustery -- not ideal for fishing, but sadly par for the course when it comes to early season fishing outings -- and I struggled to find and gather all the gear I'd need for my personal opening day of open-water season.

Recent times have proven less profitable for the 2,968-yard layout located on Park Street in Milo, so the Gerrishes have opted to close the 90-year-old course.

The Dover-Foxcroft Congregational Church will live stream the 9:20 a.m. Sunday worship service.

Just days ago, I and millions of others received “The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America.” Since Donald Trump likes to have his name on everything, apparently to maintain his self-importance, it seems only fitting to me that we now refer to this deadly flu as the "Trump Virus.”

Out of concern for the health and well-being of Partners for Peace staff, volunteers and the survivors and community members we serve, all Partners for Peace in-person services will continue to be “on pause” at least until May 1 or until further notice. Our 24-hour helpline will remain open and available to anyone affected by abuse or violence, including community partners, at 1-800-863-9909.

Monson is one of three Maine towns that will receive support from the National Main Street Center to develop networks in their communities to foster entrepreneurship and innovation. Monson, Skowhegan and Lisbon were selected to participate in the Community Entrepreneurship Program through a competitive application process managed by the Maine Community Foundation in partnership with Maine Development Foundation’s Maine Downtown Center.