Wouldn’t it be nice if the Maine legislature could get along in order to get things done in Augusta? Well, you may think it’s not possible, but I would argue that here in Maine we have a unique chance to make that happen. In fact, I believe we are at a significant turning point in American politics, and Maine could lead the way. Unfortunately, we have to overcome persisting resistance from those who don’t want to give up their power or control over the Maine legislature. But on June 12 we have the chance to finally put these career politicians in their rightful place, out of office.

Chief Aircrew Survival Equipmentman Daniel Hight of Dexter, assigned to the "Skinny Dragons" of Patrol Squadron (VP) 4, gives an aircrew helmet to a student from the American School in Japan. The students were in Okinawa to learn about the U.S. Navy and its roles, capabilities and missions in Okinawa.

Eighteen months ago, Dover-Foxcroft resident Sarah Matulis walked into The Outlet, a mixed martial arts training center in Dexter, looking for ... well, an outlet.

Standing in the shadows of the half-light by the kitchen window, she was pointing out by the bird feeder. A large black bear was standing on all fours not 15 feet from the sliding glass door on which it had slathered its drool the night before. Having hunted bears and guided some, I’m a pretty good judge of size. This bruin was in the neighborhood of 250 pounds! He just stood there gazing calmly at the bird feeder station. He then sniffed at the pole that had held the feeder, which we had removed after the previous night’s raid.

The 50th anniversary of the Knights of Columbus and the Tri-County Shriners (held at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Dexter) was led by Tri-County Shriner’s President Rich Johnson, middle, on May 16 with a social hour and meal.

A number of area athletes took part in the Penobscot Valley Conference JV outdoor track and field championship May 23 at the Brewer Community School.

The Moosehead Marine Museum (MMM) received a $5,000 grant from the Bangor Savings Foundation to support filming of a historical documentary film featuring steamboat wrecks in Moosehead Lake.

I have proudly served in the Maine House of Representatives for the last four years. Every day I have known that I am there as your representative. As an independent, I understand that most people don’t care whether the ideas come from Democrats or Republicans as long as those ideas can make lives better for people without breaking their wallets.

I've authored more than my share of columns on the issue of gun violence, usually written in the aftermath of a horrific tragedy perpetrated by a deranged individual who inflicted massive harm on a large group of people.

Here’s a tale of two states, the pope and a Virginia student who just wanted to use the bathroom. The battle for equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people is an ongoing struggle. It shouldn’t be that way, but it is.