By Ernie Clark, Bangor Daily News Staff When Chad Cooper tried to enroll his son in Dexter’s recreation department sports teams about 15 years ago, he was originally turned down because the youngster wasn’t quite old enough for the available programming.

GUILFORD — Masks will stay optional for students in SAD 4 in accordance with the wishes of their parents or/guardians.

Residents of Piscataquis County and the Katahdin region wondering where they may potentially go with their education and careers will have the opportunity to take an exploratory step in both directions with a free online 8-week course through Eastern Maine Community College and Eastern Maine Development Corp.

DOVER-FOXCROFT — The town of Dover-Foxcroft will be taking a proactive approach to climate change with the formation of a municipal advisory committee to develop a long-term climate action plan for the community.

GREENVILLE — A green space providing access to Maine’s largest lake is now preserved for the public.

DEXTER — The site along town trails at the Dexter Municipal Golf Course is still being worked on, but disc golfers now have an 18 hole course.

DOVER-FOXCROFT — A week into the start of classes for the 2021-22 academic year, students and staff are handling the adjusted learning environment amid the coronavirus pandemic well.

DOVER-FOXCROFT — A month-plus after the retirement of long-time Piscataquis County EMA Director Tom Capraro, the county may be close to hiring his successor.

DEXTER — Following the cancellation of Maine high school tackle football at all divisions in 2020, the Dexter Regional High School football team had to wait another year for its inaugural game as an 8-man program.

DOVER-FOXCROFT — Senior quarterback Austin Seavey threw three touchdown passes and ran for another.