J.P. Devine: Now go get your shots and your milkshake

There was one bright light recently amid the bad COVID-19 news, J.P. Devine writes.

Liz Soares: A glimmer of happiness

Unexpected ordeal while in the hospital offers lessons outside of ordinary existence, Liz Soares writes.

J.P. Devine: Starbucks is closed — what?

When the local Starbucks starting locking its doors early because of short-staffing, the response from some patrons was as if the Vatican had canceled Christmas, J.P. Devine writes.

Branching out

Dana Wilde: Life finds a way

Pondering the meaning of “invasive” species, Dana Wilde reflects on the surprising ways in which nonnative plants and animals are popping up in our environment.

COVID-19 vaccination clinic offering free milkshakes at Waterville McDonald’s draws large crowd

The free pop-up clinic was coordinated by the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention with the restaurant’s owner, Mike Ortins.

J.P. Devine: Smile, why dontcha?

It’s hard to tell these days when people are smiling beneath their masks, but J.P. Devine has learned the importance of activating those 10 facial muscles.

Gardiner police arrest man in connection with recent store robbery

Joshua Brown, 37, was arrested by Gardiner Police after authorities said that citizens came forward “and provided critical information during the course of our investigation.”

Liz Soares: Recovering with the help of reading

After enduring a prolonged hospital stay, Liz Soares finds solace in her pandemic reading.

J.P. Devine: Lost and found

Remembering his first dog, J.P. Devine recounts the love affair and magic eyes that stick with him today.