It was another disappointing report last week when the Maine Department of Public Safety announced the crime rate increased again ”“ but this year, the news was even more surprising. Public Safety Commissioner John E. Morris announced the 2011 jump ”“ at 5.4 percent ”“ is the largest increase since 1975. Morris said every crime […]

Sunday marked another sad day in what has become a frustrating year for Boston Red Sox fans. Many fans found out that long-time fan favorite Kevin Youkilis has been traded to the Chicago White Sox. Youkilis, along with designated hitter David Ortiz, is one of the last connections to the 2004 World Series-winning Red Sox […]

Very few people fully appreciate what they have until they’ve experienced the alternative. Exhibit A: My family and I know we have great neighbors because that wasn’t always the case. The worst neighbors we ever had lived on our street earlier this decade. A married couple in their mid-40s, both he and she smiled pleasantly […]

The cure for anything is salt water ”“ sweat, tears, or the sea. — Isak Dinesen No catalog of nature’s wonders would be complete without mention of that element that covers roughly 71 percent of the earth’s surface: The ocean. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the ocean contains 97 percent of the […]

The current polarization of American politics is causing stress to the Constitution. Most Americans regard this document with reverence and, in the words of the federal oath of office, would willingly “preserve, protect and defend” it. So why is it in question? The Constitution is more like an operating manual than a document setting national […]

Thumbs up to the Lyman Board of Selectmen for voting to discontinue the legal action that would have the courts determine whether Steven Marble can serve as both selectman and a town employee. The lawsuit has been going on for a year now, since Marble won a seat on the board in June 2011. It […]

The kickoff for Saco’s 250th anniversary was marked with a major parade and festivities earlier this month, but the celebration continues. Through Sunday, July 9, activities will be held in both Saco and Biddeford to celebrate this milestone in the cities’ shared history. Historic walking tours remind locals and inform newcomers of Saco’s highlights ”“ […]

Having a potential employer dig around in your past isn’t a comfortable thought, even for those who don’t have any skeletons in the closet, but it’s a different perspective when you’re the employer. That’s the case for the taxpayers of Biddeford, York County’s largest city, which employs a variety of people, from cleaning crews to […]

Arundel approved $25,000 at its Town Meeting last week to fund a branding study for the town, but it was another vote that has already left an ugly, brand mark on the town. With little discussion, voters decided last Wednesday to reject a $5,100 contribution toward the operating costs for the Kennebunk Free Library. The […]

Celebrating 30 years of ushering in the summer season in Biddeford, La Kermesse Franco-Americaine festival kicks off Thursday and promises to be a culture-filled event. The popular fireworks display will finally return after being nixed in the last few years due to cost. The parade is also on again. Now in its second year at […]