PORTLAND (AP) — A proposal by the city of Portland to charge shoppers for disposable plastic or paper shopping bags has moved forward after a city council committee voted to lower the proposed fee and send it to the full council. The Transportation, Sustainability and Energy Committee voted 3-1 Wednesday to slice the per-bag fee […]

PARIS (AP) — The trial of a West Paris woman charged with being drunk and reading a text message when her car crashed, killing two teenage passengers, is winding down. The Oxford County Superior Court jury in the trial of 21-year-old Kristina Lowe is expected to start deliberating today after getting instructions from the judge. […]

AUGUSTA (AP) — The deadline is quickly approaching for companies interested in competing for the title of “Best Places to work in Maine.” Any company with at least 15 employees in Maine can register by Friday. All businesses will then be reviewed on things like the company’s employee benefits and policies. The award that recognizes […]

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s new military junta has announced that it has suspended the country’s constitution. A military statement broadcast on national television today confirmed the nation’s caretaker government is no longer in power but said the Senate will remain in place. The news came two hours after army chief Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha announced that […]

Solitude is a state of mind that can be positive, when it’s desired, but when it turns into isolation and loneliness, it can become unbearable. Unfortunately, many seniors reach this point and don’t know what to do about it. Combatting isolation is vital, as it can have a negative impact on the lives of seniors, […]

Managing medications is a major source of worry for seniors, as the complexity of their treatment often requires careful organization. Which pills have to be taken in the morning, in the evening, or at mealtimes? What to do if you forget to take a pill or if you’ve taken two by mistake? Don’t worry; there […]

Though vaccines are usually associated with childhood or foreign travel, older adults may need certain vaccinations as they age. Even those who received immunizations as youngsters may need refresher doses or vaccinations tailored specifically to the over 50 crowd. Seniors are urged to talk to their doctors about certain vaccines. In addition to flu shots, […]

Being an elderly senior is sometimes fraught with vulnerability. Many seniors were taught to be kind and generous when they were young, and in their old age, if they’ve become socially isolated or financially dependent, they can all too easily be the victims of financial, psychological, and physical abuse. Family members, friends, and caregivers should […]