US retail sales slump unexpectedly, sharply after a summer tax-refund boost fades

Maine insurance bureau approves nearly 15% average rate hike for ACA plans

The bureau said rising healthcare costs are driving the increases.

Thank you, public educators

“Every day, teachers in public schools welcome, care for, accommodate, and teach students who may have very few financial and social resources outside of school, who may have just moved to the school community from another country and don’t speak English as their first language.”

Letter: Mental health care must be a priority in the November election

“People seeking mental health care are too often met with long waits and too few providers. The consequences can be devastating.”

Bucksport eyes new developer for long-vacant lot where project failed to materialize

It’s another chapter in efforts to increase economic activity in Bucksport post-paper mill and increase the town’s available housing amid a statewide shortage.

Wife doesn’t want to be around grandkids

This column addresses complex personal dilemmas, offering advice on navigating strained family roles regarding grandchildren, declining unwanted houseguests, and handling modern dating etiquette for bill payments.