Oxford lawmaker to miss Wednesday’s swearing in because of COVID-19

Rick Bennett of Oxford says he tested positive for coronavirus and won’t join lawmakers convening this week.

Someone takes back the mysterious silver monolith left in the Utah desert

A mysterious silver monolith that was illegally placed in the Utah desert has disappeared less than 10 days after it was spotted by state wildlife biologists performing a helicopter survey of bighorn sheep

Cyber Monday expected to hit pandemic-fueled $12.7 billion record

The busiest e-commerce day of the year is an opportunity for retailers whose websites, customer service departments and delivery operations can withstand crushing traffic.

Trump’s military cuts in Afghanistan highlight divisions over 19-year-old conflict

On the political left and right, there are strong differences of opinion over what the nation should do about the longest war in U.S. history.

Black Friday is here – and it’s completely different

Holiday sales began weeks ago, and many shoppers say they’re shunning stores this year in favor of buying online.

Are dining tents a safe way to eat out during the pandemic?

Outdoor dining tents are popping up outside restaurants during the pandemic, but experts say not all setups are equal

Our 2020 Mainers to Be Thankful For

In a year that’s been trying like none before, we’ve also seen the best of humanity come out through kindness, bravery, innovation and determination.

Since the start of the pandemic, we’ve been recognizing people who’ve stepped up to help their fellow Mainers, but we knew there were more out there so we asked you, our readers, to tell us who in your community is making a difference behind the scenes.

The people you’ll read about below have provided food and shelter, financial and emotional support. They’ve fought for equality and kept us connected. This year, finding Mainers to be thankful for was easier than ever.

What does emergency use of a COVID-19 vaccine mean?

The first COVID-19 vaccines to be given in the U.S. are expected to get a green light from regulators under a process known as emergency use authorization

How to read results from COVID vaccine trials like a pro

Asking these four questions can help us identify good news when we see it, be more critical of news reports, or delay our judgement until we have more information.

How mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna work, why they’re a breakthrough and why they need to be kept so cold

Two pharma companies have announced early COVID-19 vaccine trial results with over 90 per cent effectiveness. What does that mean for getting back to normal?