At the Nov. 12 Gray Town Council meeting, a lengthy and chaotic hearing was held to fill a council vacancy. Five candidates laid out to the council why they were best to fill the position.

Nicole McKeith, Bridgton's new community development director, spoke at the town's Rotary Club as part of a larger outreach effort to get to know the town.

The town's old system was unable to treat wastewater, as it was only handling graywater, household water without major contaminants.

After a lengthy debate, Standish voted down a moratorium on large-scale housing, 3-2. The moratorium would have suspended the approval of such projects for 180 days to allow for revisions to the town's impact fee ordinance.

As a part of the university’s Student Undergraduate Research Experience, Robyn Rollo ’25 works hand-in-hand with wildlife biologists to understand the impact of climate change on Maine marsh invertebrates.

Douglas Webster is retiring from the role of planning director after 17 years of public service in Gray. Some of his notable accomplishments include the redevelopment of the Henry Pennell School, as well as the adoption of a Consistent Comprehensive Plan.

Fidium Fiber will expand its fiber network into the Lakes Region. Advocates say that the fiber connection will vastly improve local internet connectivity and spur economic growth.

Several Lakes Region towns voted on ballot measures pertaining to infrastructure improvements and local government reform.

Thanks for Giving Maine held its annual Election Day food drive across several towns in the Lakes Region and beyond. All proceeds from the charity go toward local food banks.

Peyton Dostie of Standish was recently inducted into the Little East Conference Hall of Fame for her athletic achievements at the University of Southern Maine.

Misty Coolidge, Mrs. USA 2022 and owner of Coolidge Family Farm in New Gloucester, hosted the "Running of the Brides" 3K to raise money for a local food bank.

The Bridgton Historical Society held a tour of the High Street Cemetery to celebrate Halloween. There, they honored several noble and ignoble residents, mentioning both their contributions to the town and their place in wider American history.

The New Gloucester Select Board recently signed a letter of support for an RFSI grant for Flying Goat Farm. The money from the grant will be used to purchase a new electric van.

The town of Windham seeks to build affordable housing on the site of a former school. Recently, a new tax district was established to help them collect the funds needed.

Christine Frost-Bertinet of RSU 14 Windham Raymond School District was recently given the Assistant Superintendent of the Year Award by the Maine School Superintendents Association.

Bonny Eagle High School's transportation building was recently rededicated to the late Deb Silver. Several community members shared fond memories of Silver, a longtime bus driver and pillar of the community.