BANGOR — An attorney representing Occupy Augusta participants argued in federal court Monday that the group’s physical encampment, and the act of occupying a public space, is an essential part of its message.

WINSLOW — Two local women remained at hospitals Monday afternoon after being injured in a car crash the previous morning on China Road in Winslow.

SKOWHEGAN — The man accused of killing Rita St. Peter was a suspect for more than 31 years, but it wasn’t until recently that police matched his DNA with semen found at the scene of her death in Anson, a prosecutor said.

WALES — Parents of public school students in Litchfield, Sabattus and Wales can learn about the new customized learning program in public forums set for today and Wednesday.

BELGRADE — The recent dismissal of Jessica Moore as the town’s recreation director has highlighted tension between parks and recreation board members and municipal officials.