Pamela Wood introduces readers to the first half of this Salt issue, dealing with the island community on Mount Desert Island.

Following the terrorists attacks of 9/11, Scott Rodbro set out to find Maine's heroes, contacting veterans groups in the state. Rodbro speaks to a veteran about his time and experiences in the armed services.

Heather Kadar captures the work of Joan and Marlo Bunker, funeral facilitators, who help people in need.

Lisa Mattingly documents the work of Corey Perreault, a mother who uses Christmas decorations to deal with economic struggles. Mattingly speaks to Perreault about decorations and using them as a cleansing ritual.

The act of contradancing, a type of folk dance, is examined in this piece by Leila Childs. She explores the history of this folk dance, the music associated with it, and talks to the dancers themselves to uncover the social aspect of dancing.

For the Freeport Flag Ladies, the American flag is more than just a symbol, but an entire lifestyle. Brendan Collins highlights how this group has made it their life's work to keep alive a sense of true Americanism, despite an unpopular war in Iraq.

Project on the perceptions of Northern and Southern Maine, as seen by individuals who live on the opposite half.

Alex Rheault documents the work of Portland firefighters in charge of the Portland Fireboat.

David Kingdon documents the lives of burn survivors and their experiences through rehabilitation.

Rufus Nicoll highlights the work of Matthew Dunlap, Maine's Secretary of State. Nicoll discusses how Dunlap works to keep the documents of the state in order and his everyman image.

Short write ups on the lawyer George Willard, the Custom House Wharf in Portland, and the Colony Inn.

Lara Cerri captures the lives of three individuals on Cliff Island.