Freedom Studies - Short Takes and Unfinished Business

Jon Reisman

Riots Versus Revivals

When career criminal and fentanyl-infused George Floyd died in police custody, the left’s response was months of violence, arson, riots, and grievances. When conservative evangelist and faith-infused Charlie Kirk was assassinated, his political brethren responded with a revival and forgiveness.

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What's Up, Calais?

Jayna Smith

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Happy October! October hosts Halloween on the 31st, Canadian Thanksgiving on the 13th, and Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the 13th. It’s also Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

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New Dean of Academic Affairs at WCCC

Washington County Community College (WCCC) has announced the appointment of Dr. Stephanie Brown as the new Dean of Academic Affairs, effective December 15, 2025. Dr. Brown, a seasoned higher education administrator and accomplished architect, brings extensive experience and a passion for supporting diverse student populations to this pivotal leadership role.

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St. Croix Council #149 Exemplification

St. Croix Council #149 of the Knights of Columbus held an exemplification of all three degrees for new members at the Immaculate Conception Church in Calais on Sept. 21. Pictured are (front) State Advocate Gary Boynton, new member Josh Hoyt, new member David Smith, new member Kevin Scarlett, new member Gabe Dillio, State Deputy Michael Giroux, Council #149 Grand Knight Michael Boies, (back) Past State Deputy and Ceremonial Dir.

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Machiasport’s Clammers Urged to Attend, be Heard at Nov. 3 Machias Dike-Bridge Meeting

‘Nothing but a Money Grab’ by Conservation Nonprofits, Whitney Says

Paul Sylvain

According to Machias businessman David Whitney, the efforts to replace the 150-year-old Machias dike and its flapper gates with a full-span bridge, mainly led by several nonprofit conservation groups, are simply a bridge too far.

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Helen’s Restaurant Honored for 75 Years Serving Downeast Maine

From left to right are Reps. Mathew McIntyre (R-Lowell), Will Tuell (R-East Machias), and Tiffany Strout (R-Harrington) join Senator Marianne Moore (R-Calais) in presenting David and Julie Barker, owners of Helen’s Restaurant of Machias, with a legislative sentiment recognizing the eatery’s 75th anniversary in business following a lunch meeting Sept. 23. (Courtesy photo) 

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Harvest Dinner Returns to Main Street This Saturday

Jayna Smith

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The annual Harvest Festival is back this Saturday, October 4, promising a full day of fun for the whole community.

In addition to the popular Fall Market that will be set up at Flat Iron Park, the festival will feature children’s activities, a snack and paint, whoopie pie eating contest, hay rides, and plenty of other seasonal fun. One of the major highlights this year is the return of the Community Harvest Dinner.

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Lioness Bring Soups & Stews Cookoff to Harvest Festival

Jayna Smith

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Warm up with the flavors of fall at the first-ever Soups & Stews Cook-Off, hosted by the Calais Lioness Club, this Saturday as part of CDRC’s Harvest Festival. The event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and promises a deliciously cozy start to the day.

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Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Business in Baileyville

Last week, St. Croix Valley Chamber of Commerce Board members officiated a ribbon-cutting for Positively Beautiful Salon & More, a new business located at 1090 Houlton Road in Baileyville. The salon offers a variety of services including hair and nails, tanning, halotherapy (salt therapy), FAR infrared sauna, massage therapy, and deluxe full body zero gravity massage chairs. Owner Carrie Morrell (center) is pictured with staff members Jayden O’Neill and Angela Sabattus, along with chamber board members, family, and friends.

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Spooky Scenes Amid Fall Leaves

Autumn air, falling leaves, and the promise of spooky nights, this Downes Street home is embracing the spirit of Halloween in full flair. (Photo by Jayna Smith)

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