St. Croix Regional Technical Center has announced the Student of the Year for 2024, Ethan Barnard. 

Ethan exemplifies the ideals of CTE through his dedication to his trade, his school, and his community. He started at St. Croix in the 8th grade exploratory program. From this, he planned his high school career to maximize his time at the tech center. 

Ethan took Automotive Technology during his sophomore, junior, and senior years. He even managed to add two periods of welding during his senior year. 

Jayna Smith

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William “Billy” W. Howard III and Vinton E. Cassidy, both of Calais, are running in the Republican primary on June 11, 2024, for Washington County Commissioner District 1.  David Burns, of Whiting, is running unopposed in the Republican primary for Washington County Commissioner District 2.

A heartfelt shoutout is extended to this group of Calais High School students and alumni who demonstrated extraordinary community spirit and dedication on Memorial Day.  Despite their school band no longer being active, these talented young musicians came together to volunteer their time and skills, providing a musical tribute at the Memorial Day ceremony. Participating were alumnus Josh Cline, junior Jaida Jamieson, senior Bailey O’Rourke, alumnus Taj Colpitts, senior Josh Sivret, and senior Keegan Trainor.

Jayna Smith

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Calais High School celebrated the graduation of 50 students on Sunday, June 2, 2024, in front of a standing-room-only crowd in the school’s gymnasium. The commencement ceremony began with the traditional processional, followed by a performance from the Sipayik Women’s Hand Drum Group, Cipelahq Ehpicik Thunder Women.

On Wednesday, June 5th, the Calais Lions Club hosted its 84th Annual Installation Night.  Founded in 1940, the club has upheld this tradition to install new members and officers and to honor a standout member with the Lion of the Year Award.

This year's event was particularly significant, marking the first time the Calais Lions have installed female members.  Following a change in the bylaws by Lions International, the Calais chapter welcomed three local women. Their contributions have already been invaluable to the club's mission.

Ham radio operators from the St. Croix Valley Amateur Radio Club in the Washington and Charlotte County area will be participating in a national amateur radio exercise from 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, until mid-morning on Sunday, June 23. The event is ARRL Field Day (www.arrl.org/FieldDay), an annual amateur radio activity organized since 1933 by ARRL, The National Association for Amateur Radio in the United States.

Jayna Smith

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Congratulations on the retirement of Brenda Batson and Therese McCormick, dedicated educators at Calais Elementary School, who have positively impacted countless students over the years.  Wishing them a joyful and fulfilling retirement after their years of service.

As part of their commitment to upgrade the playground, Calais Elementary School organized a fundraising initiative by selling raffle tickets on a new Appleton swing set.  Principal Sue Carter revealed the winning ticket on Monday, June 10, announcing Linda Preston as the lucky winner.  Nearly $1,700 was raised by the raffle, and students and staff thank all who purchased and sold tickets.  (Photo by Jayna Smith)

Jayna Smith

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Calais Elementary School is on a mission to revamp its playground, and Principal Sue Carter is leading the charge.  

Carter recently shared the pressing need for a safer and more engaging outdoor space for students.  With the current playground showing signs of wear and age, the school is embarking on a fundraising drive to secure the necessary funds for a much-needed upgrade.