By Natalie Boomer

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A local young lady has created the Facebook group “Washington County Virtual Holiday Craft Fair 2020” for those who wish to participate in craft fairs this holiday season, but are unable due to the coronavirus concerns.

Jayna Smith

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In a time of great political divide and amidst a pandemic, when we are told to keep six feet apart, the distance between Americans, metaphorically speaking, has become miles longer.  Tensions are high and fear has intensified.  But for one Calais couple, a simple yard sign gives a much-needed reminder that compassion and cornerstones of American life are still in existence.   

Jayna Smith

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While some might be muttering “bah, humbug” when thinking of the pandemic and other hardships of the year, the staff at Dead River in Calais has certainly gotten into the Christmas spirit and hopes the positivity spreads to others.  

Jayna Smith

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As many likely expected, travel restrictions between Canada and the United States have been extended until Dec. 21 in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted, “We’ve extended the current border measures by another 30 days.  Non-essential travel between our two countries remains restricted until at least Dec. 21.”  

Jayna Smith

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The Blue Devil Fund has become a well-known organization within the Calais community.  Founded by Chris Taylor in 2010, his goal with the non-profit was to support local charities by using the game of basketball by what he says “as the catalyst with the mantra ‘From Assists on the Court. To Assists in the Community.’”  

Jayna Smith

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Kaileigh Deacon

As Thanksgiving ends and December begins our thoughts turn to the holidays and Christmas. Not everyone has the same opportunities at Christmas and some families don’t have the means to give their loved ones all they feel they deserve.

It’s times like these that living in a small community is a wonderful thing. Because coming together is what they do best. For three years Dunkin Donuts has been only one of the groups around our area working hard to make sure that kids get something to open on Christmas morning. 

Jayna Smith

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Stuff the Bus, a Christmas gift collection program spearheaded by Baileyville Police Chief Bob Fitzsimmons, will kick off its fifth year this Saturday.  He and other volunteers will be at Walmart and at Marden’s collecting items for kids of all ages. 

Jayna Smith

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The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has recently partnered with some Walgreens locations across the state to offer free drive-through rapid COVID-19 antigen testing.  This includes the Calais and Machias Walgreens locations.