The only reminder of what was are the golden arches that were left standing after McDonald's at 191 North Street, constructed in 1973, was demolished on Monday.  A new McDonald's building will soon be erected, with completion anticipated for August.  (Photo by Pierre Little)

Kaileigh Deacon

For about 20 years, Calais Skate Park has been a fixture in town, seeing changes in popularity and use over the two decades. One thing that hasn’t changed is the dedication and devotion of the charter members and advisor Randy McCormick. The labor of love project began in the labs, classrooms, and hearts at Calais High School with a dedicated group of students and a supportive teacher designing and bringing the project from the drawing board to a physical manifestation. 

Jayna Smith

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Most are familiar with the former Hair I Am hair salon owned by Cindy Wartman.  Now, it’s back, but in a new location and some additional stylists and services.

Wartman explained that since the building on the corner of Main and Monroe Streets sold, the location where she worked at Mercier’s, she decided to transform the former candy store next door into a new, welcoming space for Hair I Am.  

Calais American Legion and IGA Easter Food Basket winner was Wayne Polk. Pictured, left to right, are Amy Craft, David Pike and Michael McLean. (Photo submitted by Michael McLean)

Jayna Smith

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In a typical Maine summer, food vendors travel all over the state to feed those hungry fair and festival goers.  Last year’s plans, however, were rerouted due to pandemic cancellations, and for those events not yet cancelled this year, there is still great uncertainty.  

Natalie Boomer 

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A rare bird has been sighted right here in Washington County by a few locals. 

Sandhill cranes have been spotted multiple times in the past month. 

Although they have not been seen on the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge yet, rangers and other employees hope to see some soon. 

“I have never seen sandhill cranes on the refuge, and neither has any current refuge employee,” said Refuge Wildlife Biologist, Ray Brown. 

Parker Cole, pictured center with his dad Toby and Dead River Branch Manager Stacy Crosby, shows off the bike he recently won from Dead River.  As part of the Calais Community Easter Egg Hunt, not only could kids grab a treat-filled egg from the oil company, each could also sign up to win a chance at a new bike.  (Dead River photo)

Jayna Smith

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Fiddleheads, the young coiled fronds of the ostrich fern, are a springtime delicacy in Maine and New Brunswick, and in other Northeastern states and Maritime provinces.  According to University of Maine Cooperative Extension, nearly all ferns have fiddleheads, but not all fiddleheads are edible.  

Jayna Smith

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In 2020, the CDC reported that approximately 1 in 54 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to 2016 data, with 1 in 34 boys identified with autism and 1 in 144 girls identified with autism.  The CDC defines autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder: ASD) as “…a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.”

Jayna Smith
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