COMMUNITY

Mar 05 2026BUSINESS

Local Print Shop Wins City Award for Community Spirit

A small print shop that started in a garage has earned recognition from city officials for its positive impact on the town. The business, known as The Hairy Ant, was given a “Spirit of St. Charles Award” at the February 2 city council meeting. The award highlights how local companies can help a comm

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Mar 05 2026LIFESTYLE

'Family‑Friendly Southern Eats Now Open in Mars Hill'

'In the quiet hills of Madison County, a new spot has appeared on the map for local diners. BoRudy’s Grill, opened on February 8 by Lisa Rice and her daughter‑in‑law Ashley Rice, offers a menu that feels like a cozy kitchen at home. The restaurant’s name comes from Lisa’s sons, Ashley’s husband Bren

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Mar 03 2026EDUCATION

Community Fun Day: Schools, Businesses and Kids Come Together

RSU 22 Education Foundation plans a free family gathering on Saturday, March 21, from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. , held at Hampden Academy on Western Ave. The event will showcase local businesses, student projects and community resources in a relaxed setting. The highlight is the Kids Carnival, created by

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Mar 03 2026ENVIRONMENT

Urban Trees for a Greener Kingston

The city of Kingston is kicking off its yearly tree‑planting initiative this spring, inviting residents to buy affordable trees for their backyards. The program offers a range of 11 species, from maple and spruce to apple and oak varieties, allowing homeowners to choose a tree that fits their spa

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Mar 03 2026OPINION

Community Strength at the Local YMCA

In Maine, people crave places to meet and help each other. The state’s nonprofit groups are key to this feeling of togetherness. They bring in billions for the economy, hire many Mainers, and use volunteers to stretch every dollar. Beyond money, nonprofits nurture kids, keep people healthy, and t

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Mar 02 2026HEALTH

Rochester Hosts Wellness Gathering to Fight Everyday Health Problems

The city of Rochester is set to welcome a two‑day health event that promises fresh ideas for living longer and feeling better. The meeting will take place at the Mayo Civic Center on April 9th and 10th, 2026. Participants can earn continuing medical education credits while learning about key health

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Feb 28 2026HEALTH

Salem Opens New 34‑Bed Detox Center to Bridge Care Gaps

Bridgeway Community Health is set to launch a 34‑bed medical detox and recovery facility in May at its Front Street campus in downtown Salem. The center will combine medically supervised withdrawal, primary medical care, and recovery services in a space that is nearly four times larger than its form

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Feb 27 2026EDUCATION

School Plan Sparks Debate: One Elementary School to Close

Southington’s school board has set a new course for the town’s education system, choosing to close one elementary school as part of a larger construction project. The decision came after a detailed presentation at the board’s February meeting, where experts outlined options for building updates and

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Feb 26 2026ENTERTAINMENT

A Simple Farm Life That Wins Hearts

The world of Stardew Valley offers a calm escape where players can grow crops, raise animals and form friendships in a pixelated town. Its popularity has exploded, with nearly 50 million copies sold and even live orchestral performances of its music. The game was created by a single developer

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Feb 25 2026POLITICS

Orangeburg Talks Safety After Campus Shooting

Orangeburg leaders held a “Safety First” chat to let residents voice worries about safety and ask questions. The meeting happened just weeks after a shooting at South Carolina State University that killed two people and hurt another. An 18‑year‑old was arrested for the crime. City officials

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