GSA broaches town contract initiative to ‘provide enrollment stability’
George Steves Academy says it wants to pursue contracts with area towns to help stabilize enrollment numbers. Details are scant on the plan thus far. The school says it will hold a press conference on the matter on Jan. 15.
Flu cases high because this year’s vaccine doesn’t ‘match the hatch’
This year’s flu vaccine didn’t “match the hatch,” says Dr. Michael Murnik of Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital. Still, he recommends getting vaccinated to lessen symptoms.
Towns gear up for elections, with rare race in Brooksville not seen in 40 years
Brooksville is gearing up for a select board race not seen in 40 years. A town-by-town guide election guide is here.
GSA launches program to strengthen ties with community
George Stevens Academy has launched a new program to foster more connection between the school and local communities.
The Island’s antidote to the winter blues is a festival where everything is free
For the 20th year, WinterFest is happening again this year in Deer Isle and Stonington, with a packed schedule of events, seminars, food and fireworks—all free to the public.
Dozens gather for anti-ICE protest after shooting
Dozens of protestors gathered in Deer Isle on Jan. 10 following the shooting of a Minneapolis woman by an immigration agent.
Toddy Pond, Alamoosook Lake watershed districts vet 2026-2027 budgets
New watershed districts that will be responsible for the management of two dams are setting their 2026-27 budgets.
Kneeland wins school board seat after election filled with surprises
A winner has finally been declared for the RSU 25 school board, after an election with numerous unexpected twists and turns.
Tractor Supply store gets green light in Bucksport
A new Tractor Supply Company store is coming to Bucksport in 2027.
Adapting to the evolving blueberry landscape
Blueberry growers are adapting to a changing landscape. W.R. Allen is no exception, using innovative technology and re-entering the retail market for the first time in decades. Meanwhile, a local land trust is learning how to manage the hundreds of acres of blueberry fields it has acquired.
Two years after storms, Castine restaurant readied for new perch
Dennett’s Wharf in Castine is ready to be lowered the final few inches onto its new granite cribwork, almost two years to the day after the building was severely damaged in major storms.
‘Tucked Away’ features forgotten treasures found in Blue Hill
A new exhibit at the Blue Hill Library showcases lost items found in donated books. The treasure trove includes photos, letters, maps, drawings and more.
Deer Isle house fire displaces mother and young son
A Deer Isle house fire has displaced a mother and her young son.
New watershed districts for local dams elect officers, set first budget hearing
New watershed districts will soon have the responsibility of maintaining dams at Toddy Pond and Alamoosook Lake,
Passing through Bucksport? You'll soon be on camera.
Bucksport police will soon have technology that will read every license plate that passes through town.
Loon numbers hit record high in annual Christmas bird count
The Audubon Society’s annual Christmas bird count is in with some interesting finds and record highs this year.
Looking for a low-cost room for guests? Bagaduce House opens to public.
Bagaduce Music opens up hostel-like rooms to the public as a way of supporting its operations.
Island Heritage Trust to upgrade trails for more accessibility
Accessibility upgrades are coming to two trails owned by Island Heritage Trust.
Support and criticism for Castine’s only daycare at public hearing
Castine held a Dec. 11 public hearing on the Community Childhood Learning Center, whose lease on town land expires next year. Voters will decide in January whether it should be renewed.

