Quote Of The Day

"Small acts of kindness, repeated every day, become the foundation of great communities."

Joke Of The Day

Why did the Mainer bring a ladder to the fair?

Because they heard the rides were on another level.

Northern Maine Community College has earned a prestigious spot among the state's top nursing programs, landing the No. 3 ranking for Licensed Practical Nursing in Maine for 2026, according to the national education resource PracticalNursing.org.

The organization has published annual rankings since 2014, recognizing programs that excel in academic performance, student outcomes, and overall program quality.

NMCC's program stands out for its accelerated, simulation-rich curriculum, giving students the clinical skills and hands-on experience needed to serve the healthcare needs of Aroostook County and the broader region.

"This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and the commitment of our students to excellence in nursing education," said Andrew Gagnon, department chair of Nursing, EMS and Allied Health at NMCC.

Graduates of the Practical Nursing certificate program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam upon completion. The program also offers a pathway to an Associate of Science in Nursing for those who wish to advance their education and career.

The ranking is a bright signal for a region where access to qualified healthcare workers is critical — and a reminder that strong nursing talent is being cultivated right in northern Maine.

Here are 3 fun facts about summer:

1. The “dog days of summer” come from the stars.
   The phrase is tied to Sirius, the “Dog Star,” which ancient people associated with the hottest stretch of the year.

1. Summer days are longer because Earth is tilted.
   In the Northern Hemisphere, summer happens when our side of Earth is tilted toward the sun, giving us more daylight.

1. Watermelon is mostly water.
   Watermelon is about 90% water, which is why it feels so refreshing on a hot summer day.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities to do in Houlton Maine 04730?

A: - Some popular outdoor activities in Houlton Maine 04730 include fishing, hiking, and ATV Trails.

Q: Where can I find the best local restaurants in Houlton Maine 04730?

A: - Some of the best local restaurants in Houlton Maine 04730 include the The County Co-op, Market Pizza, and the Downunder Sports Pub.

Q: Are there any notable historical sites to visit in Houlton Maine 04730?

A: - Yes, some notable historical sites to visit in Houlton Maine 04730 include:

• Market Square Historic District
  Downtown Houlton’s historic commercial core. The National Register nomination describes it as a cohesive group of 28 architecturally significant structures, largely dating from 1885 to 1910, centered around Market Square and Main Street.

• Blackhawk Putnam Tavern — 22 North Street
  One of Houlton’s most important early buildings. The National Park Service nomination identifies it as the oldest existing house in Aroostook County, built in 1813 by Samuel Wormwood for Aaron Putnam. It later served travelers near the Military Road and was used for early court sessions before Aroostook County was created.

• Aroostook County Courthouse and Jail — Court Street
  A major Houlton landmark tied to law, government, and architecture. The National Park Service lists it on the National Register with significant years 1859, 1895, and 1928, with architecture tied to Gridley J. F. Bryant and Wilfred E. Mansur.

DOWNTOWN DINING & NIGHTLIFE

Houlton offers a variety of locally owned dining options.

One ad spot. Mailbox visibility. Online exposure. Newsletter reach. Facebook promotion. QR traffic.

Pack one extra essential for every trip—one extra bottle of water, snack, layer, or phone charger can save the day.

💡 Secret July Shopping Hack 

Shop farmers' markets during the last hour before closing.

Many vendors would rather sell fresh produce than take it home. During the final 30–60 minutes, you can often find deals on vegetables, berries, baked goods, flowers, or bundled produce. While discounts aren't guaranteed, some vendors are more willing to negotiate or offer extras late in the day.

Bonus Tips:

• 🍓 Buy berries in bulk during peak season and freeze them for smoothies, pies, and jams.
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• 🌽 Sweet corn is usually freshest when purchased the same day it's picked—ask the farmer when it was harvested.
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• 🥒 If you're planning to can or pickle, ask vendors if they have "seconds" (slightly blemished produce). It's often just as good for preserving and may cost less.
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• 🥩 Stock up on local meats when they're on sale before county fair season and freeze them for later.
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Hermit's July Money Saver:
Keep a small cooler with ice packs in your vehicle. That way, you can stop at multiple farm stands or markets without worrying about milk, meat, berries, or other perishables spoiling in the summer heat. It's a simple way to take advantage of roadside finds throughout the day without rushing home.