Looking back to July before August is also in the rear view, we continue noting five good things that happened in or near Wiscasset each month of 2025.

One is Wiscasset Future of the Schools Committee's finishing of its report. No matter where you fall on the issues, the committee's report moves the town and perhaps neighboring towns closer to having the information needed to consider what's next.

Another is the continuation this growing season of Alna's community garden. Volunteers' efforts are many and commendable. Kudos all around.

Two longer, one of them much longer, traditions continued: First Congregational Chuch of Wiscasset had its latest dog parade and more, all part of the iconic Wiscasset event, Summerfest; and Wiscasset Art Walk was back to enliven the village on a Thursday night with the sharing of talents, from music to bouquets. If you haven't been or haven't been for some years, get back to it if you can. The next one is from 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 28 and, as Wiscasset Art Walk's Facebook page notes, the August installment includes "art and resource information about substance use prevention and awareness sprinkled among the WAW festivities, including performances by the Maine Youth Circus! This alone is worth the time, but we really get into gear starting at 6:45 p.m., when we invite you to join us to gather at the Railroad Avenue parking lot to hold our Overdose Awareness Procession & Vigil."

We end with Edgecomb's honoring of Jack and Barbara Brennan with this year's "Spirit of America" award that recognizes volunteerism. Area communities are fortunate to have such residents who put time into their towns. Thank you to all who do.