Susan Esposito

Valentine's Day is a reminder of the importance of having someone to love and of having someone love you, and three Quoddy area couples reveal what has helped keep their marriages long and happy.

Food pantries in Washington and Charlotte counties are holding their own as the colder months of winter begin, and all are dependent upon the generosity of volunteers as well as financial patrons.

During these winter months, the cost of heating homes weighs heavily on the minds of many Maine residents. This is another year during which there is a significant demand for assistance.

The spirit of Christmas is evident in Charlotte and Washington counties as people give to neighbors who are less fortunate this holiday season. Sharrie Curtis of Downeast Community Partners' Christmas Is for Kids program says that she is "overwhelmed" again this year.

Hurricanes Irma and Maria left behind horrible conditions in their paths through the Caribbean last month, and, in the case of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, everyone with Eastport area connections is safe, but a Quoddy Village resident is very worried about his family and friends in Puerto Rico.