Bath Built is Best Built - USS Harvey C. Barnum, Jr.
The U.S. Navy has officially taken delivery of the future USS Harvey C. Barnum, Jr. (DDG 124), a state-of-the-art Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer. Built at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Maine, the vessel represents the latest advancement in one of the Navy’s most capable and enduring ship classes. This milestone highlights the continued partnership between the Navy and one of the nation’s premier shipbuilders, ensuring the fleet remains equipped with cutting-edge technology and enhanced maritime defense capabilities.
The transfer, completed on 17 November 2025, marks the ship’s formal handover from the shipyard to the U.S. Navy and sets the stage for its upcoming commissioning and integration into the fleet. DDG 124 honors Medal of Honor recipient Col. Harvey C. Barnum, Jr., reflecting the Navy’s commitment to recognizing extraordinary service and sacrifice. With delivery now complete, the destroyer will begin preparations for active duty, where it will strengthen naval readiness and support missions around the world.
The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program
The American Legion’s High School Oratorical Scholarship Program cultivates a deeper understanding and appreciation of the U.S. Constitution among our high school students. Beyond constitutional knowledge, the program aims to strengthen leadership qualities, sharpen critical thinking, and build effective public-speaking skills tools essential for responsible American citizenship. For students seeking an academic challenge, personal growth, and the opportunity to earn scholarship awards, this long-standing competition, now more than 76 years strong, offers a rewarding and meaningful experience.
Eligible participants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who are enrolled in high school or junior high school (public, private, parochial, military, or homeschool) and under the age of 20 on the date of the national contest. Contestants prepare an original 8-to-10-minute speech on an aspect of the Constitution, emphasizing the duties and obligations of citizenship, and deliver a 3-to-5 minute assigned topic discourse revealed shortly before they speak. With its rigorous structure and focus on civic knowledge, the Oratorical Program continues to inspire students across the nation to engage deeply with the principles that form the foundation of American government.
The invasive Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) continues its rapid spread across Maine, with 44 new towns reporting confirmed detections so far this year, more than triple the number added in 2024. Maine Forest Service entomologist Mike Parisio noted that most expansion has occurred in Oxford County, though several “satellite infestations” have appeared in places like Bar Harbor and Belfast, suggesting new, unconnected outbreaks. Parisio believes the surge in detections may stem from both exponential population growth of the insect and increased public awareness, and he urged Mainers to watch for signs of infestation this winter.
Residents can help by keeping an eye out for dying ash trees, particularly those showing heavy woodpecker activity and piles of freshly stripped bark on top of the snow, strong indicators of EAB damage. Suspected sightings can be reported through the Maine Forest Service website. Parisio added that the state is intensifying its preservation efforts, including releasing predatory wasps, preserving ash tree seeds, and applying insecticides to select groves in hopes of protecting Maine’s ash population for the future.
Get ready for a magical holiday adventure with the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum’s Polar Express™ Train Ride, running from November 15 to December 23, 2025. Your journey begins at Portland’s Ocean Gateway Marine Terminal, transformed with festive lights and holiday cheer. After the Conductor welcomes everyone aboard nine beautifully decorated historic coaches, passengers are treated to hot chocolate, cookies, and the joyful sounds of Christmas music. As the steam locomotive whistles and the train heads toward the North Pole, you’ll enjoy a whimsical trip where surprises, and special guests, may appear along the way!
Passengers can choose from three unforgettable seating options. Presidential Class offers the most deluxe experience, featuring premium cushioned seating in an elegant 1880s train car, a limited-edition ceramic mug, and a Santa-signed copy of The Polar Express (one per group). First Class riders enjoy reserved padded seating in restored turn-of-the-century cars, plus their own commemorative mug. All passengers receive hot chocolate, a cookie, a visit from Santa, and for young riders the first gift of Christmas: a silver sleigh bell. Be sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure, as the Polar Express leaves exactly on time and all tickets are final, non-refundable, and non-exchangeable.
