From our Files – Week of August 23, 2023

1 year ago

50 Years Ago — August 23, 1973

  20 years of service – Walter Fournier, a Soil Conservation Technician of the U.S. Soil Conservation Service received a service award and pin in recognition of 20 years of federal service. Fournier has assisted the St. John Valley Soil and Water Conservation District and its 560 district co-operations and other landowners in applying conservation practices on the land.

25 Years Ago — August 19, 1998

New publication — The comprehensive volume “The Mercure Papers” was the focus of a book signing at the Madawaska Public Library last week in 1998. The work provides a detailed look at the history and people of the St. John Valley. Looking over the publication was Pat Kelly of Madawaska and Roger Paradis, professor of history at the University of Maine at Fort Kent. Paradis spent years compiling the book while Kelly served as the primary typist. 

10 Years Ago — August 21, 2013 

Century Theater closes doors — The Century Theater closed its doors on Aug. 11, 2013. Mike and Kim Paradis have sold the business to Mike’s father Ben Paradis. However, the only movie house in Fort Kent may reopen. In a phone conversation, Ben Paradis said that the theater was “closed temporarily” until a manager or buyer can be found. He said the business is still a viable business for the right person.