Local Coronavirus COVID-19 Resource Center: Alerts, Closings, Cancellations, Solutions

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    Since the first testing for COVID-19 in Maine, information and important notices from community and state officials, business owners and educators have flowed to our inboxes at a rapid pace. 

    So, the Pilot established a resource page, a collection center for all the alerts and vital information our readers need to know.

    Innovative solutions, before long, were brought to our attention, easing life for everyone as we move through these unfamiliar sequestering days.

    As the state deals with a surge of new cases, and tries to figure out normalcy, we are sharing information as it rolls in.

    The latest information will appear at the top of the page, and the top of the subsections appearing within the sidebar.

    Stay healthy, keep your distance, wear a mask, and keep your chin up!

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll, again, rises by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 23, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 544. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 23 update: Midcoast adds 22 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 23, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more
    January 29 through March 31

    Samoset Resort donates space for community vaccination center

    ROCKPORT — The Samoset Resort in Rockport is collaborating with Coastal Healthcare Alliance to donate function space within the resort to serve as a COVID-19 vaccination site for the surrounding community, according to a news release. The resort will host the clinics three days a week starting Friday, January 29 through Wednesday, March 31. “We are glad to do our part by partnering with our community healthcare professionals and donating function space in an effort to make a positive... Read more

    MaineHealth schedules Belfast and Rockport COVID-19 vaccine clinics 

    MaineHealth, which includes Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital, will open the area’s first COVID-19 vaccination clinics for the general public on January 27. The Waldo County clinic scheduled to open on January 27, will be located in Building #6 in the former MBNA complex at 21 Schoodic Drive in Belfast. The Knox County vaccination clinic, scheduled to open January 29, will be located at the Samoset Resort, Samoset Inn Road, Rockport.   Each location will follow Maine... Read more
    Phase 1b includes older Maine residents, beginning with those 70 and older; followed by people ages 65 to 69

    Maine places order for seventh week of COVID-19 vaccines

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has placed another order for doses of COVID-19 vaccine, for 17,575 people, to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Operation Warp Speed. This order for the seventh week of vaccine distribution represents the latest in a series of vaccine requests that Maine CDC will file in the coming weeks and months, as specified by Operation Warp Speed, as part... Read more

    Jan. 22 update: Midcoast adds 35 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 22, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 22, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 540. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    New Easy Errands Delivery aims to serve Midcoast safely

    ROCKLAND — Rockport resident Lochlin Recht has started Easy Errands Delivery, a service to assist people during the Covid-19 pandemic. Recht wants to provide a service in light of the pandemic to help people get their errands done while minimizing the local communities exposure to the virus, according to Recht, in a news release. Even after the pandemic, Easy Errands goal is to provide a time-saving service for Knox County residents and beyond. Recht said he would eventually like to offer... Read more

    WATCH: Maine CDC holds COVID-19 briefing

    AUGUSTA — The following is the livestream of the Maine CDC press briefing for the current COVID-19 pandemic, and the status of Maine’s tracking, testing and health care situation. Briefings are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, though the schedule is subject to change with minimal notice. Once the livestreams are concluded each day, an archived version of the stream is available on YouTube. 
    Unemployment insurance payments are taxable

    Unemployment claimants to receive 1099-G tax form by end of month

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Labor is assuring unemployment claimants will receive their Form 1099-G by the end of the month.  Unemployment insurance payments are taxable, the Department reminds. When someone files for unemployment, they have the option to choose to have taxes taken out at the time benefits are paid. By the end of January, everyone who received unemployment benefits during 2020 will be sent a 1099-G form by mail. The form will also be available electronically in their... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment benefits, fraud updates

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending January 16, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 3,300 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,000 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 3,800 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 17,000 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 14,300 weekly certifications filed under PUA... Read more
    Last Maine CDC update: jan. 20

    All local ZIP codes have now recorded COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated COVID-19 confirmed and probable case data by ZIP code.  With the data update, the Maine CDC continues to urge all individuals in Maine — resident or not — to abide by all established COVID-19 guidelines whether cases are within their particular ZIP code.  Since the last update:04438 increased from 6-19 cases to 20-49 cases04496 increased from 36 cases to 39 cases 04563 increased from 6-19 cases to 20-49 cases04572 increased from 20-49 cases to 50-99... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by six

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 21, an additional six COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 536. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 21 update: Midcoast adds 15 new cases, two new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 21, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Schools in ‘yellow’ counties can now set own timeline for athletic activities

    AUGUSTA — Schools in counties designated by the Maine CDC and Maine Department of Education as being a yellow county due to COVID-19 cases are now permitted by the state’s governing body for high school athletics to practice immediately with games to subsequently follow.  The decision on whether to resume athletic activities while designated a yellow county, ultimately, will now be left up to each school administration.  “After meeting with the state health and education agencies, a change... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by 11

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 20, an additional 11 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 530. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 20 update: Midcoast adds 34 new cases, four new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 20, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    UMaine men’s basketball paused amid presumptive positive COVID-19 cases

    ORONO — The University of Maine men’s basketball team paused team activities late Tuesday afternoon due to two presumptive positive COVID-19 tests among the team’s Tier-I personnel, according to a university press release.  Members of the men’s basketball team deemed to be close contacts are in quarantine, the release noted, and contact tracing and additional testing are underway. The men’s basketball program is following all state, University of Maine System, America East Conference, and... Read more

    Rockland Rotary donation helps keep Knox County COVID-19 vaccines cool

    ROCKLAND — Rockland Rotary recently offered to cover the cost of a new refrigerator in order for the Rockland Fire Department to store and administer the COVID-19 vaccine to first responders in Knox County. “Rockland Fire & EMS, along with the City of Rockland, would like to thank our friends from the Rockland Rotary with their generous financial support,” said Rockland Fire Chief Chris Whytock, in a news release. Rotary clubs across the State of Maine were contacted by Maine Emergency... Read more

    Gov. Mills continues State of Civil Emergency for 11th time

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills extended Tuesday the State of Civil Emergency through February 17. The Governor’s decision to extend the emergency is in line, according to a news release, with nearly every other state in the nation which have ongoing emergency declarations, according to the National Governors Association.  “Our Administration is working around the clock to take the limited and inconsistent supply of vaccine we receive from the Federal government and turn it around quickly and... Read more

    Thousands of Moderna vaccine doses possibly ruined by temperature change

    AUGUSTA — A shipment containing 4,400 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine that recently arrived in Maine may have to be discarded, according to Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah, speaking during his Jan. 19 afternoon media briefing.  The doses may have to be discarded after the doses’ shipping container exceeded the mandated minimum cooling temperature at which the doses must be kept.  Maine CDC began fielding notifications late Monday morning, and throughout the rest of the holiday, from... Read more

    Jan. 19 update: Midcoast records seven new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 19, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by five

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 19, an additional five COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 519. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Paycheck Protection Program fully reopens Tuesday

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will fully reopen Tuesday, January 19 with qualifying hard-hit small businesses eligible to receive a second forgivable loan. An additional $284.45 billion was secured in the newest COVID-19 relief package to extend and expand the Paycheck Protection Program.  Small businesses that employ 300 or fewer people and that experienced a 25 percent or greater gross revenue loss between comparable periods in 2019 and 2020 due to COVID-19 are... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by three

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 18, an additional three COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 514. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 18 update: Midcoast records 25 new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 18, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 17, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 511. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 17 update: Midcoast records 14 new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 17, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Jan. 16 update: Midcoast adds 26 new cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 16, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by 30

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 16, an additional 30 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 507. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Maine places order for sixth week of COVID-19 vaccines

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced today that the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has placed another order for doses of COVID-19 vaccine, for 18,550 people, to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Operation Warp Speed. This order for the sixth week of vaccine distribution represents the latest in a series of vaccine requests that Maine CDC will file in the coming weeks and months, as specified by Operation Warp Speed, as part... Read more

    Gov. Mills on vaccine plan: ‘My fundamental goal throughout this pandemic has been to save lives’

    My fundamental goal throughout this pandemic has been to save lives, plain and simple. With the introduction of vaccines last month, we received a welcome, critical new tool, and we were ready to use it. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills. Thank you for listening. Maine has worked so hard to distribute vaccines quickly, efficiently and equitably, and it shows – we have ranked high among the states nationwide for the percentage of vaccine doses distributed, and just earlier this week, Vice... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by 16

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 15, an additional 16 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 477. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 15 update: Midcoast records 29 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 15, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment benefit updates, including federal changes

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending January 9, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 3,700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 700 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).  In total, approximately 4,150 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 16,900 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 15,100 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by eight

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 14, an additional eight COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 461. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 14 update: Midcoast adds 16 new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 14, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Gov. Mills updates Maine’s vaccine strategy to protect those most vulnerable to COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Wednesday updates to Maine’s strategy for distributing its limited allocation of COVID-19 vaccines targeted toward preventing serious illness and saving the lives of Maine people. The Governor, in consultation with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services and the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC), is dedicating the limited vaccine supply to older Maine residents, beginning with those 70 and older; additional emergency... Read more

    Jan. 13 update: Midcoast records 25 new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 13, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 13, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 453. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Ocean State Job Lot distributing PPE to police and fire departments

    NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation has leveraged its global supply chain to provide hundreds of thousands of pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) to healthcare organizations and municipalities, a news release stated. In continuation of that effort, the Foundation is currently distributing more than $1.7 million worth of additional PPE to police and fire departments in the 142 communities where Ocean State Job Lot... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by 11

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 12, an additional 11 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 449. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 12 update: Midcoast records 37 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 12, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more
    Corinna Whitehill started the service while working for Mid-Coast Connector

    Corie’s Rides helps community with personal taxi service

    WARREN—It’s been just over a year that Corinna Whitehill started her personal cab company called Corie’s Rides. It’s a service that has been fundamental to the Midcoast community in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic when people are at risk of losing their homes and their cars. Whitehill got her start in the driving business as the owner and a driver for Mid-Coast Connector, a MaineCare non-emergency transportation broker. It’s a service she still operates, along with eight cars and drivers... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll, again, rises by six including Waldo County

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 11, an additional six COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 438. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 11 update: Midcoast adds four new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 11, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more
    Shah: ‘matter of time’ before variant strain of COVID-19 is detected in Maine

    Maine’s COVID-19 vaccination rate among highest per population in U.S.

    More people in Maine now have been vaccinated for COVID-19 than have had the virus. About 46,600 Mainers were vaccinated as of Friday, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. That represents nearly 3.5 percent of the state’s population. At least 3,271 of those vaccinated have received their second dose.In comparison, 28,400 Mainers have had confirmed or probable cases of COVID-19, as of Friday. More than 1,100 have been hospitalized and 426 have died. ... Read more

    Jan. 10 update: Midcoast adds five new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 10, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC. “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Gov. Mills on State budget proposal: ‘We need to keep the ship of state steady as we weather this storm’

    State government cannot be all things to all people all the time. Nor can it solve all the problems or address all the needs of the people of the state. But during emergencies such as the current pandemic, the people need to depend on us in state government to protect children, to secure health care, to safeguard educational and vocational opportunities and protect the most vulnerable of our citizens. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills. At the outset of the coronavirus pandemic, we responded... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by six

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 9, an additional six COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 432. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 9 update: Midcoast adds 20 new cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 9, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    SBA and Treasury announce PPP re-opening, issue new guidance

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, announced Friday the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will re-open the week of January 11 for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers, according to a news release from the Maine Department of Marine Resources. To promote access to capital, initially only community financial institutions will be able to make First Draw PPP Loans on Monday, January 11, and Second Draw PPP Loans on... Read more

    Maine places order for fifth week of COVID-19 vaccines

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Friday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has placed another order for doses of COVID-19 vaccine today, for 17,175 people, to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Operation Warp Speed. This order represents the latest in a series of vaccine requests that Maine CDC will file in the coming weeks and months, as specified by Operation Warp Speed, as part of Maine's accessible, flexible, and... Read more

    BMV now fully open for business, all credentials must now be renewed

    AUGUSTA — Secretary of State Shenna Bellows announced Friday the reinstatement of regular deadlines and requirements for renewals of BMV-issued licenses, State IDs and other credentials, according to a news release. All driver's licenses, driver permits, State identification cards, commercial driver licenses, dealer licenses, salvage motor vehicle recycler licenses, driver/rider school licenses and instructor licenses that expired since the beginning of the state of civil emergency must now be... Read more

    Gov. Mills presents budget to strengthen COVID-19 response, cover projected shortfalls, increase rainy day fund

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills submitted Friday  to the Legislature a supplemental budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2021 and a biennial budget proposal for Fiscal Years 2022-2023 that focus on maintaining vital services and increasing savings without creating new programs. The budgets are balanced as required by the Constitution and continue efficiencies, good fiscal management and curtailments to cover projected revenue shortfalls for all three fiscal years, according to a news release. The... Read more
    Quarantining starts another viral Facebook sensation

    New Maine Facebook group for book lovers and authors hits 1.7K followers

    A number of Maine-started Facebook groups went viral with the COVID-19 virus pandemic in 2020, and now there’s one more to get a read on. First there was Quarantine Karaoke, then Wine Fairies of Maine. Now, another group has shot like a rocket thanks to Windham resident, Courtney Edwards. The group is called Maine Book Club/Discussion (What Are You Reading?) Edwards, a mother and wife, had a job as a receptionist at a dental office until last March, when the pandemic forced the facility to... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by 41: six over last 48 hours, 35 over the past month

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 8, an additional 41 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 426. In the Jan. 8 briefing, Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah explained the sudden spike in numbers is due to additional epidemiological analysis by the CDC of death certificates over the past month. Of the newly announced deaths, only six occurred over the last 48 hours, while the other 35 occurred over the month of December. Maine CDC has a multi-... Read more

    Jan. 8 update: Midcoast adds 23 new cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 8, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more
    Other employees who were in close contact are in quarantine

    UPDATE: No new cases, but Knox County Correctional Facility remains closed to public after officer tests COVID-19 positive

    UPDATE, ROCKLAND – Knox County Sheriff Tim Carroll sent the following update to a COVID-19 situation at the Knox County Correctional Facility in Rockland. “I am happy to report the other 28 people tested for COVID-19 related to the potential exposure at Knox County Correctional Facility, that all their test results have come back negative.  I believe the quick actions and response to our pandemic plan and closely working with Maine CDC and Maine DOC, we avoided a potential outbreak at this... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment benefits update, roll out $300 federal benefit

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending January 2, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 3,900 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 250 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).  In total, approximately 4,300 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 15,400 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 16,000 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by 13

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 7, an additional 13 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 385. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 7 update: Midcoast adds 26 new cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 7, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by three

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 6, an additional three COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 372. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 6 update: Midcoast records four new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 6, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by nine

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 5, an additional nine COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 369. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 5 update: Midcoast adds nine new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 5, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more
    four other employees in quarantine

    Thomaston Municipal Building closed Jan. 4-5 amid COVID-19 case

    THOMASTON — The Thomaston Municipal Building, located at 13 Valley Street, will be closed today, Jan. 4, and tomorrow, Jan. 5, for deep cleaning after an employee tested positive for COVID-19, according to a news release from the town office.  Four other employees working in the building are quarantining. The closure also means the Economic Development Committee and Select Board Joint Workshop for Wednesday, January 6 has been postponed to an undetermined date. The Municipal Building will be... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll, again, rises by one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 4, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 360. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 4 update: Midcoast adds 10 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 4, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each day, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 3, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 359. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 3 update: Midcoast adds 13 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 3, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each day, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Tipping Toward Winter: Pandemic Gallery VII

    When PenBayPilot seeded its first collection of photos snapped during the early days of the pandemic — those cold, raw days of March 2020 —little did we think that we would be, nine months later, finding inspiration and solace in how we chronicle these times. But here we are, seven galleries later, with photographers from all over the Midcoast chipping in to keep our eyes firmly on our communities, landscapes, families and friends, helping to record history. Each gallery has 100 photos,... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by seven

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 2, an additional seven COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 358. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 2 update: Maine CDC reports no new COVID-19 cases in Midcoast

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Jan. 2, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each day, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Jan. 1, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 351. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Jan. 1 update: Midcoast adds 12 new cases, two new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has belatedly updated its list, Jan. 1, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each day, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living... Read more

    Maine places fifth order for COVID-19 vaccines

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has placed its fifth order for doses of COVID-19 vaccine today for 17,075 people to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Operation Warp Speed. This order, per a news release, will represent the fifth in a series of vaccine requests that Maine CDC will file in the coming weeks and months, as specified by Operation Warp Speed, as part of Maine's... Read more

    Maine Dept. of Labor receives initial federal guidance for federal unemployment extensions

    AUGUSTA — The U.S. Department of Labor has issued the first of several expected guidance documents that provides overarching implementation information about unemployment insurance (UI) provisions contained in the Continued Assistance for Unemployed Workers Act of 2020, which extends federal unemployment programs such as Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), according to a news release.  Additionally, the legislation reauthorizes and... Read more

    Governor Mills urges Mainers to kick off 2021 safely at home

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills issued Thursday a video statement urging Maine people to be safe tonight heading into the New Year. The video is attached at the end of the post and a transcript is below. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills. Like you, I am so looking forward to putting this year behind us completely and stepping into a better, more hopeful New Year. But to do so safely, we’ve got to ring in the New Year differently tonight.There’s a term, “FOMO,” I’ve heard — “Fear of... Read more

    New England governors extend suspension of interstate ice hockey competition

    AUGUSTA — Maine Governor Janet Mills joined governors from around the region Wednesday to announce an extension of the suspension of interstate youth ice hockey competition, according to a news release.  New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Maine Governor Janet Mills, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, Vermont Governor Phil Scott, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, and Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced an extension of the suspension of interstate... Read more

    Dec. 31 update: Midcoast adds 16 new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 31, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by 13

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 31, an additional 13 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 347. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Labor officials provide Dec. 31 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending December 26, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 2,700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,800 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), according to a news release.  In total, approximately 3,300 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 13,400 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 16,500 weekly... Read more

    Maine DHHS awards $5.2M in relief grants to 54 health care organizations

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Wednesday it has awarded $5.2 million in grants to 54 health care organizations that serve residents with MaineCare to help sustain vital health services during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release.  The Maine Health Care Financial Relief Program, announced in November, is modeled on the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development's (DECD) Maine Economic Recovery Grant program. Health care... Read more

    Gov. Mills extends Maine business curfew indefinitely

    AUGUSTA — Amid an increase in Maine’s COVID-19 positivity rate and a continued high rate of hospitalizations, Governor Janet Mills announced Wednesday she will extend the requirement for certain businesses statewide to close by 9 p.m. in order to limit activities that could contribute to the transmission of COVID-19. The early closure limits extended indoor gatherings among members of the public, which are activities that present a higher risk of COVID-19 transmission, and does so during later... Read more
    delivering fresh produce, dry goods, books, sanitary items, prepared meals

    Game Loft expands food program to meet community needs  

    BELFAST — To meet the expanded needs caused by the Covid-19 pandemic the Game Loft/I Know ME has increased its food program.  For the past 20 years the Game Loft has provided free meals after school to any young person who came to the Game Loft facility on weekdays or Friday evenings. Since March of this year meals have been provided on a grab-and-go basis seven days a week. In August, Game Loft/I Know ME vans began delivering care packages of fresh produce and dry goods, along with books and... Read more

    Dec. 30 update: Midcoast adds 15 new cases, five new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 30, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 30, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 334. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    IRS, Treasury Dept. started depositing $600 federal stimulus checks Tuesday, mailing checks Wednesday

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury Department began Tuesday delivering a second round of Economic Impact Payments as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 to millions of Americans who received the first round of payments earlier this year, according to a news release.The initial direct deposit payments may begin arriving as early as tonight, Dec. 29, for some and will continue into next week. Paper checks will begin to... Read more

    Dec. 29 update: Midcoast adds 30 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 29, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by seven

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 29, an additional seven COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 333. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more
    number of cases of COVID-19 in Maine is higher than the case numbers reported

    Inundated with COVID-19 tests, Maine CDC forced to alter reporting methods

    AUGUSTA — With a daily influx of test results pouring into the Maine CDC, the state agency has been forced to alter its reporting methods.  “New positive COVID-19 lab reports are being received at a faster rate than Maine CDC has been able to review them to determine if the lab result reflects “(a) a new case of COVID-19 in Maine, “(b) a duplicate result (where the same person has already been counted as a case), or (c) an out-of-state resident,” according to the Maine CDC. “As a result,... Read more

    As Maine officials implement new federal unemployment legislation, benefits delayed a week

    AUGUSTA – With President Donald Trump signing bipartisan COVID-19 relief legislation, extending federal unemployment programs Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), the Maine Department of Labor is reviewing the legislation and working to implement the changes as quickly as possible, the organization announced in a news release.  “The PUA and PEUC programs ended on December 26. This interruption in the programs will cause at least a one... Read more

    Dec. 28 update: Midcoast adds nine new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 28, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by three

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 28, an additional three COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 326. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Individual associated with Ash Point school tests positive for COVID-19

    OWLS HEAD — An individual associated with the Ash Point Community School recently tested positive for COVID-19, according to a Dec. 25 letter sent by the Regional School Unit 13 administration.  “There is a possibility that a small number of staff and students came in contact with the individual and therefore may have been exposed to the virus,” said the letter, signed by Superintendent John McDonald.  All close contacts have received notification from the district, according to the district... Read more

    Dec. 27 update: Midcoast adds 15 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 27, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 27, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 323. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Daily COVID-19 update halted by holidays, Dec. 26

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 26, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine — sort of.  Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. However, due to the Christmas holiday, most information was not updated.  In fact, it appears only one new recovery was reported, bringing the total to 11,108.  “Due to the holiday, some data updates will not be available between Friday, December 25th, and... Read more
    https://youtu.be/O-u5bOk9BCM

    Q&A on COVID-19’s trajectory heading into 2021 with Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah

    As COVID-19 cases continue surging in Maine and the first vaccination doses offer some hope, Dr. Nirav Shah, director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, spoke to health reporter Rose Lundy of The Maine Monitor to reflect on the state’s pandemic response, and outline challenges and opportunities in 2021. The Maine Monitor, formerly known as Pine Tree Watch, is a local journalism product published by The Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, a nonpartisan, nonprofit... Read more

    Dec. 25 update: Midcoast adds seven new cases, one recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 25, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 25, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 319. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 24 update: Midcoast adds 32 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 24, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by six

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 24, an additional six COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 317. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Maine launches text notifications to people testing positive for COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Wednesday the launch of a new text messaging service to alert Maine people who test positive for COVID-19 of steps to take to protect their health and limit the spread of the virus, as part of a comprehensive plan to adapt Maine's response to the pandemic. Beginning today, Dec. 23, people who test positive for COVID-19 and voluntarily provide their telephone number to their testing site will receive a text message from the... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment figures, fraud update, unemployment compensation plans

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending December 19, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 2,950 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,900 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).  In total, approximately 3,700 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 14,300 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 18,200 weekly certifications filed under PUA... Read more

    Maine prepares to place fourth order for COVID-19 vaccines

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Wednesday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) will place its fourth order for doses of COVID-19 vaccine Thursday for 19,125 people to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Operation Warp Speed. This order will represent the fourth in a series of vaccine requests that Maine CDC will file in the coming weeks and months, as specified by Operation Warp Speed, as part of Maine's accessible, flexible... Read more

    $200 million awarded to help loggers, timber haulers amid pandemic

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) announced the COVID-19 relief package that passed Congress and was signed into law included $200 million for logging and log hauling businesses that have been seriously impacted by the pandemic and the resulting economic crisis, according to a news release. Senator Collins and Congressman Golden introduced and Senator Angus King (I-ME) and Congresswoman Pingree (ME-01) co-sponsored logger relief... Read more

    $34 million awarded to 234 Maine health care providers amid COVID-19

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two hundred thirty four Maine health care providers — including behavioral health providers such as addiction counseling centers and mental health counselors — have been awarded a total of $34,082,143 in federal funding to support their efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release. The Phase 3 General Distribution funding was provided through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Through the CARES Act and the Paycheck... Read more

    Dec. 23 update: Midcoast adds 26 new cases, seven new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 23, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by eight

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 23, an additional eight COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 311. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Gov. Mills extends State of Civil Emergency for 10th time

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills extended Tuesday the State of Civil Emergency through January 20, 2021. The Governor’s decision to extend the emergency is in line with nearly every other state in the nation which have ongoing emergency declarations, according to the National Governors Association, a news release noted.  “The biggest gift we can give this holiday season is not a present under the tree or a hug to a loved one. The best gift we can give, and the best gift we can receive, is good... Read more

    Pen Bay, Waldo County hospitals give first COVID-19 vaccines to frontline caregivers

    ROCKPORT and BELFAST — Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital, the two MaineHealth hospitals serving communities in Knox and Waldo counties, administered the first vaccinations for COVID-19 to its front-line caregivers Tuesday, Dec. 22. Hours after the arrival of the Moderna vaccine at its hospitals, PBMC and WCGH began inoculating team members who provide direct care to patients infected with the coronavirus. Among the first to be vaccinated were Diane Hynes, RN, a charge... Read more

    LincolnHealth begins vaccinating front-line caregivers

    LincolnHealth received its initial shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine late Tuesday morning and administered its first doses to front-line caregivers in the afternoon. Leah Elias, MD, an Emergency Department physician, was among the first care team members to receive the vaccine at the clinic on the Miles Campus. Elias said that getting the vaccine was an easy choice. “There’s been a lot of unnecessary harm that’s come to people all over the world,” she said. “In order to stop this, we have to... Read more

    Maine reimbursed $1.1 million for PPE purchases

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the State of Maine $1,191,258 to reimburse the State’s purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release.  The Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services received this funding to purchase disposable masks for front line responders, important PPE to protect essential workers against the spread of COVID-19, the... Read more
    Shop Local Spotlight

    Northport artist refinishes old furniture with enchanting detail

    NORTHPORT—Back in April, The Atlantic magazine wrote a story about how making old-fashioned crafts during the pandemic could ease anxiety. Millions of crafters took that to heart, and with the COVID-19 virus still raging on nine months later, many burgeoning creators have taken to Instagram, YouTube, and other online resources to make something beautiful. One such artist, Shelby Connolly, from Northport, found her niche that way. After purchasing secondhand furniture such as dressers, trunks,... Read more

    Dec. 22 update: Midcoast records 32 new cases, two new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 22, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by 10

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 22, an additional 10 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 303. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    $600 distributed to 40,000 Mainers unemployed due to COVID-19

    AUGUSTA – Monday night, the Maine Department of Labor distributed a one-time $600 emergency relief payment to about 40,000 Maine people unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release. Governor Janet Mills authorized the payment under a newly created Pandemic Relief Program (PRP) to assist unemployed Maine people facing substantial economic hardship as a result of COVID-19. “We are pleased to announce the distribution of this one-time emergency relief payment to families... Read more
    ‘He can come down the chimney, he can leave the presents, he can leave, and you have nothing to worry about’

    ‘Santa Claus is good to go’: Dr. Fauci confirms he vaccinated Santa, clears Santa for worldwide travel

    NORTH POLE — Perhaps the number one question on children’s minds this week with Christmas approaching is whether it is safe for Santa to make millions of stops around the world with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.  In Maine alone, would it be safe for Santa, and Mainers themselves, for him to climb down chimneys around a state with more than 7,800 active cases? Or even across the Midcoast which has a combined 313 cases across Knox, Lincoln and Waldo counties?  Thankfully, the answer is yes... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 21, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 293. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 21 update: Midcoast adds three new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 21, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Vaccines arrive in Maine, but battle against COVID-19 remains far from over

    December has been a month of hope and concern, with COVID-19 vaccines deployed for the first time to hospitals across Maine but health officials warned that the state continues to battle “a surge on top of a surge.” Hospitals this week received the first doses of the Pfizer vaccine and began inoculating frontline workers. The first phase of vaccinations focuses on healthcare workers in intensive care units, emergency rooms and COVID-19 wings of hospitals.  This story was originally published... Read more

    Dec. 20 update: Midcoast adds four new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 20, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by 11

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 19, an additional 11 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 292. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 19 update: Midcoast adds 21 new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 19, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Gov. Mills issues statement on FDA’s emergency use authorization of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills released the following statement Friday night in response to news the FDA has issued an emergency use authorization for Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine: “The approval of Moderna’s vaccine is another victory for science and another step forward in the fight to vaccinate as many Maine people against COVID-19 as quickly, equitably, and efficiently as possible. “Maine CDC, in conjunction with Federal officials and our health partners across the state, have been preparing... Read more

    EMS bulletin takes close look at COVID-19 vaccines that Maine is deploying

    A bulletin issued by healthcare professionals that govern Maine EMS and first responder protocols contains some, “valuable and trusted information in it regarding the vaccines that Maine will be seeing,” said Rockland Police Chief Chris Whytock.The bulletin (see attached PDF for the full document) is an tutorial on the nuts and bolts of both vaccines — Pfizer and Moderna — how they were developed, how they work in the human body, how they must be stored, and their logistical handling issues.... Read more
    ‘millions more doses sitting in Michigan warehouse but, as of now, Pfizer has not received shipment instructions’

    Maine places third order for COVID-19 vaccines amid cut in state’s anticipated supply

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Friday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has placed a third order for COVID-19 vaccine with Operation Warp Speed and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Maine CDC ordered doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 8,775 people. This third order is approximately 40 percent lower than originally planned, after Operation Warp Speed informed Maine late Wednesday the maximum number of... Read more

    Governor Mills: ‘Have patience. Have faith and stay safe.’

    On Tuesday morning, Kayla Mitchell, a registered nurse at Maine Med’s intensive care unit, was vaccinated with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. She was among the first in Maine to receive this life-saving vaccine as soon as the first shipment arrived around the state to be administered to high risk frontline health care workers. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills and thank you for listening. After rolling up her sleeve, Ms. Mitchell said, “I trust the science and I trust that receiving the... Read more
    Formerly the Rotary Pizza restaurant, 10 Leland Street, Rockland

    Maine Kebab opens in Rockland with forward-thinking takeout model

    ROCKLAND—A fast-casual lunch and dinner spot opened this week called Maine Kebab, and owner Shane McGarvey and his executive chef, Ken Hynes, are already ahead of the curve in terms of issues that have plagued restaurants since the COVID-19 virus hit back in March. The menu is very simple: Mediterranean and Turkish flavors. Main dishes include Tumeric rice bowls, flatbread sandwiches, falafel and hummus box, and a salad box all serve as the main ingredient dishes, to which a diner has the... Read more

    Dec. 18 update: Midcoast adds 26 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 18, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by five

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 18, an additional five COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 281. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Labor officials provide Dec. 17 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending December 12, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 3,100 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 900 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 3,900 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 13,900 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 17,200 weekly certifications filed under PUA.... Read more

    UMaine men’s ice hockey paused, players in quarantine

    ORONO — Daily testing and symptom tracking have identified a positive case of COVID-19 through antigen testing in the University of Maine men’s ice hockey program, according to a news release. Student-athletes are in quarantine as a result and team activities have been paused. Contact tracing of the University of Maine Emergency Operations Center deemed that the coaching and direct support staff of the team were not considered close contacts requiring mandatory quarantine as outlined by... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by nine

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 17, an additional nine COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 276. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 17 update: Midcoast adds 19 new cases, one recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 17, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 16, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 267. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 16 update: Midcoast adds 33 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 16, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by six

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 15, an additional six COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 265. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 15 update: Midcoast adds 13 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 15, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Blueberry Moose a small retail shop at Watts Building, Thomaston

    South Thomaston woman opens shop to help fellow crafters hard hit by pandemic

    THOMASTON—Like so many enterprising crafter/artists before her, Jo Ann Hoppe, an artist and entrepreneur from South Thomaston, has made a career from her hobbies. Refusing to let a pandemic dictate her direction, she’s lifting up a dozen or so local crafters, who are selling their consigned items in her newly opened shop, Blueberry Moose at 166 Main Street in Thomaston.  “I’ve always been artistic, but in 2007, an artist told me I should be showing my stuff at craft fairs,” she said. “So, I... Read more

    Gov. Mills issues statement on arrival of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Maine

    AUGUSTA — The first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer arrived today, Dec. 14, in Maine.  Governor Janet Mills released the following statement Monday in response to the arrival of the first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Maine: “Today, the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine arrived in Maine and will be administered to frontline health care workers across the state. This news is a much-needed beacon of hope in an otherwise difficult time. “This logistical feat is the result... Read more

    Maine reimbursed $5.5 million for PPE purchases

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Maine has received an additional $5,570,755 to reimburse the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) including KN95 surgical masks for frontline responders, as well as disposable non-sterile isolation gowns and disposable isolation suits, according to a news release.  This funding was awarded to the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). As of... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 14, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 259. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 14 update: Midcoast adds 10 new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 14, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    SDMHS holding virtual discussion on how to support students amid COVID-19

    SEARSPORT — Searsport District Middle and High School will be holding a virtual community discussion surrounding how the community can support students amid the pandemic.  The school’s staff and administration will be meeting virtually with interested members of the community Thursday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. The focus of the community discussion on supporting students as they navigate an increasingly digital social and learning environment. RSVP by emailing jtoothaker@rsu20.org to receive a Zoom... Read more

    Individual associated with Rockland’s South School tests positive for COVID-19

    ROCKLAND — An individual associated with the South School in Rockland recently tested positive for COVID-19, according to a Dec. 12 letter from the district’s superintendent.  “There is a possibility that a very small number of staff or students came in contact with the individual and therefore may have been exposed to the virus,” wrote Superintendent John C. McDonald. “Close contacts will receive a phone call and a letter verifying their status as a close contact if identified. We are... Read more

    Islesboro head of school addresses learning plans

    The following letter was distributed Sunday, Dec. 13 by Islesboro Central School Head of School Charles “Chuck” Hamm.  Dear ICS Community,  Islesboro Central School, like so many other schools around the state, has recently experienced its first positive case of COVID-19. We followed CDC and DOE recommendations and found 29 close contacts. ICS immediately implemented full remote learning. No new cases have been identified and we remain optimistic that we have contained the spread of the... Read more

    Dec. 13 update: Knox County adds 32 new cases, Waldo adds one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 13, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine Agriculture, Forestry bureaus create resource webpage to help mental health, wellbeing in rural communities

    AUGUSTA – The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's (DACF) Bureaus of Agriculture and Forestry are continuing to increase access to mental health resources for farming and forestry communities. DACF recently added the Mental Health Resources webpage, which contains easily accessible and detailed information about the signs of stress and resources for managing stress and seeking help. The new web page intends to provide critical assistance to agriculture and forestry... Read more

    $50 million in COVID-19 aid awarded to Maine farmers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Maine farmers have been awarded a total of $50,329,634 to date to help offset the financial harm they have experienced due to COVID-19, according to a news release. The funding is provided through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), created through the CARES Act, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to deliver relief to America’s farmers. In addition to facilitating the Farmers to Families Food Box program, CFAP is providing vital financial... Read more

    Dec. 12 update: Midcoast adds six new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 12, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by seven

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 12, an additional seven COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 257. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Gov. Mills issues statement on FDA’s emergency use authorization of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills released the following statement late Friday night in response to news the FDA has issued an emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine: “The approval of Pfizer’s vaccine is a beacon of hope during this challenging time and further proof of the vast and remarkable power of science. “Over the past several months, my Administration has worked closely with Maine hospital systems, health care officials, long term care facilities, pharmacies, and... Read more

    Maine formally submits request for second allocation of COVID-19 vaccines

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced Friday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has placed its second order for doses of COVID-19 vaccine for 37,850 people to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Operation Warp Speed. This order, according to a news release, represents the second in a series of vaccine requests Maine CDC will file in the coming weeks and months, as specified by Operation Warp Speed, as part of Maine's... Read more

    Mills administration commits full $1.25 billion of federal COVID-19 aid

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Commissioner for the Department of Administrative and Financial Services Kirsten Figueroa announced Friday the Administration has committed all of Maine’s $1.25 billion in CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF). The final commitment of $6.8 million will fund the public-private partnership with Westbrook-based IDEXX Laboratories for COVID-19 testing. This partnership has more than quadrupled Maine’s capacity for detecting the virus, according to a news... Read more

    Gov. Mills strengthens enforcement of face covering requirement in indoor public spaces

    AUGUSTA — With widespread community transmission and increased COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Maine, Governor Janet Mills signed Friday an Executive Order that simplifies and strengthens the enforcement of the State’s face covering requirement. Moving forward, owners and operators of all indoor public spaces — regardless of the type of entity or size — must not allow those who refuse to wear a face covering to enter or remain in their venue, according to a news release. Previous... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 11, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 250. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 11 update: Midcoast adds five new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 11, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending December 5

    AUGUSTA - For the week ending December 5, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 3,000 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,200 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). By contrast, for the week ending November 28, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,900 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 700 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). Between March 15 and December 5,... Read more

    Mark Fourre: We must finish strong by continuing to protect ourselves and those around us

    There is hope on the horizon as we prepare to enter a new year with the COVID pandemic. Three vaccines have been proven safe and effective in numerous clinical trials and they are making their way through the approval process. The State of Maine has been working on a distribution plan for some time, and MaineHealth has played a vital role in that process. It appears that the vaccine will be given first to health care workers who have direct clinical contact with patients and those most at... Read more

    Maine Dept. of Labor investigates unemployment imposter fraud

    The Maine Department of Labor continues its careful review of all claims as it investigates unemployment imposter fraud. During the week ending December 5, the Department cancelled 518 initial claims and five weekly certifications that were determined to be fraudulent. Unemployment imposter fraud is when a person's Personally Identifiable Information, or PII, is stolen and used illegally to apply for unemployment benefits. Maine is one of many U.S. states working in close collaboration with... Read more

    Dec. 10 update: Midcoast adds nine new cases, two new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 10, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Gov. Mills announces relief payment for Mainers unemployed due to COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Commissioner of Labor Laura Fortman announced Wednesday the State will provide certain individuals who are unemployed due to COVID-19 with a one-time direct relief payment of $600 through the State’s newly-created Pandemic Relief Program (PRP). The relief payment is meant to assist unemployed Maine people at a time when they continue to face substantial economic hardship as a result of COVID-19 and are losing their Federal unemployment benefits at the end of... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by seven

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 9, an additional seven COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 246. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 9 update: Midcoast adds seven new cases, five new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 9, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Shah announces COVID-19 three-case outbreak at Washburn & Doughty

    Maine Center for Disease Control Director Dr. Nirav Shah announced Dec. 7 the CDC has launched an investigation into East Boothbay shipyard Washburn & Doughty for a COVID-19 outbreak. The Boothbay Register spoke with Maine CDC Communications Director Robert Long who confirmed the outbreak involves three cases and the investigation is ongoing. The Maine CDC defines an outbreak as three or more confirmed cases from different households within 14 days. Washburn & Doughty President Katie... Read more

    Maine DHHS redeploys team of call center staff to support people testing positive for COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced Monday that starting this week, 17 call center specialists will join the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide notification and support for people newly testing positive for COVID-19. This is part of a comprehensive plan to adapt Maine's response to best contain the spread of coronavirus in light of the surge in cases in the state, a news release stated.  The team from the DHHS Call Center... Read more

    Dec. 8 update: Midcoast adds eight new cases, eight new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 8, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by 12

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 8, an additional 12 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 239. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 7 update: Midcoast adds eight new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 7, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Dec. 6 update: Midcoast adds five new cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 6, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Governor Mills tests negative for COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — After being exposed to a member of her protective security detail that tested positive for COVID-19, Governor Janet Mills announced Saturday afternoon she received negative PCR test results after taking a test Thursday, Dec. 3. The Governor began quarantining December 1 following an exposure to COVID-19 from one of the security detail members November 28. The official, who became symptomatic following that date and was considered a probable case when Governor Mills began... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by three, including Midcoast man

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 5, an additional three COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 227. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 5 update: Midcoast adds 24 new cases, six new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 5, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine formally submits request to federal government for first COVID-19 vaccines

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Friday the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has placed orders for doses of COVID-19 vaccine for 12,675 people to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Operation Warp Speed. This order represents the first in a series of vaccine requests that Maine CDC will file in the coming weeks and months, as specified by Operation Warp Speed, as part of Maine's accessible, flexible, and equitable... Read more

    Pen Bay Medical Center/Waldo County General Hospital update COVID-19 restrictions on visiting/escorting patients

    This policy is an update to the Visitor Restrictions imposed on Friday, March 20, 2020 and updated on June 16, July 20 and again on November 18. This latest update will take effect on December 4, 2020 and shall remain in effect until further notice, according to the hospitals, in a news release. In response to the coronavirus outbreak, Pen Bay Medical Center (PBMC) and Waldo County General Hospital (WCGH) are implementing increased restrictions with regard to its policies for visitors/patient... Read more

    DECD dedicates $10 million to program assisting Maine food, agriculture businesses

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Commissioner of Economic and Community Development Heather Johnson announced Friday a commitment of $10 million in federal CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funding to a newly-created Agriculture and Food Processing Infrastructure Reimbursement Program. The program, which was created in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and is being administered by Coastal Enterprises, Inc (CEI), is offering up to $100,000 to reimburse... Read more

    Maine Principals’ Association slightly amends winter sports schedule

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Principals’ Association announced Friday team-based practices and team-based scrimmaging for moderate and high-risk interscholastic winter sports, which were originally slated to begin December 14 have been delayed until January 4, 2021. The decision, which was made in collaboration with the Maine School Boards Association, the Maine School Superintendents Association, the Maine Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and the Mills Administration, comes as Maine... Read more

    DACF dedicates $2 million to support Maine food banks and pantries

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) Commissioner Amanda Beal announced Friday a commitment of $2 million in federal CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funding to DACF’s Food Security Network Reimbursement Program.  The program, which will be administered by Catholic Charities Maine on behalf of DACF, offers up to $10,000 in reimbursements to food banks and pantries that have accrued unanticipated expenses while working to overcome food... Read more

    Gov. Mills extends business curfew until January

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Friday she will extend the requirement for certain businesses statewide to close by 9 p.m. through Sunday, January 3, 2021. The extension is aimed at limiting activities that lead to COVID-19 transmission, amid a sustained and dangerous increase in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and positivity rates in the State of Maine, according to a news release.  Today, Dec. 4, the state recorded 290 new cases, four new deaths, 164 presently hospitalized... Read more

    Dec. 4 update: Midcoast adds 16 new cases, 10 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 4, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 4, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 224. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Labor officials provide Dec. 3 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending November 28, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,900 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 700 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 2,300 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 11,600 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 15,400 weekly certifications filed under PUA. ... Read more
    The consensus? It turned out to be very good

    Here’s the acorn bread nobody asked for

    On Thanksgiving day, I decided to roll up my sleeves and attempt to bake some bread. Not just any bread. Loaves made from those damn acorns it took me one hour of gathering, two weeks of cracking, five hours of leaching, and 28 hours of dehydrating, as explained in my recent article, “Back off squirrel, these acorns are mine.” Basically, a gallon and a half of raw acorns produced probably two and a half cups of acorn flour. Worth it? You tell me. Actually, don’t tell me. My friends have... Read more

    Dec. 3 update: Midcoast adds 14 new cases, 10 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 3, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 3, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 220. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 deaths rise by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 2, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 218. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 2 update: Midcoast adds 11 new cases, 16 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 2, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Governor Mills quarantining after likely exposure to COVID-19

    Consistent with U.S. and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, Governor Janet Mills said Dec. 1 that she is quarantining following an exposure to an individual believed likely to have COVID-19. Beginning today, the Governor is quarantining at the Blaine House, the Governor’s residence. In line with current CDC guidelines, she will quarantine through December 12, 2020. The Governor feels well, is not symptomatic, and will continue to discharge her duties and remain in... Read more

    Maine awarded $3.3 million to purchase COVID-19 PPE materials

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the State of Maine $3,353,905 to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release.  The Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services received $1,857,375.38 in federal funding to purchase Level 2 Isolation Suits, important PPE to protect essential workers against the spread of COVID-19. The Maine Department of... Read more

    Mills Administration announces grants for Maine health care organizations

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Health and Human Services Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew announced a grant program to support health care organizations that serve residents with MaineCare and sustain vital health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Backed by $30 million in Federal CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF), the Maine Health Care Financial Relief Program is a new opportunity modeled on the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Maine Economic Recovery... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 deaths spike by 20, including one in Knox County

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Dec. 1, an additional 20 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 214. Deaths announced today occurred in Androscoggin (10), Kennebec (one), Knox (one), Oxford (one), Penobscot (three), Piscataquis (one), Washington (one) and York (two).  Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Dec. 1 update: Midcoast adds five new cases, 18 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Dec. 1, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more
    For #Giving Tuesday, a story on giving back to the restaurant industry

    Maine Cater serves as a lifeline to local restaurants and servers

    APPLETON—Maine Cater, a recruitment company dedicated to serving New England’s food and beverage industry, has come up with an idea to provide local “restaurateurs, employers, job seekers, and FOH/BOH” with an economic lifeline during a pandemic that shows no signs of stopping. Husband-and-wife team, Daryle and Orianna Degen launched  Maine Cater in Camden in 2017 as a way to supply temporary employees to restaurants suffering from immediate gaps in employment. “We’ve both worked in the... Read more

    Gov. Mills launches $40 million grant program to support tourism, hospitality and retail small businesses

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Monday an economic recovery grant program to support Maine’s tourism, hospitality, and retail small businesses, according to a news release.  Backed by $40 million in Federal CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF), the Tourism, Hospitality & Retail Recovery Grant Program is focused specifically on supporting Maine’s service sector small businesses, such as restaurants, bars, tasting rooms, lodging and retail shops, which have been hard hit by the... Read more

    Thirty-four Midcoast schools, districts receive $23 million in COVID-19 assistance

    AUGUSTA — Thirty-four schools and school districts serving students in the Midcoast were provided COVID-19 grants this fall through the Maine Department of Education’s Safe Return to Instruction financial aid program.  The program was created to assist Maine schools in providing safe and healthy returns to in-person instruction for the 2020-2021 school year.  Eligible schools and school districts were required to develop three different instructional plans (remote, hybrid, and in-person) in... Read more

    Mount View Chamber Singers announces cancellation of 2020 Carols in the Round

    THORNDIKE — The Mount View Chamber Singers, a 20 member ensemble of students from Mount View High School, announced Sunday on its Facebook page its 2020 Carols in the Round season has been canceled amid the pandemic.  The 2020 season was slated to be 30th annual edition of the Carols in the Round series.  “We are still hoping to post some recordings of us singing Carols outdoors,” the post noted. “We thank you for your kindness and support throughout the years and hope you have a safe and... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by three

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 30, an additional three COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 194. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 30 update: Midcoast adds five new cases, 11 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 30, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Preparing for a cold, hungry winter

    As temperatures drop and COVID-19 continues, demand for food and heat assistance to rise

    On a sunny September morning in Dover-Foxcroft, more than 50 cars stretched from the Piscataquis Regional Food Center three blocks down North Street an hour before a food distribution event was to begin. Parked along the shoulder, with their engines off and windows rolled down, people from all over Piscataquis County patiently waited to receive apples, oranges, potatoes, frozen meat and canned goods. Some would still be waiting two hours later, with more lining up behind them. Most who came... Read more

    IRS reminds of special 2020 tax deduction for donating to charity

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers of a special new provision that will allow more people to easily deduct up to $300 in donations to qualifying charities this year. Following special tax law changes made earlier this year, cash donations of up to $300 made before Dec. 31 are now deductible when people file their taxes in 2021. “Our nation’s charities are struggling to help those suffering from COVID-19, and many deserving organizations can use all the help they... Read more

    Nov. 29 update: Midcoast adds seven new cases, eight new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 29, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Minimal COVID-19 updates provided Nov. 28

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 28, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine — sort of.  Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. However, due to the Thanksgiving holiday, not all information was not updated.  One data table updated was hospitalizations: there are presently 119 hospitalized, including 51 in critical care and 15 on a ventilator. Another piece of data updated was deaths:... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 28, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 191. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 27 COVID-19 update halted due to Thanksgiving holiday

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 27, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine — sort of.  Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. However, due to the Thanksgiving holiday, most information was not updated.  The lone data table to update was hospitalizations: there are presently 113 hospitalized, including 48 in critical care and 13 on a ventilator. “Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, some... Read more
    The 4K Facebook group is sponsoring 85 families for Christmas and needs your help

    ‘Wine Fairies of Maine’ are anonymous altruists who help any family in need

    THOMASTON—Back in March, 29-year-old Carly Laughery, of Thomaston, had her hands full with three kids and a job at Staples. With so many people around her losing jobs, childcare, and their financial security due to the COVID-19 virus, Laughery looked at ways she could possibly help. She heard about a mysterious nationwide group called “Wine Fairies,” people who band together to anonymously drop a bag or basket of wine, food, or other special gifts on the doorstep of someone having a rough time... Read more

    How to safely celebrate Thanksgiving amid COVID-19

    As people in the United States begin to plan for holiday celebrations, the U.S. CDC offers the following considerations to help protect individuals, their families, friends, and communities from COVID-19.These considerations are meant to supplement — not replace — any state, local, territorial, or tribal health and safety laws, rules, and regulations with which holiday gatherings must comply, says the U.S. CDC in its advisory. When planning to host a holiday celebration, you should assess... Read more

    Nov. 26 update: Midcoast adds five new cases, 16 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 26, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Gov. Mills invests $536,000 in COVID-19 aid for Meals on Wheels

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration announced today that it will dedicate more than half a million dollars in Coronavirus Relief Funds to extend home-delivered meals to older Mainers and caregivers, ensuring food and nutrition for Maine people staying home during the pandemic. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services’ investment of $536,000 in federal funding will maintain greatly increased deliveries through Meals on Wheels and similar programs since the spring, when Maine received... Read more

    Labor officials provide Nov. 25 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending November 21, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 2,200 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 2,000 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 2,800 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. The increase in PUA initial claims is due to eligible claimants who were on the state Extended Benefit (EB) program when it ended November 14 moving to the PUA... Read more

    Nov. 25 update: Midcoast adds 14 new cases, 17 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 25, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 25, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 190. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Governor Mills extends State of Civil Emergency as Maine fights COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills extended Tuesday the State of Civil Emergency  through December 23. The Governor’s decision, per a news release, to extend the emergency is in line with nearly every other state in the nation which have ongoing emergency declarations, according to the National Governors Association.  “To all Maine people, please, to keep our small businesses open, to prevent our hospitals from being overwhelmed, to keep our kids in school, to protect yourselves as well as people... Read more

    Governor’s economic committee urges action on bold strategies for recovery from COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills welcomed Tuesday the release of the final report of the Governor’s Economic Recovery Committee, which outlines eight strategies to sustain Maine people and grow the Maine economy in response to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the virus’ resurgence in recent weeks, the Committee also issued a clarion call for more federal stimulus in order to sustain the economy in the near-term, particularly within hard-hit sectors like retail, tourism and... Read more

    Education officials create team to support contact tracing in schools

    AUGUSTA — Maine Commissioner of Education Pender Makin announced Tuesday the deployment of a team of Department of Education Contact Tracers. A cadre of nurses, many retired from years of employment in Maine schools, have received training through the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) and will be immediately called into service for school-specific contact tracing, according to a news release.  “This program will provide Maine schools with specialized supports... Read more

    Nov. 24 update: Midcoast adds 14 new cases, 22 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 24, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll spikes by 12

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 24, an additional 12 COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 189. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    State revenue forecast ‘less severe than anticipated’ amid ongoing pandemic

    AUGUSTA — The Revenue Forecasting Committee forecasted State revenues Monday to come in approximately $489 million higher for the General Fund and $9.1 million higher for the Highway Fund for the FY22-23 biennium, an increase of approximately six percent and 1.3 percent over the RFC’s late July, off-cycle forecast that significantly downgraded projections, according to a news release.  Additionally, the RFC now expects revenues for this Fiscal Year to improve by $275 million in the General... Read more

    Maine Attorney General urges Mainers to follow the law by wearing face coverings to curb COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Attorney General Aaron M. Frey is urging Mainers and all individuals present in the state to follow the law and wear face coverings when in public, as mandated by Governor Mills’ executive orders, in order to help curb the spread of COVID-19. With cases rising in Maine and across the country, widespread use of face coverings is a proven method for reducing the risk of infections and to enable businesses to remain open, according to public health experts.Most Maine people and... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises with death of Lincoln County resident

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 23, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 177. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 23 update: Midcoast records 14 new cases, 13 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 23, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Part of $8.5 million statewide distribution

    Seventeen area municipalities receive $734,000 in COVID-19 funds

    AUGUSTA — Towns and cities across Maine have received funding this fall through the 2020 Municipal COVID-19 Awareness Campaign. The funding is an extension of the Maine CDC’s efforts to “promote public education and public health activities, implementing physical distancing measures, and providing technical assistance to local businesses to help them follow best practices described in COVID-19 Prevention Checklists.”  Funds are provided from the Coronavirus Relief Fund under the Coronavirus... Read more

    Trio of Waldo County entities receive FEMA COVID-19 assistance

    AUGUSTA — Three area entities received funds this fall through a Federal Emergency Management Agency COVID-19 aid assistance program.  Governor Janet Mills committed $35 million from the Coronavirus Relief Fund to assist local and tribal governments, and other entities that qualify for FEMA assistance, with incurred COVID-19 expenses. The $35 million, specifically, is intended to provide the 25% match against FEMA’s Public Assistance Program Major Disaster Declaration for COVID-19 for... Read more

    Despite Knox County shifting back to ‘green’, RSU 13 to follow ‘yellow’ learning plans

    ROCKLAND — Despite the recent color designation shift for Knox County from yellow back to green, RSU 13 will remain in the current yellow hybrid plan from now through at least school vacation week in December, according to a notice from the district. “We will continue to monitor the landscape and make plans for January once we have a better idea of where we are with cases in Knox after Thanksgiving break,” a Nov. 20 memo read. “It is our deepest hope that families heed the CDC’s recommendation... Read more

    Oceanside Middle shifts to virtual learning amid positive COVID-19 test at school

    THOMASTON — Students at Oceanside Middle School will attend school remotely Monday, Nov. 23 and Tuesday, Nov. 24 after the school was notified this weekend of at recent positive test at the school.  “We have followed all district, state, and CDC protocols regarding a positive case within our school,” said a notice from Principal Bill Gifford. “Given the protocols, we identified that there were no close contacts with that individual and others within our building.” The decision to shift to... Read more

    Nov. 22 update: Midcoast adds 15 new cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 22, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 22, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 176. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 21 update: Midcoast adds five new cases, 10 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 21, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Gov. Mills: I am thankful for the ways you have adapted to keep us all safe

    Reconnecting with family and friends around the table sharing a good meal and expressing our gratitude for the gifts we’ve been given — all of that is at the heart of Thanksgiving. It’s also one of the riskiest things we can do right now for our health and the health and lives of our loved ones. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills. I have three brothers, a sister, five daughters, and five grandchildren, including two little girls that I love to hug and hang out with — I would love to get... Read more

    Maine Principals’ Association provides winter sports update

    AUGUSTA — The School Sports Guidance: Return to Competition for Competitive Activities in Maine for winter sports has been updated and approved by the Maine Principals’ Association’s  Interscholastic Management Committee. “We would like to thank the Office of the Governor, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Education, the Maine Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, and Maine School Management Association for their work in aligning these guidelines,”... Read more

    Maine CDC announces 20 new COVID-19 outbreaks, including at Rockland Marine Corp.

    AUGUSTA — During a Nov. 20 virtual COVID-19 briefing, Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah announced his organization has launched 20 new COVID-19 outbreak investigations with 11 being opened Thursday, Nov. 19 and nine being opened today, Nov. 20.  One of those outbreak investigations is at the Rockland Marine Corporation on Mechanic Street, where six cases of COVID-19 have been recorded. That investigation began Thursday.  Rockland Marine Corporation, established in 1991, is a non-union full... Read more

    Governor Mills dedicates $6.2 million to rent relief program

    AUGUSTA — To support Maine families struggling economically because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Governor Janet Mills announced Friday she is dedicating an additional $6.2 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds to Maine Housing’s COVID-19 Rental Relief Program. MaineHousing will extend the program through December for renters who cannot afford to pay their rent due to COVID-19. “I join my fellow governors of both parties nationwide in calling on the U.S. Senate and the President... Read more

    Maine organizations urge residents to get outside safely this winter

    AUGUSTA — A broad coalition of Maine conservation groups, state agencies, and outdoor brand businesses launched Friday a series of recommendations to help people safely enjoy fresh air this winter. While outdoor activities are great ways to stay healthy during Maine's winter, it is important for everyone venturing to Maines public parks and land trust preserves to continue following COVID-19 health guidance, a news release noted. In addition, all should be prepared for short days, cold... Read more

    Maine DHHS providing financial support for testing of nursing facility staff

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced this week the organization will provide additional financial support to nursing facilities for periodic COVID-19 testing of their staff. Through MaineCare, DHHS will help to reimburse nursing facilities for their costs to conduct this surveillance testing using commercial laboratories. This investment of an estimated $8 million in State and Federal funds over the coming months will help protect residents and staff from the... Read more

    State awards $5.6 million to build high speed internet infrastructure for students in underserved communities

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Friday her Administration has awarded $5.6 million in CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund monies to fund the construction of permanent internet infrastructure that will bring high-speed broadband to more than 730 students across rural Maine. The awards are the result of a new Mills Administration initiative called ConnectKidsNow! that brought together State government, school superintendents, and several of Maine’s Internet Service Providers in a public-... Read more

    Knox County returns to green status in educational health advisory system

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration today released an update to its color-coded Health Advisory System that classifies counties’ relative risk of COVID-19 transmission by color and is provided to assist schools as they continue with their plans to deliver instruction and support students safely this fall. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) assessed the data and trends for all counties. Based on this assessment... Read more

    Nov. 20 update: Midcoast records 11 new cases, 15 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 20, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 20, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 173. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Walgreens COVID-19 testing locations include Belfast, Rockland

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced Thursday additional Walgreens pharmacy locations offering free drive-through rapid COVID-19 antigen testing to people in Maine experiencing symptoms of the virus. Beginning Nov. 20, Walgreens will open 52 testing sites across Maine to the public (see list below), using Abbott's BinaxNOW rapid antigen point-of-care test. These sites join the 10 previously announced locations that opened last Friday. An additional... Read more

    Gov. Mills imposes curfew for certain businesses Nov. 20 to Dec. 6

    AUGUSTA — Following an alarming increase in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and positivity rates in the State of Maine, the Mills Administration announced Thursday afternoon new measures to mitigate the spread of this deadly virus. Beginning Friday, November 20 through Sunday, December 6, all outdoor and indoor amusement venues, movie theaters, performing arts venues, casinos, and businesses that provide seated food and drink service, including social clubs, restaurants, and bars and tasting... Read more

    Maine CDC revises how it conducts COVID-19 probable case investigations

    AUGUSTA —The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) announced Thursday revisions to the way it investigates probable cases of COVID-19. The change reflects the likely increase in individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms related to onset of cold/influenza season amid widespread community transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19, according to a news release, and is designed to make the best use of available resources to protect the health of Maine people. Going... Read more

    Nov. 19 update: Midcoast records 13 new cases, nine recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 19, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 19, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 171. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Labor officials provide Nov. 19 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending November 14, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 2,000 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 300 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 2,550 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 11,800 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 13,900 weekly certifications filed under PUA. ... Read more

    Maine to financially support farmers, agriculture producers who invested in e-commerce

    AUGUSTA — The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) will use federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to support farmers and agricultural producers impacted by COVID-19, DACF Commissioner Amanda Beal announced this week. “Adapting and meeting the challenges of market disruptions caused by COVID-19 prompted many farmers to invest in e-commerce solutions,” Beal said. “I am pleased that we are able to allocate these funds to reimburse... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records four new COVID-19 deaths, including one in Knox County

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 18, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 170. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 18 update: Midcoast adds nine new cases, 11 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 18, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    With COVID-19 surge, Pen Bay Medical Center, Waldo County General Hospital adopt new visitor restrictions

      The updated rules are effective on November 18 for PBMC and WCGH locations and medical practices and rural health centers. They are intended to safeguard patients, visitors and staff during the coronavirus outbreak, according to a news release from the hospitals. In response to the coronavirus outbreak, Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital are immediately implementing increased restrictions with regard to its policies for visitors. This is being done to prevent spread of... Read more
    includes information on Economic Impact Payments; be socially distant

    IRS provides preparation tips for filing federal income taxes amid pandemic

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service is encouraging taxpayers to take necessary actions this fall to help them file their federal tax returns timely and accurately in 2021, including special steps related to Economic Impact Payments. A special page, updated and available on IRS.gov, outlines steps taxpayers can take now to prepare for the 2021 tax return filing season ahead. Steps taxpayers can take now to make tax filing easier in 2021 Taxpayers should gather Forms W-2, Wage and... Read more

    Maine records additional COVID-19 death bringing toll to 166

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 17, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 166. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 17 update: Midcoast records 11 new cases, 11 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 17, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Finding our Footing: Pandemic Gallery VI

    These are historic times, and this collection of submitted photos taken by residents and visitors to the state will join Midcoast Maine establishes new normal with a sense of grace and Maine weathers a pandemic, Maine springs through a pandemic, Summering on through uncharted times, and the Leaves of Change. All these galleries have been built on the love people have for the Midcoast. The photographers are observant, creative and astute. They help capture our current days. If some things are... Read more
    Rockport Planning Board Meeting, Nov. 19

    Camden Hills Regional High School proposes creating more outdoor classroom, gathering space

    ROCKPORT — Given the pandemic and need for outdoor venues with plenty of fresh air, the Camden Hills Regional High School is going before the Rockport Planning Board Thursday, Nov. 19, for approval of a plan to construct three exterior pavilion structures on the campus. The site plan review application details plans calling for two of the structures to be placed over an existing concrete patio outside of the cafeteria, the other will be placed near the existing concessions/maintenance building... Read more

    Masks: The 2020 accessory everyone should have

    Time was face masks were just for medical professionals, and for Halloween and masquerade parties. In 2020, they became an accessory for protection against the highly contagious coronavirus, aka COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend face coverings with two or more layers of breathable fabric – even with a face shield; it’s not known how effective those shields are alone. The CDC does not recommend shields as a substitute for masks or N95 masks with breathing vents... Read more

    Nov. 16 update: Midcoast records six new cases, six new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 16, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Four cases confirmed

    Maine CDC opens investigation of North East Mobile Health Services COVID-19 outbreak

    ROCKPORT — The Maine CDC has opened a COVID-19 outbreak investigation associated with North East Mobile Health Services in Rockport, the privately owned ambulance service that covers Camden, Hope, Rockport, Lincolnville. The CDC has also initiated contact tracing.North East Mobile Health Services is based in Scarborough and aside from providing local emergency medical services from its Rockport office, the company also operates in Bowdoinham, Brunswick and Sanford. It is also a transport... Read more

    Nov. 15 update: Midcoast records seven new cases, six new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 15, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 15, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 165. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Gov. Mills: We can stem the tide of this virus, but it takes a team effort

    The following is a transcript of a radio address presented by Governor Janet Mills:  Many of us read the appalling saga of our friend Dennis Bailey’s struggle to stay alive while fighting COVID-19 recently. For his sake and for the sake of all of us we’ve been praying for an effective vaccine that’ll let us all get back to work, back to school, and back to business. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills. While we got news recently that one vaccine candidate is showing some promise in early... Read more

    Nov. 14 update: Midcoast records 12 new cases, nine new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 14, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises to 163

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 14, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 163. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Knox County remains ‘yellow’ in Maine DOE health advisory system

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration released Friday an update to its color-coded Health Advisory System that classifies counties’ relative risk of COVID-19 transmission by color and is provided to assist schools as they continue with their plans to deliver instruction and support students safely this fall.The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) assessed the data and trends for all counties.Based on this assessment,... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by three to 162

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 13, an additional three COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 162. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 13 update: Midcoast records 11 new cases, 13 new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 13, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Interview with Mr. D. at CASS

    BELFAST — Editor's note: This is the third in a series of articles by the fourth graders in Nancy Nickerson's class at Capt. Albert W. Stevens School to inform our readers about what it's like to attend school during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since this story was written, all schools in Waldo County have been given the state's "yellow" designation, meaning they must implement hybrid learning plans, with students attending school in cohorts on alternating days of the week. This article has been ... Read more

    New England governors suspend interstate youth ice hockey competition

    AUGUSTA — In response to recent coronavirus outbreaks associated with the conduct of interstate youth hockey activities, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Maine Governor Janet Mills, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, Vermont Governor Phil Scott, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, and Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker will support a regional approach to interstate competitions. As case numbers increase in many states across the country, it is critical... Read more

    Labor officials provide Nov. 12 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending November 7, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 2,300 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 300 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). “ The increase in state initial claims is due to seasonal layoffs in eating and drinking places, lodging, and construction industries,” stated a news release. In total, approximately 2,900 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim.... Read more

    Nov. 12 update: Midcoast records 16 new cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 12, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases to 159

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 12, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 159. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll rises by two, both in Midcoast

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 11, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 158. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 11 update: Midcoast records six new cases, eight new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 11, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    In business: tips on personal growth, productivity, budgeting, organization

    Establishing a sense of normalcy during a pandemic with Thomaston’s Pixie Planner

    THOMASTON — With an affinity for using planners to boost her towards achieving her goals, and a fervor for fueling personal growth and productivity, Thomaston resident Dominique Woodward decided two years ago to create a YouTube channel as a way to share her passions.  Her channel, The Pixie Planner, boasts more than 6,300 subscribers and has accumulated more than 465,000 combined views for all uploaded videos.  “I was amazed to discover that there is a whole community of millions of girls... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll jumps by four

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 10, an additional four COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 156. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 10 update: Midcoast records 12 new cases, six new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 10, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    $48 million in COVID-19 aid awarded to Maine farmers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Maine farmers have been awarded a total of $48,890,321 to date to help offset the financial harm they have experienced due to COVID-19, according to a news release. The funding is provided through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), created through the CARES Act, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to deliver relief to America’s farmers. In addition to facilitating the Farmers to Families Food Box program, CFAP is providing, per the release,... Read more

    Appleton, Hope, Lincolnville students can get free high-speed broadband access

    Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Maine Department of Education has received federal emergency funding that can be used to provide high-speed broadband connections to K-12 student and teacher households, as well as households with enrolled college students, that currently do not have access to minimum internet speeds of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload, according to a news release.  Tidewater Telecom and Lincolnville Networks has been approved by the Maine DOE and the ConnectME Authority... Read more

    Maine Principals’ Association cancels state cross country championships amid statewide rise in COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Principals’ Association, the governing body for high school athletics in the state, announced Monday afternoon the cancelation of this year’s high school cross country state championships.  “The concern of bringing students together from all parts of Maine through state-wide travel as we are experiencing a significant increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in Maine,” said MPA Assistant Executive Director  Mike Bisson. “The new mask mandate for student-athletes to wear... Read more

    North Haven school officials provide update on new island COVID-19 cases

    NORTH HAVEN — The COVID-19 outbreak on the island of North Haven has increased Monday, according to a letter shared in the afternoon by North Haven Community School Superintendent Peter Gallace and teaching principals John Dow and Christine Cooper.  “We have been told by the clinic that there are at least 13 confirmed cases and 2 presumptive cases of COVID-19 on the island,” the letter stated.  After previously reporting over the weekend an elementary school teacher and high school student... Read more

    Mark Fourre: Increase our vigilance

    As we enter the eighth month of this pandemic, fears that cool weather would accompany a surge in the pandemic have proven well-placed. Cases of COVID-19 have increased significantly in our coastal Maine communities and recent epidemiological data and case investigations show that Maine is now experiencing widespread community transmission. Let this prompt us all to increase our vigilance. This may be unsettling to hear, but it is also a reminder that our vigilance is more important than ever... Read more

    Nov. 9 update: Midcoast records five new cases, two new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 9, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Nov. 8 update: Midcoast records eight new cases, two recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 8, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    North Haven students learning remotely amid community outbreak of 11 COVID-19 cases

    NORTH HAVEN — A COVID-19 outbreak is occurring on the island of North Haven, according to a Nov. 7 letter shared to the community by North Haven Community School Superintendent Peter Gallace and teaching principals John Dow and Christine Cooper.  “We have been told by the clinic that there are at least 11 positive cases on North Haven,” the letter stated. “One of our elementary [school] teachers has tested positive with COVID-19 and a high school student as well. The teacher will remain in... Read more

    RSU 20 returning to in-person learning amid green categorization

    SEARSPORT — With no confirmed cases of COVID-19 with the towns making up RSU 20 (Searsport and Stockton Springs), the district has opted to enter its in-person continued learning plan starting Monday, Nov. 9 following the Maine Department of Education removing Waldo County from the yellow health advisory system categorization.  At Searsport Elementary School, Groups 1 and 2 will be on campus, while Group 3 will be remote each day.  At Searsport District Middle and High School, students in... Read more

    No classes for Vinalhaven students Nov. 9-11

    VINALHAVEN — The Vinalhaven School has amended its educational plans for the upcoming week amid the county’s yellow designation under the Maine Department of Education’s COVID-19 health advisory system.  Students will not have school on Monday, Nov. 9 or Tuesday, Nov. 10. Wednesday, Nov. 11 is Veteran’s Day, a previously scheduled day off.  School staff will attend school Monday and Tuesday to make final preparations for the possibility of full remote instruction. “If we need to move to full... Read more

    How St. George School is approaching county’s yellow educational designation

    ST. GEORGE — With Knox County moving to a yellow designation in the Maine Department of Education’s COVID-19 health advisory system, St. George School officials released a letter to families Nov. 6 updating its educational plans.  With the yellow designation:  K-5: Students in grades K-5 continue five days per week of in-person instruction. Middle Level (6-8): Student in 6th-8th grade will move to a hybrid model, in which middle level crews rotate between in-person and remote instruction... Read more

    Gov. Mills: It’s time to hunker down, bunker in and buckle up

    On one day alone this week, Maine recorded 183 new cases of COVID-19, the highest single-day increase since the beginning of the pandemic. Our positivity rate, while significantly lower than other states, has more than doubled in the last two weeks and hospitalizations have increased. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills and thank you for listening. This is a transcript of a radio address presented Friday, Nov. 6 by Governor Janet Mills The nation has surpassed more than nine and a half... Read more
    maine cdc investigating outbreak among employees

    Waldo County General CEO comments on ‘small number’ of COVID-19 cases among employees

    BELFAST — An outbreak of COVID-19 is being investigated at the Waldo County General Hospital by the Maine CDC, according to Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah during his Nov. 6 COVID-19 briefing.  Four staff members of the hospital have tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19.  “Care team members at Pen Bay Medical Center (PBMC) and Waldo County General Hospital (WCGH) are on the front lines of this fight against COVID-19,” said Mark Fourre, Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County... Read more

    Maine COVID-19 death toll, again, rises by two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 7, an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 152. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 7 update: Midcoast records 15 new cases, seven new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 7, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Searsport town manager debunks rumor ambulance staff are COVID-19 positive

    SEARSPORT — Rumors that several Searsport ambulance personnel tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19 are inaccurate, according to a statement by Town Manager James Gillway in the town’s newsletter.  “The Town of Searsport is not aware of any employee infected by COVID-19,” Gillway wrote. The rumors have the potential to negatively impact other members of the community who may believe the unfounded rumors.  “We are worried that this misinformation will scare people into not... Read more

    From the Vinalhaven Emergency Operations Center: Five confirmed COVID-19 cases on North Haven 

    From the Vinalhaven Emergency Operations Center, Nov. 6:Today COVID hit closer to home than most of us are used to. Here are the takeaways:At least five people have tested positive on North Haven. There are currently no known confirmed cases on Vinalhaven.Knox County has received a yellow designation from the Department of Education (DOE). This means schools may consider additional precautions to prevent the transmission of the virus. Vinalhaven School will not be in session November 9-11, but... Read more

    RSU 13 shifts to hybrid learning model

    ROCKLAND — With Knox County now being designated as a yellow county under the Maine Department of Education’s COVID-19 health advisory system, Regional Unit 13 is shifting to a hybrid learning model beginning Monday, Nov. 9.  One of the added precautions in the hybrid model is a weekly deep cleaning, which would take place each Wednesday in buildings, and students would not be present in the buildings on this day, according to a letter from the district. An additional precaution is an... Read more

    Camden Hills Regional High School students go to hybrid 2 schedule, with latest pandemic public health classification

    ROCKPORT — With Knox County shifting to a Yellow designation under the the pandemic public health classification system, the Camden Hills Regional High School is going remote Nov. 9 and 10. Nov. 11 is a holiday, and then on Thursday and Friday, the school will adopt its hybrid 2 model. In a letter to parents, the school laid out the following: Monday and Tuesday November 9 and 10th will be fully remote for all students.  The schedule is located here. (https://chrhs.fivetowns.net/UserFiles/... Read more
    Face coverings during practice and competition

    Midcoast sports guidance updated by officials ahead of winter sports season

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development has updated its guidance for community sports amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which will have an impact on the school sports scene in Maine.  Face coverings are required for all individuals at practices and competitions at all times, including players, coaches, staff, and officials while engaging in practice or competition. For winter sports, skiing and individual swimming fall under the lower risk category, while basketball,... Read more

    Knox County moves to yellow Maine DOE COVID-19 designation, Waldo shifts back to green

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration released Friday an update to its color-coded Health Advisory System that classifies counties’ relative risk of COVID-19 transmission by color and is provided to assist schools as they continue with their plans to deliver instruction and support students safely this fall. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) assessed the data and trends for all counties. Based on this... Read more

    Nov. 6 update: Midcoast records 12 new cases, six new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 6, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Midcoast Recreation Center outlines new COVID-19 guidelines

    ROCKPORT — Protecting the health and well-being of Midcoast Recreation Center participants, employees and greater community is the organization’s top priority, according to a letter shared to the facility’s Facebook page Nov. 5 following new COVID-19 guidelines issued by Governor Janet Mills.  MRC will roll out its new plan in phases beginning immediately, with plans subject to change.  All participants must wear masks at all times at the MRC.  Those with a fever, cough or other symptoms... Read more
    ‘We have recorded yet another day of record high case numbers’

    Following record COVID-19 cases, Gov. Mills announces new face covering mandate

    AUGUSTA — On the day Maine recorded 183 new cases of COVID-19, the highest single-day increase since the beginning of the pandemic, Governor Janet Mills announced an Executive Order requiring Maine people to wear face coverings in public settings, regardless of the ability to maintain physical distance, according to a news release. The new order strengthens an earlier one stating that face coverings must be worn only when physical distancing is difficult to maintain, per the release. ... Read more

    Labor officials provide Nov. 5 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending October 31, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 470 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). In total, approximately 2,500 people were filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 12,900 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 15,100 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In... Read more

    Nov. 5 update: Midcoast records 16 new cases, seven new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 5, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    $247K awarded to 82 Maine nursing homes to combat COVID-19

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — A total of 82 Maine nursing homes and nursing facilities have been awarded an additional $247,577 to support increased testing, staffing, and personal protective equipment (PPE) needs, according to a news release, adding to the $10.4 million announced in August. This targeted distribution from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Provider Relief Fund is funded through $175 billion included in the bipartisan CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and... Read more
    COVID-19 outbreak update, Nov. 4

    One man dies of COVID-19 following association with Brooks Pentecostal Church outbreak

    “A death reported today, a man in 70s, was sadly linked to Brooks Pentecostal outbreak,” said Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah, Nov. 4, during his bi-weekly pandemic briefing held remotely. “Not directly, but indirectly.” Shah reported on the 149th and 150th recent deaths of Maine residents since the pandemic began last March, saying those were a woman in her 80s, living in Franklin County, and a man in his 70s, living in Waldo County. He said that since Nov. 3, Maine had recorded 151 new... Read more

    Nov. 4 update: Midcoast records seven new cases, five new recoveries, one death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 4, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine’s COVID-19 death toll ticks up by two, including one in Midcoast

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 4 an additional two COVID-19 deaths in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 150. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 3 update: Midcoast records 15 new COVID-19 cases, eight new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 3, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    How to safely vote in-person amid COVID-19

    The U.S. CDC has provided some tips on how to safely vote in-person amid COVID-19 noting the more prepared you are, the more you reduce your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. (People who are sick can follow CDC advice for when to be around others.) There are steps you can take to help you vote and minimize your risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. The more prepared you are, the less time you may have to spend at the voting site.When voting, you can protect yourself and others if you:avoid... Read more
    Town Office was in quarantine

    Morrill saddened by death of First Selectman; town office staff had been quarantined following COVID-19 exposure

    “It is with great sadness that we write this to inform the town that our first selectman, Tom Flacke, has passed away,” wrote the Town of Morrill, on its Facebook page, Nov. 2. “ While everyone in the office initially tested negative after exposure to COVID, we all were told to quarantine for the full two weeks in case symptoms later developed. Last week, while in quarantine, Tom was admitted to the hospital for flu-like symptoms and COVID was eventually confirmed. “Early Sunday morning Tom... Read more

    Maine CDC gives update on eight COVID-19 outbreaks, two in the Midcoast

    As of Nov. 2, the Maine CDC is conducting investigations into eight COVID-19 outbreaks in the state, two of them in Midcoast. The state’s CDC opened three new investigations opened as of Nov. 2: one in Warren; another in Pittsfield, with the Deeper Life Assembly Church, where 11 have tested positive; and the third, at the Sandy River Center, a retirement home in Farmington, where seven have tested positive. In Warren, the CDC is investigating a new outbreak at the Midcoast Recreation Center (... Read more
    ‘While it is discouraging to be named, and the word ‘outbreak’ is scary, we are confident that we have followed CDC directives’

    Midcoast Athletics Center cites more COVID-19 infections, grapples with outbreak

    WARREN — The Midcoast Athletics Center, a privately owned gym with indoor basketball courts, was notified this morning, Nov. 2,  of three additional cases of COVID-19 associated with the facility.  The last attendance of any of the positive cases occurred on Wednesday, October 21, according to a news release from the Route 1 gym. All direct contacts of the positive cases have already been contacted by the Maine CDC and have already been quarantined as directed.  The original case (a player... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 148th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Nov. 2 an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 148. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Nov. 2 update: Midcoast records seven new COVID-19 cases, two new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 2, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more
    Resets Indoor Gathering Limits; Postpones Reopening of Bars; Amends Travel Protocols

    New measures to prevent further COVID-19 spikes: Reopening of bars, tasting rooms postponed

    AUGUSTA — As the COVID-19 virus explodes across the country, Maine this week recorded a significant increase in cases, hospitalizations, and positivity rates, a press release stated.  Friday saw 103 new cases of COVID-19, the highest single-day increase in Maine since the beginning of the pandemic. Saturday saw 98 new cases, and one more person lost their life to the virus. Maine’s seven-day positivity rate, while still significantly lower than other states, doubled over the last two weeks to... Read more

    Nov. 1 update: Midcoast records one new COVID-19 case, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Nov. 1, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 147th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Oct. 31 an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 147. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Oct. 31 update: Knox County records five new COVID-19 cases, Lincoln County adds one

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 31, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    the outcome remains the same — safe, emergency shelter during the cold winter months

    Emergency shelter plans for Winter 2020 adjusted amid pandemic

    Community Emergency Shelter Committee has submitted the following: ROCKLAND — The Community Emergency Shelter Committee is grateful for the overwhelming community support and now opts for non-congregate shelter model this winter to preserve public health and prevent potential spread of COVID-19. The Community Emergency Shelter pilot that had been proposed to open at the Flanagan Community Center this coming December received considerable endorsement from our community last year, including... Read more
    Somerset, washington counties flip to yellow

    Waldo County remains ‘yellow’ in Maine DOE Health Advisory System

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration released Friday an update to its color-coded Health Advisory System that classifies counties’ relative risk of COVID-19 transmission by color and is provided to assist schools as they continue with their plans to deliver instruction and support students safely this fall. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) assessed the data and trends for all counties. Based on this... Read more

    Oct. 30 update: Midcoast records nine new COVID-19 cases, 10 recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 30, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine DHHS announces plan to distribute rapid antigen tests for COVID-19

    AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced today its strategy to distribute an allocation of rapid COVID-19 antigen tests to ensure access for all Maine residents, especially those at greater risk of exposure to the virus. The federal government is distributing the Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 point-of-care antigen tests to all 50 states and the District of Columbia. DHHS expects Maine to receive approximately 400,000 BinaxNOW tests periodically through December... Read more

    Governor continues State of Civil Emergency as Maine fights COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills extended Thursday the State of Civil Emergency for 30 days through November 27. The Governor’s decision, according to a news release, to extend the emergency is in line with nearly every other state in the nation which have ongoing emergency declarations, according to the National Governors Association. “Rising case counts show that this virus is still very much among us and we must take every precaution to slow its spread,” said Governor Mills. “If we protect... Read more

    $40.5 million in COVID-19 aid awarded to Maine farmers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Maine farmers have been awarded a total of $40,588,764 to date to help offset the financial harm they have experienced due to COVID-19, according to a news release. The funding is provided through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), created through the CARES Act, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to deliver relief to America’s farmers. In addition to facilitating the Farmers to Families Food Box program, CFAP is providing, per the release,... Read more

    Oct. 29 update: Midcoast records eight new COVID-19 cases, two recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 29, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Extended Benefit Program likely to end mid-November

    Labor officials provide Oct. 29 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending October 24, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,500 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 700 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). This represents about 1,800 individuals filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 14,700 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 16,600 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In... Read more

    Medomak Valley High, Union Elementary schools switch to remote learning, given COVID-19 cases

    WALDOBORO, UNION — Two confirmed COVID-19 cases associated with Medomak Valley High School and Union Elementary School have caused RSU 40 to send students at both schools home for remote learning until further notice.   “I cannot share information about the individuals involved; however, the cases are connected,” said Superintendent Steve Nolan, Oct. 28. “We are closely following the Standard Operating Procedure provided by the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and working... Read more
    cases at rockland’s woodland memory care increase to 12

    ‘This is not about shutting down, but about hunkering down’: Gov. Mills, Dr. Shah urge citizens to control COVID-19 spread

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills, Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah and Dept. of Health and Human Services Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew convened a special briefing Wednesday afternoon in Augusta, by livestream, to discuss Maine’s recent spike of COVID-19 cases throughout the state, including the Midcoast.  “Stick to it, stick together,” said Gov. Mills, urging citizens to hunker down, wear masks, keep at a distance from others, and fight the virus’ spread. Noting a briefing was not scheduled to... Read more

    Camden Hills Regional High School students studying from home today, given COVID-19 case

    ROCKPORT — An individual associated with Camden Hills Regional High School recently tested positive for COVID-19.. The school is simultaneously emailing families of students who are close contacts under separate cover, according to a school-wide email circulated Oct. 27. “If you were not contacted separately, it means the school (with guidance from the CDC) did not identify your child as a close contact,” the email said, as written by the district’s central office. “We don’t know what will... Read more

    Oct. 28 update: Midcoast records 13 new COVID-19 cases, five recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 28, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine Principals’ Association delaying start of winter sports season

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Principals’ Association has announced the winter sports season will be delayed, according to a memorandum emailed to schools Tuesday afternoon and viewed by PenBayPilot.com.  Winter sports in Maine include basketball, swimming, skiing, ice hockey, wrestling, and indoor track. “This memo is sent to give you an update as to the status of winter activities as we continue to work collaboratively with the various stakeholders involved in the process,” the email — credited as... Read more
    12 have tested positive

    Rockland Woodlands Memory Care facility manager issues statement about COVID-19 affecting residents, staff

    ROCKLAND – Following an announcement Tuesday afternoon from the Maine CDC about an outbreak of COVID-19 positive cases at Woodlands Memory Care of Rockland, Managing Member Matthew Walters has issued the following statement: “It is with the utmost concern for our residents and staff that we share that Woodlands Memory Care of Rockland is experiencing an outbreak of COVID-19. With this outbreak, we are faced with the unfortunate reality that so many other businesses, congregate living... Read more
    The ‘uninvited guest’ of COVID-19 increases presence in state

    UPDATE: Maine CDC investigates COVID-19 cases at Rockland memory care facility, continues focus on Waldo County outbreak

    AUGUSTA — Ten cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed at the Woodlands Memory Care facility on Camden Street in Rockland, and the Maine CDC has opened an investigation there. This story has been updated to reflect the statement issued by Woodlands at 6 p.m., Oct. 27, which said eight residents and two staff members have tested positive, an additional seven confirmed cases following Dr. Shah’s announcement earlier in the day of three cases.Read the Woodland’s statement here. “We strongly expect... Read more

    Oct. 27 update: Midcoast records two new COVID-19 cases, eight new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 27, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Pearl Street, Camden, will not be a Halloween venue this year

    CAMDEN — The much-loved Pearl Street Halloween venue is not happening this year, thanks to COVID-19. There will be no trick-o-treating at the homes that in the past have so graciously accommodated hundreds of Midcoast children over the years. The residents of Pearl Street are getting many questions, and though they feel like Halloween scrooges, they do not want to encourage masses to congregate. “Sadly we are not going to be having trick-or-treating as usual on Pearl Street, in Camden,” the... Read more

    Oct. 26 update: Knox, Waldo counties combine for eight new COVID-19 cases, two recoveries, two hospitalizations

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 26, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Amid COVID-19 county outbreak, MVHS ends fall sports, SDHS hopeful to continue, BAHS eyes intramural option

    WALDO COUNTY — With Waldo County moving from the green to yellow zone in the Maine Department of Education COVID-19 Health Advisory System, sports have been halted in the county for the time being.  Each school, however, is taking a slightly different approach to the situation as noted in letters from respective school leaders.  “Under [the Maine DOE yellow] designation we will be suspending sports for the remainder of the fall season [and] will be suspending all other in person co- and... Read more

    RSU 20 Superintendent shares educational plans amid Waldo County’s yellow designation

    The following message was distributed by RSU 20 Superintendent Chris Downing Re: State Designation of Waldo County, “Yellow Status” On October 23, 2020, the Maine CDC and Maine DOE issued a status update and has categorized Waldo County as yellow.  A yellow category suggests the county has an elevated risk of COVID-19 spread and schools may consider hybrid instructional models as a way to reduce the number of people in schools and classrooms at any one time.  For more information, see the... Read more

    Oct. 25 update: Midcoast records five new COVID-19 cases, five new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 25, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Oct. 24 update: Knox, Waldo counties each record two new COVID-19 recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 24, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    “yellow” suggests county has elevated risk of COVID-19 spread; schools may consider additional precautions and/or hybrid instructional models to reduce number of people in schools

    Waldo County shifts to yellow in Maine DOE Health Advisory System

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration released Friday an update to its color-coded Health Advisory System that classifies counties’ relative risk of COVID-19 transmission by color and that is provided to assist schools as they continue with their plans to deliver instruction and support students safely this fall. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) assessed the data and trends for all counties. Based on this... Read more

    Oct. 23 update: Waldo County adds five new COVID-19 cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 23, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine DHHS launches initiative helping Mainers cope with COVID-19 stress

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday the launch of StrengthenME, an initiative to help Maine people cope with the stress and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic by providing free tools, support, and community connections that promote wellness, resilience, and recovery. StrengthenME is funded by nearly $5 million through a joint grant from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Federal Emergency Management... Read more

    Labor officials provide Oct. 22 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending October 17, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,300 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 500 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). This represents almost 1,600 individuals filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 15,600 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 14,900 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In... Read more

    Oct. 22 update: Midcoast records nine new COVID-19 cases, six new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 22, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    investigation originally centered on Brooks church and private school, four public schools

    Waldo County COVID-19 outbreak grows to 46 cases, including case ‘potentially’ associated with Searsport’s Bayview Manor

    AUGUSTA — The number of COVID-19 cases linked to an outbreak in Waldo County now totals 46, an increase of four since Tuesday, according to an Oct. 22 news release. Three individuals have been hospitalized.The outbreak investigation originally centered on Brooks Pentecostal Church and its affiliated school, Lighthouse Christian Academy, in the town of Brooks. Cases associated with the outbreak have also been identified in four Waldo County public schools: Ames Elementary School in Searsmont,... Read more

    Oct. 21 update: Midcoast records eight new COVID-19 cases, eight recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 21, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Season pass sales down this year but the public loves the autumn chairlift rides

    Camden approves credit on Snow Bowl passes, should COVID-19 close the mountain

    CAMDEN — Voting unanimously, the Camden Select Board agreed Oct. 20 to apply full or partial credit for ski passes if the town is forced to shut the Snow Bowl due to COVID-19 related reasons.  But the credit for any mountain closure would only apply if the disease COVID-19 causes a closure. Any other development, such as a temperamental Mother Nature or mechanical issues, would not be reason for pursuing the credit. Snow Bowl refund policyIn the event the Snow Bowl is not able to open at all... Read more

    Updated: Athletics suspended for Waldo County students through week’s end after fourth positive COVID-19 case

    A second test of the presumed positive COVID-19 case at Captain Albert Stevens School has come back negative, RSU 71 Superintendent Mary Alice McLean shared in an Oct. 20 update.  “I am relieved to report that the second test of yesterday’s presumed positive case at [CASS] has again come back negative,” the statement begins.  McLean also shared that the primary contacts of positive cases at Troy Howard Middle School, CASS, and Ames have all tested negative for COVID-19 so far.  The statement... Read more

    Oct. 20 update: Knox, Waldo counties each record three new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 20, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    to sustain viability of small businesses; to help stabilize Maine’s economy

    State awards $12.5 million in pandemic aid to nearly 300 Midcoast businesses, nonprofits

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Commissioner of Economic and Community Development Heather Johnson announced Thursday, Oct. 15 that the Mills Administration has begun distributing the first round of financial awards to Maine small businesses and non-profits through the Maine Economic Recovery Grant Program. Grant letters notifying the recipients of their award were sent Oct. 14 in collaboration with Maine’s seven Economic Development Districts, which will distribute funds by early November... Read more

    Labor officials warn of unemployment insurance phishing scams

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Labor is warning unemployment claimants and adding extra security measures to protect beneficiaries from fraudulent email phishing scams in which bad actors steal usernames and passwords, use them to log into unemployment accounts, and change the payment information. The Department was notified by the U.S. Department of Labor of scams happening across the country and is taking proactive action to review and prevent impact on Maine claimants, and has also... Read more

    Individual associated with Mount View Elementary School tests positive for COVID-19

    THORNDIKE — An individual associated with Mount View Elementary School in Thorndike has tested positive for COVID-19, according to an Oct. 19 letter from RSU 3 Superintendent Charles Brown.  “There is a possibility that other staff or students came in contact with this individual and therefore may have been exposed to the virus,” Brown said.  The full letter appears below:  Dear RSU #3 Staff, Students, and Families, I am writing this letter to inform you that an individual associated with... Read more

    Oct. 19 update: Midcoast records 13 new COVID-19 cases, one recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 19, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine submits initial COVID-19 vaccine plan to U.S. CDC

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has submitted to the federal government its plan for distributing an eventual COVID-19 vaccine, representing the first version of a plan that will be updated and refined in collaboration with health care partners and communities throughout the state. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) gave states one month to develop a plan for submission by October 16. Maine's first version offers a framework for an... Read more

    Maine CDC announces investigation into COVID-19 outbreak linked to Brooks church

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) formally confirmed Monday, Oct. 19 a COVID-19 outbreak investigation associated with the Brooks Pentecostal Church in the Waldo County town of Brooks. Over the weekend, 17 cases had been linked to the outbreak, a news release stated. Maine CDC has started contact tracing. Close contacts can help limit potential spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 by answering calls, providing complete information, and quarantining... Read more

    RSU 13 Superintendent discusses calendar changes, COVID-19, internet access

    The following letter was shared Friday, Oct. 16 by RSU 13 Superintendent John McDonald.  RSU 13 serves the communities of South Thomaston, Owls Head, Cushing, Rockland, and Thomaston.  Dear RSU 13 Families: I would like to update you on a few items as we continue to adapt to the challenges this unprecedented situation has presented us with during this school year. School Calendar At the Special Meeting of October 15, 2020, the RSU 13 Board of Directors approved changes to the 2020-2021 ... Read more

    RSU 3 Superintendent addresses Waldo County’s COVID-19 case uptick

    The following letter was shared Sunday, Oct. 18 by RSU 3 Superintendent Charles Brown.  RSU 3 serves the communities of Brooks, Freedom, Jackson, Knox, Liberty, Monroe, Montville, Thorndike, Troy, Unity and Waldo.  Dear RSU #3 Families and Community, I hope this letter finds you well and that you are enjoying the beautiful fall days. It won’t be long until winter has arrived. I am writing to you in response to the recent news regarding the prevalence of COVID-19 in our local community and ... Read more

    Oct. 18 update: Midcoast records 13 new COVID-19 cases, three new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 18, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Midcoast state legislative candidates discuss State’s response to COVID-19

    Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been endless debates how the world, the United States, each state, and each municipality should respond to the pandemic.  Penobscot Bay Pilot has posed questions to each candidate running for Maine State Legislature, providing the opportunity for the public to better understand their position on issues important to the state. Candidates responding with their individual written answers will have their responses stored in the Pilot’s 2020... Read more
    Captain Albert Stevens, Troy Howard Middle, Ames Elementary schools

    COVID-19 found in two additional Waldo County schools

    BELFAST — Just one day after a positive case of Covid-19 was discovered at Captain Albert Stevens School, two additional Waldo County schools have reported they have a positive case.  In a release shared Oct. 17, RSU Superintendent Mary Alice McLean wrote that the virus has also been found in Belfast’s Troy Howard Middle School and Ames Elementary School, which is located in Searsmont. One bus route has also been affected. All students and staff affected were called by a school nurse or... Read more

    Maine records its 146th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Oct. 17, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 146. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Oct. 17 update: Waldo adds seven new cases, Lincoln and Knox add two each; Knox records three recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 17, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    COVID-19 case confirmed in Belfast elementary school

    BELFAST — Fresh on the heels of an additional 11 Covid-19 cases countywide, RSU 71 Superintendent Mary Alice McLean reported a positive case at one of Belfast’s elementary schools.  The statement was released Oct. 16, is to inform those involved with the Captain Albert Stevens School, and the community at large, that there has been a positive test.  “Today is the last day of our seventh week of in-person instruction, and I write to you with difficult news. We learned this morning that an... Read more
    Mills Administration Provides COVID-19 Tax Guidance

    Gov. Mills promises to protect Maine teleworkers, ensure educational tax credit program amid pandemic

    AUGUSTA — The Department of Administrative and Financial Services (DAFS) announced Friday the Department has provided guidance for individuals and businesses intended to avoid adverse tax consequences caused by COVID-19. The Department also announced it will introduce legislation in January to help Maine residents avoid burdensome and/or double tax payments as a result of COVID-19, according to a news release.  “Maine people who have been able to work remotely, along with the businesses that... Read more

    Maine records its 145th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Oct. 16, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 145. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Oct. 16 update: Waldo adds 11 new COVID-19 cases, Knox adds one, Lincoln subtracts two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 16, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    How to create a home office to boost well-being and productivity

    The COVID-19 pandemic has created opportunities for millions of people around the world to work from home on a temporary basis, and perhaps even a more permanent basis as companies are beginning to realize remote-working employees is not such a negative, as noted by CNBC.  A June survey conducted by professors at Cardiff University and the University of Southampton revealed that 88 percent of employees who worked at home during COVID-19 would like to continue working at home in some capacity,... Read more

    Labor officials provide Oct. 15 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending October 10, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,500 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 914 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) . During the week ending Oct. 10 there were almost 2,000 individuals filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 19,100 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 16,050 weekly... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 144th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Oct. 15, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 144. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Oct. 15 update: Midcoast adds two new COVID-19 cases, one recovery; subtracts one case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 15, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Employment has surpassed pre-pandemic rates in Maine

    After significant problems at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Maine’s overall employment situation has improved — and even surpassed January employment rates — according to the latest data from Track the Recovery. Track the Recovery’s numbers, however, are not seasonally adjusted to reflect the higher employment rates in Maine during summer months. Overall employment in August still was significantly lower than the same time last year, according to the state Department of Labor. This... Read more

    Oct. 14 update: Midcoast records seven new COVID-19 cases, two new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 14, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    USDA extends school meal flexibilities through end of school year

    AUGUSTA — The State of Maine has accepted 12 waiver extensions from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) allowing for continued flexibilities in the federal Summer Food Service Program/Seamless Summer Option (SFSP/SSO) programs through the 2020-2021 school year, according to a news release.  Originally set to expire on December 31, 2020, the waiver extensions will allow schools and other local program operators to continue to leverage SFSP/SSO federal food service programs to provide no... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Oct. 13 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 13, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Amid pandemic, ‘an air of cautious optimism prevails’ at Islesboro Central School

    The following letter was shared Monday, Oct. 12 by Islesboro Central School Head of School Charles “Chuck” Hamm:  We’re entering into our fifth week of school and despite continuing challenges and a choppy start, teaching and learning has returned to the campus of Islesboro Central School. Grades 7-12 are attending school in two cohorts, one of the cohorts in person on Tuesday and Wednesday while the other attends Thursday and Friday. The opposing two days of school for each cohort are... Read more

    Oct. 12 update: Knox, Waldo counties each record new COVID-19 case; Knox records new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 12, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Oct. 11 update: Knox County records new COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 11, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Oct. 10 update: Waldo County records new COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 10, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Gov. Mills: Take precautions to keep Maine open, safe and healthy amid COVID-19

    The following is a transcript of a Oct. 9 radio address presented by Governor Janet Mills: You know, back in the spring, I issued a Stay Healthy at Home Order that required Maine people to stay home as much as possible to mitigate the spread of the horrible virus, the COVID-19 virus. Hello this is Janet Mills, governor of the great State of Maine. That was an extremely difficult decision, one of many now. Nobody runs for office thinking sometime they’ll have to shut down their state and tell... Read more

    Pen Bay Medical Center relocates COVID-19 testing site

    ROCKPORT — The Acute Respiratory Center (ARC), the COVID-19 testing site at Pen Bay Medical Center (PBMC), has relocated to 731 Commercial St., Rockport, and began testing patients at the new location on Thursday, October 8. The ARC center is not a walk-in facility and a referral from your primary care provider is required for testing at the ARC. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, please contact your provider, who will refer you for testing, if... Read more

    Rockland business at center of new Maine CDC COVID-19 investigation releases statement

    ROCKLAND — In a mid-morning statement Oct. 9, Lonza Rockland Inc. addressed some of its employees testing positive for COVID-19.  Dr. Nirav Shah said Oct. 8 in his twice-weekly presentation to Maine concerning the status of COVID-19 in the state that the Maine CDC is investigating six cases occurring at the Lonza Group, in Rockland. Lonza Rockland is part of the Switzerland-based and publicly-held Lonza Group, which has labs, production centers and offices throughout the world, including... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 143rd COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Oct. 9, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 143. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Oct. 9 update: Knox records new COVID-19 case; Midcoast records five new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 9, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine Secretary of State addresses voter safety measures amid a pandemic

    AUGUSTA — In preparation for administering the General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 3, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Maine Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap has issued updated guidance to ensure that all voters can safely participate in casting their ballots. He joined Dr. Nirav Shah of the Maine CDC for a brief discussion Oct. 8 concerning safe voting during a pandemic and released safety suggestions later in the day.As of Oct. 8, more than 300,000 Maine voters have requested to vote by absentee... Read more

    Maine CDC opens investigation into Rockland COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — Dr. Nirav Shah said Oct. 8 in his twice-weekly presentation to Maine concerning the status of COVID-19 in the state that the Maine CDC is investigating six cases occurring at the Lonza Group, in Rockland. Lonza Rockland is part of the Switzerland-based and publicly-held Lonza Group, which has labs, production centers and offices throughout the world, including Rockland. Lonza  develops and manufactures products used in molecular and cellular biology research. Products include gels,... Read more

    Labor officials provide Oct. 8 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending October 3, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,700 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 670 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). During the week ending Oct. 3 there were about 2,150 individuals filing an initial claim or reopening their unemployment claim. About 22,300 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 15,900 weekly... Read more

    Oct. 8 update: Knox records two new COVID-19 cases; Lincoln, Waldo each record new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 8, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Vitamin D supplements: Yes or no?

    Even before the arrival of COVID-19, millions of people were turning to vitamin D supplements, some to compensate for the diminishing power of the sun here in the northern hemisphere October to March; some as recommended by their doctor for a D deficiency; and others are now taking supplements to try to protect against COVID-19. Vitamin D keeps bones healthy by increasing the absorption of calcium in the intestines. Without vitamin D, your body would only be able to absorb about 10% to 15% of... Read more

    Maine DHHS proposes adding flu vaccine to required immunizations for health care workers

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced Wednesday it has proposed a rule change to make the seasonal influenza vaccine part of the immunizations required for health care workers, to protect public health during the COVID-19 pandemic and further reduce the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases. Maine already requires employees of designated health care facilities to show proof of immunization or documented immunity to several diseases, including measles,... Read more

    FEMA awards $2.2 million to mitigate spread of COVID-19 in Maine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Maine has received a total of $2,287,725 to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE), medical supplies, and equipment for essential workers to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, per a news release.  This funding was awarded to the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). As of October 1, FEMA and the Strategic National Stockpile have provided Maine with... Read more

    Oct. 7 update: Midcoast records two new COVID-19 cases, seven new recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 7, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Governor advances Maine to Stage 4 of reopening plan

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration announced Tuesday the State will move into Stage 4 of the Plan to Restart Maine’s Economy beginning Tuesday, Oct. 13. With cold weather months approaching, Stage 4 increases limits on indoor seating to 50 percent capacity of permitted occupancy, or 100 people — whichever is less — and maintains the critical public health measures outlined in COVID-19 Prevention Checklists, such as enhanced cleaning practices and physical distancing. The new Executive Order... Read more

    IRS extends Economic Impact Payment deadline to help non-filers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service announced Monday the deadline to register for an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) is now Nov. 21, 2020. This new date will provide an additional five weeks beyond the original deadline. The IRS urges people who don’t typically file a tax return — and haven’t received an Economic Impact Payment — to register as quickly as possible using the Non-Filers: Enter Info Here tool on IRS.gov. The tool will not be available after Nov. 21. “We took this step... Read more

    Oct. 6 update: Knox County records two new COVID-19 cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 6, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Oct. 5 update: Knox County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 5, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Oct. 4 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 4, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,” the... Read more

    The leaves of change: Pandemic Photo Gallery V

    These are historic times, and this collection will join Midcoast Maine establishes new normal with a sense of grace and Maine weathers a pandemic, Maine springs through a pandemic, and Summering on through uncharted times. All these galleries are built with the photos that observant, creative and astute photographers from around the Midcoast have contributed, and continue to contribute, as we move into Month Seven of a pandemic. If some things are certain, in our times of uncertainty, they... Read more

    Oct. 3 update: Eight new COVID-19 cases recorded in Midcoast, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 3, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state. On Friday, Oct. 2, the Maine CDC did not publish a detailed daily report due to technical issues. As such, the county breakdowns at bottom of this story are reflective of increases that should have been reported Oct. 2 and that are being reported Oct. 3. (NOTE: After... Read more

    Governor dedicates $25 million to unemployment trust fund to support businesses, workers

    Amid record nationwide unemployment caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Janet Mills announced Friday her Administration has dedicated an additional $25 million in CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF) to Maine’s unemployment insurance trust fund. The investment, which builds on the Mills Administration’s previous allocation of $269 million, is expected to significantly reduce an anticipated employer tax increase for 2021 while ensuring benefits are available for those who need them,... Read more

    Technical issues deter Maine CDC from releasing detailed Oct. 2 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has scrapped plans for a full detailed release of COVID-19 data for Oct. 2 due to technical issues.  “Ongoing technical problems will prevent Maine CDC from updating case information today, October 2, 2020,” the Maine CDC posted to its website around 3:15 p.m. The organization did release limited data for Oct. 2, however:  • An increase of 37 new cases to bring the total to 5,468; including 4,900 confirmed (an increase of 35) and 568 probable (an increase of 2).  •... Read more

    UPDATE: COVID-19 tests at Camden-Rockport Middle School returning predominantly negative

    CAMDEN — As of Friday noon, Oct. 2, the Camden-Rockport Middle School had heard nothing further about additional COVID-19 positive tests, leaving school administrators to schedule a return to school for the eighth grade class on Tuesday, Oct. 8, as anticipated. “If one had been positive, we'd be informed, and we have not heard of any positive so we can assume they have all been negative,” said Superintendent Maria Libby, Oct. 2. “Yes, we are on schedule to bring the in-person learners back on... Read more
    ‘we started getting donations of fabric, and thread, and elastic’

    Belfast Reentry Center sews more than 3,500 masks for Waldo County communities, schools

    BELFAST — Much like the rest of the country, the Maine Coastal Regional Reentry Center underwent a stark transformation in March, adjusting policies and procedures in an effort to keep residents and staff safe from COVID-19. That included setting up Zoom visits among inmates and their families, and creating more space, and mandating the use of masks. And then, one staff member suggested the Reentry Center get into the mask-making effort, for the sake of the community. The Reentry Center, in... Read more

    Maine DHHS invests $1 million in federal funds to support infection prevention in congregate settings

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday it will invest nearly $1 million from the federal Coronavirus Relief Fund to support infection prevention and control practices in congregate care settings in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding, according to a news release, will support free expert consultation for congregate care settings, including but not limited to group homes, assisted living facilities, adult family care homes, memory care homes,... Read more

    Labor officials provide updates on unemployment benefits, lost wage assistance, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending September 26, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,600 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,200 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), according to a news release.  These claims represent about 2,300 individuals filing an initial claim. About 24,400 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 17,900 weekly certifications filed under PUA.... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 142nd COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Oct. 1, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 142. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Oct. 1 update: Knox, Waldo County each records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Oct. 1, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Governor extends State of Civil Emergency for seventh time

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills extended Wednesday the State of Civil Emergency for 30 days through October 29. This is Governor Mills’ seventh extension of the State of Civil Emergency. Under Maine law, Proclamations of Civil Emergencies may be issued in thirty day increments.“The Governor’s decision to extend the emergency is in line with nearly every other state in the nation which have ongoing emergency declarations, according to the National Governors Association,” a press release stated.A... Read more

    Maine records its 141st COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 30, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 141. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Sept. 30 update: Lincoln cases rise by five, Knox by two; Knox records recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 30, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    $700K awarded to support COVID-19 vaccine distribution across Maine

    WASHINGTON D.C. — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services has received a total of $727,991 to support the distribution of any future COVID-19 vaccines, according to a news release. The funding was awarded through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Through the CARES Act, and other measures, Congress has dedicated more than $6.5 billion in federal funding through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) for the development of... Read more
    Stepping out and helping out

    Volunteers, including in Swanville and Nobleboro, have shined during pandemic

    Jennifer Gunderman’s hands moved quickly from bean to bean, snipping the long vegetable right at the top and dropping it into her five-gallon bucket. The former organic farmer turned University of New England public health professor made the short drive from Belfast to Swanville in early August, joining more than 15 other volunteers who wore wide brim hats to ward off the bright sun as they harvested yellow beans from the Maine Coastal Regional Reentry Center fields. In a normal year, inmates... Read more

    Sept. 29 update: Waldo County adds one new COVID-19 case, Knox subtracts two

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 29, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Sept. 28 update: Knox County records two new COVID-19 cases, one new recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 28, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    ‘This is a single case. This is not an outbreak’

    Parents receive COVID-19 alert concerning Camden-Rockport Middle School

    CAMDEN — A case of COVID-19 afflicting one person associated with the Camden-Rockport Middle School has resulted in a letter sent to parents on Saturday, Sept. 26. The letter follows: Dear Families, This letter is to inform you that an individual associated with the Camden Rockport Middle School recently tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). If you or your child has been identified as a close contact of the person who tested positive, you would be contacted by the Maine CDC... Read more

    Sept. 27 update: Knox County records three new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 27, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    RSU 71 livestreaming school events amid pandemic

    BELFAST — With the COVID-19 pandemic impacting attendance at events around the country, many organizations have turned to livestreaming events on social media platforms.  Regional School Unit 71, headquartered in Belfast, has recently joined that trend and is livestreaming school functions this school year on YouTube.  Footage from the broadcasts are being archived on the YouTube channel.  As of publishing time, footage from a golf match at the Northport Golf Club, a girls soccer match... Read more

    Governor Mills in radio address: ‘Don’t take a chance’

    The following is a transcript of a Friday, Sept. 25 radio address presented by Governor Janet Mills:  Increased access to testing for COVID-19 is a critical part of our strategy to mitigate the spread of this deadly virus, to be able to return kids to school safely, and ensure that our economy gets back up and running. And it is working. Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills and thank you for listening. Commissioner of Health and Human Services Jeanne Lambrew and I announced this week that... Read more

    No COVID-19 cases in first round of University of Maine System sampling

    ORONO — No cases of COVID-19 were found in the University of Maine System’s first round of random sampling, university officials announced Saturday morning.  The University of Maine System tested 704 students and employees in its first ten-day round of random sampling in its Phase Three monitoring. More than 1,900 tests were conducted by the University System during the 10 day testing period as a result of the random sampling, directed testing, and the amplified response to epidemiological... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Sept. 26 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 26, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Sept. 25 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 25, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Labor officials provide updates on unemployment benefits, lost wage assistance, benefits fraud

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending September 19, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,400 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,200 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These claims represent about 2,200 individuals filing an initial claim. About 27,700 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 17,700 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, about 8,600 weekly... Read more

    Sept. 24 update: Lincoln County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 24, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Informal race between Stephen Taber, Ladona tribute to annual Great Schooner Race

    Sailing through a dismal Windjammer season and making the best of it

    Spectators used to pack the Rockland Breakwater to watch the Great Schooner Race from Islesboro to Rockland every year, but this year, with the race canceled due to COVID-19 restricting public gatherings, the seas were pretty quiet. According to Marti Mayne, spokesperson for the Maine Windjammer Association, most of the schooners were grounded this summer, many still sheathed in plastic. But, Capt. Noah Barnes co-owner with his wife, Jane Barnes, of Stephen Taber, wasn’t going to end the... Read more

    Gov. Mills announces additional $164 million for implementing school health protocols

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills dedicated Wednesday an additional $164 million in CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF) to support school systems as they continue to implement health and safety protocols to protect students, staff, and their families amid the COVID-19 pandemic. These new funds build on the Mills Administration’s initial investment of $165 million earlier this year. “School officials across Maine are working day and night to protect the health of their students, their staff,... Read more

    Sept. 23 update: Lincoln County records two new COVID-19 recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 23, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Anyone in Maine can now be tested for COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Commissioner of Health and Human Services Jeanne Lambrew announced Tuesday anyone in Maine can now get tested for COVID-19 without the need for a separate order from a health care provider with a press release touting the news as “a milestone resulting from Maine’s vastly expanded testing capacity.”  The Maine Department of Health and Human Services has broadened its Standing Order to include all individuals who think they need a COVID-19 test. This means... Read more

    Sept. 22 update: Lincoln County records two new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 22, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Governor announces Phase 2 of Maine Economic Recovery Grant Program funding for expanded pool of businesses

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Monday her Administration will launch a second phase of the Maine Economic Recovery Grant Program beginning Wednesday, September 23. Phase 2 will make available approximately $95 million in remaining funds from Phase 1 and expand access to the program by increasing the number of eligible businesses and non-profits, according to a news release. Under Phase 2, businesses and non-profits that employ up to 250 people will be eligible for grant rewards.... Read more

    Maine CDC reports potential COVID-19 exposure at Portland Jetport

    The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) reported Monday an individual with COVID-19 and a close contact of that individual went to the Portland International Jetport on Sunday, potentially exposing others to the virus. The individuals were at the jetport Sunday afternoon, according to a Sept. 21 news release. People who were at the Portland International Jetport between 12:30 and 4 p.m., Sunday, September 20, may have been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. Those... Read more

    Maine records its 140th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 21, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 140. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Sept. 21 update: Knox County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 21, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Sept. 20 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 20, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 139th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 19, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 139. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Sept. 19 update: Waldo County records new COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 19, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    $6.6 million awarded to support affordable housing efforts in Maine amid COVID-19

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —  The State of Maine has received a total of $6,678,216 in the third installment of funding to support affordable housing, assistance to businesses and bolster COVID-19 prevention and response efforts throughout the state. This funding, awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), was allocated through a section of the CARES Act directing $48.5 billion to support housing and transportation programs. The funding was awarded through HUD’s Community... Read more

    Sept. 18 update: Knox County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 18, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Governor reinstating work search requirements for all unemployment claimants

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills signed an executive order Thursday reinstating weekly work search activity requirements for all unemployment claimants in order to retain eligibility to receive unemployment benefits, beginning Sunday, Oct. 4. The only exception is for individuals in medical quarantine due to potential COVID-19 exposure, per a news release.  Work search activity requirements for those who were permanently separated from their employer were previously reinstated Aug. 9. Thursday... Read more

    Governor signs curtailment order to maintain budget stability amid COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills signed a curtailment order Thursday to maintain budget stability amid a projected revenue shortfall caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Executive Order, which adopts recommendations from the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, curtails allotments to the State’s General Fund by $221,775,584 and to the Highway Fund by $23,000,822. The order avoids deep programmatic cuts, thereby protecting Maine’s safety net infrastructure and preserving critical... Read more

    RSU 71 offering free meal program through Dec. 30

    BELFAST — RSU #71 is pleased to announce its ability to offer a free meal program, including breakfast and lunch, to all children 18 years and younger beginning now through December 30. Meals are available at all schools in RSU #71 Monday through Friday and for pick up for remote learners. Meals will be provided seven days a week throughout the year upon order. Here is what you need to know: All students 18 years and under qualify for the free meal program. Children 18 years and younger... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment, benefit fraud updates

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending September 12, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,400 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,000 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These claims represent about 2,300 individuals filing an initial claim. About 29,800 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 18,200 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, just over 7,900... Read more

    Sept. 17 update: Knox County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 17, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    https://youtu.be/VXKuwoPw7iI
    Deer Isle native is a viral hit...and hoot...about all things lobster

    Have a burning question about lobstering? Ask Leroy!

    STONINGTON—My neighbor, a long-time lobsterman, told me the other day: “There’s this guy you gotta check out, named Leroy. Friend told me about him. On YouTube, old guy like me whose been in the business all his life. He’s answering people’s questions and I hear he’s pretty funny.” He was talking about Leroy Weed, 79, a Deer Isle lobsterman who is getting some statewide and national attention as a spokesman for the lobstering life in an online video series by the Maine Center for Coastal... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 138th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 16, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 138. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Sept. 16 update: Knox County records COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 16, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Fall sports approved for Oceanside High School, fan attendance at home games eliminated

    ROCKLAND — The soccer, golf, field hockey and cross country teams at Oceanside High School in Rockland will participate in interscholastic competition this fall, the Regional School Unit 13 school board voted Tuesday night.  While games will be played, there will be no fans except for special and limited occasions.  The Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference, of which Oceanside is a member, issued a recommendation Monday, according to Bishop, to its member schools to prohibit fan attendance from... Read more

    Maine records its 137th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 15, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 137. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Sept. 15 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 15, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    $25 million in COVID-19 financial relief awarded to Maine farmers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Maine farmers have been awarded a total of $25,159,777 to date to help offset the financial harm they have experienced due to COVID-19, according to a news release. The funding is provided through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), created through the CARES Act, which will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to deliver relief to America’s farmers. In addition to facilitating the Farmers to Families Food Box program, CFAP is providing vital financial... Read more

    Camden Hills details fall sports plans

    Camden Hills athletic director Jeff Hart shared the following two letters Sunday, Sept. 13 and Monday, Sept. 14:  Fall Sports Update: If you are interested in playing a Fall Sport, you must be signed up online. If you come to a practice, and you have not signed up, you will not be allowed to participate until all forms have been received. Remember that the locker rooms are not available for use this fall. First practices have been adjusted to the following: Golf - Monday, September 14th... Read more

    RSU 3 school board approves fall sports for Mount View teams

    UNITY — A decision to support a plan for the fall sports season amid COVID-19 was reached by the Regional School Unit 3 school board at its Monday, Sept. 14 meeting.  RSU 3 has athletic teams at Mount View Middle School and Mount View High School. Both schools are in Thorndike.  The news came over social media with a tweet posted following the meeting to the account of RSU 3 Superintendent Charles Brown and a Facebook post credited to MVHS Principal Zack Freeman.  “Athletic [D]irector [... Read more

    Sept. 14 update: Lincoln County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 14, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 136th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 13, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 136. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Sept. 13 update: Lincoln County records two new COVID-19 cases; Waldo County records recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 13, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 135th COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 12, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 135. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Sept. 12 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 12, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    UPDATE: Lost Wage Assistance Program payments to be issued tonight

    AUGUSTA — After saying first payments of Lost Wage Assistance Program will be issued in the coming days, the Maine Department of Labor will be issuing the first round of retroactive $300 payments as part of the new federal Lost Wage Assistance program tonight, Sept. 11. Benefits will be paid retroactively starting with the week ending August 1. The first round of payments will include payments for the weeks ending Aug. 1, Aug. 8, and Aug. 15. The Department anticipates making payments for... Read more

    Sept. 11 update: Waldo County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 11, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Revised guidelines for Maine school sports released; votes to be scheduled

    AUGUSTA – The Maine Principals’ Association, the Maine School Superintendents Association, and the Mills Administration issued the following statements today after reaching agreement on updated guidance for fall school sports. The revised “School Sports Guidance: Return to Competition for Competitive Athletics and Activities in Maine” is now in line with all State of Maine health and safety protocols and will proceed to a vote before MPA’s Sports Medicine Committee followed by its... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment, benefit fraud updates

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending September 5, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,100 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,700 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These claims represent about 1,500 individuals filing an initial claim. About 35,500 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 22,000 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, just over 7,700... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Sept. 10 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 10, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    $528 million revenue shortfall caused by COVID-19

    Dept. of Administrative and Financial Services delivers proposed budget recommendations to Gov. Mills

    AUGUSTA — On Wednesday, Kirsten Figueroa, Commissioner of the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, delivered to Governor Janet Mills a three-part proposal intended to balance the State budget and address an estimated $528 million revenue shortfall caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendations in the proposal include: Using $97 million in available federal funding for authorized public health and safety costs; transferring approximately $70 million in liquor sales tax... Read more

    MPA, Mills administration reach ‘consensus’ on fall sports guidelines; finalized plans to be released Thursday

    AUGUSTA — Plans on how to conduct a safe fall sports season amid the ongoing pandemic are nearly finalized, the governing body for Maine high school sports announced in a Wednesday evening press release.  A meeting took place Wednesday afternoon between the Maine Principal’s Association, Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Maine School Superintendents Association, Maine School Board Association, Maine Department of Education, and the Governor’s office. “Consensus on the guidelines... Read more

    Sept. 9 update: Waldo County records COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 9, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    IRS mailing letter to non-filers, urging them to claim Economic Impact Payment by Oct. 15

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Later this month, the Internal Revenue Service will start mailing letters to roughly nine million Americans who typically don’t file federal income tax returns who may be eligible for, but have not registered to claim, an Economic Impact Payment. The letters will urge recipients to register at IRS.gov by Oct. 15 in order to receive their payment by the end of the year. Individuals can receive up to $1,200, and married couples can receive up to $2,400. People with qualifying... Read more

    Sept. 8 update: Lincoln County records COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 8, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Vinalhaven opts out of traditional fall sports season

    The following letter was distributed by the administration at the Vinalhaven School on Monday, Sept. 7.  Dear local sports fans, After extensive conversations with school and local experts, and integrating the position of the CDC, the Maine Principals Association and the Maine Schools Boards Association, we have decided not to participate in competitive league soccer play. Rather, we will be providing a robust intramural program with skills set sessions and internal competition. It was a... Read more

    Sept. 7 update: Knox, Waldo counties record new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 7, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Sept. 6 update: Waldo County records new COVID-19 case, Knox County records two recoveries

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 6, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Opinion: Maine residents squeezed out while apartment, house hunting

    The impact of COVID-19’s urban flight on Mainers

    “Maine offers a quality of life that appeals to those living in highly populated and more congested areas of the U.S.” This quote from a July press release from the Maine Association of Realtors is not news to those who live here year-round. The COVID-19 pandemic that has upended the world has also produced a silent shift felt in Maine with more out-of-state residents fleeing to the state in search of home and rental properties.  A July report by Maine Listings, a subsidiary of Maine... Read more
    ‘It was very successful thanks to the hard work of all of you’

    RSU 71 superintendent recaps first week of in-person learning amid COVID-19

    The following letter was distributed Friday, Sept. 4 by RSU 71 Superintendent Mary Alice McLean:  Dear RSU # 71 Students, Families, Staff and School Board, Congratulations to everyone for an awesome first week back to in-person instruction! It was very successful thanks to the hard work of all of you!! Students - We are amazed and delighted by how well prepared our K-12 students were! They came to school with face masks, were prepared to wear them throughout the day, understood that social... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Sept. 5 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 5, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    USDA extends nine waivers providing children better access to food amid pandemic

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Education received confirmation this week nine waivers from the United States Department of Agriculture will be extended, allowing continued flexibility in the way that school districts and other non-profit, community organizations can offer meals to children 18 years of age or younger. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Maine DOE, in partnership with Maine schools, has sought, per a news release, continued flexibility in federal school meal programs so... Read more

    Sept. 4 update: Knox County records two new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 4, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    ‘We knew what needed to be done and we had the courage to just come out and say it’

    This is why, and how, Camden Hills Regional High School decided not to participate in traditional fall sports

    ROCKPORT — During a Sept. 2 school board meeting, Five Town CSD Superintendent Maria Libby and Camden Hills Regional High School Principal Shawn Carlson pulled back the curtain on the decision to scrap the traditional fall sports season for the Windjammers late last month.  An Aug. 21 joint letter from Libby, Carlson and CHRHS Athletic Director Jeff Hart said the administration reached a point where it could no longer wait for a decision from state officials.  “We feel the path forward is... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment benefits, fraud updates

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending August 29, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,200 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and about 2,000 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These claims represent about 1,300 individuals filing an initial claim. More than 38,000 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment, with another 22,000 weekly certifications filed under PUA. In addition, just over... Read more

    Sept. 3 update: Knox, Waldo counties record new COVID-19 cases

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 3, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Fall sports to be delayed additional week; sports, education, health officials and Gov. Mills release statements

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Principals’ Association, the Maine School Boards Association, the Maine School Superintendents Association, and the Mills Administration released the following statements today on interscholastic fall sports in Maine: “The Maine Principals’ Association agrees with the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Education that it would be best to extend the delay of fall sports by one additional week to allow schools to get their academic programs underway as... Read more

    Governor Mills extends State of Civil Emergency

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills extended Wednesday the State of Civil Emergency for 30 days through October 1. The Governor’s decision to extend the emergency is in line with nearly every other state in the nation which have ongoing emergency declarations, according to the National Governors Association, per a news release.  “Thanks to the efforts of Maine people, who have largely abided by public health measures intended to keep us all safe, our state has been relatively successful in... Read more

    UPDATED: Maine records its 133rd COVID-19 death

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, Sept. 2, an additional COVID-19 death in the state, bringing the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 133. Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths. Some information has not been provided by the Maine CDC.  CaseCountyAge ... Read more

    Sept. 2 update: New COVID-19 cases in Knox, Lincoln counties; recoveries in Knox, Lincoln, Waldo

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 2, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    ‘several elements in the MPA Guidance do not comport with the State of Maine rules’

    Maine education, health commissioners urge fall sports be delayed further

    AUGUSTA — Leaders of the Maine Department of Education and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services raised concerns about the fall sports season Tuesday, Sept. 1 to the leaders of the Maine Principal’s Association, the state’s governing body for high school sports.  “Our review found that several elements in the MPA Guidance do not comport with the State of Maine rules,” a joint letter from Maine Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew and Maine Department... Read more
    ‘We want to play like everyone else’

    Camden Hills Regional High School students, parents rally for sports participation with competitors

    CAMDEN — They had one message they wanted the community, their high school principal and superintendent, and the Five Town CSD Board of Directors to hear: “Let us play!” Approximately 75 high school students and parents gathered on the Camden Village Green to let the community know that they want to play competitive team sports with other school teams around the state. CHRHS students learned earlier this month the district would not be participating in the Maine Principals’ Association... Read more

    Sept. 1 update: Waldo County records new COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Sept. 1, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    53rd annual Fall Foliage Festival canceled due to COVID-19

    The 53rd annual Fall Foliage Festival scheduled for Oct. 10 and 11, 2020 at the Boothbay Railway Museum, has been canceled due to COVID-19.  “After thoughtful and careful consideration, the Railway Village and the Boothbay Region Information Center have made the difficult decision to cancel the 53rd annual Fall Foliage Festival. We believe this decision is in the best interest of the Fair and the health and safety of all participants. The Fall Foliage Festival is a family tradition in Midcoast... Read more
    The preacher and the outbreak

    For pastor and Islesboro church founder at center of East Millinocket wedding, sin is ‘a pandemic worse than the coronavirus’

    As news broke about Calvary Baptist Church’s COVID-19 outbreak, Pastor Todd Bell shined his black shoes. Before the Sanford reverend spoke to his church, Bell took a picture of his polished wingtips and his leather-bound black Bible resting on the corner of his desk.  This story was originally published by The Maine Monitor. The Maine Monitor, formerly known as Pine Tree Watch, is a local journalism product published by The Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, a nonpartisan, nonprofit... Read more
    rally scheduled for sept. 1 at camden village green

    Camden Hills parents circulate petition, plan rally opposing school decision to scrap traditional fall sports

    ROCKPORT — Camden Hills Regional High School, in Rockport, became the first, and so far only, high school in the state to opt out of the upcoming fall sports season Aug. 21 in favor of participating in practices and modified intra-squad games this fall. Aug. 31 Update: After this story was published Aug. 28, organizers of the “Let Camden Hills play” movement scheduled a rally in support of fall sports being played by Camden Hills teams.The rally is Tuesday, Sept. 1 at the Camden Village Green... Read more

    RSU 71 Superintendent releases letter ahead of school year

    The following letter was distributed Aug. 28 by RSU 71 Superintendent Mary Alice McLean.  Dear RSU # 71 Students, Families, Staff, School Board and Community Members,  This message is to update our community about 1) the state of our preparedness to return to in-person instruction 2) start dates for in-person and remote instruction 3) time-spans for K-12 in-person and remote learning plans 4) the importance of following the non-negotiable safety protocols required by the Maine CDC, which... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Aug. 31 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Aug. 31, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Aug. 30 update: Lincoln County records new COVID-19 case

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Aug. 30, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    Maine CDC investigates COVID-19 outbreak affiliated with Sanford church

    AUGUSTA — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) is investigating an outbreak of COVID-19 among individuals affiliated with the Calvary Baptist Church in Sanford. At present, there are at least five confirmed cases of COVID-19 involving people affiliated with the church. An epidemiological investigation is underway, including determining the extent of links to other outbreaks in York and Penobscot counties. Maine CDC is notifying close contacts of confirmed cases.... Read more

    Maine CDC provides Aug. 29 COVID-19 update

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Aug. 29, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more
    Both boards to meet Sept. 2

    Superintendent requests delaying school start for Camden Hills Regional High, Camden-Rockport middle, elementary schools

    ROCKPORT — Five Town CSD and School Administrative District 28 Superintendent Maria Libby is asking two school boards for permission to delay the start of school until Sept. 14. “After a long discussion on Thursday, August 27, with building administrators and directors, our team concluded that we need another week to put the necessary pieces in place for a successful school opening,” she wrote, in a letter to both boards (see below for the full letter). “As you know, our staff has been working... Read more
    Mills administration to give final say if fall sports can be played

    UPDATED WITH GUIDELINES: Maine Principals’ Association leadership approves of fall sports season

    AUGUSTA — After much anticipation, the MPA Interscholastic Management Committee, a committee including superintendents and principals from around the state, voted unanimously Thursday, Aug. 27 in favor of the fall sports season to move forward.  Fall sports in the Midcoast include cross country, golf, football, field hockey and soccer. Camden Hills Regional High School in Rockport also sponsors a mountain biking team.  UPDATE, 8/28: The MPA has released the COVID-19 guidelines for each sport... Read more
    ‘COVID-19 has definitely put a crimp on our [voter registration] activities’

    How COVID-19 is impacting voter registration efforts ahead of November elections

    MIDCOAST — With less than three months until the 2020 General Election, officials from both the Democratic and Republican parties are ramping up efforts to register new voters across the nation, including in the Midcoast ahead of a pair of heavily contested races including the U.S. Presidential race and Maine’s U.S. Senate race.   Those voter registration efforts, however, have been drastically altered amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic as the pandemic created a significant plunge in new voter... Read more

    All counties remain in ‘green’ return to campus status; York and Penobscot to be closely monitored

    AUGUSTA — The Mills Administration released Friday an updated color coded Health Advisory System that classifies counties’ relative risk of COVID-19 transmission by color for schools as they continue with their plans to deliver instruction and support students safely this fall.  The updated assessment released today showed that all counties remain green, although Penobscot and York counties will be reassessed next Friday, September 4, to determine if they meet the threshold for yellow or red... Read more

    Aug. 28 update: Waldo County records new COVID-19 recovery

    AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, Aug. 28, of COVID-19 cases in the state of Maine. Each morning, the Maine CDC updates its COVID-19 data on its website with the latest coronavirus numbers from across the state.  The below data represents the number of full-time Maine residents who have been tested for COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.  “Data are about individuals who claim residency in Maine regardless of what state they were tested in, or where they are currently living,”... Read more

    $10.4 million awarded to 93 Maine nursing homes

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ninety-three skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes in Maine have been awarded a total of $10,421,700 to support increased testing, staffing, and personal protective equipment (PPE) needs, a news release stated. The funding announced Thursday is a targeted distribution from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Provider Relief Fund, which is funded through $175 billion included in the bipartisan CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care... Read more

    Belfast Poetry Festival cancels 2020 event

    Belfast Poetry Festival has submitted the following statement: It is with sadness that the steering committee of the Belfast Poetry Festival has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s festival. Scheduled to take place October 16 and 17, 2020, the necessary safety protocols for gatherings during the Covid-19 pandemic has made it impossible to put on the live event and it was decided that a virtual festival could not be achieved. Please look for the Belfast Poetry Festival to return... Read more

    Gov. Mills signs executive order to ensure safe voting amid COVID-19

    AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills announced Thursday she has signed an Executive Order to protect the health and safety of Maine voters, poll workers, and election officials and to facilitate access to safe in-person and absentee voting in the November general election amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “The right to vote is the foundation of our democratic process, and I take seriously our responsibility to ensure that every Maine person has the opportunity to cast their ballot and to do so in... Read more

    Labor officials provide unemployment benefits, fraud updates

    AUGUSTA — For the week ending August 22, the Maine Department of Labor recorded about 1,100 initial claims filed for state unemployment insurance, and 1,300 initial claims filed for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). These claims represent about 1,300 individuals filing an initial claim. About 40,900 weekly certifications, or continued claims, were filed last week for state unemployment. In addition, about 23,200 weekly certifications were filed under PUA. Weekly certifications... Read more

    On Friday, March 13, residents are stocking up on groceries and other items, filling the roads and parking lots. 

     

      COVID-19 Cases

      ZIP code COVID-19 case data: Knox, Waldo counties (and some of Lincoln County)

       

      Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by three

      Jan. 18 update: Midcoast records 25 new cases, one new recovery

      Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by four

      Jan. 17 update: Midcoast records 14 new cases, one new recovery

      Jan. 16 update: Midcoast adds 26 new cases, three new recoveries

      Maine’s COVID-19 death toll increases by 16

      Jan. 15 update: Midcoast records 29 new COVID-19 cases

      For an archive of daily postings about COVID-19 statistics in the State of Maine, since early March, see the bottom of this sidebar. 

      Local Outlook

      UPDATE: No new cases, but Knox County Correctional Facility remains closed to public after officer tests COVID-19 positive

      Thomaston Municipal Building closed Jan. 4-5 amid COVID-19 case

      Game Loft expands food program to meet community needs  

      Pen Bay, Waldo County hospitals give first COVID-19 vaccines to frontline caregivers

      LincolnHealth begins vaccinating front-line caregivers

      Northport artist refinishes old furniture with enchanting detail

      SDMHS holding virtual discussion on how to support students amid COVID-19

      Islesboro head of school addresses learning plans

      Pen Bay Medical Center/Waldo County General Hospital update COVID-19 restrictions on visiting/escorting patients

      Here’s the acorn bread nobody asked for

      Tipping Toward Winter: Pandemic Gallery VII

      Despite Knox County shifting back to ‘green’, RSU 13 to follow ‘yellow’ learning plans

      Oceanside Middle shifts to virtual learning amid positive COVID-19 test at school

      Knox County returns to green status in educational health advisory system

      Walgreens COVID-19 testing locations include Belfast, Rockland

      With COVID-19 surge, Pen Bay Medical Center, Waldo County General Hospital adopt new visitor restrictions

      Camden Hills Regional High School proposes creating more outdoor classroom, gathering space

      Masks: The 2020 accessory everyone should have

      Knox County remains ‘yellow’ in Maine DOE health advisory system

      Interview with Mr. D. at CASS

      Appleton, Hope, Lincolnville students can get free high-speed broadband access

      North Haven school officials provide update on new island COVID-19 cases

      Mark Fourre: Increase our vigilance

      North Haven students learning remotely amid community outbreak of 11 COVID-19 cases

      RSU 20 returning to in-person learning amid green categorization

      No classes for Vinalhaven students Nov. 9-11

      How St. George School is approaching county’s yellow educational designation

      Waldo County General CEO comments on ‘small number’ of COVID-19 cases among employees

      Searsport town manager debunks rumor ambulance staff are COVID-19 positive

      From the Vinalhaven Emergency Operations Center: Five confirmed COVID-19 cases on North Haven 

      Midcoast sports guidance updated by officials ahead of winter sports season

      RSU 13 shifts to hybrid learning model

      Camden Hills Regional High School students go to hybrid 2 schedule, with latest pandemic public health classification

      Knox County moves to yellow Maine DOE COVID-19 designation, Waldo shifts back to green

      Midcoast Recreation Center outlines new COVID-19 guidelines

      One man dies of COVID-19 following association with Brooks Pentecostal Church outbreak

      Morrill saddened by death of First Selectman; town office staff had been quarantined following COVID-19 exposure

      Maine CDC gives update on eight COVID-19 outbreaks, two in the Midcoast

      Midcoast Athletics Center cites more COVID-19 infections, grapples with outbreak

      Emergency shelter plans for Winter 2020 adjusted amid pandemic

      Waldo County remains ‘yellow’ in Maine DOE Health Advisory System

      Medomak Valley High, Union Elementary schools switch to remote learning, given COVID-19 cases

      Camden Hills Regional High School students studying from home today, given COVID-19 case

      Rockland Woodlands Memory Care facility manager issues statement about COVID-19 affecting residents, staff

      Pearl Street, Camden, will not be a Halloween venue this year

      Amid COVID-19 county outbreak, MVHS ends fall sports, SDHS hopeful to continue, BAHS eyes intramural option

      RSU 20 Superintendent shares educational plans amid Waldo County’s yellow designation

      Waldo County shifts to yellow in Maine DOE Health Advisory System

      Camden approves credit on Snow Bowl passes, should COVID-19 close the mountain

      Athletics suspended for Waldo County students through week’s end after fourth positive COVID-19 case

      State awards $12.5 million in pandemic aid to nearly 300 Midcoast businesses, nonprofits

      Labor officials warn of unemployment insurance phishing scams

      RSU 13 Superintendent discusses calendar changes, COVID-19, internet access

      RSU 3 Superintendent addresses Waldo County’s COVID-19 case uptick

      Midcoast state legislative candidates discuss State’s response to COVID-19

      Amid pandemic, ‘an air of cautious optimism prevails’ at Islesboro Central School

      Rockland business at center of new Maine CDC COVID-19 investigation releases statement

      Pen Bay Medical Center relocates COVID-19 testing site

      Vitamin D supplements: Yes or no?

      Finding our Footing: Pandemic Gallery VI

      Sailing through a dismal Windjammer season and making the best of it

      RSU 71 offering free meal program through Dec. 30

      Fall sports approved for Oceanside High School, fan attendance at home games eliminated

      Camden Hills details fall sports plans

      RSU 3 school board approves fall sports for Mount View teams

      Vinalhaven opts out of traditional fall sports season

      The impact of COVID-19’s urban flight on Mainers

      RSU 71 superintendent recaps first week of in-person learning amid COVID-19

      This is why, and how, Camden Hills Regional High School decided not to participate in traditional fall sports

      Camden Hills Regional High School students, parents rally for sports participation with competitors

      For pastor and Islesboro church founder at center of East Millinocket wedding, sin is ‘a pandemic worse than the coronavirus’

      Camden Hills parents circulate petition, plan rally opposing school decision to scrap traditional fall sports

      RSU 71 Superintendent releases letter ahead of school year

      Superintendent requests delaying school start for Camden Hills Regional High, Camden-Rockport middle, elementary schools

      Medomak Valley principal discusses hybrid model learning plans

      Camden Hills opts out of ‘traditional interscholastic sports schedule’ for fall sports

      COVID-19 testing site opening Aug. 27 in Rockport

      RSU 20 board to consider committee’s learning continuity plan amid COVID-19

      Midcoast teachers prepared for in-person learning despite worries for their health

      Lincolnville School Committee to hold emergency meeting Aug. 18 to vote on reopening plan

      RSU 71 school board sets special Aug. 17 meeting to discuss schools reopening

      Midcoast families support in-person learning despite doubt students will follow COVID-19 guidelines

      Some Midcoast schools watching enrollment increases during pandemic

      Appleton Village School committee to discuss reopening plans Aug. 17

      School committee to vote on Hope Elementary reopening plan Aug. 14

      Islesboro Central School provides update on fall reopening

      RSU 13 holding special school board meeting to vote on reopening plans

      Ocean State Job Lot distributes PPE to police, fire departments in Rockland and Belfast

      Waldo County EMA director cites a bit of ‘good news’ for COVID-19 status in Maine

      RSU 13 school board to vote on reopening plans, ratify union agreement

      RSU 13 to split district reopening between in-person, hybrid learning

      St. George School announces community meetings about reopening plans

      Drinkwater School to vote on COVID-19 response plans Aug. 11

      Hope Elementary Aug. 10 school committee meeting highlighted by reopening plans, school bus routes

      RSU 40 school board to vote on 2020-2021 educational plans Aug. 6

      RSU 3 school board to vote on draft return to school plan Aug. 5

      Lincolnville Central School to vote on slightly delaying start of classes

      Unity College permanently eliminating campus model, considers selling Waldo County campus

      Midcoast educational leaders detail how COVID-19 has affected staff hiring processes

      Remley in China: A pandemic update

      United Midcoast Charities convenes Local Board to distribute EFSP and CARES funds

      Health talk during unsettling times: What Does It Mean to Be ‘OK’?

      Union 69 superintendent discusses fall educational plans

      St. George superintendent discusses fall educational plans

      Midcoast Community Chorus suspends operations

      Outdoor dining at Midcoast Maine Restaurants: Who is offering what?

      Islesboro Central School leadership discusses fall educational plans

      Belfast awarded COVID-19 prevention, protection grant

      Safety protocols in place, two Maine Windjammer Association schooners set sail this week

      State announces ‘swab and send’ COVID-19 testing sites statewide, including Belfast

      Despite Bumps Along the Way, Road to Economic Recovery Shows Promise

      Rockland makes face-coverings mandatory in Downtown Zone

      RSU 13 superintendent addresses fall reopening, announces family survey

      Langlais Sculpture Preserve summer begins July 11

      Two local art organizations receive $50,000 COVID-19 grants

      Carver Memorial Library reopens July 6

      KVCOG wins $400,000 EDA CARES Act award for pandemic economic response, recovery

      Cushing Public Library reopens July 1

      Hope Library adds Tuesday curbside pickup

      $400K awarded to organization supporting Waldo County small business revitalization

      Masks: ‘It’s not about me, it’s about you. And it isn’t that hard’

      Big T Snack Shack sets up in Rockport Harbor for the summer

      Waldo, Knox County food pantries receive boost from Coastal Healthcare Alliance grants

      Vose Library begins curbside pickup

      Thomaston Public Library reopening June 29 

      Rockland works on drafting order for face coverings in outdoor spaces

      RSU 71 task force to create school reopening plan

      Waldoboro Public Library re-opens June 29

      Rockland Chef Melissa Kelly testifies virtually for Congressional committee on PPP loans

      Camden business files lawsuit against Small Business Administration for denying loan during pandemic

      Coastal Children’s Museum joins newly-formed consortium

      With every June and July contract, roofing company to donate funds to Good Shepherd

      The young, the old, and the virus

      Camden Hills senior Abigail Nathan commemorates graduation day with a half-marathon

      Despite odds, Camden Hills Regional High School Class of 2020 makes historic graduation march

      Mark Fourre: Keep it up and we will get there

      New $10,000 health grant supports area cancer patients amid pandemic

      Camden Harbor, the Midcoast’s boating Mecca, opens for a safe season

      Owls Head Transportation Museum reopens to the public

      Appleton Library begins curbside pickup

      St. George announces town office reopening plans

      PBMC and WCGH: Respiratory therapists play essential role in COVID-19 response

      Maine springs through a pandemic: Photo gallery III

      Medomak Valley cancels vehicular graduation parade, other area schools push forward

      City of Belfast reopens municipal offices, facilities; issues new guidelines

      Knox County Courthouse Offices reopen, with restrictions

      Phase II of Rockland Public Library reopening begins June 15

      Camden-Rockport Historical Society announces 2020 summer plans

      West Bay Rotary helps raise more than $24,000 for Rapid Response

      Belfast Free Library to reopen June 1

      Rockport Public Library to reopen June 1

      Thomaston outlines town office reopening plans

      Camden Hills Regional High School encourages community to celebrate with graduating seniors

      Camden Public Library to begin limited opening, announces June programming

      Open? Close? Adapt to permanent takeout? How Midcoast restaurants are handling coronavirus restrictions

      High school spring sports were canceled. What happens to the unspent money?

      Phased reopening of Lincolnville Town Office, beginning June 1

      Medomak Valley outlines graduation plans

      Can we commit to community well-being?

      Sports slowly returning at Midcoast Recreation Center

      Memorial Day in Lincolnville: Quietly honoring those who made sacrifices for a greater good

      Belfast Area High to hold graduation at Belfast Municipal Airport

      Searsport District High details graduation plans

      A cross-country trip during COVID-19, Arizona to Maine

      Islesboro outlines graduation plans

      Mark Fourre: We’ve been here before, Part II

      Rockland Harbor sailing into summer at half-mast

      Watershed School plans graduation event at Camden Snow Bowl

      Bay Chamber Concerts revises summer season

      How Vinalhaven will celebrate its graduates

      Oceanside to hold graduation at Knox County Regional Airport

      Mount View High outlines graduation plans

      Belfast city council approves plan allowing restaurants, retailers to conduct business in outdoor public spaces

      Rockland Public Library to begin curbside pickup June 1

      Paces for PAWS shifts to virtual format amid pandemic

      Rockland eyes additional ballot machines, flexible voting for pandemic-era elections

      Thomaston Trek 5K, 10K goes virtual amid pandemic

      Hall of Fame suspends 2020 activities

      Camden Hills’ graduation procession through town to continue despite pandemic — but with a difference

      Camden Hills Regional outlines year-end plans for seniors

      Rockland Public Library begins accepting material returns May 18

      Burnham reopens town office; schedules town vote, annual town meeting

      Camden Public Library to begin curbside pickup service

      Sea Goddess to be crowned despite Lobster Festival’s cancellation

      Vinalhaven’s Tim Farrelly featured in ‘2020: A Class Dismissed’ video series

      Rockport outlines initial phase of reopening plans

      Local physician explains COVID-19 virus testing methods

      Flush the pipes, move the contaminants, Maine Water Co. advises

      Camden Hills Regional High School to honor seniors via Mt. Battie Star

      Rockland authorizes June closures of Main Street; logistics to be determined

      Camden, Rockport organizations receive Harvard Pilgrim pandemic grants

      How to stage a film festival in a pandemic? Host a drive-in movie theater in Rockport

      Belfast Co-op board thanks general manager for extraordinary leadership during pandemic

      Midcoast Babe Ruth league cancels season

      Mid-Coast Optical is open, again

      Red Cloak Tours introduces ‘TeleTours’

      Local animal shelters among recipients of COVID-19 response grant

      RunBelfast series moves virtual amid pandemic

      Union church converts annual Turkey Supper to take out meal

      Governor announces new reopening plans for Knox, Lincoln, Waldo counties

      Islesboro Central School honors its graduating Class of 2020

      ‘Strand On The Air’ to take satirical look at social distancing

      Bill Packard: We can’t stay on Maiden’s Cliff COVID-19 forever

      High school seniors: we know this stinks. You matter.

      COVID-19 and estate planning: Protecting yourself, loved ones

      Mid-Coast Solid Waste Transfer Station to resume recycling May 20; limited material accepted

      Sheltering in place at Coastal Opportunities

      Rockland continues to consider closures of downtown Main Street

      Online support groups available through Sexual Assault Support Services of Midcoast Maine

      Coastal Maine chambers of commerce react to Governor’s pandemic economic plan

      Mark Fourre: ‘We’ve been here before,’ Part I

      In the age of COVID-19, South Thomaston honors one of its own

      What’s shakin’ in the best Midcoast cocktails to go?

      Urging Maine Dept. of Economic Development to identify options for sake of vacation lodging business

      Maine YMCAs continue to meet community needs during COVID-19 pandemic

      How some local shop mascots are adjusting during pandemic

      SOS mailer sent to 6,000 local mailboxes with resources for domestic violence victims

      Pay It Forward from Kids

      Maine weathers a pandemic: Photo gallery II

      Knox Clinic Prescription Assistance program available to residents

      PAWS partners with New Hope for Women, expands essential services during COVID-19 pandemic

      Waldo County, Rockland rally to keep food-insecure residents fed during pandemic

      Dale Rowley, Waldo County EMA: On managing COVID-19 civil emergency, as well as two damaging April storms

      MCH Meals on Wheels only meals-on-wheels program serving Knox County

      COVID-19 isolation talk: Challenges, opportunities for surviving and thriving

      Bill Packard: We can control how we respond

      More people now qualify for home-delivered Meals on Wheels

      This is life inside a COVID-19 testing tent for the spouse of a RSU 71 principal

      Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation donates masks to Rockland, Belfast first responders

      Belfast native Callie Cook discusses living in Australia during a pandemic

      Knox County administrative offices closed until May 15

      Paying property taxes during a pandemic, Rockport style

      Mark Fourre: ‘Together we will get the job done’

      Rockland questions spring, summer outdoor festivals, cruise ship visits as pandemic continues

      Infectious disease expert Dr. Catherine Cavanaugh talks COVID-19

      With isolation, threat of domestic violence increases; New Hope for Women remains vital Maine resource

      $1.5 billion in paycheck protection program loans approved for 8,400 Maine small businesses

      RSU 20 Superintendent addresses remainder of school year plans

      Sen. King to hold virtual conversation with Pen Bay Chamber members

      RSU 13 Superintendent addresses remainder of school year plans

      District attorney provides update during COVID-19 pandemic

      Adult Education continues at Five Town CSD

      St. George Superintendent addresses future remote learning plans

      Remote learning till June: How SAD 28, Camden Hills Regional High School will manage remaining school year

      Moving forward without spring sports: A message to readers and area high school seniors

      Camden Town Manager issues COVID-19 update

      How Rockport Police are handling law enforcement during pandemic

      Update from Pen Bay Medical Center, Waldo County General Hospital CEO Mark Fourre

      Islesboro Central School administration addresses remainder of school year plans

      Eva Murray: ‘Does this count as school?’

      If we want something done, looks like we have to do it ourselves

      With June municipal elections, town meeting delayed, Rockport extends board nomination paper deadline

      Where are they from? A short walk at the public landing

      Rockport temporarily waives interest charges on unpaid personal property and real estate tax

      Sen. Dave Miramant: On federal Stimulus Checks for seniors

      Rep. William Pluecker: Relief for independent contractors and small business

      Rep. Jan Dodge: Our COVID response should get an ‘A’

      Camden, Rockport ask their residents to complete broadband surveys

      Bill Packard: If we all work together, we’ll come out of it OK

      Churches, residents participate in Let’s Make Some Healing Noise Together!

      The Strand presents Virtual Cinema screenings

      Improper PPE disposal puts Rockland sewer employees at risk

      Visiting nurse, in Midcoast since December and with out-of-state plates, reports harassment

      Islesboro Central School addresses new COVID-19 response

      Belfast’s All Roads Music Festival rescheduled to September

      Rockland Golf Club closing after less than a week amid COVID-19

      Advice to heed if you don’t want to see your favorite outdoor areas close down

      Town of Thomaston follows Governor’s Stay-at-Home order for non-essential employees

      A quick summary of Maine’s COVID-19 response law

      Rockport Pediatrician William Stephenson: On children and COVID-19

      Penobscot Bay YMCA announces StayWithUs campaign

      COVID-19 food safety resource page available through UMaine Extension

      UMaine Extension opens new ask-an-expert agriculture page 

      Mark Fourre: Pen Bay Medical Center, Waldo County General Hospital ‘prepared to meet this challenge’

      Roe Chiacchio: Befriend your fears and make chicken soup

      Councilors issue resolve encouraging rent leniency in Rockland

      Camden man said he took guns to protect himself during COVID-19 pandemic

      Rockland EMS, police, City Manager deliver update to Council during COVID-19 days

      Vinalhaven, Maine: Caring, Responsible Community or Vigilante Town?

      Churches organize daily bell ringing for community healing

      Pen Bay Area YMCA produces video update about current operations

      Area vintage basketball games to be rebroadcast on TV, online

      Don't block any roads

      MaineHealth institutes telehealth to keep patients out of doctors’ offices

      Unseasonal Symbiosis

      Carbon Crash in the Corona-crisis

      Rockland Golf Club opens for season, addresses COVID-19 response

      First Congregational Church, Camden to provide services online

      OUT Maine continues programming virtually during COVID-19

      Knox County deputies investigate Vinalhaven incident: Tree cut to barricade driveway, quarantine demanded

      Donations being accepted for RSU 71 food pantry

      Islesboro Selectmen to community: Everyone recalibrate summer expectations

      In spite of unprecedented times in the sports world, we will get through this

      Waldo County Sheriff works to reduce department risks of COVID-19

      Conservation District extends plant sale order deadline, schedules curbside pickup

      Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine starts BiggerTogether pen pal campaign

      Call to action: Maine appeals to retired, semi-retired EMTs, nurses, doctors to register and help

      Farmers invited to online meetings to share information during pandemic 

      Popham Beach among State Parks closed due to overcrowding

      Islesboro seeks citizen volunteers

      Doors remain closed at Rockland Public Library; remote access continues

      South Thomaston issues updates on Town’s response to COVID-19

      Annual Easter meal at Rockland church to continue as take-out

      Whose life is it, anyway?

      Lincoln County request for personal protective equipment

      Midcoast agencies awarded COVID-19 emergency response grants

      Rep. Jeffrey Evangelos appeals to Gov. Mills to extend state tax filing deadline

      Town of Rockport COVID-19 updated response: travelers, newly arrived seasonal visitors to quarantine for 14 days

      Camden library extends closure, announces updates

      ‘Surge preparation’ underway on Miles Campus

      Searsmont Selectmen hold emergency meeting today, 4 p.m.

      Municipalities, school districts scramble to employ technology; maintain open, participatory meetings

      Town Manager Audra Caler-Bell outlines Camden’s response to COVID-19

      Maine is full of resourceful, hardworking, proud and friendly folk

      Quicksilver Water Shuttle suspends commuter service amid COVID-19

      Ocean State Job Lot donating supplies amid pandemic

      MCH Meals on Wheels Meeting the Challenge in Knox County

      Knox County Sheriff Tim Carroll: On reducing jail population during COVID-19

      A View from the Rockport Select Board Seat

      Concord suspends Midcoast bus service

      Lincolnville Selectmen convene this evening; public asked to watch on TV, or streaming technology

      Lincolnville Town Office closed to in-person transactions

      Islesboro Central School extends closure until April 27

      Harbor Freight to donate entire supply of personal protective equipment to hospitals

      New Hope for Women cancels in-person meetings, continues 24-hour hotline

      Photo gallery: Midcoast Maine establishes new normal with a sense of grace

      Mr. & Ms. Maine and Northeast Physique Championships rescheduled to September

      LincolnHealth responds to COVID-19 by making staffing adjustments

      St. George Fire and Rescue needs thermometers

      Good Tern, Hole in the Wall adjust hours and services

      A Message from Rep. Jeffrey Evangelos: Navigating rough seas together

      Owls Head, South Thomaston, Thomaston Solid Waste Corporation reduces crew, changes policies during COVID-19

      Pen Bay Medical Center, Waldo County General Hospital have COVID-19 surge plans in place

      Municipal updates during COVID-19: Waldo County

      Municipal updates during COVID-19: Knox County, Waldoboro

      RSU 3 extends school closure until April 27

      Rockland EMS makes plea for N95 masks

      Mid-Coast Solid Waste enacts COVID-19 precautions at Rockport transfer facility

      Hannaford note to customers outlines new hours, says ‘supply chain healthy and resilient’

      Update from RSU 71 superintendent: Schools closed, meals available for pick-up or bus delivery

      Hannaford, Shaw’s, Walmart stores open extra early for elders, those with health risks

      Hannaford Supermarkets dedicates shopping hours for high-risk, vulnerable customers

      North Haven rescinds travel ban to the island

      Pen Bay Medical Center, Waldo County General Hospital initiate visitor restrictions

      Steve Hirshberg: Let's experience spring outdoors

      Rockport residents Marsha and Vic Steinglass stranded in Morocco, want to get home

      Oil Down. Soon Out?

      Rockport Town Manager reports on municipal operations under COVID-19

      Shaw’s establishes reserved shopping hours for senior citizens, at-risk individuals

      Pen Bay Medical Center, Waldo County General Hospital open temporary respiratory evaluation centers

      Mid-Coast Solid Waste enacts COVID-19 precautions at Rockport transfer facility

      All Masses in Maine temporarily suspended in response to CDC guidance on COVID-19

      Warren closes Town Office, library

      Pen Bay Chamber of Commerce staff to work remotely; creates resource page for businesses

      Belfast closes city hall until March 31; library shut; suspends recycling

      Appleton Village School addresses remote instruction

      Information from Oceanside High’s principal on classes amid COVID-19

      Oceanside Middle principal addresses remote instruction

      RSU 71 schools open March 18 during specific hours for remote learning equipment pick-up

      Rockland issues COVID-19 proclamation: Fitness centers, yoga studios must close; businesses urged to allow employees to work from home

      Long Funeral Home prepared to care for families during COVID-19 pandemic

      Knox County closes offices

      Thorndike, Burnham postpone annual town meetings

      MaineHealth (PenBay and Waldo hospitals) suspend elective surgeries, non-urgent office visits

      Edna Drinkwater shares food services, educational materials information

      Islesboro Central School shares letter on remote instruction

      Thomaston municipal non-uniform offices temporarily closed to public

      Owls Head Town Office closes through April 2

      RSU 20 shares food service, educational materials information

      Camden-Rockport Middle shares information on collecting items at school

      RSU 3 superintendent releases new letter with important information

      Camden Hills releases remote class schedule

      RSU 13 releases family letter with important information

      Rockport outlines municipal plan for COVID-19 days

      Alternatives to panic shopping/hoarding while we get though this

      Town of Camden outlines its COVID-19 response plan

      Announcement from Knox County Sheriff Timothy Carroll

      North Haven Select Board limits travel to island, human contact on island amid COVID-19

      Five Town Little League suspends league activity until April 27

      Islesboro Central School cancels classes through March 27

      Camden Snow Bowl scraps pond skim, cardboard box derby; amends season’s schedule

      Babe Ruth baseball activity suspended until May 1

      RSU 20 cancels classes through March 27

      Vinalhaven School cancels this week’s classes

      Camden’s Watershed School shifts to remote instruction

      UPDATED: Lincolnville, Appleton, Hope schools closed until April 27; superintendent addresses COVID-19

      UPDATED: RSU 40 schools closed until April 17, superintendent addresses COVID-19

      Edna Drinkwater School closed until April 27

      St. George MSU closed for at least two weeks, superintendent provides important information

      RSU 13 to close schools for ‘extended period’

      Pen Bay Medical Center and Waldo County General Hospital share new visitation guidelines

      Quicksilver Water Shuttle addresses COVID-19

      Waldo County’s Unity College shifting to remote instruction

      RSU 71 schools closed until April 27

      RSU 3 schools closed until March 27

      Camden-Rockport, Camden Hills Regional High School closed until after April school vacation

      Five Town Little League adjusting events schedule amid COVID-19

      Islesboro Central School cancels classes for March 16

      Vinalhaven School postponing activities, adding early release days

      Five Town CSD, SAD 28 superintendent releases new school procedures amid COVID-19

      Rockland cancels council meetings for at least two weeks, specifies COVID-19 plans

      Regional School Unit 71 outlines COVID-19 contingency plans: Classes, Food Service, Mental Health Resources

      Edna Drinkwater personnel address COVID-19

      St. George superintendent addresses COVID-19

      Appleton Village School addresses COVID-19, asks students to stop using water fountains

      Is the Bear Market Here to Stay?

      Five Town CSD, SAD 28 superintendent cancels public events

      RSU 13 superintendent cancels school activities amid COVID-19

      Knox Center, Quarry Hill limit visitations to Camden, Rockland facilities

      RSU 71 superintendent addresses COVID-19

      RSU 13 superintendent addresses COVID-19, adds early release day

      Islesboro head of school addresses COVID-19 preparations

      Vinalhaven School superintendent addresses COVID-19

      RSU 3 superintendent releases new letter outlining flu/virus measures

      Rockland activates coronavirus precautions for EMS, firefighters

      RSU 71 superintendent addresses coronavirus preparations

      RSU 3 superintendent addresses coronavirus preparations

      Belfast, Rockport hospitals prepared, should Coronavirus 2019 emerge in Midcoast

      RSU 13 superintendent addresses coronavirus preparations

      What Does the Coronavirus Mean for Investors?

      Statewide Outlook

      Maine places order for sixth week of COVID-19 vaccines

      Gov. Mills on vaccine plan: ‘My fundamental goal throughout this pandemic has been to save lives’

      Labor officials provide unemployment benefit updates, including federal changes

      Gov. Mills updates Maine’s vaccine strategy to protect those most vulnerable to COVID-19

      Ocean State Job Lot distributing PPE to police and fire departments

      Gov. Mills on State budget proposal: ‘We need to keep the ship of state steady as we weather this storm’

      SBA and Treasury announce PPP re-opening, issue new guidance

      Maine places order for fifth week of COVID-19 vaccines

      BMV now fully open for business, all credentials must now be renewed

      Gov. Mills presents budget to strengthen COVID-19 response, cover projected shortfalls, increase rainy day fund

      Labor officials provide unemployment benefits update, roll out $300 federal benefit

      Maine places fifth order for COVID-19 vaccines

      Maine Dept. of Labor receives initial federal guidance for federal unemployment extensions

      Governor Mills urges Mainers to kick off 2021 safely at home

      New England governors extend suspension of interstate ice hockey competition

      Labor officials provide Dec. 31 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Maine DHHS awards $5.2M in relief grants to 54 health care organizations

      Gov. Mills extends Maine business curfew indefinitely

      IRS, Treasury Dept. started depositing $600 federal stimulus checks Tuesday, mailing checks Wednesday

      Inundated with COVID-19 tests, Maine CDC forced to alter reporting methods

      As Maine officials implement new federal unemployment legislation, benefits delayed a week

      Q&A on COVID-19’s trajectory heading into 2021 with Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah

      Maine launches text notifications to people testing positive for COVID-19

      Labor officials provide unemployment figures, fraud update, unemployment compensation plans

      Maine prepares to place fourth order for COVID-19 vaccines

      $200 million awarded to help loggers, timber haulers amid pandemic

      $34 million awarded to 234 Maine health care providers amid COVID-19

      Gov. Mills extends State of Civil Emergency for 10th time

      Maine reimbursed $1.1 million for PPE purchases

      $600 distributed to 40,000 Mainers unemployed due to COVID-19

      ‘Santa Claus is good to go’: Dr. Fauci confirms he vaccinated Santa, clears Santa for worldwide travel

      Vaccines arrive in Maine, but battle against COVID-19 remains far from over

      Gov. Mills issues statement on FDA’s emergency use authorization of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine

      EMS bulletin takes close look at COVID-19 vaccines that Maine is deploying

      Maine places third order for COVID-19 vaccines amid cut in state’s anticipated supply

      Governor Mills: ‘Have patience. Have faith and stay safe.’

      Labor officials provide Dec. 17 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      UMaine men’s ice hockey paused, players in quarantine

      Gov. Mills issues statement on arrival of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Maine

      Maine reimbursed $5.5 million for PPE purchases

      Maine Agriculture, Forestry bureaus create resource webpage to help mental health, wellbeing in rural communities

      $50 million in COVID-19 aid awarded to Maine farmers

      Gov. Mills issues statement on FDA’s emergency use authorization of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine

      Maine formally submits request for second allocation of COVID-19 vaccines

      Mills administration commits full $1.25 billion of federal COVID-19 aid

      Gov. Mills strengthens enforcement of face covering requirement in indoor public spaces

      Shah announces COVID-19 three-case outbreak at Washburn & Doughty

      Maine Claims for Unemployment Compensation, Week Ending December 5

      Mark Fourre: We must finish strong by continuing to protect ourselves and those around us

      Maine Dept. of Labor investigates unemployment imposter fraud

      Gov. Mills announces relief payment for Mainers unemployed due to COVID-19

      Maine DHHS redeploys team of call center staff to support people testing positive for COVID-19

      Governor Mills tests negative for COVID-19

      Maine formally submits request to federal government for first COVID-19 vaccines

      Maine Principals’ Association slightly amends winter sports schedule

      Gov. Mills extends business curfew until January

      DACF dedicates $2 million to support Maine food banks and pantries

      DECD dedicates $10 million to program assisting Maine food, agriculture businesses

      Labor officials provide Dec. 3 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Governor Mills quarantining after likely exposure to COVID-19

      Maine awarded $3.3 million to purchase COVID-19 PPE materials

      Mills Administration announces grants for Maine health care organizations

      Gov. Mills launches $40 million grant program to support tourism, hospitality and retail small businesses

      As temperatures drop and COVID-19 continues, demand for food and heat assistance to rise

      IRS reminds of special 2020 tax deduction for donating to charity

      How to safely celebrate Thanksgiving amid COVID-19

      Gov. Mills invests $536,000 in COVID-19 aid for Meals on Wheels

      Labor officials provide Nov. 25 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Education officials create team to support contact tracing in schools

      Governor Mills extends State of Civil Emergency as Maine fights COVID-19

      Governor’s economic committee urges action on bold strategies for recovery from COVID-19

      State revenue forecast ‘less severe than anticipated’ amid ongoing pandemic

      Maine Attorney General urges Mainers to follow the law by wearing face coverings to curb COVID-19

      Maine Principals’ Association provides winter sports update

      Gov. Mills: I am thankful for the ways you have adapted to keep us all safe

      Governor Mills dedicates $6.2 million to rent relief program

      Maine organizations urge residents to get outside safely this winter

      Maine DHHS providing financial support for testing of nursing facility staff

      State awards $5.6 million to build high speed internet infrastructure for students in underserved communities

      Gov. Mills imposes curfew for certain businesses Nov. 20 to Dec. 6

      Maine CDC revises how it conducts COVID-19 probable case investigations

      Labor officials provide Nov. 19 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Maine to financially support farmers, agriculture producers who invested in e-commerce

      IRS provides preparation tips for filing federal income taxes amid pandemic

      Gov. Mills: We can stem the tide of this virus, but it takes a team effort

      New England governors suspend interstate youth ice hockey competition

      Labor officials provide Nov. 12 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      $48 million in COVID-19 aid awarded to Maine farmers

      Maine Principals’ Association cancels state cross country championships amid statewide rise in COVID-19 cases

      Gov. Mills: It’s time to hunker down, bunker in and buckle up

      Following record COVID-19 cases, Gov. Mills announces new face covering mandate

      Labor officials provide Nov. 5 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      $247K awarded to 82 Maine nursing homes to combat COVID-19

      New measures to prevent further COVID-19 spikes: Reopening of bars, tasting rooms postponed

      Labor officials provide Oct. 29 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Maine DHHS announces plan to distribute rapid antigen tests for COVID-19

      ‘Halloween can be done safely,’ per Maine CDC

      ‘This is not about shutting down, but about hunkering down’: Gov. Mills, Dr. Shah urge citizens to control COVID-19 spread

      Governor continues State of Civil Emergency as Maine fights COVID-19

      $40.5 million in COVID-19 aid awarded to Maine farmers

      U.S. CDC provides tips on safely voting in-person amid COVID-19

      Maine Principals’ Association delaying start of winter sports season

      Maine DHHS launches initiative helping Mainers cope with COVID-19 stress

      Labor officials provide Oct. 22 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Labor officials warn of unemployment insurance phishing scams

      Maine submits initial COVID-19 vaccine plan to U.S. CDC

      Gov. Mills promises to protect Maine teleworkers, ensure educational tax credit program amid pandemic

      Labor officials provide Oct. 15 update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Employment has surpassed pre-pandemic rates in Maine

      USDA extends school meal flexibilities through end of school year

      Gov. Mills: Take precautions to keep Maine open, safe and healthy amid COVID-19

      Maine Secretary of State addresses voter safety measures amid a pandemic

      Labor officials provide update on unemployment benefits, benefits fraud

      Maine DHHS proposes adding flu vaccine to required immunizations for health care workers

      FEMA awards $2.2 million to mitigate spread of COVID-19 in Maine

      Governor advances Maine to Stage 4 of reopening plan

      IRS extends Economic Impact Payment deadline to help non-filers

      Governor dedicates $25 million to unemployment trust fund to support businesses, workers

      Maine DHHS invests $1 million in federal funds to support infection prevention in congregate settings

      Labor officials provide updates on unemployment benefits, lost wage assistance, benefits fraud

      Governor extends State of Civil Emergency for seventh time

      $700K awarded to support COVID-19 vaccine distribution across Maine

      Governor Mills in radio address: ‘Don’t take a chance’

      Labor officials provide updates on unemployment benefits, lost wage assistance, benefits fraud

      Anyone in Maine can now be tested for COVID-19

      Gov. Mills announces additional $164 million for implementing school health protocols

      Governor announces Phase 2 of Maine Economic Recovery Grant Program funding for expanded pool of businesses

      $6.6 million awarded to support affordable housing efforts in Maine amid COVID-19

      Governor reinstating work search requirements for all unemployment claimants

      Governor signs curtailment order to maintain budget stability amid COVID-19

      Labor officials provide unemployment, benefit fraud updates

      $25 million in COVID-19 financial relief awarded to Maine farmers

      Lost Wage Assistance Program payments to be issued tonight

      Revised guidelines for Maine school sports released; votes to be scheduled

      Labor officials provide unemployment, benefit fraud updates

      Dept. of Administrative and Financial Services delivers proposed budget recommendations to Gov. Mills

      MPA, Mills administration reach ‘consensus’ on fall sports guidelines; finalized plans to be released Thursday

      IRS mailing letter to non-filers, urging them to claim Economic Impact Payment by Oct. 15

      USDA extends nine waivers providing children better access to food amid pandemic

      Labor officials provide unemployment benefits, fraud updates

      Fall sports to be delayed additional week; sports, education, health officials and Gov. Mills release statements

      Governor Mills extends State of Civil Emergency

      Maine education, health commissioners urge fall sports be delayed further

      UPDATED WITH GUIDELINES: Maine Principals’ Association leadership approves of fall sports season

      All counties remain in ‘green’ return to campus status; York and Penobscot to be closely monitored

      $10.4 million awarded to 93 Maine nursing homes

      Maine Principals’ Association leadership approves of fall sports season; Mills administration to give final say

      Gov. Mills signs executive order to ensure safe voting amid COVID-19

      Labor officials provide unemployment benefits, fraud updates

      Maine Principals’ Association sports medicine committee approves of fall sports season

      RSU 13 releases letter to families as school year nears

      Gov. Mills: One little match can spark a big fire that we might be unable to put out

      UMaine system reports seven COVID-19 cases as of Aug. 26

      Maine approved for federal program to increase unemployment benefits

      50,000 spouses to get catch-up Economic Impact Payments next month

      $22.1 million in COVID-19 financial relief awarded to Maine farmers

      Maine CDC continues investigating COVID-19 cases among York County first responders

      UMaine System extending COVID-19 testing throughout fall semester

      53 COVID-19 cases linked to Millinocket wedding reception

      Sanford Firefighters’ statement on COVID-19 outbreak at the department

      Maine to apply for federal program to increase unemployment benefits

      Labor officials announce 13 weeks of additional unemployment benefits available

      As lawmakers clash over reconvening, dozens of bills affecting criminal justice reform hang in the balance

      Maine to apply for federal program to increase unemployment benefits

      Maine’s unemployment rate increased in July amid surge in labor force participation

      Maine announces $25 million to support Maine’s working parents and school-aged children

      Maine makes nearly $1 million child health investment; temporary MaineCare payments to boost well child visits, vaccinations, dental care

      Gov. Mills launches $200 million grant program to support Maine’s small businesses

      Labor officials provide unemployment benefits, fraud updates

      Fall sports season still remains uncertain amid pandemic

      Maine farmers awarded $19.7 million in COVID-19 assistance

      IRS reminds unemployment compensation is taxable, tax can be withheld now

      Funding is ‘scarce’ to stabilize Maine’s economy after pandemic

      Midcoast Economic Development District receives $400,000 federal grant

      Maine’s governor born for hard times, and hard decisions

      $2.2 million provided to support affordable housing in Maine amid COVID-19

      IRS working to ensure people with children receive missed $500 Economic Impact Payments

      Maine DOE says all counties remain in green status for return to campus

      Navigating number fatigue: How to understand COVID-19 in Maine

      UMaine System extends asymptomatic COVID-19 testing across three phases

      Labor officials provide unemployment, benefit fraud updates

      Maple syrup producers now eligible for COVID-19 financial relief

      Dept. of Labor partners with Coursera to provide 5,000 unemployed workers with free courses

      State approves additional COVID-19 Prevention and Protection Awards for municipalities

      $14 million in COVID-19 relief awarded to Maine farmers

      Maine Community Archives Collaborative to discuss Maine libraries’ COVID-19 collecting projects

      Work search requirements reinstated for some claimants beginning Aug. 9

      13 Maine universities split $5 million in federal funds amid pandemic

      Dept. of Labor provides unemployment, benefits fraud updates

      Governor renews State of Civil Emergency amid pandemic

      Don’t get shortchanged amid nationwide coin shortage

      Self-employed, other PUA recipients can now upload tax documentation

      $2.6 million awarded to support Maine’s COVID-19 response

      ‘The last thing people need to worry about in the middle of a pandemic is losing their home’

      Officials say in-person instruction can be adopted at all Maine schools

      VIDEO: Education, health officials discuss newest school reopening guidance

      Governor expands Rental Relief Program to help prevent evictions

      MPA releases more details about shortened fall sports season

      State aims to address racial, ethnic disparities in COVID-19

      State forecasts revenue drop of $524 million in 2021; Governor issues statement

      Dept. of Labor provides updates on unemployment benefits, fraud, workshops

      Maine receives $16.9 million to create ‘innovative’ educational opportunities amid pandemic

      State revises guidelines, now allowing up to 200 people for outdoor spectator events

      $9.4 million in COVID-19 financial relief awarded to Maine farmers

      DHS awards Maine $10.2 million for State and Local Preparedness Programs

      COVID-19 financial relief for Maine farmers tops $8.58 million

      Labor officials provide unemployment update, fraud investigation update

      Dept. of Labor to update unemployment benefits for self-employed, other PUA recipients

      Gov. Mills: Decisions about returning to classrooms must be based on public health data and not on politics

      VIDEO: State officials discuss educational reopening possibilities

      State develops tiered health advisory system to help determine educational reopening plans

      State investing $8.4 million from federal funds to boost child care access amid COVID-19

      Amtrak Downeaster adds more Brunswick to Boston train services 

      Dept. of Labor provides update on unemployment claims, fraud investigations

      Work search requirements to now begin Aug. 9

      Economic Recovery Committee outlines what Governor needs to focus on for COVID-19 economic recovery

      IRS reminder: Taxpayers can get an extension to Oct. 15 to file taxes

      Maine ignored as federal-state relations reach new low

      Dept. of Labor announces changes to work search requirements

      Adult education programs to provide laptops to remote learners through Maine Community Foundation grant

      Maine surpasses $1 billion in unemployment benefits paid during pandemic

      Maine Dept. of Labor provides update on unemployment benefit fraud investigations

      Gov. Mills mandates businesses enforce mask requirement, extends state of civil emergency

      Federal government sends $1.6 million to support Maine small businesses, communities during pandemic

      $1.1 million awarded to Maine hospitals to combat COVID-19

      President Trump extends deadline for PPP loan approvals

      Education officials to conduct survey next week to shape fall educational plans

      Average age of Maine’s COVID-19 patients falls since pandemic’s start

      Maine awarded additional $2.1 million for program to support farmers, address food insecurity

      Labor officials continue investigations into suspected fraudulent unemployment claims

      Governor to sign Executive Order requiring coastal businesses enforce State’s face covering mandate

      University of Maine System commits to on-campus classes this fall

      Unemployment benefits available for 13 additional weeks

      COVID-19 financial relief for Maine farmers reaches $7.75 million

      IRS outlines solutions for individuals to pay federal income taxes amid pandemic

      Gov. Mills to Mainers: Don’t let down your guard now

      Better emergency planning requires legislative action

      IRS issues reminder for approaching July 15 tax payment deadline

      Governor approves COVID-19 Prevention and Protection Grant awards to municipalities

      There are now nine possible COVID-19 symptoms after the U.S. CDC quietly adds three more

      Officials outline how high school athletics will look this summer

      This is what movie theaters must do to reopen

      Outdoor amusement businesses must do this to reopen

      Dept. of Labor cancels thousands of suspected fraudulent claims for fourth week

      Indoor amusement businesses receive guidance to reopen

      Maine directs $35 million to help local governments cover COVID-19 costs

      Treasury clarifies PPP loan forgiveness process

      Labor officials promote solutions to help businesses, employees return to work

      $7.4 million provided to Maine farmers with losses caused by COVID-19

      Governor postpones reopening of indoor bar service

      Gov. Mills urges USDA to add maple syrup to Coronavirus Food Assistance Program

      Maine awarded $1.35 million for program to support farmers, address food insecurity

      Mainers warned of spike in cybercrime attempts during pandemic

      Gov. Mills in radio address: ‘It is all up to every one of us’

      For third time, Maine Labor cancels thousands of suspected fraudulent unemployment claims

      Maine issues guidelines for charter boats, windjammers, daysailer

      $52 million awarded to Maine safety net hospitals amid COVID-19

      This is how elections and town meetings will look amid COVID-19

      Mainers encouraged to conduct license renewals as final waiver deadline nears

      Maine has opportunity to promote itself as an ideal ‘remote work state’

      Maine DHHS awards funds to support essential workers and child care providers amid COVID-19

      Governor discusses saving lives and livelihoods in radio address

      Gov. Mills issues statement on hospitality and tourism industry economic recovery plan

      Governor accelerates start date for lodging establishments to serve out-of-state visitors

      USDA extends waiver, expands access to meals for children amid COVID-19

      Head Start preschool programs receive $2.6 million in pandemic assistance

      Downeaster to resume weekday round trip between Brunswick and Boston

      Maine Dept. of Education releases initial draft plan for return to campus

      Maine Dept. of Labor, again, cancels thousands of suspected fraudulent unemployment claims

      Maine sets aside $989K to address mental health amid pandemic

      Gov. Mills extends State of Civil Emergency

      Gov. Mills outlines summer tourism plans, provides alternative to 14 day tourist quarantine

      Governor quadrupling COVID-19 testing capacity, advances swab-and-send site development, makes testing available to more Mainers

      IRS continues to warn against COVID-19 scams

      Maine Women’s Fund generates pandemic grants for women, girls’ safety

      Gov. Mills amends election regulations amid pandemic

      Maine hospitals awarded $1.3 million to fight COVID-19

      Gov. Mills addresses President Trump’s upcoming Maine visit

      Maine Dept. of Labor cancels thousands of suspected fraudulent unemployment claims, asks claimants to verify identity

      This is what gyms and fitness centers must do to safely reopen

      Governor provides reopening plans for bars, gyms, nail salons

      Gov. Mills extends state’s rent relief program

      Maine DHHS launches campaign to promote measures limiting spread of COVID-19

      Gov. Mills addresses ‘fight to strike’ balance between protecting Maine’s health and economy

      State adds three custom meat processors to Maine’s food supply chain amid shortages

      Governor allowing easement of some COVID-19 restrictions

      BMV reopening June 1 for appointments, licensing exams

      Pandemic has Maine officials in quandary over conducting elections

      Sec. Dunlap clarifies vehicle registrations provision amid COVID-19

      Maine Judicial Branch releases phased re-opening plan for courts

      Gov. Mills addresses gathering issue for town, school budget meetings

      Moody’s and S&P affirm Maine’s stable bond rating amid COVID-19

      Maine Dept. of Labor awarded $1.5 million to address COVID-19 workforce-related impact

      Some COVID-19 stimulus payments being sent via debit cards

      Dept. of Labor investigating reports of unemployment imposter fraud

      Dept. of Labor reinstating normal processing time for initial unemployment claims, briefly pausing benefits

      MaineHealth establishes safety protocols, sets priorities for bringing back some services amid COVID-19

      Gov. Mills issues two flag lowering directives, effective immediately

      National high school sports governing body releases return to sports guidance

      Governor says $52.7 million in federal funding will expand lab and testing capacity

      Maine provided nearly $2 million to boost COVID-19 testing at rural health clinics

      How to safely spend time outdoors during a pandemic

      This is what campgrounds must do to reopen for residents this weekend

      Gov. Mills allowing campgrounds to reopen to residents; delays reopening of fitness facilities, nail salons

      Maine’s community colleges offering free summer courses for Class of 2020

      Honor Flight Maine suspends travel until Aug. 31

      Free online challenging educational assignments available with PBL Lounge and Deeper Learning Pavilion

      Maine enters recession in wake of virus. This is what five experts think about Maine’s economic recovery.

      Gov. Mills discusses distance learning challenges

      Maine Dept. of Education secures WiFi and learning devices for all Maine students

      This is what Maine’s lodging businesses must do to reopen

      Governor allows lodging reservations for residents and non-residents

      MPA outlines summer athletic plans

      Gov. Mills, again, extends State of Civil Emergency

      Mainers urged to continue vaccinations amid pandemic

      Maine allocated additional $52.7 million to expand COVID-19 testing

      Maine DHHS reminds Mainers to explore health coverage options amid COVID-19

      This is what restaurants must do before reopening May 18

      This is why your COVID-19 check may be smaller than anticipated

      These are the steps retail shops must take to reopen Monday

      Politics biggest obstacle in fighting COVID-19

      $3 million allocated for Maine’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

      IRS urges people awaiting COVID-19 check to act by May 13 to get money faster

      Governor announces new reopening plans for Knox, Lincoln, Waldo counties

      Nearly $5 million allocated to expand Maine’s COVID-19 testing

      The Last Responders

      Maine Delegation announces allocation of $20 million for Maine fishing industry

      Maine’s COVID-19 testing capacity to be more than tripled in ‘game changer’

      $4.3 million allocated for affordable housing in Maine amid COVID-19

      Northern Light Blue Hill, Maine Coast Hospitals announce phased reopening of services

      Maine education officials issue guidance on graduation ceremonies

      Gov. Mills establishes committee to advise on Maine’s economic recovery

      $2.45 million allocated to support Maine’s housing authorities amid COVID-19

      Frustrated Maine self-employed workers last to receive financial help

      USDA adds Maine to program for feeding children amid pandemic

      Maine colleges, universities receive additional $2.9 million in federal COVID-19 aid

      Maine’s rural health care providers receive $131.5 million in federal COVID-19 aid

      Why you shouldn’t rely on travel insurance to cover COVID-19 cancellations

      Here’s what Governor Mills had to say about the first day of Maine’s reopening

      Maine elections coalition files petition to Governor to ensure safe, secure voting

      Little League commits $1.2 million to chapters; cancels regional, national tournaments

      Dept. of Labor releases unemployment filing schedule for self-employed individuals

      Maine’s unemployment claims decrease, though level remains historically high

      Governor offers additional details on face masks, Phase I of Maine’s re-opening plan

      Amtrak’s Downeaster Maine-to-Boston service suspended through end of May

      FEMA makes additional $100 million available to firefighters for COVID-19 response

      Gov. Mills allowing golf courses to reopen May 1

      Maine DHHS issues emergency rule to protect health of nursing home residents, staff

      Governor extends ‘Stay Safer at Home’ mandate; releases four-stage plan for ‘restarting’ Maine economy

      Dept. of Labor to accept unemployment applications for self-employed individuals May 1

      Governor ‘likely’ to extend stay at home mandate April 28

      Maine to take stock of state economy earlier than scheduled; freezes some spending and hiring

      IRS enhances online tool for checking when your COVID-19 money arrives

      SBA to resume accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications April 27

      Stay-at-home order threatens to derail Maine’s independent candidates

      As states fight COVID-19, revealing partisan responses, Maine takes protective action

      Governor Mills: Now is the time to let our true selves shine

      Dept. of Labor to expedite decisions on thousands of unemployment claims

      Mainers should remain alert for COVID-19 scams

      Maine farm emergency grants to assist farmers affected by COVID-19 crisis

      Pandemic shows endangered seniors need greater attention

      Pine Tree Watch launches video series documenting the Class of 2020’s year cut short

      Maine’s unemployment claims dip, though level remains historically high

      Maine mental health organization launches Teen Text Support Line

      Governor outlines vision for gradual, safe reopening of Maine

      Mills administration announces $11 million in funds to support essential workers and child care providers amid COVID-19

      Unemployment benefits for self-employed individuals forthcoming

      U.S. Senate approves legislation that includes at least $16 million for COVID-19 testing in Maine

      Turkey season opening early, spring registration requirement suspended

      Sen. Collins, Rep. Pingree urge USDA to boost support for Maine farmers facing severe economic harm

      Tackling in tandem the existential threats of coronavirus and climate chaos

      Helpline established for health care workers and first responders managing emotional toll of COVID-19

      Maine boards of licensure overseeing doctors, nurses, pharmicists issue guidance for licensees prescribing COVID-19 medicines for prophylactic purposes

      UMaine System plans to welcome students to campus Fall 2020

      Action needed by April 22 for those with dependents not normally filing taxes

      Maine Republicans submit letter to Gov. Janet Mills concerning communications during a pandemic

      For Mainers in recovery, isolation presents a unique challenge

      Mainers without permanent housing worry ‘there is no help out there’ amid pandemic

      Gov. Mills: We all have a responsibility to support one another even as we stay apart

      Maine DHHS boosts payments to congregate care facilities amid COVID-19

      VA recipients will automatically receive COVID-19 payments

      Gov. Mills on ‘Opening Up America’; talking with New Hampshire, Vermont governors about Northern New England

      Governor announces housing protections, rental assistance amid COVID-19

      Mental health experts warn COVID-19 uncertainties can push people into crisis

      Paycheck Protection Program loan limit reached, applications halted

      Sens. King, Collins appointed to economy task force by President Trump

      Maine may be ‘bending the curve,’ but that doesn’t mean it’s time to relax

      Maine small businesses receive $2.1 billion in paycheck protection loans

      College Board releases free resources for upcoming AP Exams amid COVID-19

      Governor extends State of Civil Emergency through May 15

      Maine Medical Center joins two clinical trials examining potential treatment for COVID-19

      State announces support for people with substance use disorder amid COVID-19

      USDA launches COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide

      Maine YMCAs remain busy providing essential services during COIVD-19 pandemic

      As more Maine nursing homes report COVID-19 cases state CDC focuses on testing, PPE

      Maine colleges, universities receiving $41 million in COVID-19 assistance

      State announces support for people with substance use disorder amid COVID-19

      Gov. Mills: Do the next right thing

      Launch of adult use marijuana in Maine delayed by pandemic

      New website launched supporting teachers, families in community-based learning

      How CMP is responding to power outages amid pandemic

      Gov. Mills signs Executive Order moving June elections to July

      To date, Paycheck Protection Program approves forgivable loans for 5,334 Maine small businesses

      Sens. Collins, King announce Maine hospitals to receive $145 million in COVID-19 fight

      Treasury, IRS launch tool to help non-filers register for COVID-19 payments

      IRS recommends taxpayers use electronic options, outlines online assistance

      To date, Paycheck Protection Program approves forgivable loans for 5,334 Maine small businesses

      IRS extends more tax deadlines covering individuals, trusts, estates, corporations

      Consumers urged to be aware of COVID-19 financial scams

      Maine DOE releases statement on recommendation to continue remote learning

      MPA cancels high school spring sports season

      Sen. Angus King pushes to support local journalism amid Coronavirus pandemic

      Gov. Mills signs Executive Order allowing remote notarization

      Governor, Education Commissioner recommend continuing remote instruction until summer break

      Ocean State Job Lot providing free COVID-19 mask fabric

      Congressman Golden to hold listening sessions for small businesses impacted by COVID-19

      Congresswoman Pingree co-sponsors legislation to provide $250 billion to local governments during COVID-19

      Maine primary election date tentatively moved from June 9 to July 14

      Governor expands health care access amid COVID-19

      Plan to open alternative hospital care sites in Portland, Bangor takes shape

      Mainers urge Gov. Mills to prevent evictions and foreclosures during COVID-19

      Hannaford donates $750,000 to COVID-19 response efforts

      Gov. Mills encourages Maine small businesses to apply to federal Paycheck Protection Program

      Maine Farm Food Access Program created to reimburse direct-market farms and farmers' markets SNAP/EBT equipment

      Governor delays requirement to renew seafood dealer licenses

      Overwhelmed with calls, Maine Dept. of Labor institutes alphabetical unemployment benefits filing schedule

      Maine’s Congressional Delegation responds to President approving Governor Mills’ disaster declaration request

      Gov. Mills announces approval of COVID-19 federal disaster declaration

      Governor Mills: Stay healthy. Stay home.

      Gov. Mills orders quarantine restrictions on travelers arriving in Maine

      Governor, Maine Congressional Delegation renew call for protection of BIW workers, other defense contractors amid COVID-19

      Governor, DHHS act to ensure basic necessities amid COVID-19

      Maine Securities Administrator warns COVID-19 investment schemes anticipated

      Maine halts, and then restarts, elver season

      Maine Coast Fishermen's Association creates online resource for fishermen to protect themselves and their businesses

      Fishing, other outdoor activities permitted under stay at home mandate

      Governor extends state’s property tax exemption deadline