Work Halted on CMP Corridor
(Augusta) Construction on the billion-dollar transmission line known as the Clean Energy Corridor is temporarily halted. Voters overwhelmingly cast their ballots against the project on November 2nd, but the vote on that referendum question wasn’t set to take effect until January, and Central Maine Power’s parent company, Avengrid, had continued construction up until last Friday. Governor Mills, who supports the project, had written to Avangrid asking the company to stop work on the project in deference to voters while legal challenges play out in court.
Golden Only Dem to Vote Against Build Back Better
(Augusta) Representative Jared Golden, who represents Maine’s Second Congressional District, was the only Democrat to vote against President Biden’s Build Back Better Plan. Golden said his vote was based on his opposition to a measure known as SALT relief that would allow federal taxpayers to take more deductions. Golden said the measure benefitted the most wealthy.
EPL Best Books Talk
(Ellsworth) Need something great to read on those long winter nights? The Ellsworth Public Library staff is hosting an end of the year recap of the best books they’ve read this year. A number of different genres will be covered, and the talk will include both fiction and nonfiction books. The presentation is set for 3 p.m. on December 1st. Visit the library’s website for more information.
EPL Offers Hot Cocoa
(Ellsworth) If you’re planning to head down to the Ellsworth Christmas Parade on December 4th, warm up on the lawn of the Ellsworth Public Library with hot cocoa and a scavenger hunt. Stop by anytime between 10:30 and 1:00, and mail your letter in Santa’s special mailbox while you’re there!
Oceanarium to Reopen in 2022
(MDI) The Oceanarium and Marine Museum on Mount Desert Island could reopen in 2022 after being shuttered for two years. The Bangor Daily News reports the head of a newly formed non-profit, Oceanarium and Education Center, plans to meet with Bar Harbor’s planning board to discuss rezoning. Jeff Cummings says the property is currently zoned residential. Cummings says the purpose of the Oceanarium is to show people marine science and to instill in them a love of the ocean.
Downeast Conservation Area Expanded
(AP/Lakeville) The Downeast Lakes Community Forest grew by more than 2000 acres last week. Conservation groups say the land’s owner was preparing to subdivide the land in the area of Sysladobsis Lake into lakefront lots. Instead, it will now give residents more access to the outdoors. The Downeast Lakes Land Trust will own the new addition, which has been a popular camping spot.
Toll Booth Crash Claims Life
(West Gardiner) A fiery crash Saturday at the West Gardiner toll plaza on I-95 claimed the life of the vehicle’s sole occupant. Public Safety Department Spokesperson Shannon Moss reports to Star 97.7, about 2:45 Saturday afternoon, a southbound vehicle hit a guardrail, redirected itself back onto the highway, then struck the center pylon at the toll plaza, causing the vehicle to burst into flames. An autopsy is underway to determine the identity of the driver.
Fairfield Double Stabbing
(Fairfield) Two men sustained stab wounds at a gathering at a home in Fairfield Saturday. Police were called to 19 Pratt Road shortly after 11 p.m., and both men were transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. A suspect, 31 yo Alejandro Rivera of Puerto Rico was arrested and taken to Somerset County Jail. He’s charged with two counts of elevated aggravated assault. The victims are not being identified at this time.
Hiram Death Investigation
(AP/Hiram) Law enforcement officials are investigating the shooting of a Hiram man early Saturday morning. Police responded to a home at 6 Oak Woods Road about 1 a.m. Saturday for a report of a man being shot and in need of medical help. When police arrived, they found the man outdoors on the property, but he was already dead. Police have not released the man’s name. An autopsy is scheduled, and an investigation is ongoing. Maine State Police say they’re confident there’s no danger to the public.
Three Arrested in Waldo County
(Stockton Springs) The theft of tools and building supplies from a construction site in Stockton Springs has led to the arrest of three people on theft and drug charges. Public Safety Spokesperson Shannon Moss reports to Star 97.7, an investigation into the November 18th theft led authorities to 33 yo Joshua Pomeroy of Stockton Springs. A search of Pomeroy’s home reportedly turned up additional stolen property and a large quantity of drugs. Also arrested on drug charges in connection with the case were Joshua Breault and Megan Sawyer of Stockton Springs.
Maine State Police Investigating Death of 3 yo
(Howland) Another child under the age of 4 has died in Maine. The Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office notified the Maine State Police about the death of a 3 yo boy from Howland on Saturday. The medical examiner will perform an autopsy to determine the manner and cause of death. No further details were available. ATF Offers Reward for Information on Stolen Firearms
ATF Offers Reward for Info on Stolen Firearms
(Machias) Authorities are offering up to $5000 in rewards for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons who stole three firearms from Pineo’s True Value Hardware in Machias. ATF agents are working with local authorities. They say an individual forced entry into the store in the early morning hours of October 15th, broke a firearms display case, and took three handguns. Agents say firearms that are stolen are most certainly destined to be used for criminal purposes. Anyone with information is asked to call 888-ATF-TIPS.
Police Make Two Arrests in Machias Murder
(Machias) Police Friday arrested three men in two separate incidents in connection with the shooting death of 17 yo Brandin Guerrero of New York. The shooting occurred in Machias on November 4th. Authorities say the killing was drug related. Police arrested 23 yo Nathanael Genao of Massachusetts Friday morning. That evening, they also arrested 27 yo Juan Ortiz of New Hampshire and 30 yo Emanuel Ramos of Massachusetts. All three men are charged with Felony Murder. Maine State Police continue to investigate.
Canadian Government to Adjust Testing Requirement
(US/Canada Border) It may soon become a little easier for some to cross the US/Canada border. Beginning November 30th, vaccinated Canadians who have spent less than 72 hours in the U.S. will not need to present a negative COVID test prior to returning to Canada. Canadian authorities say the revised policy will eventually lead to easier crossings for citizens of the U.S. and then to citizens of other countries, as well.Missing Norridgewock Man Found Safe
(Norridgewock) Game wardens and others spent three days searching the woods around Norridgewock for missing 37 yo Graham Lacher before locating him Sunday in Waterville. Communications Director Mark Latti reports to Star 97.7. Lacher was last seen in Norridgewock on Thursday afternoon, leaving a residence on Waterville Road with a flashlight, a book, and possibly a baseball bat. The baseball bat was found in the woods. Lacher was located in Waterville Sunday morning. No further details were released.
Road Projects Coming to Bangor Area
(AP/Bangor) Got potholes? Millions of dollars in road construction projects are coming to communities in Eastern and Northern Maine. The money is via the RAISE grant program and will boost projects in Bangor and Houlton. The funding is designed to help drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. In Bangor, 1.65 million dollars will go toward roadway and intersection improvements on Broadway.
Sex Abuse in ME National Guard
(AP/Bangor) Sexual assault cases have allegedly spiked in the Maine National Guard, and the Bangor Daily News reports tepid response from leaders since 2013. That’s when lawmakers asked for a report on sexual assault in its ranks. At least two Maine guard members are facing criminal charges amid allegations they sexually assaulted other soldiers. The Guard says the rise in cases can be attributed to greater awareness and willingness of soldiers to come forward.Purple Means Off Limits to Hunters
Purple Means Off-Limits to Hunters
(AP/Bangor) More and more hunters are seeing purple – and that means the land is off limits without first obtaining permission to hunt. Property owners can use purple paint on trees, rocks or fence posts, as opposed to signage to warn away would-be hunters. The marking is a single vertical stripe of purple paint.Hold the Bird Feeders
Hold the Bird Feeders
(AP) Hold the bird feeders – experts are warning New Englanders to hold off putting out bird feeders until at least December this year. They say bears are searching for high-fat, protein-rich food to sustain them as they head into their dens, and bird feeders are often a target. One expert warns a single feeding will cause a bear to return in other seasons.Bench Memorial
Bench Memorial
(AP/Portsmouth, NH) A new bench was unveiled in New Hampshire to honor the late Charlie Howard, a 23 yo gay man and Portsmouth native killed by three teenage boys in Bangor in 1984 because of his sexuality. The Portsmouth Herald reports the stone bench was installed in Portsmouth’s Commercial Alley with an inscription of Howard’s favorite song from the musical “La Cage aux Folles”, “I Am What I Am”. A dedication ceremony is scheduled for next year.
Blue Hill Library Offering
(Blue Hill) Renowned flute maker and composer Hawk Henries will join Leslie Ross at the Blue Hill Public Library on December 2nd for a discussion about instrument making, inspirations, and learning from the past. The event begins at 6 p.m. and will be held both in person and via a zoom link that can be accessed through the library’s website.
Island Housing Trust Receives Challenge Grant
(MDI) Island Housing Trust has received a $400,00 challenge grant from an anonymous donor that will match dollar-for-dollar all donations to IHT’s Campaign for Mount Desert Island received through the end of the year. IHT promotes viable, year-round island communities by advancing permanent, affordable workforce housing on Mount Desert Island.
Zoom Presentation to Benefit Seafood Workforce
(Machias) Learn what industry leaders are doing to tackle workforce challenges in Maine’s seafood economy in a one-hour virtual conversation sponsored by the Alliance for Maine’s Marine Economy. The event features four businesses that are moving the needle forward by trying new things to recruit, train, and retain a skilled workforce. Bring your questions and comments to the interactive event on December 9th, from 1 to 2 p.m. Register through the Alliance for Maine’s Marine Economy.
Local Award Winner
(Ellsworth) Congratulations are in order for Melanie Wyman of the Brown, Holmes and Milliken Agency. Melanie has been recognized as the 2021 Young Insurance Professional of the Year by the Maine Insurance Agents Association. Recipients of the award are nominated by their employers, co-workers, and peers, and Melanie received multiple nominations. Melanie is a resident of Franklin whose peers say she is devoted to her work, always willing to help, and takes full advantage of community service opportunities.
Solar Farm
(AP/Farmington) A 490-acre solar energy farm is now online and connected to the regional power grid. Bowdoin College joined four Massachusetts schools to help fund the project. The $110 million, 76.5 megawatt solar farm is said to be the biggest in New England, with a massive array of solar panels. The developer, NextEra, says the solar project will power close to 17,000 New England homes each year.
Sports
- The New England Patriots next host the Tennessee Titans on Sunday
- Bruins 0 Calgary Flames 4 (Sunday) Bruins travel to Buffalo on Wednesday to skate against the Sabres
- The Celtics quieted the Oklahoma City Thunder Saturday 111-105. Celtics host the Houston Rockets tonight.
- Tom Brady and the Buccaneers host the NY Giants in Tampa for Monday Night Football.
National News
(Multiple) At least five people are dead and more than 40 injured after an SUV barreled through a Christmas parade in Wisconsin. Witnesses say the driver appeared to be lost then took a right turn onto the parade route, gunned the engine and seemed to floor the vehicle. A person of interest is reportedly in custody.