Bangor, Maine News Update: January 11, 2019

Bangor Police are investigating after two students reported that a middle-aged man in an SUV had followed them and exposed himself to them. Patrols around the school have been increased and school administrators suggest children always walk the same way, with a peer or a group, and never get into cars with strangers.

Governor Janet Mills announced yesterday that 529 Mainers have now qualified for health insurance under Medicaid expansion, in the first week since she ordered DHHS to begin implementation. DHHS officials say they’ve received approximately two thousand phone calls each day since the Governor’s executive order.

Four lawmakers are floating bills that would seal or expunge the records of people with past marijuana convictions. The move comes as Maine continues its transition into a legal marijuana state. Supporters say prior offenders shouldn’t have to carry a criminal history for something that’s no longer illegal.

The Coast Guard is still at work, despite the partial government shutdown. The Ellsworth American reports the six Coast Guard stations in Maine will continue as normal, doing their essential duties like search and rescue missions, port and homeland sea and safety, and law enforcement.

A fundraiser next week at Ellsworth High School will offer up a simple meal of homemade soups, chili, and chowders, served up in handmade bowls, all to benefit the high school’s food pantry. Each attendee gets to take home their bowl that was made by one of the art students. Find more information about the event that will be held next Wednesday on the Ellsworth Empty Bowls Supper Facebook page.