Bangor, Maine News Update: December 1, 2020

The Maine CDC reports another 249 cases of COVID-19 statewide and 146 more people who have recovered. 3 more people diagnosed with the virus have passed away.

As of 6:00 this morning, Versant was reporting 14,451 customers without power, while Central Maine Power was dealing with 86,701 outages. Line and tree crews are out, restoring power as quickly as possible. Residents are reminded not to touch any downed lines or trees that are in contact with power lines, and to report any outages in their area.

Ellsworth's schools are having a day of remote learning today, after a person associated with the Ellsworth Elementary-Middle school tested positive for COVID-19. More information about when the schools will return to hybrid learning will be released later today.

The Mills Administration has announced a new economic recovery program for the state's hospitality and tourism industries, as well as small businesses, who have been among the hardest hit by the pandemic. The program is being funded with $40 million in federal coronavirus relief aid. Businesses can apply for this first-come-first-served program, starting Wednesday, through a portal on the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development's website.

Residents of the Katahdin region can donate new, unwrapped toys for kids in need on Saturday. The drive-through donation event will be held from 9:30 in the morning to 1:00 in the afternoon at 114 Enfield Road in Lincoln. The toys will be distributed to families in need through the Greater Lincoln and Millinocket area Toys for Tots.

Some Theatre Company will present a holiday play later this month, that includes stories, Christmas carols, and more. 'Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)' will be presented at Bangor Mall from December 10th to the 13th. Find more information and purchase tickets through the troupe's website.