Bangor, Maine News Update: December 11, 2020

The Maine CDC reports 406 new cases of COVID-19 statewide and 56 more people who have recovered. Currently, officials say 173 people are hospitalized including 42 in critical care, and 15 who are on ventilators.

A petition started by parents concerned about the Bangor school department's decision not to include any snow days into the calendar year has had an impact. Interim Superintendent of Schools Kathy Harris-Smedberg announced Wednesday that they will keep two snow days, after hearing parents' input. Any stormy days after those two are used will be transitioned to remote learning days.

Shredded plastic from Ireland that was meant to be burned at the Orrington PERC plant, is now being cleaned off the shores of Sears Island. The BDN reports the bales deteriorated during a sea journey and two fell into the water, as they were being offloaded in Searsport. If another shipment is sent from Ireland, officials say they will make sure the bales are bundled more securely.

An astronaut from Maine could be the first woman to land on the moon. NASA announced this week that Caribou native Jessica Meir will train with 17 other astronauts as part of the Artemis moon-landing program. The goal is to land a man and woman on the moon by 2024, 52 years after the last moon landing.

Wreaths Across America Day is coming up soon, and Jersey Mike's Subs has made a commitment to help them make the most of their mission. Form now until December 14th, the sandwich chain will match ever $15 wreath sponsorship, up to $300,000. Folks can make their donations online.

An organization that works to help people in need from 10 different towns is planning a special Festival of Lights parade. Instead of asking residents to come to the parade, Community Compass is bringing the parade to them. A line of decorated vehicles will start at the Penobscot Elementary School, through Sedgwick, into Deer Isle and Stonington, and ending at the Island Community Center.