Bangor, Maine News Update: February 24, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 145 new cases of COVID-19 statewide, and 2 people from Oxford County, diagnosed with the virus, who have died. 40 Walgreens stores across Maine are now offering the COVID vaccine, available to residents age 70 and older.

A Tremont man is charged with aggravated trafficking as the result of an investigation into the sale of heroin and fentanyl in Hancock County, specifically on Mount Desert Island. Keith Wedge was arrested on Monday in Newport, where drug agents seized 500 grams of fentanyl from his vehicle. The estimated street value of the drugs is $100,000.

In Tuesday night's State of the Budget address, Governor Janet Mills unveiled her Back to Work bond proposal, which includes: expanding broadband; developing the workforce; supporting innovation in heritage industries like farming, fishing, and forestry; and increasing childcare. More details about this plan are expected to be released soon.

Governor Mills has ordered all flags lowered to half-staff, in honor of all residents who have lost their lives to COVID-19. So far, 500,000 American have died of COVID-19, 660 of whom were Maine residents. Flags will remain lowered until sundown on Friday.

Maine lawmakers are considering a proposal that would extend takeout alcohol through September 2022. Restaurants and bars have been allowed to sell alcohol via takeout and delivery service during the pandemic, as long as the liquor is accompanied by a food order.

Start on March 1st, 'At Your Service Tours' in Bar Harbor will begin giving rides to MDI residents who want to get a COVID-19 vaccine. The rides will be free of charge, with a petition between the driver and passenger, and will take residents age 70 and older to clinics in Bar Harbor, Ellsworth, and Bangor.

The Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race will be back this year, after the pandemic forced its first-even cancellation last year. This year's race will be held on April 17th, with fewer boats and less people allowed to take part. Six Mile Falls will be closed to spectators and racers will be required to register prior to race day.