Bangor, Maine News Update: January 15, 2021

The Maine CDC reports an increase of more than 800 new cases of COVID-19 statewide, for the second day in a row. Thursday's total of new cases was 815, and 8 additional deaths of people with the virus. 3 of the deceased were from Penobscot County, 2 each in York and Cumberland Counties, and 1 in Aroostook County.

Bangor Police are asking for the public's help with information about a fire Wednesday night on French Street. The fire did very little damage, but a tenant said they saw an object being thrown at the building just before the flames started. Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious, in connection with this incident, is asked to contact the police department.

School officials in Maine School Administrative District 54 are searching for a site for a new school in Skowhegan. Students have been going to North Elementary School since 1954, but now that the district has qualified for the State Capital School Construction Program, it's going to be replaced. The goal is to have students in the new school by 2024.

Delta Airlines is returning to Bangor International Airport, which airport officials say is a positive sign, at a time when passenger numbers have dipped as much as 70%. Starting March 2nd, Delta will offer a daily 7:30 A.M. flight to LaGuardia, with the chance of a second flight being added in June.

The Make-a-Wish Foundation received a donation of more than $117 thousand this month, donated by VIP Tires and Auto Service. Last year, 62 stores raised more than $58,000, as part of their Season of Wishes campaign, and the company matched it. The money will allow the organization to grant 16 wishes to kids facing life-threatening illnesses, all across New England.

Bangor's Park and Rec Department has revived its Take a Break and Recreate Program, to encourage people to get involved in recreational activities. The pandemic has forced them to adjust some programs, so they're offering basketball, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing at the Bangor Municipal Golf Course, and ice skating at Sawyer Ice Arena.