Bangor, Maine News Update: January 20, 2021

The Maine CDC 318 reports 393 new cases of COVID-19 statewide and five residents who have died. Dr. Nirav Shah says more than 4,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine exceeded the temperature requirements while on the way to Maine. The issue was discovered before the vaccines were administered and replacement doses are being sent by Operation Warp Speed.

A series of drug busts in Washington County netted the arrests of two men from Massachusetts and five local residents. MDEA officials say the Massachusetts dealers were bringing cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl to Maine and selling it out of local homes. More arrests are expected.

An app created by a team at the University of Maine aims to teach people about what they should do if they witness someone having an overdose. While it doesn’t replace formal training, the OD-ME app will detail two ways to administer the overdose reversal drug naloxone. The app is available through the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.

University of Maine students have developed a website to help K through 12 teachers prepare for outdoor activities. Included on the site are quizzes, videos, and slide shows on topics like mountain biking, wilderness survival, and some outdoor ethics issues.

Two dogs from Maine will be taking part in the Super Bowl’s puppy bowl. Rumor, a deaf cattle dog mix, and Duke, a Great Pyranees mix, both 8 months old, will be on Team Ruff. The Puppy Bowl airs on Animal Planet, and aims to raise awareness for pet adoptions.

The City of Bangor has awarded a $10 thousand dollar grant to a local organization that helps provide meals for the area’s outdoor homeless population. In addition, the group provides things like clothing and sleeping bags. Find more information on the Facebook page for Hope for the Homeless.