Bangor, Maine News Update: January 28, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 463 new cases of COVID-19 statewide and four more people, diagnosed with the virus who have died. Two of the deceased were from Cumberland County, with one each from Kennebec and Penobscot counties.

Hancock County Jail inmates will be receiving recovery coaching services again soon, but not by Healthy Acadia, after Sheriff Scott Kane canceled the contract last Spring. The decision was in response to a statement issued by the group in support of Black Lives Matter. Kane told the Ellsworth American that he’s not a racist but had concerns about the violence against law enforcement supported by the BLM movement.

Northern Light Health will open a clinic for the COVID-19 vaccine in the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor. The facility will be able to accommodate larger numbers of residents, once the vaccine becomes more readily available. Appointments for the vaccine will still need to be set up online or at their COVID vaccine hotline number, 204-8551.

Maine got mixed reviews on the American Lung Association’s annual report card. The state got three A grades for its tobacco prevention programs, smoke-free workplace laws, and access to services to quit using tobacco. However, Maine got a failing grade for the sale of flavored tobacco products, with one in three high school students using tobacco products.

A local farmer’s market is adding curbside pickup to its services, in an effort to attract more customers. The Hampden Farmer’s Market is open every Friday from 2 to 4 in the afternoon, with everything from vegetables to meat, baked goods, eggs, and maple syrup. Find more information on the Hampden Farmer's Market Facebook page.

A Heart of Ellsworth project to paint a mural in downtown Ellsworth has cleared its first hurdle, obtaining an anonymous grant to begin planning the project. Eventually, the painting will be overseen by an artist, with the help of local art students and community volunteers.