Bangor, Maine News Update: July 9, 2020

The Maine CDC reports 20 new cases of COVID-19 in the state and 40 more people who have recovered. Governor Janet Mills has extended the state of civil emergency for a fourth time, which will allow the state access to federal funding and support.

Governor Janet Mills has strengthened her mandate that requires Mainers in coastal counties and heavily populated areas, including Bangor and Brewer, to wear face coverings when in situations where physical distancing isn’t possible. This includes large retail businesses, restaurants, outdoor bars, tasting rooms, and lodging establishments. The governor has established a reporting form for alleged violations.

Maine’s casinos are hoping to fully reopen soon, after being closed for months due to the pandemic. Under the new protocols, they will only be allowed 200 guests at a time, with slot machines separated by games that have been turned off, and visitors required to wear face coverings.

Starting today, Waterfront concerts in Bangor and Westbrook will begin issuing refunds to people who hold tickets to cancelled or rescheduled events for the 2020 season. If you purchased your tickets with a credit card, the refund will be automatically issued, but anyone who paid cash is asked to bring their original tickets to the box office. Find more information on the Waterfront Concerts website.

The Bar Harbor Town Council voted 6 to 1 this week not to allow America Cruise Lines to run smaller ships to Bar Harbor for the remainder of the 2020 cruise season. America Cruise Lines has proposed running the Constitution and Independence at 50% occupancy, starting this month.

Wine & Whiskers, the SPCA of Hancock County’s biggest fundraiser of the year, will be a virtual event this year, with participants able to choose what they want to view online. Bidding on a silent auction will begin on the 14th, with other offerings to include live music, videos of adoption success stories, and more. Find more information on the SPCA's website and on our Sunday morning program, Maine Concerns.