Bangor, Maine News Update: June 16, 2020

The Maine CDC reports 17 new cases of COVID-19 in the state and 16 more people who have recovered. A woman in her 40’s from Androscoggin county is the latest person, diagnosed with the virus, to pass away.

Governor Janet Mills announced on Monday that a plateau in the amount of COVId-19 cases in southern Maine has prompted some changes to the reopening plan for Cumberland, York, and Androscoggin counties, beginning on Wednesday. Restaurants will be allowed to open for indoor dining, nail salons, gyms, and tattoo parlors can open, and bars, breweries, and tasting rooms can start serving customers outside. Statewide, she’s relaxed retail capacity requirements, which should shorten the lines to get into stores.

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office is asking county commissioners for protective riot gear, a matter which will be discussed at today’s meeting. Sheriff Scott Kane told WVII-TV that he’s asking for helmets with face shields, batons, and gloves, which would be used in situations where they need to intervene.

Businesses in downtown Bangor are supporting local artists who planned to take part in the arts collaborative walk, that was supposed to happen this month. 23 businesses are displaying their artwork in the shop windows all month, allowing residents to view them from the sidewalk. Organizers call it a wonderful way to support artists who have struggled to find outlets during the pandemic.

Brewer Parks and Rec has reopened the city’s playgrounds, but is warning parents that they should use the facilities at their own risk. The playground equipment won’t be sanitized, but officials will be monitoring their usage to make sure people are socially distancing. They recommend using hand sanitizer and washing hands before and after playing.

The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women lunch has gone virtual this year, including a live auction. One of the items up for bid is lunch with the Maine CDC’s Dr. Nirav Shah.