Bangor, Maine News Update: June 24, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 21 new cases of COVID-19, and two additional deaths. Dr. Nirav Shah says he’s encouraged by the number of people getting vaccinated, since Governor Mills announced the Vaccinationland sweepstakes. Since the contest opened, Shah says almost 9,000 people have received their first dose of the vaccine. 

A Stockton Springs woman has been arrested for the death of her 3-year-old child., who died earlier this week after his mother took him to an emergency room. Jessica Williams was arrested on Wednesday. The cause of death has not been revealed.  

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A new report from the Maine Attorney General’s Office says overdose deaths in the state increased by 33% in 2020. According to the report, 336 deaths were caused by fentanyl, which is also responsible for 76% of all overdose deaths through April of this year.  

A bill on the governor’s desk would fine anyone who releases a large number of balloons into the air, out of concern for the environment. First time offenders who release between 16 and 24 balloons could be fined between $100 and $500. The proposal would not punish someone who releases a balloon accidentally.  

The public is invited to join in on a Fields Pond Paddle Party this Saturday morning in Orrington. Participants will paddle their own watercraft on a tour around the pond, learning about the conservation efforts that have gone into maintaining this wildlife habitat. Find more information and get pre-registered on the Fields Pond Paddle Party Facebook page.  

Motorcyclists are invited to join in on the Don Clark Memorial Ride, planned for Saturday, July 3rd. The toy run to benefit Toys for Tots will leave from the Mill Mall in Ellsworth, with a destination of Junction Music Park in Brownville. Find more information on the Facebook page for the Don Clark Memorial Ride.