Bangor, Maine News Update: March 23, 2020

The Maine CDC’s latest update on Sunday revealed a total of 89 people who have tested positive for COVID-19. Residents are reminded that they can get their questions answered by calling the coronavirus hotline at 211. Find more information about the latest updates here.

State Police are investigating the shooting death of a man in Blue Hill. Officials say the incident happened just before 6:00 Sunday evening on the Ellsworth Road. One person has been questioned and police say there is no threat to the public.

The city of Bangor has declared a state of emergency and issued a list of businesses that are required to be closed, as well as those that are exempt from the order. Restaurants, stadiums, bars, arenas, and others must be closed to business, while grocery stores, car repair businesses, healthcare facilities and others are allowed to operate.

Wardens are reminding ice fishermen to use extreme caution in the final days of the season.  Ice fishing shacks must be removed from waterways by March 31st or sooner, depending on local rules. Wardens warn that ice conditions can be extremely inconsistent this time of year, especially on lakes and ponds.

Manna in Bangor continues to help those in need. A hot meal is served every weekday, from 4:15 to 5 p.m., and the food pantry is open from 3 to 4 on those days, all at the Brick Church, corner of Union and Main Streets in Bangor. Donations can be dropped off there, as well.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency is asking people from away to postpone their snowmobiling trips to Maine until next year, to avoid spreading COVID-19. To that end, snowmobile clubs have been asked to stop grooming the trails to discourage people from traveling here. Locals are advised that trails could be icy, due to the lack of grooming, and they should be extremely careful, watching their speed and riding safely.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension will hold an online workshop to teach residents how to grow hemp at home. The workshop on April 2^nd will talk about the best practices for growing hemp as well as offer instructions about how to harvest, dry, cure, and prepare it for personal use.