Bangor, Maine News Update: March 25, 2021

The Maine CDC reports the state's supply of COVID-19 vaccine doses will increase by about 28% next week, which means an additional 10,010 doses. Health officials report 211 new cases of the virus statewide.

DHHS Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew announced this week that residents will now have access to enrollment for affordable healthcare coverage through August 15^th. Starting April 1^st under the American Rescue Plan, consumers can save, on average, 50 dollars per person per month, and 85 dollars per policy per month. Learn what coverage you’re eligible for on the COVER ME website.

Wildlife authorities are considering increasing the number of moose hunting permits offered by the state in an attempt to curb the infestation of winter ticks. State biologists have proposed at 11% increase in permits for the fall’s hunt. Winter ticks are different than the deer ticks that spread Lyme disease, but are a major pest for the moose herd.

The Maine Legislature is considering a proposal that would make it legal for people to send off their deceased family members with a flaming funeral pyre. A nonprofit called Good Ground, Great Beyond hopes to have outdoor funeral pyres on a 63-acre forested parcel in Dresden. The person’s ashes would then be scattered on a forested area of the property.

The Downeast Salmon Federation’s Annual Smelt Fry is taking another year off, due to the pandemic. The annual event is usually held in Columbia Falls as a way to celebrate the arrival of Spring.

A program that aims to provide low-income Maine seniors with $50 of locally grown produce is in need of farmers to participate. The specific areas in need are the Lincoln and Rumford areas, as well as Washington County. Find more information about how to get involved on the website for the Maine Senior Farm Share program.