Bangor, Maine News Update: March 3, 2020

A Maine State Trooper is credited with helping to save a local resident from losing thousands of dollars after being fooled by a phone scammer who claimed a family member needed bail money. When the person realized too late that it was a scam, they contacted police, and the trooper tracked their package to an out-of-state Fed Ex facility, and stopped it from going any farther.

The University of Maine has suspended its study abroad program to Italy and is working with families to bring the students home. While no students have shown symptoms of Coronavirus, rising health concerns have caused University officials to ban student and staff travel to Italy, Iran, China, and South Korea.

Brewer residents will not only be voting in the primary election today, and on the referendum question about vaccination requirements, but will also be replacing a state representative. Candidates Kevin O'Connell and Garrell Craig, both of Brewer are vying for the seat left open when Arthur Verow passed away.

After the first confirmed case of coronavirus in New Hampshire, Governor Janet Mills has convened a team that’s tasked with coordinating Maine’s response to the potential spread of the illness. The Maine CDC’s Executive Director, Dr. Nirav Shah will head the team. So far, the only person in Maine who met the federal requirements, tested negative for COVID 19.

Husson University has made some modifications, in preparation for a possible outbreak of coronavirus. In the event of students being quarantined, they will still be able to attend classes remotely through online webcams. While administrators hope the technology won't have to be used for this reason, they say it's important to be ready if it should be needed.

The paper mill in Old Town has stopped, for the time being, but it’s only temporary. Mill officials told WVII-TV that new upgrades are being made to the facility and the employees are getting paid while the work is completed. The mill is expected to be closed for four to six weeks.

Folks are invited to don their favorite shorts, flip flops, and Hawaiian shirts Saturday for the annual Winter Beach Ball. The annual dinner/dance will feature music from Motor Booty Affair and will raise money for the hospital's neo-natal unit. Find more information on the EMMC auxiliary's website.