Bangor, Maine News Update: March 5, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 137 new cases of COVID-19 statewide and no new deaths. The first diagnosed case of the South African variant of COVID-19 has Dr. Nirav Shah, of the Maine CDC, once again emphasizing the importance of wearing masks and physically distancing. The B.1.351 case was found in Cumberland County. Shah says 3 cases of the United Kingdom variant of the virus have also been found in Maine.

A nearly 7-hour standoff in Buxton on Thursday ended peacefully after police spent the day communicating with 40-year-old Michael Landry via email. Buxton Police first went to the scene in answer to an open 911 call and discovered a case of domestic violence assault. Landry was out on bail, with the conditions not to be in Buxton or have contact with the victim.

The State Fire Marshal's Office held a media conference this week to talk fire safety, after four people died in 3 recent house fires. They say electrical problems, heating issues, and cooking can all start fires that spread very quickly. Officials say the best defense is the early warning provided by working smoking detectors.

Food banks and pantries can apply for money through the Food Security Network Reimbursement Program, which distributes money from the CARES act. The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry is working with Catholic Charities of Maine to get the funds out to food banks and pantries that have encountered unexpected costs due to the pandemic. Applications can be completed online and must be submitted by April 16th.

Families are invited for a free outdoor Easter Egg Hunt at the Orland Community Center, later this month. Several area businesses have banded together to plan this event on Saturday, March 27th, that will include having photos taken with the Easter Bunny.