Bangor, Maine News Update: May 13, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 306 new cases of COVID-19 statewide and 1 additional death, of a person diagnosed with the virus. Governor Janet Mills says 70% of Maine adults have now received at least their first COVID-19 vaccination. Starting Monday, the state is offering incentives for people who have not yet received their first shot.

A scary situation in West Bath yesterday serves as a reminder to store firearms safely, especially around young children. A mother, father, and 2-year-old child were sent to the hospital after the child found an unsecured handgun on a bedside table, picked it up, and fired. Police say they were lucky, as none of the injuries was life-threatening, and an infant, who was also in the room, was not harmed.

Three brothers who found skeletal remains in a shed on their recently-deceased father’s Casco property say their sister, Denise Scott Ramsay, is missing. At last report, she had been living at the father’s residence. The Chief Medical Examiner’s Office says it could take several weeks before they can identify the remains and determine how the person died.

Governor Janet Mills wants to boost the state’s share of primary education costs to 55% for the first time, which would meet a goal established in a voter referendum more than 15 years ago. The spending boost would help schools while easing the local property tax burden. Governor Mills says it’s time to fully fund education.

A man who vowed to raise money for animal shelters in every state after losing his dog to cancer is coming to Maine next week. Kris Rotonda will host Facebook Live fundraisers for the Ark Animal Shelter in Cherryfield and Bangor Humane Society on Tuesday, and one for the Humane Society in Waterville on Thursday. Find more information on the Facebook page for the Jordans Way Tour.

The Maine Veterans Project has a lot of indoor and outdoor activities planned for the year, as part of its recreational program that aims to help reduce the veteran suicide statistic. Some of the outings include paintball, fishing, hiking, yoga, MMA fitness, and more. Find more information on the Maine Veterans Project website.