Bangor, Maine News Update: May 14, 2020

The Maine CDC reports one new death, of a man from East Millinocket diagnosed with COVID-19, taking that total to 66. The latest statistics report 1,515 cases statewide, an increase of 38 from the previous day. 30 more Mainers have recovered, for a total of 943.

Governor Janet Mills has extended the state of civil emergency through June 11th. It's the second 30-day extension since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and will allow state government to deploy all available resources quickly and as needed. It also gives Maine more access to federal aid that helps equip healthcare workers with the protective gear they need.

The Maine CDC wants residents to keep up-to-date with their recommended vaccines, as a way to protect, not only their own families, but also folks in their community who may be elderly or immunocompromised. Dr. Nirav Shah says it's also important to take the time to see a health care provider, especially for well child checks.

The Maine National Guard will continue with their flyovers today, that were cut short earlier this week due to weather conditions. Today's route will start at MDI Hospital at around 11:15, Down East Community Hospital in Machias at 11:25, and then will head to Northern Maine. The flyovers are part of Operation American Resolve, which aims to thank healthcare and essential workers on the frontlines of the pandemic.

Senior citizens are staying at home as much as possible, to avoid exposure to COVID-19, but that makes staying active challenging. So the Eastern Area Agency on Aging is offering at-home exercises online that will focus on things like yoga, meditation, and fall prevention. Organizers say the workouts that will appear on Facebook Live, every day, also help seniors feel more engaged and less isolated.

The Challenger Learning Center will hold a virtual webinar for families on Friday evening, so they can learn more about backyard stargazing, including identifying planets and constellations. Preregistration is required on the Challenger Learning Center's website.