Bangor, Maine News Update: May 24, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 117 new COVID-19 cases and one additional death. With the mask mandate dropped today, residents are advised to keep face coverings with them, as some businesses and all healthcare facilities will still require them.

Bangor's James F. Doughty School has moved to remote learning for the next week, after multiple confirmed cases of COVID-19 among students and/or staff. The school nurse and administrators will be reaching out today to anyone who may have been exposed. All other Bangor schools will continue with in-person learning.

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Northbound traffic is backed up on I-95 in Bangor this morning, between Stillwater Avenue and Union Street, due to construction. Drivers are advised to avoid the area or expect major delays through rush hour.

Walgreens in Sanford is informing multiple people that they received an ineffective dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, after an employee improperly diluted the serum with sterile water instead of saline. Store employees are reaching out to all the impacted patients to administer a correct first or second dose within the effective time frame.

A first-of-its-kind homeless family housing center opened Saturday in Hancock County. So far, two families have moved into the Families First Community Center in Ellsworth, and have started learning the skilled they need to gain self-sufficiency. Organizers say they have applications for more occupants, to fill the facility’s six apartments.

Parents and grandparents are invited to stop by Quirk Chevrolet this Saturday for a free child car seat safety check. Appointments are necessary for the event that will run from 10 to 1 and will include checking for recalls on the seats, that they’re properly installed, and the correct size. Appointments can be made on the Maine Seat Check website.

Hirundo Wildlife Refuge is asking for volunteers to join them on Saturday from 9 to noon to prepare the property for summer visitors. Tasks will include stabilizing bridges, widening the trails and cutting back saplings, as well as painting, weeding, and more. Find more information on the Hirundo Wildlife Refuge Facebook page.