Bangor, Maine News Update: May 5, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 438 new cases of COVID-19 statewide. COVID-19 vaccinations in Maine are now open to non-residents, a move Dr. Nirav Shah says is necessary as people come to Maine and return to the state.

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A New Brunswick man faces multiple charges after he sped through the U.S. Canadian border crossing in Houlton, leading police on a high-speed pursuit. The motorcycle reached speeds of 150 miles per hour before finally stopping in Millinocket. Jeremy Richard is charged with eluding police, criminal speeding, driving to endanger, and reckless conduct.

Governor Janet Mills has released a proposal detailing how she would use more than $1 billion in federal money from the American Rescue Plan Act. Mills says about $260 million would be dedicated to immediate economic recovery projects, such as lowering health care costs for small businesses and replenishing the state’s unemployment trust fund. A portion of the funds would also be used to tackle longer-term economic recovery goals.

Secretary of State Shenna Bellows testified on Tuesday in support of several bills that would, once again, limit what Mainers can put on their vanity license plates. If passed, the bills would allow the state to review all requests for personalized plates and reject any considered unacceptable. In addition, it would give the state the right to recall any plates already issued that are considered offensive.

A new facility has opened in Bangor that will offer a place for native Americans to recover from drug and alcohol use disorder. Opportunity House is located on Essex Street in Bangor and will be operated by Wabanaki Public Health and Wellness. Applications are being accepted for the facility that will house 7 men and staff members.

Brewer High School’s Outdoor Education program will hold its annual plant and flower sale this weekend, just in time for Mother’s Day. Proceeds from the sale of everything from seedlings and vegetables to pre-potted plants will benefit the alternative physical education program that focuses on activities like hiking and canoeing. The sale outside Brewer High School will run from noon to 5 on Friday and 8 to 2 on Saturday. Weather permitting, there will also be a car wash at the high school.