Crime/Public Safety

February Storm

(Maine)  Some 35 million people from Maryland to Maine yesterday hunkered down among blizzard warnings.  Flights were delayed, and crews stood by to plow and restore power.  Here in Downeast Maine, the winds began early, the snow taking its time and arriving hard and heavy during the late morning.  The impact was felt most keenly in New England states south of Maine, with at least eight declaring states of emergency.  Portland officially declared blizzard conditions there about 2 yesterday afternoon. The Washington Post reports up to two feet of snow was expected in the hardest-hit areas of New England, with drifts reaching 3 to 5 feet.  The National Weather Service in Boston called it a “potentially historic and destructive storm.”

Lubec Incident

(Lubec)  Few details being released, but an apparent shooting in Lubec Sunday night caused Washington County law enforcement to close County Road in the area of Pumping Station Road, due to a “police incident”.  Officials say there is no danger to the public.  The area where the incident occurred is close to the Canadian border.  We’ll have more details as they become available.

Local Politics

Politicians Continue to Play Dirty

(Undated)  Back in 1989, an independent film entitled “sex, lies, and videotape” caused quite the stir at  theatres.  With the Epstein files, false claims, A I and accusations, it’s sadly become the by-line of today’s politics.  Sources say the President has spent years denying the facts surrounding January 6th, pardoning the most violent offenders of that day, and continuing to accuse Georgia officials of election fraud, in spite of exhaustive investigations that have turned up nothing of the kind.  The Bangor Daily News reports here in Maine, Republicans are working hard to tie Democrats to fraud this election cycle.  Meanwhile, Democrats are emphasizing anti-corruption policies and the Epstein file scandal.  Those in the know and the want-to-know say avoid the buzzwords, don’t believe everything you see and hear, particularly on the internet, and do your homework, utilizing reliable sources.  

Economy

Future of Winter Harbor Marine Center Remains Uncertain

(Winter Harbor)  The Winter Harbor Marine Center has been listed for sale since last summer, but the future of the 3.4 acre site remains uncertain.  The Mount Desert Islander reports the property has the town’s only all-tide boat launch and moorings that are close to the town center and available to both visitors and recreational boaters.  It’s used as a base for the Bar Harbor to Winter Harbor ferry, run by Downeast Windjammer Cruise Lines and other services.  At a town meeting last September, residents expressed concerns about a potential sale, worrying it could be sequestered off as a private marina.  The property features two storage facilities and a small house and has an assessed value of about $840K.   It’s currently listed for just under $5 million.

Environment

Renewable Energy Company Plans Solar Project in Hancock County

(Hancock County)  A major player in the solar energy field has secured financing for a solar project in Hancock County.  MaineBiz reports the Swift Current Energy project will utilize more than 300K solar panels at Three Rivers solar farm, producing 122 megawatts of direct current on a thousand-plus acre parcel in the unorganized Township 16 Middle Division. The project is expected to reach commercial operation late this year.  It’s the company’s first project in Maine, although it operates solar, wind, and energy storage plants across North America.  

Pests and Prevention

(Ellsworth)  The City of Ellsworth knows all too well the consequences of infestation by pests that can destroy vegetation, beautiful tree canopies, and shade trees that save energy by protecting areas from summer heat.  On March 4th, the City will present a panel discussion entitled “Pests and Disease: The Cost of Doing Nothing”.  Moderators will explain the nature of issues relating to tree species and the methods necessary to address those problems, including cost.  Problems and pests such as the Emerald Ash Borer, Beech Leaf Disease, and the Spruce Budworm are already affecting area trees.  The discussion will be held at the Moore Community Center from 6 to 7 p.m. on March 4th, and everyone is welcome.

Health

Soup – Not Just for the Soul

(BDN)  Mom was right – when you’re not feeling well, piping hot soup is the best medicine.  The Portland Press Herald reports it’s been quite the cold and flu season here in Maine, but local food authorities agree there are some foods your body craves when under the weather. Reporters talked with eight food authorities around Greater Portland who all recommended spooning up hearty bowlfuls of soup, particularly those made with bone or vegetable broth – chicken noodle and carrot ginger soups were two of the chefs’ favorites.  Sounds like a reason to visit Brick House Soups here in Ellsworth!  Other recommendations, they say boost your Vitamin C intake with citrus fruits and juices, and enjoy hot tea with lemon and ginger and other herbs to soothe sore throats and achy heads. Enjoy it all at home, so you don’t spread those germs to others.

Red Cross Cuts Back on Mobile Blood Drives

(Undated)  The American Red Cross will phase out mobile blood drives this year, though not altogether.  They say such drives in Northern Maine, particularly in rural areas, have become untenable with the rising costs of staffing and other expenses.  Jennifer Costa, the ARC Regional Communications Director, said the move will not affect the availability of blood and blood products to hospitals and patients.  The Bangor Daily News reports affected counties include Hancock, Washington, Waldo, Aroostook, Somerset, and Piscataquis.  People will be encouraged to donate blood and platelets in Bangor at the donation center located on Hammond Street.

Human Interest

Wuthering Heights a Hit at the Box Office

(Undated)  In an age where theatres are struggling, Valentine’s Day weekend saw crowds, particularly women, gather for a classic.   The Associated Press reports Wuthering Heights topped the box office charts and nabbled the title for the year’s biggest opening, with close to $35M in ticket sales in its first three days in North America.  Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi star as star-CROSSED lovers Catherine and Heathcliff.  The movie is reportedly doing even better internationally, where it was expected to rake in an additional $42M.  The movie reportedly takes a number of liberties with the tragic tale, drawing mixed reviews, but continuing to draw crowds who called it a refreshing change from the horror and violence that often headlines marquees these days.

100th Newscast

(Brewer)  This week, we’re celebrating our 100th newscast here on Nice & Easy Internet Radio and the stations of Maine Internet Radio.  To thank our listeners, every day this week, we’re giving you a code word on our newscasts.  Just go to our Nice & Easy Internet Radio Facebook page and MESSAGE us the code word with your name.  Each day, we’ll draw a winner who will receive a $15 gift card to Dunkin – Breakfast on us to thank you for your support.  Congratulations to Monday’s winner – Liz Snow of Brooksville, and thanks to everyone who entered! Today’s code word is “LOCAL”.

MDI Student Donates to Wood Bank

(Bar Harbor)  You might say Lilly Guess “splits” her time between school and doing a load of good.  This week, the MDI High School senior split a whole dump truck full of wood at her home, loaded it up and brought it to the MDI Woodbank to donate. The MDI Wood Bank is the newest in a growing number of wood banks, providing free firewood to island residents in need, and connecting them with additional social services when necessary.  The wood bank was founded by Andrew Flanagan and accepts donations of hardwood logs or rounds at their Hamilton Station location.  Other area wood banks include the Waldo County Wood Shed and the DownEast Wood Bank in Surry.  All are accessible by visiting their pages on FB.

Chowdah Fest

(NE Harbor)  Speaking of soup, the Mount Desert Nursing Association will host their fourth annual Chowdah Fest on Monday, March 30th at the Neighborhood House in Northeast Harbor.  The Mount Desert Islander reports fourteen MDI restaurants will bring their best chowders to compete for the People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice Awards.  The event will run from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and you can purchase tickets at the door for just $12 per person.  All proceeds go toward MDNA’s mission of providing in-home nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and a lending library of medical equipment to MDI, Trenton, and Lamoine.

Rotary Club Donates to Beth C. Wright

(Ellsworth)  The Ellsworth Rotary Club recently donated $500 to the Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center and The Ellsworth Free Medical Center.  Beth C. Wright offers hope, knowledge, and support to cancer patients, their families and caregivers.  The Ellsworth Free Medical Center has volunteer healthcare providers who care for patients, with a mission of providing free, high-quality primary care with respect and compassion to the uninsured.  The Rotary Club of Ellsworth is a terrific resource for supporting such local nonprofits.  

National News

Great Britain Continues to Hold Accused Accountable

(ABC)  While the United States has yet to hold anyone related to the Epstein files accountable. The United Kingdom has now arrested a former Prince and a former ambassador to the United States.  Former Prince Andrew, stripped of his title last year, was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct while in public office.  ABC News reports on Monday, Lord Peter Mandelson was arrested on the same charge.  Police did not name Mandelson, but he was seen on video being escorted from his home.  Police said only that a 72 yo man was taken to a London police station for an interview.

Dozens Die in Attempt to Capture Mexican Cartel Leader

(AP)  More than 70 people died as Mexican authorities Sunday attempted to capture the notorious leader of a prominent drug cartel known for trafficking fentanyl, meth, and cocaine to the United States.  The Associated Press reports the leader known as “El Mencho” died, along with suspected cartel members and 25 members of the Mexican National Guard who were killed in six separate attacks.  Several Mexican states canceled school on Monday, and officials warned citizens to stay inside as new threats of violence loomed as a result.

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