Crime/Public Safety

Multiple Agencies Participate in Steuben Drug Arrest

(Steuben)  Multiple law enforcement agencies participated in a drug bust in Steuben last week.  The Washington County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday issued a press release, saying they were conducting a warrant check at 71 Augusta Drive when deputies observed suspected drug paraphernalia, which led to a probation search at another residence; and ultimately the arrest of 42 yo Corey Perry and 36 yo Laura Anderson.  As the investigation continued, officers attempted to execute a search warrant at the Augusta Drive location when they came under fire. They say four suspects fled, but were ultimately safely apprehended..  37 yo Nena Willey of Steuben and three people from Boston were found in possession of a large quantity of drugs and cash and face multiple charges.  The four were taken to the Washington County Jail.  

Local Politics

Maine Delegation Largely Declines Attending Trump’s State of Union

(Washington, DC)  Only one of Maine’s Congressional Delegation planned to attend last night’s State of the Union Address in Washington.  Independent Senator Angus King said he “cannot in good conscience” attend, adding Trump, “has shown no respect for the principles upon which the country is based, including the Constitutional Separation of Powers, the rule of law, and the rights guaranteed to every person under the Constitution.”  Democratic Representative Chellie Pingree also declined to attend; and while Democrat Jared Golden said he would not attend, he reportedly planned to watch from home.  Only Republican Senator Susan Collins planned to be in attendance. 

Economy

Federal Funding to Benefit Housing Projects

(East Machias)  The federal government has approved close to $25M for six housing projects across Maine – in East Machias, Indian Township, Greenville, Auburn, Sanford, and Wells.  MaineBiz reports Senator Susan Collins helped secure the funding, which she said will improve the quality and safety of affordable and emergency housing for families, seniors, and workers in the state.  DownEast Community Hospital will use a little over $2M to support the development of housing units in East Machias for its workforce. The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township was granted just under $3M to support affordable housing there as part of the Passamaquoddy Housing Initiative.

Heating Assistance Still Available

(Maine)  As winter drags on, Community Action in Aroostook, Washington, and Hancock Counties reminds folks emergency heating assistance is still available for households in crisis.  Applications continue to be accepted for heating assistance through HEAP – the Home Energy  Assistance Program.  The agency estimates hundreds of households across the three counties are eligible to receive assistance but have not yet applied. Those in need are urged to make an appointment or apply online … especially, they say, as processing numbers wind down for the season.  Visit A C A P dash M E dot org.

Outdoor Recreation Drives Downeast Economy

(Maine)  Those who live here will find it no surprise that outdoor recreation is a major driver of the Downeast Maine economy.  MaineBiz reports activities like boating, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, and specialized sporting events draw thousands to the region each year – supporting local businesses, jobs, and tourism dollars that mean investments in trails such as the Downeast Sunrise Trail.  Statewide, the outdoor recreation industry contributed $3.4B to Maine’s GDP in 2023, supporting 29K jobs.  The numbers emphasize the importance of protecting the state’s natural landscape and resources in order to continue supporting a four-season, sustainable, and growing economy.

Task Force Addresses Property Tax Rise Across All 16 Counties

(Maine)  Property values and years of inflation have pushed property taxes up across all 16 Maine counties, straining budgets and stress levels.  The Portland Press Herald reports that in order to address the issue, the state Legislature last year convened a group of 13 – lawmakers, citizens, and experts – to issue guidance on how best to lower property tax burdens.  The group met half a dozen times last year and has released a range of suggestions.  Those include smaller, more regular property tax payments, adjusting the fairness credit, changes to the homestead exemption, lowering municipal costs, and looking at ways to better educate property owners.  The task force is awaiting additional data from a study they commissioned (that’s expected in May) and hopes to meet at least another six times in 2026.  

Maine State Chamber to Offer Grants

(Augusta)  The Maine State Chamber of Commerce this week announced it is offering grants to member employers supporting employees through federal work reauthorization processes.  Up to four employers will be selected to receive $10K each.  MaineBiz reports grant funds can be used for legal or compliance support, employee communication, HR tracking, and other workforce support strategies.  RFPs are available now, with a proposal deadline of March 23rd.  Award notification will be April 3rd.  Proposals, which should be 2-3 pages in length, can be submitted through the Maine State Chamber of Commerce website.

Environment

Ellsworth to Again Accept Glass for Recycling

(Ellsworth)  As of this week, the City of Ellsworth Transfer Station is once again accepting clean glass jars and bottles for recycling.  Transfer Station Manager Dave Soper shared the goal of bringing the practice back is to reduce landfill tonnage, lower disposal costs, and operate more efficiently.  To ensure proper recycling, residents are asked to rinse jars and bottles clean, remove paper labels, and remove lids and caps and dispose of those in the garbage.  Glass should be brought to the Recycling Building at the station, 11 Industrial Road in Ellsworth.  For a list of items that are accepted and those that are not, visit the City of Ellsworth website or contact the Transfer Station.

Infrastructure

Bridge in Hancock Slated for Replacement

(Hancock)  The Maine Department of Transportation plans to replace a more than 90 yo bridge along Route One in Hancock.  The Ellsworth American reports construction on the Carrying Place Bridge is slated to begin in summer 2027.  MDOT says that while the bridge has received some maintenance over the years, it’s time for the entire structure to go.  The nearby boat launch area will reportedly be unaffected during and after construction.  

Stonington Cheers Federal Funds for Causeway

(Stonington)  The Stonington Select Board was greeted with some good news earlier this month.  The Penobscot Bay Press reports Senator Susan Collins helped secure $12M in federal funding for the Deer Isle Causeway project, and Senator Angus King announced a $2M request for harbor dredging around the town’s Fish Pier has also been approved.  Dredging will be a first step in a plan to reconstruct and raise the pier.  The monies are part of the FY 2026 Appropriations bills signed into law so far this year.

Human Interest

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 yesterday’s winner – Charlotte Snow of Sedgwick, and thanks to everyone who entered! Today’s code word is “NONPROFIT”.

The Brookside Serves Up Lunch Thursday

(Ellsworth)  The chefs at The Brookside have served up this week’s menu, and it’s a mouth-watering one, as always.  The Brookside is the cafe at Hancock County Technical Center in Ellsworth.  They normally dish up the deliciousness on Wednesdays, but with Old Man Winter being unpredictable again today, this week’s cafe will be open Thursday, weather permitting.  Choose from a pastrami reuben on rye, teriyaki chicken or vegetarian enchiladas.  And of course, soup, salads, drinks and desserts.  All items are just $8 and under. Serving tomorrow from 12 to 1:15, or order takeout ahead, using the form you’ll find on the HCTC FB page – you just need to do that by Noon today.

Heart of Ellsworth Fundraiser Rescheduled

(Ellsworth)  The unpredictable weather has forced the rescheduling of a major fundraiser for Heart of Ellsworth.  The Nonprofit is collaborating with Provender Kitchen and Bar for Three Courses for Community:  An Evening of Food and Fundraising.  That event now planned for May 3rd.  Proceeds will benefit Heart of Ellsworth’s efforts to strengthen downtown Ellsworth through community events, revitalization projects, and strategic partnerships.  Visit heart of ellsworth dot org for more information or to order tickets.

Dating in Maine a Bit Mixed

(Maine)  When it comes to dating in Maine, the results are mixed.  According to WalletHub’s recent survey of “Best and Worst States for Singles”, Maine ranked 32nd overall.  Of the three metrics used, Maine ranked 25th in dating economics, 31st in restaurants and attractions, and 35th in dating opportunities.  The best states for singles?  Florida, New York, and Texas.  West Virginia was at the bottom, followed by Arkansas and Wyoming.

Cinderella Project Benefits Aroostook County Teens

(Presque Isle)  A fairy godmother worked her magic in Aroostook County on Saturday – although she had plenty of help.  In the weeks leading up to the February 21st event, folks donated more than 200 gently used prom dresses, helping to ensure financial barriers stood in the way of no one this year.  It was all part of the Cinderella Project of Maine. The Presque Isle event resulted in some beautiful Princesses going home with dream dresses.  Cinderella Project events take place in other regions of Maine throughout the spring.  The Downeast and Midcoast event is set for April 17 and 18 in Searsport.  For more information, follow the Cinderella Project of Maine on FB.

National News

Trump Pushes for Intervention in Iran

(WaPo)  In spite of warnings from top aides and generals, the Trump Administration has rapidly built up the US military presence near Iran.  The Washington Post reports the buildup includes more than 150 planes.  General Dan Caine, in a meeting with the President last week, said an operation in Iran would face challenges, including a depleted munitions stockpile and a lack of support from allies, along with greater danger for U.S. troops.  In direct contradiction to Caine’s warnings, Trump then posted on his social media that it was “100% incorrect” that the General was against the US going to war with Iran and added, “it is his opinion that it will be something easily won.”  

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