Good morning, I’m Sonnie Shepherd.  Twenty-five years ago, many of us watched in horror, as a passenger plane crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center.  At first, it seemed like a terrible accident …minutes later, another plane struck the South Tower … and we realized the United States was under attack.  Six people with ties to Maine died that day.  Stephen Ward of Gorham worked for Cantor Fitzgerald and was killed in the North Tower.  Robert and Jackie Norton of Lubec were passengers on American Airlines Flight 11 that struck the North Tower.  Robert Jalbert of Lewiston and James Roux of Portland were passengers on United Flight 175 that struck the South Tower, and Commander Robert Schlegel, who grew up in Gray, was a career Navy officer assigned to the Pentagon when American Flight 77 struck that building.  To all those on the planes, in the towers, on the ground, and the brave first responders who rushed to the scene – we continue to keep our vow to “Never Forget”.  And now we turn to our regular newscast.  

Good morning, I’m Sonnie Shepherd.  If you are old enough to remember the horrors that took place on the morning of September 11, 2001 – 25 years ago, most of us can remember exactly where we were, what we were doing, and the disbelief and longing to rush home to and/or be with loved ones.  To honor those lost, two powerful beams of light are shining from the summit of Mt. Washington in New Hampshire through tomorrow night, and many local tributes are planned, as we’ve vowed to “Never Forget”.  Be sure to stop by the Ellsworth Fire Department today from 11 to 2 for a cookout honoring the heroes of 9/11.  While you’re there, visit their moving display, featuring an authentic piece of a steel girder from the World Trade Center.  And now, let’s look at some local news.

Good morning, I’m Sonnie Shepherd.  It’s hard to believe 25 years ago today, the horrific events of 9/11 unfolded on American soil.  When the United States closed its airspace, our neighbors to the north opened their airports, churches, schools and homes to more than 33K stranded passengers, offering food, shelter, comfort and hope.  More than 40K Canadians later stood beside us in Afghanistan.  On this anniversary, we honor those who died on that tragic day, the first responders who rushed in to save lives, only to lose their own, and our neighbors to the north who didn’t hesitate to stand beside and support us.  Surry resident Diana Merenda directly witnessed the attacks on the towers as she worked in a downtown office building connected to the World Trade Center by an overpass.  She survived three cancers linked to the debris clouds that covered the city.  Join Diana as she narrates her experiences and takes questions at 11 a.m. this morning at the Ellsworth Public Library.  We’re keeping our promise to “Never Forget”. 

 And now, let’s take a look at what else is happening locally.

Local Politics

Ellsworth Reorganizes in  Response to Growth

(Ellsworth)  The City of Ellsworth is responding to its steady growth with the establishment of the Office of Community Development.  Under the direction of Twila Fisher, the office brings together Economic Development, Planning, Code Enforcement, and Assessing under one leadership team.  The four departments are now located together on the main level of City Hall, with visitors able to access them by turning left and going through the glass doors after the main entrance.  City Manager Charlie Pearce noted the approach allows the city to better coordinate projects and support responsible growth, while Fisher added economic development doesn’t happen in isolation.  The City says the creation of the new office reflects Ellsworth’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful planning, responsible growth, and collaboration, while remaining true to its identity as The Friendly City.

Beware of Fake Voting Sites

(Undated)  With all the false claims and the rise of AI and other technology, it pays to be extra cautious when it comes to your vote.  Elon Musk has reportedly created a website known as Vote Safe that’s anything but.  And there are other scams out there.  Your county clerk’s website is the only place that holds your real record.  Vote411.org is run by the League of Women Voters and sends you straight to your state’s own tool, keeping no information.  Ballotready.org is also a legitimate site that lets you see your full ballot before Election Day, including local races.  Musk’s website reportedly checks your registration against America PAC’s private voter list, not state records; so it can tell you you’re registered when your county says you’re not.  And they’re able to share or sell your information – name, date of birth, anything you share.  Voter beware – check with your county clerk to be sure and be safe.

Economy

Historic Bank Building for Sale

(Ellsworth)  The historic bank building that most recently housed Camden National Bank in downtown Ellsworth is for sale.  The Ellsworth American reports it’s the first time the structure has been on the market since it was built in 1935.  The asking price is $1,200,000, listed with Realty of Maine.  Camden is consolidating its banking in the former TD Bank location on High Street.

Education

MDIRSS Launches Parent University

(Bar Harbor)  The Mount Desert Island Regional School System has launched “Parent University”, a new initiative designed to provide free workshops, expert presentations, and resources to strengthen the connection between parents, schools, and the wider community.  The Mount  Desert Islander reports events will be hosted at MDI High School, with virtual options available.  The first session is set for Thursday, September 17th, from 5:30 to 7.  Parent University is free for all district families.  Access upcoming session topics and dates by visiting the official MDIRSS Parent University Portal.

Infrastructure

Ellsworth Area Road Work

(Ellsworth)  Motorists will want to plan ahead next week as public works crews have several projects on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 15th and 16th in Ellsworth.  Work will affect Christian Ridge near 425, the area downtown near the Union River Bridge, and Church Street Between Spring Street and Bayview Avenue.  We’ve shared a link with more details on our social media pages.  

Ellsworth Hydrant Flushing

(Ellsworth)  The Ellsworth Water and Fire Departments will begin their routine hydrant flushing program on Monday, September 28th, with work taking place on the Bucksport and Surry Roads.  Hydrant flushing is done twice a year, in the spring and fall, to help keep the water system running smoothly and flush naturally occurring sediment.  During flushing, area residents may experience temporary low water pressure, and discolored or cloudy water; but they say the conditions will clear shortly and don’t pose any health concerns.

Bar Harbor Power Outage

(Bar Harbor)  Residents and tourists who hoped for an early breakfast Thursday were delayed by a power outage in the downtown Bar Harbor area.  Sources say the power was back on by shortly after 6:30, the coffee was brewing and the eggs were cracking and frying.  No word on a cause.  

Human Interest

Eastport Pirate Festival

(Eastport)  Ahoy, Mates!  Don your pirate gear and head to Eastport this weekend for the Eastport Pirate Festival!  Activities begin this morning at 10 a.m. with ongoing pirate demonstrations, food and craft vendors, live music and entertainment, a pirate parade, a walk-the-plank contest, and treasure hunts with Captain Jack, puppet shows, and face painting for the kids.  You can also enjoy boat tours and other on-the-water events.  And, of course, the Black Pearl Ball tonight and fireworks on Saturday at dark.  Find a full schedule on the Eastport Pirate Festival FB page.  

Half Marathon and 5K

(Bar Harbor)  The Bar Harbor Bank and Trust Half Marathon and 5K will be happening tomorrow.  Race directors say there will be no road closures, but expect delays as runners cross Route 3 at West Street (likely between 6:15 and 8:15 a.m.) and Eagle Lake Road at Cleftstone around 7:45 to 8:30).  Please drive cautiously and watch for runners and walkers.  They say races will be completed by 10:30 a.m.

MDI Community Woodbank Seeking Volunteers

(MDI)  Looking to earn community service hours for school, or just have some extra time and muscle to give?  The MDI Community Woodbank could use your help on Sunday, September 27th from 3 to 5 p.m.  They need some strong folks to help lift the cut up logs onto the splitter and then wheelbarrow the split wood out to where it is stacked.  The nonprofit reports they’re already getting requests for wood, so lend a hand if you can to help your neighbors stay warm.  The MDI Woodbank is located at 831 State Highway 3 in Bar Harbor.

Hancock County Sheriff Charities Ride

(Ellsworth)  Looks like a beautiful day Saturday for the Hancock County Sheriff’s Charities ATV Carnival Ride.  There will be a putting green set up where you can try your hand at a hole in one, the Black Sheep Food Truck will be serving up delicious food at Macomber Mill in Eastbrook, as will the Wing Dingah’s Food Truck at the Hancock ATV Club. It promises to be a day of fun, prizes, riding, and supporting a great cause.

National News

Trump Offers to Pay for Votes

(Dallas)  At the Republican midterm convention this week, President Trump promised adult citizens $5K each if the party kept control of Congress, though he offered few details, an offer blatantly akin to buying votes.  While some Republicans who spoke ahead of the President’s address tried to touch on the biggest issues for voters, Trump called the issue of “affordability” fake, blamed Democrats (who currently hold no majority power) and said he was bringing prices down, even as oil this week topped $100 a barrel and grocery prices continue to soar.  

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