GWI, Arctaris Impact and FAME Partner to Build Fiber Broadband Networks in 5 Maine Opportunity Zone Communities

BIDDEFORD, Maine, Jan. 31, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Great Works Internet Partners ("GWI"), Arctaris Impact Investors, LLC ("Arctaris"), and the Finance Authority of Maine ("FAME") announced plans today to build new fiber broadband networks for five communities in Maine, including South Portland, Millinocket, East Millinocket, Medway and Belfast. The projects are made possible through a partnership with FAME, which is providing a loan and commercial guarantee support to the project.

Officially known as Biddeford Internet Corporation, GWI is the premier provider of

Julia Hill : Growing Her Career in Forestry

Julia Hill started with J.D. Irving, Limited as a summer student, tree planting in Central New Brunswick. When she was offered a role at Grand Lake Timber - the sawmill in Chipman, New Brunswick - she jumped at the chance.

"The sawmill is full opportunities for growth, just like JDI. I went from tree planting to the maintenance crew in Chipman, where I’ve now completed multiple co-op terms. There’s never a dull moment, and I’m constantly being challenged by both my environment and my colleagues,” said Julia.

Julia is a second generation JDI employee, her dad and brother both work at the Pulp Mill in Saint John. While on her co-ops she was an exemplary student, the kind that are welcomed back every time. We're excited to have Julia returning to Grand Lake Timber Sawmill full time after she graduates!

The Sawmill Division is always looking for new talent to join our ever growing team. From production support, skilled trades, to students and professional services, you can apply today: https://www.jdirvinglumber.com/en/careers/

“Persepolis,” Marjane Satrapi’s poignant story of growing up during the Iranian Revolution, is the next featured topic of the UMF New Commons project

 FARMINGTON, ME  (January 31, 2022)—“Persepolis” by Marjane Satrapi, is the next featured topic in the University of Maine at Farmington’s New Commons project.

Persepolis is Satrapi’s poignant, autobiographical coming-of-age story of growing up in Iran during the tumultuous political climate of the 1970s and 80s. It follows her life of heartache and survival through pre- and post-revolutionary Iran. Satrapi first told her story as an adult, autobiographical graphic novel in 2000. The film adaptation premiered at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival and won the Jury Prize.

Marjane Satrapi

---

All events are free and open to the public. According to UMF Covid protocol, masks are

Wastewater monitoring remains central to UMS COVID-19 tracking effort

Wheeler Lab at UMaine leading robust surveillance program for four UMS campuses and two neighboring communities 

Orono, Maine — The University of Maine System wastewater testing effort that began in fall 2020 and expanded to additional campuses in 2021 is in full operation as students settle back into campus life for the January–May 2022 semester.

Wastewater samples are collected twice weekly at the University of Maine in Orono,

Golden, Hagedorn Introduce Bill to Expand and Reauthorize Small Business Development Center Program

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) and Congressman Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) announced today the introduction of bipartisan legislation to build on the success of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program throughout the country. The Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2022 would help strengthen the SBDC network — including the 22 SBDCs located throughout Maine — by authorizing an increase of $40 million in annual funding for the program over the next four years and allowing SBDCs to do more to build awareness of their programs and services. 

“I’ve met so many small business owners in Maine who’ve told me Small

Senator Collins Co-Sponsors Bipartisan Bill to Streamline Care for Seniors

The bill would reform prior authorization system that continues to be #1 administrative burden for health care providers

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) co-sponsored the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation that would improve timely access to quality care for seniors under Medicare Advantage. Specifically, the bill would modernize the way Medicare Advantage plans and health care providers use prior authorization. This legislation addresses the number one administrative issue for physicians today and will make the delivery of health care more patient and doctor friendly.

 

“Mainers depend on quality, timely health care delivered by experienced providers who

Rapid Renewal processes 2,500,000th online vehicle registration renewal

AUGUSTA - Last week the Department of Secretary of State's online service for renewal of motor vehicle registrations, called Rapid Renewal https://www1.maine.gov/online/bmv/rapid-renewal/ , processed the 2,500,000th renewal.

Rapid Renewal is an optional service which towns and cities can participate in, and is currently available for residents of 314 Maine towns and cities. Residents of all municipalities continue to have the option to renew their motor vehicle registrations in-person at their town office or city hall.

"Providing an online, around-the-clock renewal option for Maine vehicle owners is

Maine Forest Service Launches Browntail Moth Awareness Month

AUGUSTA - February 2022 has been recognized as Browntail Moth Awareness Month in Maine to encourage people to take advantage of the dormant season of the insect and join together to reduce impacts from browntail moth (BTM).

Follow the Four Rs to Knock Out Browntail Moth

AUGUSTA - February 2022 has been recognized as Browntail Moth Awareness Month in Maine to encourage people to take advantage of the dormant season of the insect and join together to reduce impacts from browntail moth (BTM).

BTM populations in Maine have been in an outbreak phase since 2015 and the pest cannot be eradicated. Most areas of Maine, especially settled areas with significant host tree

MLTI Virtual Student Conference T-Shirt Design Competition: MLTI Launches Space2Connect!

MLTI (Maine Learning Technology Initiative) would like to encourage students to collaborate and share the creative work taking place in their schools – with that in mind MLTI will be hosting a T-shirt Design Competition.

A panel of judges will choose a winning design. The winning design will be printed on t-shirts that will be worn by everyone at the 19th Annual MLTI Student Conference, which will be held on Thursday, May 26th virtually over Zoom.

MLTI Launches Space2Connect! is the theme for the 19th annual MLTI Student Conference. The intent of the conference theme is to reflect the many interpretations of

Sign up for Civil Rights Team Project Newsletter

Administered by the Office of the Maine Attorney General, the mission of the Civil Rights Team Project is to increase the safety of elementary, middle level, and high school students by reducing bias-motivated behaviors and harassment in our schools.

The Civil Rights Team Project recently revamped their newsletter to broaden their reach to Maine schools and community across Maine.

See the latest Issue: Winter 2021-2022 Issue of The Torch

To sign up to receive the newsletter email:

Kathryn Caulfield, Project Assistant, kathryn.caulfield@maine.gov

Or

Brandon Baldwin, Project Director, brandon.baldwin@maine.gov

For more information about the Civil Rights Team Project, visit their website.

South Portland Students’ Poetry Featured in Community Celebration of ‘Hope and Light’

The South Portland community celebrated the season of light and hope at the Millcreek Tree Lighting Celebration last month, featuring students from South Portland School Department reading poetry.

Hosted annually by South Portland Parks and Recreation, South Portland/Cape Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, and South Portland Human Rights Commission, the event showcases over 5 miles of lights that are strung around the various trees that grace Millcreek Park in the City of South Portland.

Families and community members enjoyed an outdoor evening wandering around

Mills Administration Partners With The Rockefeller Foundation To Mail 125,000 Free COVID-19 Tests to Maine People In Need

Five rapid tests will be delivered directly to 25,000 households in vulnerable communities

Governor Janet Mills announced today the launch of a new pilot project with The Rockefeller Foundation to mail 125,000 free COVID-19 tests directly to the homes of Maine people most in need, improving access to testing in vulnerable Maine communities.

Through Project Access COVID Tests (ACT), 25,000 Maine households will receive five at-home rapid tests free of charge. No payment information is required — both the tests and shipping are free to eligible residents – and the tests will be delivered through Amazon approximately one week after ordering. The tests require a quick swab inside each nostril, with results available within minutes. Any individual over the age of two can use the tests.

Maine is one of six states partnering with The Rockefeller Foundation, a

Governor Mills Applauds Attorney General Frey for Opioid Settlement Funds Agreement

Maine is estimated to receive as much as $130 million over 18 years to address opioid epidemic

Governor Janet Mills issued the following statement today after Attorney General Aaron Frey announced that he has reached an agreement with litigating cities, counties, and school districts governing Maine’s use of proceeds from the National Opioid Settlements with distributors Cardinal, McKesson, and Amerisource Bergen and opioid manufacturers Johnson & Johnson.

The agreement completes Maine’s acceptance of a settlement that was initially agreed to

Education Commissioner Pender Makin Helps Fill Staff Shortages at Readfield Elementary School

Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin helped alleviate some of the pandemic-related staff shortages at Readfield Elementary School today by helping teachers in several classes and working lunch duty.

The heightened transmissibility of Omicron has resulted in reduced staff in schools and increased the strain on educators and school staff across Maine. Readfield Elementary was one of several schools in RSU 38 last week that moved to remote learning due to

Maine BPL Seeks Artist to Spend Time Creating in the Allagash Wilderness Waterway this August

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) Visiting Artist Program encourages artists to develop their art through experiencing the wilderness of the state's most remote park, the Allagash Wilderness Waterway (AWW).

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) Visiting Artist Program encourages artists to develop their art through experiencing the wilderness of the state's most remote park, the Allagash Wilderness Waterway (AWW). The AWW has fueled imaginations for centuries. When

Attorney General Aaron Frey Announces Agreement for Distribution of Opioid Settlement Funds

Maine is estimated to receive as much as $130 million over 18 years to address opioid epidemic

Augusta, Maine – Attorney General Aaron M. Frey announced today he has reached an agreement with litigating cities, counties, and school districts governing Maine’s use of proceeds from the National Opioid Settlements with distributors Cardinal, McKesson, and Amerisource Bergen and opioid manufacturers Johnson & Johnson.  This agreement completes Maine’s acceptance of a settlement that was initially agreed to by Attorney General Frey in August 2021.  This settlement is estimated to bring as much as $130 million to Maine over an 18 year period to support state and local efforts to address the opioid epidemic.

“At a time when Mainers continue to suffer from the pain and loss inflicted by the opioid epidemic, this agreement and the settlement it secures represents a significant opportunity to confront the crisis head on,” said Attorney General Aaron Frey. “This agreement paves the

Maine Lobster Festival Seeking Recipe Submissions for 75th Anniversary Cookbook

Photo Credit: Maine Lobster Festival

Rockland, Maine - The Maine Lobster Festival is creating a cookbook to celebrate its 75th anniversary and is collecting recipes from the public. The deadline for submissions is Feb. 7, 2022.

 

The cookbook will showcase the incredible

Coastal Blizzard Warning, Inland Winter Storm Warning Issued For Saturday-Saturday Night

Winter Storm Warning = Pink

Blizzard Warning = Red

Winter Storm Watch = Blue

Maine - Incoming winter storm will create dangerous conditions Saturday through Saturday night with heavy snow and high winds.

The National Weather Service out of Gray have issued a blizzard warning along the coast with 1-3 inches per hour heavy snow and winds that could gust upwards of 55mph, sustained winds between 20 and 30 for Saturday through Saturday night.

Please stay home if you don't need to be out tomorrow, make sure you have flashlights, blankets in case there are any power outages.

Winter Storm Warnings have been issued for inland Maine.

Weather Service Alerts:

Interior Waldo-Coastal York-Coastal Cumberland-Sagadahoc-Lincoln-

Knox-Coastal Waldo-Coastal Rockingham-

Including the cities of Brooks, Jackson, Knox, Liberty,

Montville, Morrill, Waldo, Winterport, Unity, Biddeford, Saco,

Old Orchard Beach, Kittery, Portland, Cape Elizabeth,

South Portland, Westbrook, Yarmouth, Brunswick, Arrowsic, Bath,

Phippsburg, Bowdoinham, Topsham, Bowdoin, Whitefield, Dresden,

Alna, Bremen, Bristol, Damariscotta, Newcastle, Boothbay Harbor,

Wiscasset, Waldoboro, Owls Head, Rockland, Appleton, Camden,

Hope, Rockport, Thomaston, Belfast, Northport, Searsmont,

Lincolnville, Greenland, Portsmouth, Rye, Hampton, Hampton Falls,

North Hampton, and Seabrook

...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM SATURDAY TO 6 AM EST

SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations

  of 12 to 16 inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 55 mph.

* WHERE...Portions of southern New Hampshire and south central

  and southwest Maine.

* WHEN...From 7 AM Saturday to 6 AM EST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Gusty

  winds could bring down tree branches and lead to power outages.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snowfall rate of one to three inches an

  hour are expected at times. Also, heavy snow and blowing snow

  could cause whiteout conditions.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must

travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded,

stay with your vehicle.

For a more precise forecast for your specific location...go to

www.weather.gov/gray..

Southern Oxford-Southern Franklin-Southern Somerset-Interior York-

Central Interior Cumberland-Androscoggin-Kennebec-

Interior Cumberland Highlands-Northern Carroll-Southern Carroll-

Merrimack-Belknap-Strafford-Eastern Hillsborough-

Interior Rockingham-Western And Central Hillsborough-

Including the cities of Bethel, Bryant Pond, Hanover,

Locke Mills, Milton, Newry, Rumford, Norway, Fryeburg, Oxford,

Farmington, New Sharon, New Vineyard, Temple, Wilton,

Chesterville, Jay, Athens, Cornville, Skowhegan, Palmyra,

Pittsfield, Embden, Madison, Hollis, Alfred, Lebanon, Sanford,

Goodwins Mills, Buxton, Limington, Berwick, New Gloucester, Gray,

North Windham, Gorham, Greene, Lewiston, Sabattus, Wales, Minot,

Turner, Auburn, Livermore Falls, Augusta, Sidney, Windsor,

Vassalboro, Waterville, China, Palermo, Bridgton, Harrison,

Naples, Jackson, North Conway, Albany, Conway, Chatham,

Crawford Notch, Wakefield, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Ossipee,

Tuftonboro, Wolfeboro, Moultonborough, Boscawen, Canterbury,

Concord, Dunbarton, Loudon, Hooksett, Laconia, Gilford, Meredith,

Barrington, Rochester, Dover, Rollinsford, Somersworth, Durham,

Madbury, Manchester, Pelham, Nashua, Salem, Atkinson, Newton,

Plaistow, Chester, Derry, Hampstead, Exeter, Amherst, Milford,

Mont Vernon, Goffstown, Peterborough, Sharon, and Weare

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM SATURDAY TO 6 AM EST

SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 7 to

  13 inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.

* WHERE...Portions of central, northern and southern New

  Hampshire and south central, southwest and western Maine.

* WHEN...From 7 AM Saturday to 6 AM EST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Near blizzard conditions are expected.

  snowfall rates of one to two inches an hour will be possible.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in

your vehicle in case of an emergency.

For a more precise forecast for your specific location...go to

www.weather.gov/gray.

The National Weather Service out of Caribou has a winter storm watch issued for Saturday through Saturday.

Closer Look:

Rockland, Midcoast Area: Saturday, Snow likely in the morning, then snow in the afternoon. Snow may be heavy at times in the afternoon. Snow accumulation of 8 to 12 inches. Windy with highs around 15. North winds 20 to 30 mph. Gusts up to 40 mph, increasing to 55 mph in the afternoon. Chance of snow 90 percent. Wind chill values as low as 11 below.

Saturday Night, Snow. Additional moderate snow accumulation. Windy with lows around 8 above. North winds 20 to 30 mph. Gusts up to 55 mph, decreasing to 45 mph after midnight. Chance of snow 90 percent. Wind chill values as low as 14 below.

Brunswick, Bath Area: Saturday, Snow, mainly after 9am. The snow could be heavy at times. High near 18. Wind chill values as low as -5. Blustery, with a north wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of 7 to 11 inches possible.

Saturday Night, Snow before 3am, then a chance of snow showers between 3am and 4am. Low around 7. Wind chill values as low as -9. Blustery, with a north wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches possible.

Portland Area: Saturday, Snow. Snow accumulation of 8 to 12 inches. Windy with highs around 18. North winds 20 to 30 mph. Gusts up to 50 mph in the afternoon. Chance of snow 90 percent. Wind chill values as low as 6 below.

Saturday Night, Cloudy. Snow, mainly in the evening. Additional moderate snow accumulation. Windy with lows around 7 above. Northwest winds 20 to 30 mph. Gusts up to 50 mph, decreasing to 40 mph after midnight. Chance of snow 80 percent. Wind chill values as low as 9 below.

Auburn/Lewiston Area: Saturday, Snow, mainly after 10am. High near 14. Wind chill values as low as -8. Blustery, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of 5 to 9 inches possible.

Saturday Night, Snow, mainly before 11pm. Low around 4. Wind chill values as low as -11. Blustery, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible.

Augusta Area: Saturday, Snow, mainly after 10am. High near 13. Wind chill values as low as -12. Blustery, with a north wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of 5 to 9 inches possible.

Saturday Night, Snow before 3am, then a chance of snow showers between 3am and 4am. Low around 6. Wind chill values as low as -14. Blustery, with a north wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches possible.

Images are courtesy of National Weather Service out of Gray.

Board authorizes $14 million investment in UMaine women’s athletic facilities

Orono, Maine — The University of Maine System Board of Trustees has approved up to $14 million to implement priority 1 athletic field improvements to the University of Maine varsity soccer, softball and field hockey venues starting this spring, and to continue planning and design of the UMaine athletics facilities master plan.  

The improvements are donor-funded and part of the $240 million commitment the

ADUSA Supply Chain’s ADvantage Supplier Collaboration Program Turns One

SCARBOROUGH, Maine, Jan. 26, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ADvantage, ADUSA Supply Chain’s industry-leading supplier collaboration program, is turning one. Launched in January 2021, the program now includes more than 200 consumer packaged goods (CPG) suppliers partnering with Ahold Delhaize USA companies to innovate supply chain management practices and ensure customers of Ahold Delhaize USA’s local brands can access the products they need, when they need them through their channel of choice.

“In a normal year, getting product through the food supply chain is complex, but the COVID-19 pandemic has produced some of the toughest conditions on record,” said

King Backs Legislation to Promote Fair Dairy Pricing for Farmers

The Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act would direct the USDA to hold hearings that would give producers and farmers a say in milk pricing

BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation that would direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to begin holding Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) hearings by this summer, to give milk producers a greater voice in dairy pricing. These hearings would reevaluate how the price of Class I (or fluid) milk is calculated and pave the way for important changes to better support the dairy industry. Class I, or fluid milk, is milk that is sold directly to consumers for drinking and typically drives the highest prices for dairy farmers.

“Maine’s dairy farmers are critical parts of communities across our state, driving our

King, Pingree Announce $1.5 Million in American Rescue Plan Funding to University of Maine Medical Work

The Statewide System will receive $1,514,211 for the Health and Public Safety Workforce Resiliency Training Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) announced $1,514,211 in American Rescue Plan funding for the University of Maine System to support tailored evidence-informed training development within health profession and nursing training activities. The Health and Public Safety Workforce Resiliency Training Program’s curriculum aims to help reduce burnout and

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for New Husson University Esports Facility

Esports are an exciting new addition to the world of intercollegiate competition where players compete using video games

BANGOR, MAINE, Jan. 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Husson University will be celebrating the official opening of their new esports facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, January 20, 2021 at 2 p.m. in the Darling Learning Center in rooms DLC 122 and 123. Students, faculty and staff will all be in attendance. A demonstration of the facility’s capabilities will take place after the ribbon-cutting ceremony has been completed.

“Esports are an exciting new addition to the world of intercollegiate competition where

(Fire Knocked Down) BREAKING: Lincolnville, Mutual Aid Working 692 Beach Rd 1st-Alarm Structure Fire

Update 10:39am: Fire is knocked down, overhaul.

Update 9:51am: Command has requested a 2nd alarm for the structure on Beach Rd.

Update: 9:50am: Another engine has been requested out of the West Rockport station.

BREAKING: Lincolnville, Maine - Lincolnville, mutual aid are working a first alarm structure fire at 692 Beach Rd. this morning in Lincolnville, Maine.

Everyone is out.

Call came into dispatch as a chimney fire.

First unit on scene called for a 1st alarm.

BUSINESSES CREATE ORGANIZATION TO TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE

ClimateWork Maine will focus on specific actions that businesses can take, sharing of best examples and new opportunities for investment and growth.

Climate Change is the greatest challenge our economy has faced since the state's founding. But if we can adapt and change, this will also be a time of new opportunities for a sustainable future.”

— Alan Caron, Blue Loon Homes

FREEPORT, ME, UNITED STATES, January 18, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ -- A new statewide organization is being announced today to connect businesses across the state who want to take action on climate change and prepare themselves for the future.

Interested businesses can learn more at www.climateworkmaine.org.

One of the convenors of the group, Alan Caron, said 'We believe that the future success of our businesses – and the success of the state overall – is directly tied to our ability to reduce and adapt to climate change and to embrace new ideas, new companies, and new

Winter Storm To Impact Maine Late Tonight Through Monday

Maine - Maine is on track to get a serious winter storm that will bring heavy snow, wind and rain to the area starting late tonight through Monday.

This storm could drop up to a foot of snow in some inland areas and mountains.

Areas like Rockland could see instead of snow, rain, over an inch possible.

Coastal Maine has a high wind warning with gusts between 55mph and 65mph.

Below is a bring down of alerts for Maine according to the National Weather Services out

Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Warns of Dangerously Cold Temperatures

AUGUSTA, MAINE - Plummeting temperatures combined with gusty winds will create very cold to dangerously cold wind chills as low as -40F across sections of Maine this evening into tomorrow morning. The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is urging people to use caution during these extreme temperatures. The National Weather Service in Caribou says expect to see snow and blowing snow in far eastern Washington County beginning this afternoon. Aroostook County is also concerned about white-out conditions.

"We are looking at another round of dangerously cold temperatures. I again urge Mainers to use extreme caution, look in on your neighbors and stay safe," said MEMA Director Peter Rogers.

"Please take every precaution to stay warm and safe and be sure to check on your

Mills Administration Announces Deployment of National Guard Members to 16 Health Care Facilities Across Maine Including Pen Bay & Waldo

Following engagement with Maine’s hospitals, Governor Janet Mills announced today that the 169 members of the Maine National Guard she activated earlier this week will deploy to 16 health care facilities across the state beginning January 20, 2022.

Governor Mills activated the additional Guard members in response torecord-high COVID-19 hospitalizations in Maine, the majority of which are among people who are not vaccinated. As of today, there are a near record high 424 people hospitalized with COVID-19 in Maine, including 109 in critical care and 57 on ventilators, leaving only 46 adult intensive care unit (ICU) beds available in Maine.

“I am grateful to the Maine National Guard and to health care workers across

IDEXX Enables Improved Cancer Diagnosis and Personalized Care through Expanded Oncology Offering

Extended Reference Laboratory Menu Includes Innovative Genomic Diagnostics to Help Veterinarians Navigate the Complexities of Managing Cancer Cases

WESTBROOK, Maine, January 13, 2022—IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IDXX), a global leader in pet healthcare innovation, announced today the expansion of its reference laboratory menu of tests and services that will enable veterinarians to better meet the challenges of diagnosing and treating cancer. Building on its expertise in cancer pathology, IDEXX continues to expand what’s possible to enhance the lives of pets by providing veterinarians with comprehensive cancer diagnostics and support services.

“IDEXX understands the challenges that veterinarians are experiencing when it

IDEXX Innovative Diagnostic and Software Solutions Provide Workflow Efficiency and Faster, More Confident Clinical Decisions

Time-saving Technologies Demonstrate IDEXX’s Sustained Support for Today’s Busy Veterinary Professionals

WESTBROOK, Maine, January 13, 2022—IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IDXX), a global leader in pet healthcare innovation, announced today a series of product and service enhancements that enable veterinary practices to be more efficient, while managing increasing patient volumes. The enhancements provide deeper, actionable insights and personalized support to facilitate faster, more confident clinical decisions.

Veterinary professionals are more time challenged than ever. People spending more

Book club platform Bookclubz is now Bookclubs

The best app for organizing your book club.

Bookclubz, the book club organization and community building tool, is announcing a brand change to better reflect the company’s growth trajectory.

Individuals are searching for the best place to host or join a real book club, not just get a reading list. This change solidifies us as that destination.”

— Anna Ford, Founder & CEO of Bookclubs

CAMDEN, MAINE, UNITED STATES, January 12, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Bookclubz, the book club organization and community building tool, is announcing a brand change to better reflect the company’s growth trajectory. As of January 2022, Bookclubz will be Bookclubs, with an “s” replacing the “z.”

The standard spelling will facilitate online searches, resulting in more clubs and more users. January is a high-growth time of year for the platform, as people making New Year’s resolutions to read more in 2022 seek to create or join a book club.

The new spelling also better reflects Bookclubs’ continuing journey from an

Public hearing held for Bellows, Luchini bill to increase access to voting

AUGUSTA — The Department of Secretary of State and Senator Louis Luchini, D-Ellsworth, proposed several changes to Maine’s election law to increase access to voting and streamline election administration.

L.D. 1830, “An Act To Amend the Election Laws” is the Department’s “agency bill” which traditionally is introduced each year to update Maine election laws. Among other issues, this bill addresses proof of identity for tribal members, the right to vote for residents of nursing homes and other residential care facilities and petition forms.

Specifically, the legislation allows identification cards from federally recognized

Camden National Bank Finances Low-Income Housing Facility, Freedom Place

Camden, ME, January 13, 2021 – Freedom Place, located at 66 State Street in Portland, celebrated its grand opening on Wednesday with a ribbon cutting ceremony, sponsored by Camden National Bank that included a tour of the new space and had special guest, Governor Janet T. Mills. The renovated, three-story building, was converted by Developers Collaborative to provide low-income housing and services to women who are experiencing homelessness and struggling with substance use disorder. Camden National Bank not only financed a majority of the $6.5 million project, but also contributed equity that will be repaid through receipt of federal historic tax credits over the course of five years.

“Providing financing to Freedom Place is part of our commitment to our communities

Pingree Announces $225 Million from Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to Repair Maine Bridges

315 Maine Bridges Are Currently in Poor Condition According to the Federal Highway Administration

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) today announced $225 million in funding for bridge repairs in Maine, made possible through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Representing the largest bridge formula program in American history, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is dedicating $26.5 billion to states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico over the five years of the law and $825 million for Tribal transportation facilities. The total amount that will be available to states, D.C. and Puerto Rico in Fiscal Year 2022 is $5.3 billion along with $165 million for tribes. 

“In Maine, there are 315 bridges in poor condition. Thanks to the Infrastructure

Public Hearing: Executive Order 41, Review of Aerial Application of Herbicides for Forest Management

MAINE, January 21 - Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

Back to full Meeting Calendar

Date: January 21, 2022

Start Time: 5:30 PM

Location: Virtual Meeting - Microsoft Teams

Meeting description/purpose:

The Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry seeks public comment on Executive Order 41 (EO 41), A Review of Aerial Application of Herbicides for Forest Management. EO 41 directs the Maine Forest Service and the Board of Pesticides Control to review rules related to the aerial application of synthetic herbicides and make recommendations intended to further protect waterways, wildlife, wildlife habitat, and other natural resources.

The department and the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife have been working

MLTI Virtual Student Conference Slated for May 26th

The Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) team is excited to announce that the 19th annual MLTI Student Conference will take place virtually on Thursday, May 26, 2022. Though this is our third year holding the MLTI Student Conference virtually, we are dedicated to making this year an innovative virtual conference experience like never before! The conference will be open to all MLTI 7th and 8th grade students and their teachers and will include interactive and hands on workshops where participants will be engaging and creating both digitally and in-person with provided materials.

This year the MLTI team is partnering with the University of Maine System and their Maine College of Engineering, Computing, and Information Science (MCECIS). By

Maine DOE Child Nutrition’s First VISTA Member Paves the Way for Future Work

Caroline Bennett, a Volunteer In Service to America (VISTA) member of AmeriCorps joined the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Child Nutrition team in January 2021 to build capacity and resources related to alleviating food insecurity among Maine students, with a focus on school meal programs.

As Caroline’s one-year stay with the Maine DOE comes to a conclusion this month,

WEBINAR: Resources to Address the Mental Health Impact on Students, Families, and Staff

Please join the Federal School Safety Clearinghouse on January 20 at 3:00 PM EST for an informational webinar on the latest resources to address the mental health impact on students, parents, teachers, and school personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The session will feature guest speakers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network, which is funded

Regional School Calendars Due June 1, 2022

This is a reminder that Regional School Calendars are due by June 1, 2022 for school administrative units (SAU) and private schools approved for tuition purposes, in coordination with their local secondary career and technical education (CTE) school. This requirement is part of Public Law 2011, Chapter 686 to promote collaboration among local school administrative units that may benefit from inter-administrative unit collaboration beyond CTE.

For school year 2022-23, both regional school calendars and individual calendars for each school administrative unit must be submitted by the director of the local CTE Center/Region to the Department of Education (DOE) no later than June 1, 2021 for a decision on approval by July 12, 2022. Guidance and templates can be accessed electronically at www.maine.gov/doe/regionalcalendar/.

Given the coordination required for fulfillment of this law, the Maine DOE recommends that SAUs initiate discussions as soon as feasible, including representatives from all affected secondary schools and their associated career and technical education center or region.

For more information, including guidance, instructions, templates, a waiver process, and a link to the complete law, please visit www.maine.gov/doe/regionalcalendar/.  Further questions should be directed to Doug Robertson doug.robertson@maine.gov / 624-6744 or Dwight Littlefield dwight.a.littlefield@maine.gov / 624-6721.

Bath Middle School Takes Hands-on Approach to Learning About Ocean Sustainability

Inspired by the Expeditionary Learning model, Bath Middle School has taken a hands-on approach to examining the issue of ocean sustainability.  As part of this project, as citizen scientists, the 7th-grade students took to the local waterfront to collect data on the invasive green crab species and graphed their results.

Students also visited the Maine Maritime Museum in downtown Bath to learn about the history of Maine’s fishing and shipping industry.  Working with Museum educators, they generated timelines through the examination of the museum’s artifacts.

The culminating activity was for students to design and build a product that would

Integrating Podcasting at Caribou Community School

Creation and innovation are core elements to middle school learning, thanks to Kim Barnes and Heather Anderson, who both teach 8th grade English language arts (ELA) and social studies at Caribou Community School. In a recent unit of study about resiliency, Mrs. Barnes and Mrs. Anderson had the creative idea that podcasting would be a great way for students to demonstrate their knowledge on the topic. 

Mrs. Barnes said the idea was conceptualized from the work she did with the revised

Maine School Safety Center to Offer School Emergency Planning Virtual Office Hours

Melissa Condon, the Emergency Operations Planning Officer for the Maine Department of Education’s Maine School Safety Center will be offering virtual office hours for anyone working in Maine’s education workforce who is interested in talking about School Emergency Planning.

Sessions will be offered Weekly on Mondays & Wednesdays from 8:00am – 10:00am starting on Monday, January 19th and ending on Monday, February 28th

If you are interested in registering to attend any of the Office Hours, email Melissa.A.Condon@maine.gov for a link to join the virtual meeting.

Description: 

Available for personalized discussions for School Administrative Units (SAUs) related

Wind Chill Alerts Issued For Maine

 Northern Oxford-Northern Franklin-Central Somerset-

Southern Oxford-Southern Franklin-Southern Somerset-Northern Coos-

Southern Coos-Northern Grafton-Northern Carroll-Southern Grafton-

Sullivan-

Including the cities of Upton, Wilsons Mills, Andover, Byron,

Middle Dam, Roxbury, South Arm, Coburn Gore, Davis, Oquossoc,

Rangeley, Avon, Kingfield, Phillips, New Portland, Brassua,

Long Pond, Moosehead, Pittston Farm, Seboomook, Bingham, Jackman,

Bethel, Bryant Pond, Hanover, Locke Mills, Milton, Newry,

Rumford, Norway, Fryeburg, Oxford, Farmington, New Sharon,

New Vineyard, Temple, Wilton, Chesterville, Jay, Athens,

Cornville, Skowhegan, Palmyra, Pittsfield, Embden, Madison,

Errol, Millsfield, Colebrook, Berlin, Dummer, Milan, York Pond,

Lancaster, Bethlehem, Lincoln, Littleton, Sugar Hill, Thornton,

Waterville Valley, Woodstock, Jackson, North Conway, Albany,

Conway, Chatham, Crawford Notch, Lebanon, Lyme, Ashland,

Ellsworth, Holderness, Plymouth, Rumney, Claremont, Cornish,

Unity, Croydon, Goshen, Grantham, Lempster, Newport,

and Charlestown

...WIND CHILL WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM FRIDAY TO 1 PM EST

SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Dangerously cold wind chills expected. Wind chills as low

  as 40 below zero.

* WHERE...Portions of central and northern New Hampshire and

  south central, west central and western Maine.

* WHEN...From 7 PM Friday to 1 PM EST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...The dangerously cold wind chills could cause

  frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Avoid outside activities if possible. When outside, make sure you

wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.

Interior York-Central Interior Cumberland-Androscoggin-Kennebec-

Interior Waldo-Coastal York-Coastal Cumberland-Sagadahoc-Lincoln-

Knox-Coastal Waldo-Interior Cumberland Highlands-Southern Carroll-

Merrimack-Belknap-Strafford-Cheshire-Eastern Hillsborough-

Interior Rockingham-Western And Central Hillsborough-

Including the cities of Hollis, Alfred, Lebanon, Sanford,

Goodwins Mills, Buxton, Limington, Berwick, New Gloucester, Gray,

North Windham, Gorham, Greene, Lewiston, Sabattus, Wales, Minot,

Turner, Auburn, Livermore Falls, Augusta, Sidney, Windsor,

Vassalboro, Waterville, China, Palermo, Brooks, Jackson, Knox,

Liberty, Montville, Morrill, Waldo, Winterport, Unity, Biddeford,

Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Kittery, Portland, Cape Elizabeth,

South Portland, Westbrook, Yarmouth, Brunswick, Arrowsic, Bath,

Phippsburg, Bowdoinham, Topsham, Bowdoin, Whitefield, Dresden,

Alna, Bremen, Bristol, Damariscotta, Newcastle, Boothbay Harbor,

Wiscasset, Waldoboro, Owls Head, Rockland, Appleton, Camden,

Hope, Rockport, Thomaston, Belfast, Northport, Searsmont,

Lincolnville, Bridgton, Harrison, Naples, Wakefield, Bridgewater,

Brookfield, Ossipee, Tuftonboro, Wolfeboro, Moultonborough,

Boscawen, Canterbury, Concord, Dunbarton, Loudon, Hooksett,

Laconia, Gilford, Meredith, Barrington, Rochester, Dover,

Rollinsford, Somersworth, Durham, Madbury, Gilsum, Keene, Marlow,

Sullivan, Surry, Jaffrey, Manchester, Pelham, Nashua, Salem,

Atkinson, Newton, Plaistow, Chester, Derry, Hampstead, Exeter,

Amherst, Milford, Mont Vernon, Goffstown, Peterborough, Sharon,

and Weare

...WIND CHILL ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM FRIDAY TO 1 PM EST

SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Very cold wind chills expected. Wind chills as low as

  30 below zero.

* WHERE...Portions of central, northern and southern New

  Hampshire and south central, southwest and western Maine.

* WHEN...From 7 PM Friday to 1 PM EST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on

  exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

Northwest Aroostook-Northeast Aroostook-Northern Somerset-

Northern Piscataquis-Northern Penobscot-Southeast Aroostook-

Central Piscataquis-Central Penobscot-Southern Piscataquis-

Northern Washington-

Including the cities of Allagash, Clayton Lake, Madawaska,

Fort Kent, Frenchville, Presque Isle, Caribou, Van Buren,

Mars Hill, Ashland, Baker Lake, Billy-Jack Depot, Baxter St Park,

Chamberlain Lake, Churchill Dam, Mount Katahdin, Millinocket,

East Millinocket, Patten, Medway, Houlton, Hodgdon, Sherman,

Smyrna Mills, Greenville, Monson, Blanchard, Lincoln, Howland,

Springfield, Dover-Foxcroft, Milo, Guilford, Danforth, Vanceboro,

and Topsfield

1241 PM EST Thu Jan 13 2022

...WIND CHILL WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH

SATURDAY AFTERNOON...

* WHAT...Dangerously cold wind chills possible. Wind chills as

  low as 45 below zero possible.

* WHERE...Portions of Central Highlands, Far Eastern, Far

  Northern, North Woods and Penobscot Valley Maine.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday afternoon.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The dangerously cold wind chills could

  cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Watch means there is the potential for a combination

of very cold air and the wind to create dangerously low wind

chill values. Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for

updates on this situation.