AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced, April 7, two additional COVID-19 deaths in the state.
Both individuals were from Cumberland County. One individual was a man in his 50s, while the other was a female in her 80’s.
Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths.
CaseCountyAge ... Read more
Local Coronavirus COVID-19 Resource Center: Alerts, Closings, Cancellations
VIDEO: Governor, CDC Director, DHHS Commissioner provide April 7 COVID-19 update
AUGUSTA — The following is the livestream of the April 7 Maine CDC press briefing of the current COVID-19 pandemic, and the status of Maine’s tracking,testing and health care situation. The briefing is held Monday through Friday in Augusta.
opinion
Mainers urge Gov. Mills to prevent evictions and foreclosures during COVID-19
On Tuesday, Mainers facing the threat of eviction, landlords, and housing advocates called on Gov. Janet Mills to take executive action to place a moratorium on all residential and commercial evictions and foreclosures, with rent forgiveness, until the public health emergency created by COVID-19 is over. Advocates electronically delivered over 1,800 messages to Governor Mills from Mainers across the state urging action.
"Our landlord has given us an extension for April, but we still don't have... Read more
April 7 update: Lincoln County resident recovers from COVID-19; 519 statewide cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 7, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 519 cases confirmed across the state.
One hundred seventy-six people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while 12 people have passed. Ninety-nine people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples... Read more
Press release
Hannaford donates $750,000 to COVID-19 response efforts
Scarborough, Maine -- In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Hannaford Supermarkets is donating $750,000 to numerous hunger relief and homeless outreach organizations throughout the Northeast as they work to support some of the most at-risk members of the community during the pandemic.
The health crisis and related economic impact are creating unprecedented demand for food assistance, resulting in operational disruptions and significant new costs for the agencies that provide emergency meals. In... Read more
Selling lobsters from the boat during pandemic
About 10 people were waiting in Boothbay Harbor’s Waterfront Park Sunday afternoon with coolers, baskets and bags in hand, waiting for their ship to come in.
The ship they were waiting for was the F/V Brandy’s Girl, owned by lobsterman Corey Pottle of Boothbay, who had been out fishing with his sternman and brother, Brian.
Pottle had put out a Facebook post that he was selling lobsters from the town dock at 4 p.m. And as the ship pulled up to the float around 3:45, the waiting customers made... Read more
United Methodist Holy Week and Easter virtual worship services
Due to Maine’s “stay at home order,” the United Methodist Church will video and post Holy Week virtual services. You’ll find these posted on www.bbrumc.org, boothbayregioncooperativeparish.org, the cooperative’s Facebook page, and YouTube. Anytime this week, call 207-633-3424 and leave a confidential prayer concern for the pastor to pray over at the altar.
Thursday Tennabrae Worship (Service of Progressive Darkness) from Southport UMC - Video post starting at 6 p.m., Thursday, April 9.... Read more
Weekend meals for students growing each session
People may wonder, who is that masked woman handing out bag lunches each weekend at Boothbay Region YMCA? Her name is Stephanie Tucker and she is responsible for distributing nearly three dozen lunches on Saturdays and Sundays for the past three weeks. Each weekend, she dons gloves and a surgical mask and lathers up her hands with plenty of hand sanitizer as the point person in BRYMCA’s weekend meal distribution program in conjunction with the Community School District. The meals are free to... Read more
letter to the editor
Feeding our students
Dear Editor:
Thank you to the donors who in the last week answered our request for assistance and have financially contributed to our food service program. To date, we have received over $21,000 in donations. Our dedicated kitchen staff, all considered essential service providers during this pandemic, continue to prepare over 200 nutritious and healthy lunches and breakfasts for the young people in our community. We are compensated partly by the state and federal government, however, the rate... Read more
A pandemic report from a Boothbay native in China
Christmas break doesn’t exist in China. We might celebrate the holiday with the children we teach, share the joys of secret gifts, Christmas carols, candy canes, and flying reindeer – but we don’t get the week off, or even the day. For those of us in this foreign country, the holiday we look forward to the most is Chinese New Year. The date follows the lunar calendar so it’s not the same each year but usually occurs between late January or February. What does remain standard is the entire... Read more
CLC YMCA awarded $10,000 by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation has awarded Central Lincoln County (CLC) YMCA a COVID-19 assistance grant in the amount of $10,000. This special grant program is to support non-profit organizations like the CLC YMCA that are helping to provide assistance services and supplies to people in need as a result of this pandemic.
Since the CLC Y facility closed on March 17, CLC YMCA’s Karen-Ann Hagar, Youth, Teen & Outreach director, has been acting as a community navigator by making daily... Read more
April 6 update: New COVID-19 cases recorded in Lincoln, Waldo counties
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 6, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 499 cases confirmed across the state.
One hundred fifty-eight people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while 10 people have passed. Ninety-two people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples... Read more
Action for Animals Maine
Lincoln County emergency pet food supply available
Action for Animals Maine is a non-profit foundation serving pet owners in Lincoln County. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, local pet owners may be facing challenges with reduced income and difficulty obtaining essential pet supplies. Action for Animals Maine is now offering assistance to provide pet food and supplies to those in need.
Our supply of pet food is limited, so we cannot provide a specific brand of cat or dog food, but will gladly share what we have. We encourage you to shop... Read more
https://youtu.be/1ig62wu6Y5k
Newcastle dad, LA grad son in New York City cope with distancing
On his college search 20 years ago, my son Noah emerged from the subway at Union Square, Manhattan and lit up with joy. It was as if growing up in Whitefield and Newcastle was merely the first chapter in his book of memories. He had skipped over two generations to find a new home in the Big Apple (his middle name is Apple). It was in the 1930s when my parents left New York City during the Great Depression to live in rural New Hampshire. They had a victory garden then and Noah grew up in... Read more
April 5 update: Statewide COVID-19 cases rise to 470
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 5, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 470 cases confirmed across the state.
One hundred fifty-six people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while 10 people have passed. Eighty-six people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples... Read more
Commentary
Herd Immunity
Like many, I have been listening nonstop to the radio and reading about the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s hard to avoid. What’s even harder is assimilating it all in a way that does not make one feel helpless and vulnerable.
I am not a doctor, an immunologist, or a statistician. I’m just a lay person in my seventies trying to put it all together. And I certainly have not put it all together. But this morning a few things became clearer to me. And my insight was facilitated by understanding one term... Read more
Pandemic economic resources
Overwhelmed with calls, Maine Dept. of Labor institutes alphabetical unemployment benefits filing schedule
AUGUSTA — After receiving an unprecedented number of unemployment claims due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Maine Department of Labor has instituted a new alphabetical-by-last-name call-in schedule for Maine people filing for unemployment benefits. The new schedule will help reduce phone line congestion as the Department ramps up its capacity to receive and process claims.
Starting Monday, April 6, Maine people seeking to file for unemployment by calling the 800 number with last... Read more
Feeding the region’s kids
Every weekday morning between 6 and 7, a team of Alternative Organizational Structure (AOS) 98 employees arrives at Boothbay Region Elementary School. Led by Assistant Director of School Nutrition Laurie Dickinson, they are there to bag lunches for the region’s kids.
“The gym has become our bagging center,” said Dickinson. “We start with 300 bags, each with a straw and a napkin.”
The bags, which will hold that day’s lunch and the next day’s breakfast, are available free to any child 18 or... Read more
New Hope for Women an important resource during isolation
Amid social distancing and self isolation to beat COVID-19, the idea of staying home can terrify those experiencing domestic violence.
Like many domestic violence organizations, New Hope for Women is moving to 100% online and over-the-phone support, said Director Rebekah Paredes. NHFW is working tirelessly to continue its swift, helpful response to victims.
“We primarily work with folks over the phone and we are still here to assist them (so) the main tenets of the work we do have not changed... Read more
Coronavirus not interrupting local Meals on Wheels program
The local Meals on Wheels program is rolling along despite a worldwide coronavirus pandemic. All 29 Boothbay region clients are continuing to receive meals Monday through Friday. At least two volunteers deliver meals between 9 a.m. and noon. The only obstacle caused by coronavirus is Board President Pat Wheeler is away in Florida and directors aren’t sure when she will return. Client Coordinator Mary Lou Koskela is directing the program in her absence.
Koskela believed when Gov. Janet Mills... Read more
State’s 10th COVID-19 death recorded in York County
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has announced the 10th COVID-19 death in the state.
The individual was from York County and was a male in his 70s.
Below is a table of all the COVID-19 cases in Maine resulting in deaths.
CaseCountyAge Sex1Cumberland80sMale2Cumberland80sFemale3Cumberland60sMale4Kennebec80sFemale5York80sFemale6Cumberland80sFemale7Cumberland80sFemale8Cumberland70sMale9Cumberland80sFemale10York70sMale
April 4 update: Statewide COVID-19 cases rise to 456
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 4, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 456 cases confirmed across the state.
One hundred forty people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while 10 people have passed. Eighty-three people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples from... Read more
Gov. Mills orders quarantine restrictions on travelers arriving in Maine
AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills issued April 3 an Executive Order mandating travelers arriving in Maine, regardless of their state of residency, self-quarantine for 14 days to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, according to a news release.
The Order, which directs the Maine Department of Transportation, the Maine Turnpike Authority, and others to post this guidance at all major points of entry into the State, exempts individuals who are providing essential services as defined by Governor Mills’... Read more
Conservation District plant sale canceled
In response to the national emergency created by COVID-19 and Maine Governor Janet Mills’ Executive Order of March 31, 2020, which mandates that Maine citizens “Stay Healthy at Home” through at least April 30, the Knox-Lincoln Soil & Water Conservation District’s Board of Supervisors made the difficult decision to cancel our Spring Plant Sale, scheduled for May 2 and 3 at Union Fairgrounds. This includes the public sale and all pre-order sales. Although the sale itself falls outside the... Read more
April 3 update: COVID-19 cases rise in Knox, Waldo counties
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 3, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 432 cases confirmed across the state.
One hundred thirteen people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while nine people have passed. Seventy-five people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples... Read more
Statewide COVID-19 death toll rises to nine
AUGUSTA — During a daily briefing from Augusta, the Maine CDC confirmed April 3 the passing of two additional individuals due to COVID-19, bringing the state’s death toll to nine.
Both individuals were Cumberland County residents, one was a male in his 70s and one was a female in her 80s. The former was a Veteran patient at the VA Maine Healthcare System’s Togus Campus, according to an April 2 news release.
The April 3 announced deaths follow a pair of deaths announced in Cumberland County... Read more
Wanted: Signs of hope
Have you constructed a sign of hope during this time of having to stay at home? Have you seen any such signs around your neighborhood?
We have received a good idea from a reader who thought the newspaper could encourage such signs of hope by publishing photos of the signs while also prompting people to either construct such signs, string white lights on your porches, trees or shrubs, etc. We are doing that here. We want to share everyone’s signs of hope in an effort to boost the region’s... Read more
Bill Packard: If we all work together, we’ll come out of it OK
Wow! This whole coronavirus, COVID-19, thing is really something, isn’t it? The unknown is troubling to a large portion of the population. Some people, like firefighters, cops, and EMS people live with the unknown every day, but the rest of the population doesn’t deal with it very well. The unknown is really what is making people uptight.
We don’t know where this thing started, for sure. Or why. We really don’t know how we can get it or who might have it. It’s all very troubling.
For the... Read more
Maine Coast Fishermen's Association creates online resource for fishermen to protect themselves and their businesses
COVID-19 has made all our lives more difficult, but for Maine’s more than 5,000 community fishermen and seafood businesses, this is a crisis far beyond being trapped at home. Seafood sales, and the entire seafood marketplace, have been upended, undermining businesses and creating uncertainty and fear for the future of Maine’s fishermen. In response, today, MCFA launched a Covid-19 fishermen resource guide which is a clearinghouse of information for issues related to COVID-19.Located on the... Read more
No Olympics for Matt Forgues due to coronavirus
Matt Forgues’ goal of competing in the Tokyo Olympic Games has ended due to a worldwide coronavirus pandemic. Forgues was a four-time state champion racewalker for Boothbay Region High School, and he’s spent the past six years competing internationally as a 50K racewalker. But Forgues has decided to retire from international competition due to the Tokyo Olympics’ postponement. Forgues has focused on the 2020 Games for the past four years. He quit his teaching job in South Dakota and moved to... Read more
Press release
Animal House creates two funds
The Animal House, a holistic pet suppy store with locations in Westbrook and Damariscotta, have created two new funds: “Sheltering-in-Place,” which helps provide Animal House food and supplies for area rescues, and “Neighbor-to-Neighbor,” which supports community residents with food and litter during this time of need.
Nearly $2,000 in Animal House gift cards have been donated so far.
Animal House president Aubrey Martin released a statement last week remarking on the generosity of their... Read more
Three steps for Mainers to follow before heading outdoors
AUGUSTA, Maine – The current “Stay Healthy at Home” mandate identifies “engaging in outdoor exercise activities, such as walking, hiking, running, or biking” as essential personal activities, provided they are conducted in accordance with all public health restrictions and guidance. Maine’s conservation community, natural resource agencies, and outdoor brands want everyone to have the opportunity to get outside during this challenging time.
Most of our publicly accessible conservation lands... Read more
Boothbay Region YMCA
Boating safety course to be rescheduled
In an effort to protect our students and instructors and in order to comply with stay-at-home orders currently in place, the Wawenock Sail and Power Squadron® has canceled the one-day recreational boating safety course at the Boothbay Region YMCA that was scheduled for Saturday April 25. A new date will be announced when it is safe to do so.
If you have any additional questions contact Rob Whitehouse, Squadron Education Officer at WhitehouseUSPS@gmail.com or 207-208-7343.
April 2 update: Knox County’s COVID-19 cases rise; 376 statewide cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 2, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 376 cases confirmed across the state.
Ninety-four people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while seven people have passed. Sixty-eight people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples from... Read more
UPDATED: Chamber provides help, resources for businesses
UPDATED: The order to stay home will hopefully protect individuals from the coronavirus, but it has the opposite effect on the area’s small businesses. Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce is busy pulling together information and resources to help business owners weather the stormy economic conditions.
“We’re trying to figure out how to best serve the community,” said Southport Marine’s Douglas Goldhirsch, who is chamber president. John Nunan, who directs the chamber’s marketing and... Read more
Governor extends state’s property tax exemption deadline
AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills issued an Executive Order extending the State’s property tax exemption deadline, according to a news release.
The order, which took effect March 31, extends the statutory April 1 deadline to either the commitment date of the municipality (the date set each year, usually in July, when the Tax Assessors commit the town’s assessment roll to the Tax Collector to allow for the receipt of payment), or 30 days after the termination of the Governor’s Proclamation of... Read more
Maine Dept. of Education increases flexibility to school meal programs feeding children in need
AUGUSTA — With the approval of an additional waiver submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and additional bulk packaging options, the Maine Department of Education has been able to add significant flexibility to its school food service programs, enabling schools to provide meals to students all over Maine, increasing the potential to reach even more hungry children in a more meaningful way, a news release stated.
The first waiver obtained by the Maine DOE expanded the Summer... Read more
Careless ... entitled ... dangerous?
“We’re all in this together.”
No, apparently we’re not. Some of us seem to be entitled to more than others. More toilet paper, more hand sanitizer, more – you name it. For some people, this virus is bringing out the worst in their behavior.
Most of us watched in horror as television news showed young adults crowding the beaches over spring break, wondering why they didn’t understand that their actions could harm others around them.
But from Hawaii to Maine, resort communities are facing a... Read more
Two more COVID-19 deaths recorded in Cumberland County
AUGUSTA — An additional two COVID-19 deaths have been announced April 1 by the Maine CDC, bringing the state’s death toll to seven.
Both individuals were women in their 80s and were hospitalized at their respective times of death.
The April 1 announced deaths follow a pair of deaths in Cumberland County announced March 29 of a woman in her 80s and a man in his 60s, as well as the death in Cumberland County reported March 27 of a man in his 80’s.
A pair of deaths were announced Tuesday,... Read more
April 1 update: Statewide COVID-19 cases climb to 344
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, April 1, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 344 cases confirmed across the state.
Eighty people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while seven people have passed. Sixty-three people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples from Maine,... Read more
Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD School Committee
CSD Committee to meet online April 8
The CSD School Committee will meet via Zoom for the first time at 6 p.m. April 8 to continue regular board business and budget discussions, agenda to be announced.
Access the Zoom meeting at https://us04web.zoom.us/j/6615898367
Users may be required to install Zoom to access the meeting. Click “Download and Run” if prompted. The meeting ID is 661 589 8367.
Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor Community School District
CSD teachers, staff parade peninsula
Boothbay Region Elementary and High School teacher, staff and administrators formed a parade March 30 to wave and say hello to students around the peninsula.
BRES Principal Shawna Kurr and BRHS interim principal Tricia Campbell led the parade on a CSD school bus decorated with hearts and the words: “WE MISS YOU.”
Said Kurr, “Seeing students, parents, grandparents, siblings, and community members waving and cheering back at us on this drizzly day, was incredibly touching. There were so many... Read more
‘heartening to see dental practices in Maine step up like they have’
Dental practices throughout Maine donate personal protective equipment
The Maine Dental Association has submitted the following statement:
A number of dental practices throughout Maine have donated personal protective equipment to their local hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and first responders, in an effort to help fight the spread of COVID-19, and aid in the response.
According to information collected by the Maine Dental Association from its members, more than 25 practices have donated more than 10,000 masks and more than 20,000 gloves, along with items... Read more
Gov. Mills issues ‘Stay Healthy at Home’ COVID-19 mandate
AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills issued March 31 a series of substantial new mandates to protect public health and safety in the face of COVID-19, including a Stay Healthy at Home directive that requires people living in Maine to stay at home at all times unless for an essential job or an essential personal reason, such as obtaining food, medicine, health care, or other necessary purposes.
The Governor also mandated a series of other new restrictions, including:
• For essential businesses and... Read more
Boothbay Harbor selectmen
Selectmen sink seasonal water delay concept
Boothbay Harbor selectmen decided March 30 not to pursue a waiver with the Maine Public Utilities Commission delaying the start of seasonal water. On March 23, selectmen had discussed possibly moving the May 1 start date to May 15. That meeting came after an emergency meeting of Boothbay’s selectmen with Southport selectmen considering the delay.
Boothbay Harbor board chair Mike Tomko, Selectman Wendy Wolf and Town Manager Julia Latter joined members from Southport and Boothbay’s select boards... Read more
When the college-bound become home-bound
Many Boothbay Region High School alumni have returned to the peninsula as colleges and universities concentrate on keeping students home to practice social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. BRHS College Access Coordinator Hannah Johnson said she has been reaching out to post-secondary alumni letting them know she is still a resource for them, especially students who cannot or do not wish to stay with their families.
“… Mostly I'm hearing that folks are glad their universities have taken... Read more
Boothbay Harbor Planning Board virtual meeting April 8
The Boothbay Harbor Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting via Zoom (see directions below) on Wednesday, April 8 at 7 p.m.
Agenda
Call to Order
Roll Call of Members
Old Business
Approval of February 12, 2020, February 19, 2020 and March 11, 2020 Minutes
New Business
Susan Porter, 32 Factory Cove Road, Tax Map 5, Lot 23, Applicant proposes to raise chickens, requiring Planning Board approval under Chapter 170, Article V, Section 170-27 (e) of the Code of the Town of Boothbay Harbor.... Read more
BRHS graduation meeting canceled
Allan Crocker of Boothbay Region High School has announced that the graduation meeting scheduled for April 2 at Boothbay Region High School has been canceled.
“We will announce an alternative date when we are once again able to meet in larger groups,” said Crocker via email.
Dept. of Labor joins new federal unemployment programs to help Mainers during COVID-19
AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Labor has opted in to new temporary federal unemployment programs to provide relief to people in Maine affected by COVID-19, according to a news release.
Congress enacted and the President signed the new CARES Act which includes these provisions on Friday, March 28. On Saturday the 29th, the state completed the documentation to begin the process for receiving the new federal unemployment funds.
Because Maine already had in place emergency unemployment... Read more
COVID-19 deaths recorded in Kennebec, York counties
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC reported Tuesday, March 31 an additional two deaths in the state from COVID-19, bringing the state’s death total to five.
The new cases are individuals with full-time residency in Kennebec County, where 12 people have tested positive, and York County, where 59 people have tested positive.
Both individuals were women in their 80’s and were in hospitals at their respective times of death.
The two new deaths follow a pair of deaths in Cumberland County announced March... Read more
March 31 update: New Knox County COVID-19 case; one recovery in Knox, Waldo counties; 303 statewide cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 31, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 303 cases confirmed across the state.
Sixty-eight people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while five people have passed. Fifty-seven people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a March 30 press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples from... Read more
When hiking, find the hidden gems
The current COVID-19 epidemic has put a strain on people throughout the world. The crisis has forced sudden changes in our daily lives including work closures, remote working, homeschooling, and social distancing. For many, these circumstances, along with the alarming daily news reports, are a source of great stress and anxiety. Maintaining physical and mental health during these trying times is essential, and Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT) is here to help. BRLT offers a wide variety of... Read more
MPS cancels public awards reception
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we regret to announce that the opening reception for the 15th annual Maine Photography Show (MPS) , scheduled for Saturday, April 4, is cancelled.
Award winners of the 2020 show will be notified directly and the winners announced on www.mainephotoshow.org at 2 p.m. on April 4.
And, because the photo show is a “non-essential business,” the MPS committee has had to postpone the exhibition. However, the work is posted on the MPS website as Gallery 2020. The... Read more
Governor, DHHS commissioner accelerate benefits for personal care workers, home-bound seniors
AUGUSTA — Governor Mills and Commissioner of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Jeanne Lambrew announced March 30 the acceleration of pay increases for personal care workers and expanding access to meals for older Mainers who are home-bound in response to COVID-19, according to a news release.
Maine DHHS will accelerate MaineCare (Medicaid) rate increases that are designated to support pay raises for personal care workers, including personal support specialists, home health... Read more
Next LC Commissioners meeting is by conference call
The Lincoln County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, April 7 at 9 a.m. will be by conference call.
To listen in, please call the number listed and use the access code highlighted.
Attached is a participant guide if you have questions on how to use the service.
The public comment option from the agenda has been suspended until we can resume in-person meetings.
We anticipate meeting telephonically until we are advised by the state to resume normal meetings.
Dial-in number (US): (978) 990-... Read more
CLC YMCA extends closure until April 27
Central Lincoln County (CLC) YMCA has extended the closure of the main facility and child care site until April 27. Management will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with the town of Damariscotta, LincolnHealth, and the superintendent of the AOS93 school district to align with consistency on best practices.
CLC YMCA continues their virtual online fitness classes and has now added virtual story time and activities for child care participants. Outreach efforts are ongoing as... Read more
Donating cloth facemasks
As frontline caregivers up and down the state call out for PPE, Boothbay Region Health Center is orchestrating a volunteer effort for local sewers to make and donate washable cloth facemasks.
Board of Directors President Patricia Seybold explained, “There are two types of masks: those that can be used by health care professionals and those that can be used by anyone if they have to go out.” Masks suitable for professionals, said Seybold, can be worn over other PPE. “They have a pocket for... Read more
Lincoln County EMA develops resource website
In an effort to provide one stop shopping for anyone seeking local resources and information in Lincoln County, the EMA Emergency Operation Center has created a webpage where groups and organizations in Lincoln County can submit this information to be shared. https://www.lincolncountymaine.me/covid-19This webpage is made available to any organization in Lincoln County that is providing a resource or information directly relating to COVID-19.If your group or organization is supporting the... Read more
COVID-19
Wiscasset teen’s musical take on stay at home time
Julia Truesdell brought smiles to the faces of those staying at home on Monday afternoon with her original song, “We’re all at home.” The homeschooled eighth grader posted a video recording of the song on her YouTube music channel. With catchy lyrics such as “we’re all at home, no place that we can go, but you can be assured, everyone feels the same, cooped up inside, going insane,” and a ukulele accompaniment, her tune had already garnered over 250 views on YouTube as of 8:30 p.m. Monday night... Read more
letter to the editor
Looking toward better days
Dear Editor:
On behalf of the providers of Lincoln Medical Partners I want you to know that we miss you. Even though the reason for your visit is often listed as a “chief complaint,” we looking forward to seeing you every day. We look forward to hearing about your lives and families. We look forward to measuring your growth, learning of new achievements, and helping you set future goals.
We love the challenge of trying to figure out what might be causing that nagging pain, annoying rash, or... Read more
Diocese of Portland announces directives for celebration of Holy Week and Easter in Maine parishes
PORTLAND---The Diocese of Portland has informed Maine parishes of the protocols that will be in place for the celebration of the liturgies of Holy Week and Easter.
All celebrations must be limited to/not exceed 10 people or less, including all clergy, and will not be open to the public due to the regulations currently in place in Maine as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Without public Masses and commemorations, there will be unprecedented live-streaming and broadcasting of liturgies from... Read more
March 30 update: Lincoln County’s COVID-19 cases rise; 275 statewide cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 30, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine.
Today, there are 275 cases confirmed. Forty-one people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while three people have passed. Forty-nine people have been hospitalized across the state.
In a press briefing, Maine CDC Director Nirav Shah noted there are more than 6,000 negative cases. “Because of the number of outside labs that are testing samples from Maine, it is no longer possible... Read more
Making work work during pandemic
With the COVID-19 outbreak, many residents have been adapting to working remotely. What it means to work from home varies greatly for each profession and for Lorna Weber of Wiscasset, it means two very different professions. Weber is both an assistant vice president mortgage loan officer at the First National Bank in Boothbay Harbor and a fitness instructor at Wiscasset Community Center (WCC). Both jobs have now become remote, and she’s made some unique adjustments to make it work.
When WCC... Read more
MaineHealth cancels non-urgent office appointments
MaineHealth institutes telehealth to keep patients out of doctors’ offices
MaineHealth, the nonprofit that owns Pen Bay Medical Center, in Rockport, and Waldo County General Hospital, in Belfast said March 28 in a letter to individuals who have used MaineHealth medical services and provided an email address to the organization that it is offering secure telehealth video visits, “for patients seen at our outpatient practices.”
“If your provider decides that video is needed for your upcoming visit, your practice will contact you with more information,” according to... Read more
From the House
Responding to COVID-19 together
Since Maine’s first case of COVID-19 was announced on March 12, individuals across our state have sprung into action. People in our community have quickly adapted to protect public health, from temporarily closing schools and businesses to moving to remote work, practicing social distancing and more. I am grateful and proud for the consideration and support we are providing each other, and wanted to provide some additional insight and resources.
In our coastal community, I know many of us are... Read more
Wiscasset shows support with lights
Wiscasset residents have been showing support in the fight against COVID-19 by displaying lights.
Here are some from March 28. Are you displaying lights or another sign of support? To share it, email a photo and your name and town to news@wiscassetnewspaper.com
From the Senate
A quick summary of Maine’s COVID-19 response law
Under extraordinary circumstances, leaders of the Maine State Legislature came together working tirelessly throughout the March 14-15 weekend and reached agreement on a package of new laws to address the immediate needs of state government in response to the Covid-19 outbreak.
The following Tuesday, the last day of the recent legislative session, the entire State Legislature passed, and Governor Mills signed those changes in law granting special temporary powers to the governor to act while... Read more
CANCELED: Conservation District extends plant sale order deadline
UPDATE: In response to the national emergency created by COVID-19 and Maine Governor Janet Mills’ Executive Order of March 31, 2020, which mandates that Maine citizens “Stay Healthy at Home” through at least April 30, the Knox-Lincoln Soil & Water Conservation District’s Board of Supervisors made the difficult decision to cancel our Spring Plant Sale, scheduled for May 2 and 3, 2020 at Union Fairgrounds. This includes the public sale and all pre-order sales. Although the sale itself falls... Read more
Two additional COVID-19 deaths registered in Maine, including MDOT employee
AUGUSTA — Two additional individuals from Maine have passed away due to COVID-19, according to the Maine CDC.
The Maine CDC website was updated with the new death count at 2:20 p.m., though the county of residence for the individuals was not posted to the Maine CDC website.
Both WGME and WABI are reporting the individuals are from Cumberland County and were a woman in her 80’s and a man in his 60’s.
On Sunday, the Maine CDC announced there were 253 confirmed cases statewide, including an... Read more
Red Cross blood drive in Damariscotta collects from 40 donors
Forty donors donated to the Red Cross blood drive on March 26 at the Central Lincoln County YMCA. The blood drive was co-sponsored by the Second Congregational Church, UCC in Newcastle and the CLC YMCA.
The blood drive was originally planned to be hosted at 2nd Congo, one of the bi-monthly drives the church has committed to. A week ago it was determined by church leadership that the use of the church’s Fellowship Hall, normally the site for blood drives, wouldn’t meet CDC social distancing... Read more
March 29 update: Knox County’s COVID-19 cases rise; 253 statewide cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 29, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 253 cases confirmed.
Forty-one people in Maine have recovered from COVID-19, while one person has passed.
By sex, 129 males tested positive in the state and 124 females tested positive.
Confirmed Cases: This number represents tests that come back positive from any approved lab.
Negative Tests: This number represents negative tests from state, reference, or... Read more
Decision on spring season rests with MPA
As our schools begin their third week of shutdowns, thoughts are turning to spring sports and what the season could look like.
So far, schools are slated to reopen April 27. Boothbay Region High School Athletic Director Allan Crocker said March 27, “I’m very hopeful that we’ll have a spring sports season of some kind. I imagine it will look very different than the season we planned on having in terms of the length of the preseason and the number of contests played.”
Athletes are doing their... Read more
Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD
BRES, BRHS teachers, admin plan parade March 30
Boothbay Region Elementary and High school teachers and administrators are planning a parade to reconnect with students and families from a distance March 30.
“We miss our students and families!” said the Thursday evening release. “Teachers and staff will drive through Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor in parade to wave and say hello. Be sure to come outside and wave back. Tell your friends!”
The routes and approximate times will be sent out by the CSD once they are finalized. The parade will... Read more
March 28 update: Two recover from COVID-19 in Lincoln County; statewide 211 confirmed cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 28, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 211 cases confirmed.
Thirty-six people in Maine have since recovered from COVID-19, while one person has passed.
By sex, 104 males tested positive in the state and 107 females tested positive.
Confirmed Cases: This number represents tests that come back positive from any approved lab.
Negative Tests: This number represents negative tests from state, reference, or... Read more
Two weeks at home and students are missing school
Decades from now, today’s students will tell their children about the time they couldn’t go to school because a virus caused everything, including schools, to close. And most will say they missed being there.
With schools closed since Monday, March 16, the. Boothbay Register checked with a sampling of local teachers to see how distance learning is going.
Boothbay Region High School English teacher Mark Gorey said distance learning is “asynchronous,” meaning students are learning at different... Read more
BRYMCA remains closed at least through April 8
Boothbay Region YMCA will remained closed at least through April 8. Executive Director Andy Hamblett made the announcement through a March 26 letter sent to the membership. During the closure, Y staff are providing limited day care service, extensively cleaning the facility, disinfecting equipment and completing maintenance work. The Healthy Living Staff is also working with Boothbay Region Television to provide exercise video classes. The Y-Arts director is staying in contact with students... Read more
Healthy Kids provides support to parents, professionals online
Healthy Kids knows this is a hard time for everyone. In order to be helpful, the following are available online. Healthy Kids Facebook page, @healthykidsmaine, is posting activities for children of all ages daily. Any parent wishing to get some parenting support can call the office and/or ask to take a parenting class through Zoom. Contact Mindy at 563-1818 or email mcorrell@tidewater.net for information.
Healthy Kids will also be posting professional and family information in their e-... Read more
Boothbay Region YMCA receives funding for weekend meals
The Boothbay Region YMCA has received $10,000 in emergency funding from the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation in order to continue providing weekend meals for area youth. Curb side pick up at YMCA parking lot is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for Saturday and Sunday.
This food program work is a collaborative effort between multiple organizations. For many years, our Y has participated in a food security collaborative to tackle the increasing rate of food insecurity faced by our community.... Read more
LincolnHealth
LMP Family Medicine in Wiscasset temporarily moves to Miles campus
In order to strengthen its response to COVID-19 (coronavirus) while continuing to provide care for patients with other health needs, LincolnHealth has temporarily relocated Lincoln Medical Partners Family Medicine in Wiscasset to the Watson Health Center in Damariscotta.
“This is a time where we must anticipate the growing needs related to COVID-19,’’ said James Donovan, pesident of LincolnHealth. “Having this team on the Miles campus creates another layer of resources we may need if COVID-19... Read more
After adjournment due to COVID-19, lawmakers feel pressure to decide on more than 450 bills
More than 450 pieces of legislation are in limbo, including measures to reform Maine’s criminal justice system, following the sudden adjournment of the Legislature last week because of concerns about the spread of coronavirus.
Some of the criminal justice bills address how juveniles are punished and rehabilitated, whether steps can be taken to reduce the use of cash bail and whether some violations now considered crimes should be reduced to civil offenses.
“The unfortunate thing with the... Read more
Faith Blethen returns home after college basketball, academic year cut short
Faith Blethen’s first college basketball season ended two weeks earlier than her first academic year as a collegian. The 2019 Boothbay Region High School grad played this basketball season for George Washington University in the women’s Atlantic 10 conference. On March 17, the NCAA cancelled all remaining collegiate athletics for 2019-20. A few days later, colleges and universities across the nation cancelled the academic semester. So Blethen and thousands of other college students all returned... Read more
Maine records first death of individual who tested positive for COVID-19
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) today, March 27, reported the first death of an individual who had tested positive for the disease caused by the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The individual was a man in his 80s from Cumberland County. Due to privacy laws, Maine CDC is limited in releasing further details.
“This is a sad day for the State of Maine. I know I join countless people in extending my condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this... Read more
March 27 update: Number of confirmed COVID-19 cases rise in Knox County, statewide
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 27, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 168 cases confirmed.
Twenty-four people in Maine have since recovered from COVID-19, while one person has passed.
By sex, 82 males tested positive in the state and 86 females tested positive.
Confirmed Cases: This number represents tests that come back positive from any approved lab.
Negative Tests: This number represents negative tests from state, reference, or... Read more
Governor launches online resource outlining ways Mainers can help Mainers amid COVID-19
AUGUSTA — In response to the extraordinary generosity of Maine people, businesses, and organizations looking to help during these challenging times, Governor Janet Mills launched a new online resource, coronavirus.maine.gov/mainehelps, to outline ways in which Maine people can support efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The kindness and generosity of Maine people during this challenging time is nothing short of inspiring. I want to thank all of you for stepping up with innovative... Read more
Gov. Mills extends state income tax filing, payment deadline to July 15
AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills and Commissioner of the Department of Administrative and Financial Services Commissioner Kirsten Figueroa announced today, March 26, the State will extend the deadline for Maine income tax payments from April 15, 2020 to July 15, 2020, according to a news release.
The change aligns with the Federal government’s recent extension of the Federal tax filing deadline to July 15, 2020.
“It is my hope that moving back this deadline will help provide a measure of relief... Read more
Bureau of Parks and Lands announces steps to help slow the spread of coronavirus
Popham Beach among State Parks closed due to overcrowding
Effective Friday, March 27, at 12:01 a.m., the following Midcoast and Southern Maine coastal State Parks and beaches are closed until April 8: Reid State Park, Popham Beach State Park, Fort Popham, Fort Baldwin, Kettle Cove State Park, Two Lights State Park, Crescent Beach State Park, Scarborough Beach State Park, Ferry Beach State Park, and Mackworth Island.
The closure could be extended depending on the spread of the potentially deadly virus, according to the Department of Agriculture,... Read more
https://vimeo.com/400405046
Boothbay Harbor selectmen
Seasonal water delay a concern for board
Boothbay Harbor selectmen held off choosing to join Southport and Boothbay March 23 in pursuing a delay in the seasonal water turn-on date. The Boothbay Harbor board deferred a decision until a special meeting March 30. The issue was brought forth earlier in the day in an emergency meeting of the Boothbay selectmen in which Southport Select Board Chair Gerry Gamage proposed delaying the May 1 turn-on for two weeks to discourage seasonal residents from arriving early, amid the global COVID-19... Read more
March 26 update: 155 confirmed statewide COVID-19 cases; one in Knox County, two in Waldo County, five in Lincoln County
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 26, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 155 cases confirmed and 3,394 tests have returned as negative.
Sixteen people in Maine have since recovered from COVID-19.
By sex, 76 males tested positive in the state and 79 females tested positive.
Confirmed Cases: This number represents tests that come back positive from any approved lab.
Negative Tests: This number represents negative tests from state,... Read more
How to safely spend time outside
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Department and Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry know that during these stressful times, everyone wants to get outside and recharge. One challenge we all face right now is how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly during this civil state of emergency.Here are a few reminders on how you can get some fresh air while being smart, staying safe, and sticking close to home.Go where they aren’t (AKA how to avoid crowds!)
Visit a lesser-... Read more
Lincoln County request for personal protective equipment
The Lincoln County EMA Emergency Operations Center issued a request March 26 for new, unused Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to assist our front line Emergency Medical, Fire Department and Law Enforcement first responders, health care providers and health care facilities responding to COVID-19. Needed supplies include: N95 masks (NIOSH approved equivalent or similar), surgical protective masks, nitrile gloves, eye protection, face shields, disposable protective gowns or suits, disposable... Read more
Making it home from Mexico
For Nikki and Jimmy MacDonald of Boothbay Harbor, life in Oaxaca, Mexico, was the beginning of a new adventure. “We’d been there for about two months and planned to stay indefinitely,” said Nikki MacDonald.
The MacDonalds teach English as a foreign language online. “We loved Oaxaca, we were enjoying learning Spanish, the people were great,” MacDonald said.
But when the coronavirus began to impact the U.S., everything changed.
“We’d been keeping an eye on things,” said MacDonald. “And when we... Read more
UPDATE: Bouchers welcome daughter home to Edgecomb from Vietnam
UPDATE: Deb Boucher said via email Monday, her daughter arrived back in Maine Saturday night. “She is at the (friend’s) house where she is isolating. She is fine, healthy and in good spirits although a bit tired as you would expect.”
Original post: The distance between Edgecomb, Maine and Hanoi, Vietnam is 7,933 miles. The long trip is further complicated by current travel restrictions due to the coronavirus. But a former Edgecomb resident is returning home from Vietnam Saturday with some help... Read more
Boothbay transfer station closing Wednesdays starting April 1
Effective as of April 1, the Boothbay Region Refuse Disposal District’s transfer station in Boothbay will be closed on Wednesdays so that we can stay in compliance with the CDC recommendations for the COVID-19 pandemic and to protect our employees.
We are changing staffing levels in hopes that we will not have to close if one of our employees comes down with COVID-19. Closing Wednesdays is temporary to get us through the pandemic. We will go back to normal hours as soon as we feel it safe to... Read more
Maine bankers take action to help feed families
WESTBROOK, ME – With the spread of COVID-19 and social distancing in place, many Mainers find themselves out of work or working remotely with children home due to school closings. Many of Maine’s school children depend on school meals for their nutrition and in this current crisis may be forced to go hungry. To support families in need, the Maine Bankers Association has rallied 34Maine banks – listed below – to raise $61,000 in a matter of hours to support food pantries throughout the state.
“... Read more
Seeing: Social distancing
The Boothbay Register is resurrecting its “Seeing:” photo gallery series and is welcoming photo submissions from the housebound all along the peninsula. These times of self-isolation and social distancing are necessary, but can be overwhelming for most of us. We’re hoping that connecting through photography will diminish some of that stress and help us come together. Please send submissions to: news@boothbayregister.
https://youtu.be/90k2jE0zjDo
Newcastle woman sculpts socially distanced snowmen
Nicole St. Cyr of Newcastle is taking social distancing seriously. She thinks it should also apply to snowmen. March 24, after the overnight snowstorm, she got busy building a line of snowmen on her lawn being careful to make sure they were at least six feet apart.
“The snowmen can’t be together,” said St. Cyr, who lives with her family on Academy Hill Road.
She even made one on the roof of her van to show how some snowmen are exercising extreme caution. St. Cyr had to work fast as she... Read more
Sec. Dunlap: CDLs, registrations extended during emergency; Real ID enforcement delayed
AUGUSTA – Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap is updating all Maine residents with the latest developments surrounding BMV transactions during the emergency closure period.
Sec. Dunlap closed all BMV offices Tuesday, March 17 to aid in preventing the spread of COVID-19 among staff and the public, and the closure will remain in effect until further notice.
The Maine Legislature, in its actions last week, waived enforcement of all motorized vehicle, watercraft and trailer registration and... Read more
Ports Pizzeria teams up with Food for Thought program
Ports Pizzeria made enough meals to feed 31 families from Southport to Edgecomb March 23. It received food donations from the recently closed Thistle Inn and Restaurant and Brady’s Restaurant through Boothbay Region Community Resource Council. The families were served through BRCRC’s Food for Thought program.
Ports Pizzeria manager Jeff Teel credited BRCRC Addiction Outreach Coordinator Holly Stover with the idea, but Stover said it was Teel who reached out to her. “He called me and said he... Read more
Governor also urges large essential businesses to limit in-store customers
Gov. Janet Mills orders further steps to protect public health, issues new order effective March 25
Under the authority granted to her during a State of Civil Emergency, Governor Janet Mills today issued an Executive Order mandating that all non-essential businesses and operations in Maine close their physical locations that are public facing, meaning those that allow customer, vendor or other in-person contact. The Order also closes non-essential business sites that require more than ten workers to convene in a space where physical distancing is not possible. Non-essential businesses and... Read more
Update on Maine unemployment insurance during COVID-19 pandemic
AUGUSTA – A significant number of individuals are filing unemployment insurance (UI) claims and reaching out to the Maine Department of Labor with questions as Mainers lose work due to COVID-19.
“The Maine Department of Labor is working as quickly as it can to process the unprecedented number of unemployment claims,” said Commissioner Laura Fortman, in a March 24 news release. “The unemployment insurance program provides a critical economic lifeline and is experiencing extremely high... Read more
A Bird’s Tale
Cool Critters in Our Own Backyard
Our column two weeks ago was about nature-based activities any of us can do from the backyard, as Maine and the world practice physical distancing due to COVID-19. We have been enjoying watching spring slowly unfold as we have time to pay closer attention to the small things around our home. Yesterday we had the first purple finches at the feeder that we have seen since last fall, and the goldfinch numbers seem to be continuing to climb. Mom Wells told us that she, too, has had the return of... Read more
Maine Health Care Association launches intergenerational online effort to reach long term care residents
The Maine Health Care Association has launched an intergenerational program designed to reach nursing home and assisted living residents with messages of encouragement, love, and support during these unprecedented times.
Currently, federal and state guidelines are restricting visits to nursing homes and assisted living communities to protect vulnerable residents from illness and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. We recognize the hardship this places on our long term care residents and... Read more
‘Surge preparation’ underway on Miles Campus
From Thursday, March 26, medical staff from St. Andrews Urgent Care will begin caring for patients on the Miles Campus in Damariscotta.
John Martins, director of Communications and Public Affairs at LincolnHealth, explained. “The decision was made based on projected needs due to COVID-19 and our ability to provide coverage for other types of emergent care. It also assists in our surge preparation. There is still care available on the St. Andrews Campus and for the same hours. We just ask that... Read more
March 24 update: 118 confirmed statewide COVID-19 cases; one in Knox County, one in Waldo County, 5 in Lincoln County
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 24, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 118 cases confirmed and 3,014 tests have returned as negative.
Seven people in Maine have since recovered from COVID-19.
By sex, 57 males tested positive in the state and 61 females tested positive.
Confirmed Cases: This number represents tests that come back positive from any approved lab.
Negative Tests: This number represents negative tests from state,... Read more
Boothbay, Southport eye possible delayed water start
Boothbay is considering seeking opinions from its legal representation and Maine Public Utilities Commission about delaying the April 15 seasonal water start. Southport Selectman Gerry Gamage initiated the proposal due to concerns about seasonal residents arriving in the Boothbay region early to try to escape the growing coronavirus pandemic. Gamage proposed delaying seasonal water by a month in hopes of discouraging visitors from highly infected coronavirus states from seeking refuge in the... Read more
United Way launches COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund
United Way of Mid Coast Maine announced Monday that it has created a special Fund to help initiatives and agencies meet the increased needs of local people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The COVID-19 Urgent Needs Fund is being set up to match the needs of vulnerable people in Mid Coast Maine with the generosity of people who want to help others during this difficult time,” said Bill Brillant, United Way’s Board Chair. “United Way partner agencies and others are working hard to help people with... Read more
Where to get take-out food in the Boothbay region and what is closed
This list has been updated since the original posting last week.
Boothbay Region Food Pantry will continue to operate on Fridays (11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) as usual, said BRFP’s Doreen Dun. The pantry will also be providing as much as possible for non-clients. “The procedure is going to be quite different – you will stay in the car … and food will be in a pre-packaged box. If you can’t lift a box, please bring somebody who can.”
Dun said she is hoping the boxes will be useful to people as they... Read more
Special Olympics Maine suspends activities through May 31
The coronavirus is affecting everyone, both personally and professionally. With new recommendations from our governor, Maine Department of Health, the CDC and a new directive from Special Olympics, Inc. (distributed last week) that strongly advises all programs to cancel all Special Olympic activities through May 31st, we have developed an updated plan to take us through the next few months.
In light of these recommendations, Special Olympics Maine has made the difficult decision to take the... Read more
March 23 update: 107 confirmed statewide COVID-19 cases; one in Knox County, five in Lincoln
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 23, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 107 cases confirmed and 2,791 have returned as negative.
Three people in Maine have since recovered from COVID-19.
The tables below are updated once each day by noon.
Confirmed Cases: This number represents tests that come back positive from any approved lab.
Negative Tests: This number represents negative tests from state, reference, or commercial laboratories,... Read more
Press release
Boothbay Region Health Center open to all
Boothbay Region Health Center, located in the Meadow Mall, Boothbay Harbor continues to serve local people during this time of need. We plan to be here for the community through thick and thin, as long as our staff remains healthy. Although other healthcare facilities are reducing their primary care services, we remain open and we welcome walk-ins and same day appointments. You don't need to be a current patient to use our services. And, you don't need to switch providers in order to avail... Read more
CLC YMCA extends closure and increases virtual options
Central Lincoln County (CLC) YMCA has extended the closure of the main facility and child care site through April 5. Management will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with the town of Damariscotta, LincolnHealth, and the superintendent of the AOS93 school district to align with consistency on best practices.
To best support the community to stay healthy during this time of social distancing, CLC YMCA is providing virtual options for online fitness and exercise classes. Options... Read more
Concord suspends Midcoast bus service
Concord Coach Lines has suspended its service to and from the Midcoast for the foreseeable future during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company had been making stops in Belfast, Rockport, Lincolnville, Damariscotta, Rockland, Searsport, Waldoboro and Wiscasset en route to Boston and Logan Airport.
The news was announced by the company March 18 with the changes effective March 22.
The company also announced it was suspending its New York City service.
To view the revised Concord schedule,... Read more
https://youtu.be/_jal8UFkK8A
‘Solidarity’ in the ringing: Wiscasset villagers take bells in hand
Social distancing had a ring to it in Wiscasset Village Sunday. A lot of them: From a cowbell to Christmas ones, bells rang out at noon in the coronavirus spring.
Helen Russell and son Ben, 4, walked down their Federal Street driveway carrying a bell she said came with the house. As they rang the bell, Russell said they wanted to help show solidarity. Across the street, organizer Elizabeth Palmer rang bells and a passing motorist peeped.
Peter Wells rang a cowbell about 75 years old. “My... Read more
Boothbay Region Food Pantry open March 27
The Boothbay Region Food Pantry, located at 125 Townsend Avenue in Boothbay Harbor, will be open as usual on Friday, March 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Future evening pantries on the second Monday of each month are suspended for now.
Clients whose regular day for monthly pick-up, new clients, and anyone in the region who has a food emergency are welcome.
This week you will be given a grocery list to fill out and we will do our best to supply you from what is on our shelves. We, like... Read more
March 22 update: 89 confirmed statewide COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 22, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 89 cases confirmed and 2,264 have returned as negative, though negative tests results are not updated on the weekend.
Three people in Maine have since recovered from COVID-19.
The tables below are updated once each day by noon.
Confirmed Cases: This number represents tests that come back positive from any approved lab.
Negative Tests: This number represents... Read more
‘A way to be together’: Wiscasset villagers, churches to ring bells at noon Sunday; other area volunteer efforts emerge
From fundraising for families, to village bell-ringing from porches and churches, and the new group Alna Cares, area residents are finding ways to connect and to help one another through the coronavirus crisis.
The bell-ringing in and beyond Wiscasset village, including by St. Philip’s Episcopal and First Congregational churches, is set for noon Sunday, Elizabeth Palmer said in a phone interview Saturday night. Her idea was inspired by scenes of Italians and others around the world breaking... Read more
March 21 update: 70 confirmed statewide COVID-19 cases
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 21, of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 70 cases confirmed and 2,264 have returned as negative, though negative tests results are not updated on the weekend.
Many of the confirmed cases are in their 50s and 60s, although the age span is under 20 to over 80, with 39 females and 31 males.
Three people in Maine have since recovered from COVID-19.
The tables below are updated once each day Monday through... Read more
LincolnHealth responds To COVID-19 by making staffing adjustments
In order to strengthen its response to COVID-19 (coronavirus) while continuing to provide care for patients with other health needs, LincolnHealth is making some proactive temporary staffing adjustments.
On Thursday, team members at the St. Andrews Urgent Care Center will begin caring for patients on the Miles Campus in Damariscotta and services at the Center will be temporarily suspended. In order to strengthen access to care in Boothbay Region, the Family Care Center (FCC) will expand its... Read more
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine rescheduling Midcoast Bowl for Kids’ Sake
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine’s Midcoast Bowl for Kids’ Sake events, previously scheduled for April in Belfast, Waldoboro and Rockport, are being postponed. As recommended by the CDC, the agency is following social distancing guidelines for the safety of supporters, staff, and Bigs and Littles. Bowling events originally planned for April 2-11, will be held in May and June according to the following schedule:
Thursday, May 28, 1 to 6 p.m., at ALLPlaY Family Entertainment Center in... Read more
Harbor Peer and Wellness Center closed, still serving communities remotely
We have made the difficult decision to temporarily close the Harbor Peer and Wellness Center, for the next two weeks to 30 days and perhaps longer depending on the guidance and prevailing wisdom of Maine CDC. This decision is out of more than just an abundance of caution, but what we feel is the right level of concern for the public health, the health of our staff and the health and well-being of the larger community. This means all of the community, not just those who use our services, but... Read more
Hannaford Supermarkets commits quarter million dollars to area foodbanks
Scarborough, ME—Hannaford Supermarkets announced today its commitment to donate $250,000 to support area foodbanks that are experiencing increasing and unprecedented demand during the widening of the COVID-19 global pandemic. The monies will be distributed to foodbanks in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont and New York.
Additionally, Hannaford is kicking off a register and store kiosk donation program at all Hannaford grocery stores that will make it easy for customers to donate... Read more
Update on Boothbay region church services
–Boothbay Baptist Church has cancelled its services for now, as well as the Thursday night youth group meetings. Sunday sermons are being live-streamed on Boothbay Baptist Church’s and Steven Nash’s Facebook pages.
––Boothbay Region Community Fellowship in Boothbay is suspending services and meetings for at least two weeks. At 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, call phone number 1-425-436-6200, access code 160480 and join us in prayer.
–Barters Island Baptist Church is canceling its services for the next... Read more
School lunch program progressing as planned
Alternative Organizational Structure 98 officials report between 80-100 lunches and breakfasts are being distributed to local students during the school shutdown. The program began on March 17 providing bag lunches and breakfasts. Masked volunteers are assisting people picking up the meals with little to no personal contact. A volunteer reported most of the lunches are being delivered by bus but a few are being distributed at the elementary school entrances.
SBA offers disaster assistance to Maine small businesses economically affected by COVID-19
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to Maine small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza announced today. SBA acted under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, to declare a disaster following a request received from Gov. Janet... Read more
LincolnHealth visitor policy updated
Damariscotta and Boothbay Harbor: In response to the latest medical guidance to reduce community spread of COVID-19 in Maine, LincolnHealth has expanded its restriction to visitors on the Miles and Boothbay campuses, as well as at the Lincoln Medical Partners practices in Boothbay, Damariscotta, Waldoboro and Wiscasset.
Under the new policy, no visitors are permitted at
• Pediatrics (one parent/guardian at a time allowed in all areas)• Obstetrics (one spouse/birth partner allowed in labor and... Read more
Maine CDC March 20 update: Cases of COVID-19 at 44 confirmed, 12 presumptive positive
AUGUSTA — The Maine CDC has updated its list, March 20, of presumptive positive and confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Maine. Today, there are 44 cases confirmed, 12 presumptive positive and 2,264 have returned as negative. Many of them are in their 50s and 60s, although the age span is under 20 to over 80, with 29 females and 27 males.
The tables below are updated once each day Monday through Friday by noon.
The majority of cases are in Cumberland County, with 26 confirmed and 9... Read more
Maine Medical Center announces further visitor restrictions in response to COVID-19 outbreak
PORTLAND, Maine – In response to the increased risk of community spread of COVID-19 in Maine, Maine Medical Center (MMC) is limiting visitors to pediatric patients and patients with other special circumstances beginning Saturday, March 21.
These visitor restrictions are being made to protect the health and safety of patients and employees of Maine Medical Center and are in addition previously announced restrictions. They apply to all hospital, outpatient clinic and medical practice, urgent... Read more
Reminds Mainers of what not to flush
Maine Dept. of Environmental Protection warns of sewer systems and COVID-19
Properly functioning sewer systems are extremely important for the protection of public health and to reduce the spread of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).
To help keep these systems functioning properly, the DEP is reminding people that the following products should not be flushed:Baby wipes or cleaning wipesPaper towelsTissuesDental FlossTampons and sanitary productsCotton balls and swabsCat litterPrescription drugsOver-the-counter medicinesCigarette buttsUnlike toilet paper, these... Read more
COVID-19 update from CLYNK
CLYNK is a redemption company born out of community. You rely on us to get you back your deposits, and our hardworking employees value your business as it gives them dependable income and basic benefits. Never has this been truer than during the COVID-19 outbreak.
CLYNK is open for business. We are committed to keeping this little corner of your life “easy and convenient” even while the rest is anything but. We are taking extra precautions to keep our employees safe, including increased... Read more
Updates on everything food in Boothbay region
While word spreads fast across the peninsula, we want to share with you all updates concerning food and food services from closures to curbside ordering to some who will continue to serve the public. If we’ve missed your business or if plans have changed, please email news@boothbayregister.com
Boothbay Region Food Pantry will continue to operate on Fridays (11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) as usual, said BRFP’s Doreen Dun. The pantry will also be providing as much as possible for non-clients. “The... Read more
Edgecomb postpones town meeting, election
In light of the uncertainty around the Covid-19 crisis, the selectboard of the town of Edgecomb has postponed the town’s annual meeting and election scheduled for May 16. Both will be rescheduled at a date to be determined when events normalize.
“The state has enacted special measures that will allow the town to operate (pay its bills, accept payments, etc.) without a new budget voted into place, provided the town operates on the current year’s budget,” explained Jack Sarmanian, selectboard... Read more
Hannaford Supermarkets dedicates shopping hours for high-risk, vulnerable customers
Scarborough, Maine —Hannaford Supermarkets announced effective Tuesday, March 24 that its stores will offer dedicated shopping hours for people age 60 and older, as well as those with compromised immune systems. Stores will open early from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. on Tuesday through Thursday to service this vulnerable population and allow a less crowded shopping environment, which enables better social distancing.
In addition, Hannaford is shortening its general store-operating hours starting Saturday... Read more
Profiteers be warned: Maine has a law against price-gouging
Emergencies have a way of bringing out the best and worst in people and for those who tend toward the latter, Maine has a price-gouging law to protect consumers.
Under Title 10, MRSA, section 1105, which prohibits “profiteering,” the Governor must first declare that an “abnormal market disruption” has occurred. That took place on March 17, when Gov. Mills issued a proclamation stating, in part:
“NOW THEREFORE, I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the State of Maine ... hereby declare and proclaim... Read more
Message from AOS 98 superintendent
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we approach the end of week one of this unprecedented national and world-emergency, I want to commend everyone for the collaboration, problem-solving, and superb decision-making taking place. We are creatively confronting the myriad of challenges this virus has wrought upon us. It is astounding to witness us coming together as a community to support our teachers, our staff, and our students.
Our first concern when we closed was that our kids were going to be fed... Read more
Maine Delegation: Protect workers’ health at BIW
The Maine Delegation wrote to Defense Secretary Mark Esper and Acting Navy Secretary Thomas Modly today, urging them to take action to protect the health of shipyard employees during the COVID-19 outbreak.
In their letter, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden said that the safety of shipyard workers is “paramount.” They also told Secretary Esper and Acting Secretary Modly that they stood ready to provide the Department of Defense with... Read more
AOS 98
Student lunches this weekend at the Y
The Boothbay Region YMCA is providing lunch this weekend, March 21 and March 22. Curb side pick up at YMCA parking lot 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for Saturday and Sunday.
Fifty meals will be available each day -- first come, first serve. This will follow the same “rules” as the school lunch program: Any child of our area 18 and under. No income requirement.
Boothbay Harbor Rotary Club cancellations
The Boothbay Haror Rotary Club is cancelling all club activities, including the rental of the hall, through the end of April in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Weekly meetings are suspended through and including April 30.
The Soup Bowl supper has been postponed. Hopefully, we can hold it late spring. The Kentucky Derby Party is tentatively rescheduled to Sept. 5, the new date for the Kentucky Derby. There will be no pick up of donated items until further notice. The Rotary Club can... Read more
Shaw’s establishes reserved shopping hours for senior citizens, at-risk individuals
Shaw’s Supermarket will be making two hours available for senior citizens and at-risk community members to do their shopping on select days.
“To help ensure that the most at-risk members of our community who must leave home to obtain groceries are taken care of, we are reserving 7 AM to 9 AM on Tuesdays and Thursdays for them,” the company posted to social media.
“During those times, we ask that you avoid shopping so that the stores can be available for senior citizens, and other at-risk... Read more
Governor Mills urges federal government, Vice President to release personal protection equipment from national stockpile
AUGUSTA — Governor Janet Mills today pressed the Federal government to provide more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and testing supplies to the State of Maine, she said, in a news release.
In a letter to Vice President Mike Pence and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, Governor Mills requested that the Federal government expedite the release of PPE from the Strategic National Stockpile and pushed for “a steady and reliable supply” of testing materials as the outbreak... Read more
Southport General Store adds delivery service for those in need
Among the many advantages of small community living is the potential to shift gear and support neighbors. At Southport General Store this week, it’s business as usual, but not!
Manager Nancy Long explained, “If any of our customers are sick, self-isolating, or in quarantine, we’re now able to deliver groceries. All they have to do is call in, place their order, and pay by credit card over the phone. We’ll then deliver to their home and leave the goods on the porch, no charge.”
The store hasn’... Read more
Special delivery service set up in Boothbay Harbor
A group of local volunteers is partnering with police and fire departments to set up a delivery service to bring food, medicine and other needs to homebound residents.
“We want folks to know we are available to help,” said Boothbay Harbor Police Chief Bob Hasch.
The group formed after state and national officials said the best way to contain COVID-19 is to limit contact with others. They advise people to go home and stay there. But we still have to go out to buy groceries or meals or medicine... Read more
letter to the editor
Help by promoting social distancing
Dear Editor:
We find ourselves dealing with an unprecedented health crisis. While plans are changing rapidly, the most important and consistent part of the plan is social distancing. COVID-19 is in our community, so we want to remind folks that we can all help by promoting social distancing.
1) What does that mean for you and your family? We recognize that the closure of schools, businesses, and day cares may be disruptive to our lives, but we support all decisions made by local officials to... Read more
All Masses in Maine temporarily suspended in response to CDC guidance on COVID-19
PORTLAND---With attention to the guidance from the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and upon consideration of the size of the usual congregations, Bishop Robert P. Deeley is temporarily suspending all daily and Sunday Masses and religious services throughout the Diocese of Portland (covering the entire state of Maine), effective immediately. The bishop is also issuing a dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass for Maine Catholics during this time. There are nearly 300,... Read more
Southport school offers work packets, food
While schools remain closed, Southport residents under the age of 18 can collect a bagged lunch from the schoolyard Monday through Friday between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
“We started yesterday,” said Principal Lisa Clarke Wednesday. “We had about six or eight children come by, but I expect that number will grow. There is a sign-up on the AOS 98 website but that’s just to give us an idea of numbers. No one will be turned away.”
Each bag will contain lunch for the day of collection and food... Read more
UPDATE: Lincoln County’s third COVID-19 case moves to ‘confirmed’
UPDATE: The state’s online chart updated Thursday, March 19 shows Lincoln County with three confirmed results for coronavirus, and still none listed for Sagadahoc County.
Original post; Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported Wednesday, Lincoln County has a third presumptive positive test result for coronavirus. Word came online in the agency’s daily update at noon, bringing the county’s total to three. The first two moved to confirmed status earlier this week. Presumptive... Read more
Boothbay transfer station changing procedures during outbreak
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the transfer station has implemented the following changes effective immediately:
1.The recycling building is now closed to the public. All recycling will be put into the trash to eliminate exposure for our staff. Our trash goes to Coastal Resource which pulls the recycling from the garbage automatically.
2.No picking/salvaging will be permitted. To eliminate any chance of groups and to keep the CDC recommended social distancing this will help enforce... Read more
Boothbay Harbor selectmen
UPDATED 3/20: Public hearing, board meeting March 23
Update: The public hearing will be live streamed. The Select Board has arranged for the public to safely participate in the March 23 public hearing by remote access. Note that public participants will not be permitted to attend this meeting in person in order to comply with the Governor’s ban.
The Select Board will allow the submission of public comments via video-conference. Individuals submitting comments this way will need to state their name and legal place of residence.
Comments on the... Read more
Learning, entertainment alternatives in coronavirus outbreak
Days into Maine’s state of emergency, social distancing and other novel terms have emerged. Seeing as they’re here for the foreseeable future, Boothbay Register is sharing some things adults and children can do to burn some time and maybe learn a few things.
From learning to doodle with Mo Willems to having a story read by a beloved author or celebrity (who doesn’t want to have “Harry the Dirty Dog” read to them by Betty White?) there is plenty on the web to keep everyone productive. There are... Read more
Boothbay seeking $100K to establish emergency fund
Bracing for an economic downturn, Boothbay selectmen are seeking voter approval to establish an emergency fund to combat the impact of the coronavirus. Selectmen called an emergency meeting March 17 to vote on calling a special town meeting requesting $100,000 from the municipal undesignated fund for providing economic assistance to citizens impacted by the State of Emergency resulting from the coronavirus.
The town meeting is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, the same date as a selectmen’s... Read more
Funeral homes taking precautions during virus outbreak
At Hall Funeral Home and Cremation Services, the families we serve are always our top priority. During confusing and concerning times such as the current COVID-19 event, we want to share our plans with you. We want to assure you that we are all in this together.
First, we are closely monitoring and following all guidelines from the CDC, National Funeral Directors Association, as well as all local and state emergency services.
Social support is extremely important during a time of grieving,... Read more
Elective, non-essential services suspended at LincolnHealth
LincolnHealth is suspending elective medical procedures and postponing non-urgent, routine office visits to reduce community spread of coronavirus and redirect its most scarce and important resource – its care team members – to the patients who most need their help the most.
The public should not call to find out about their appointment. Patients will be informed by Friday, March 29.
many services can be done online
UPDATED: All Bureau of Motor Vehicles branch offices closed to public
AUGUSTA — Effective Tuesday, March 17, all Bureau of Motor Vehicles' offices will be closed to the public until further notice to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus in Maine, according to a news release.
All of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles' Mobile Unit visits are also suspended until further notice.
The closure is in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among staff and the public, and will remain in place until further notice.
Secretary Dunlap, according to a news release, is... Read more
DHHS waiving copays for prescriptions, office visits, ER visits, radiology and lab services; allowing early refills of prescriptions
AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is taking immediate steps, according to a news release, to ensure access to critical services and benefits for Maine people while protecting the health of employees and the public in response to the 2019 novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.
“We are acting swiftly to maintain Maine people's access to health care coverage, nutritious food, and support for basic necessities in the face of COVID-19, while also safeguarding their health... Read more
UPDATE: Second Lincoln County case moves to ‘confirmed’; Miles nurse presumptive positive for coronavirus is showing no symptoms
UPDATE: At noon Tuesday, March 17, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s daily update showed the Lincoln County man’s test results changed from presumptive positive to confirmed, making two confirmed cases for the county.
Original post: An intensive care unit nurse at LincolnHealth’s Miles Campus hospital in Damariscotta has tested presumptive positive for the coronavirus, is self-quarantining at home and has no symptoms of the virus, said Dr. Russ Mack, a senior consultant at... Read more
BRCRC office closed but offering services
Here at Boothbay Region Community Resource Council (BRCRC), we always want to consider the health and well-being of each member of our community while carrying out our mission. It is one of the ways in which we survive here on this peninsula: as one community together and we will do so to get through the current situation with the COVID-19 virus.
At this time,the BRCRC office will be closed to all clients and visitors. Our Community Navigator, Hannah Corkum, maybe reached via her cell phone:... Read more
BRLT offers healthy exercise and peace of mind in uncertain times
As a member of the Boothbay region for more than six years and an employee of Boothbay Region Land Trust, I am well versed in the many beautiful preserves that the land trust offers, free to the public all throughout the year. However, as I write, I have a renewed appreciation for the essential resource that our public lands offer each member of our community in these uncertain times.
This renewed appreciation comes from my recent experience living overseas. Since the beginning of January, I... Read more
MaineHealth to suspend elective procedures, non-urgent visits
Portland, Maine – The nine local health organizations within MaineHealth are suspending elective medical procedures and postponing non-urgent office visits to its practices in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Those cancellations are expected to take place by end of the day Friday.
“Supporting public health efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Maine is one of the approaches we can take to protect our patients, families and care teams,” said Joan Boomsma, MD, chief medical officer of... Read more
Town managers provide guidance for accessing municipal services
As a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic and Governor Mills’ civil emergency declaration, the towns of Boothbay Harbor and Boothbay are taking additional precautions to ensure the safety of residents and town staff as we work to continue providing municipal services.
We are asking the assistance of the public to adhere to the following guidelines:
•Any person with flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing) should refrain from visiting the town office and contact... Read more
The Met Opera streaming performances this week
A day after canceling upcoming performances due to concerns around the coronavirus, the Metropolitan Opera announced that it would stream encore presentations from the award-winning Live in HD series of cinema transmissions on the company website for the duration of the closure.
The new offering will begin on Monday, March 16 with the 2010 HD performance of Bizet’s “Carmen,” conducted by Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin and starring Elīna Garanča in the title role and Roberto Alagna as... Read more
Lincoln Theater closed for now
In hopes of our helping slow the spread of the coronavirus and Covid-19 in our community, the Lincoln Theater of Damariscotta is suspending all programming as of Monday March 16.
We will revisit the decision to reopen/stay closed in three weeks.
The office, at 2 Theater Street, will remain open during this time.
We will resume programming as soon as it is prudent to do so.
Boothbay Region Health Center
We’re here for you
The Boothbay Region Health Center wants you to know that we will remain open and available Monday thru Saturday as long as our staff remains healthy. If you believe you may have the coronavirus, we will screen you by phone and instruct you further, based on that screening.
We're offering telemedicine appointments for anyone who wants to stay in their home and have a consult with one of our primary care, mental health, or social work providers. We'll schedule a time and send you a link you can... Read more
Boothbay Region Food Pantry notice
The Boothbay Region Food Pantry, located at 125 Townsend Avenue in Boothbay Harbor, will be open as usual on Friday, March 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Clients whose regular day for monthly pick-up, new clients, and anyone in the region who has a food emergency are welcome! This week you will be given a pre-prepared box of food and vouchers. Be prepared not to enter the pantry but to pick-up your box at the pantry door. Bring someone to lift the box for you, if necessary.
The practice of... Read more
Free lunch and breakfast for students
Feeding the area's schoolchildren
AOS 98 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Keith Laser has announced that the area schools (Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb and Southport) shut down due to the coronavirus outbreak will be providing free bag lunches commencing Tuesday, March 17. They will be available for pickup from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., each day, at the front entrance to your respective school. The lunches are only for children 18 and below per federal guidelines.
If you can't drive to pick up your child's lunch, please contact your... Read more
Newspaper office closed but employees still working
Effective today, March 16, the Boothbay Register/Wiscasset Newspaper office at 97 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor will be closed to the public until further notice due to the coronavirus outbreak.
However, our employees are working diligently off-site to bring the communities the latest news of what is being done to combat the virus and to provide information where people can get help during this unknowing time.
We took this action to do our part to help slow the spread of the virus while also... Read more
Boothbay Region YMCA taking action
Effective Tuesday, March 17, amid what we know to be unprecedented and uncertain times and in the interest of public health, the Boothbay Region YMCA is suspending on-site operations until April 1, 2020. We will continue child care as outlined later in this letter.The BRYMCA serves a membership of more than 3,000,and we feel it is our responsibility to keep our community safe and prevent the spread of the coronavirus.We ask that you join us in this effort; our Y is going to need your support... Read more
Letter to AOS 98 parents
Dear Parents of AOS 98 Students,
By now you should have received notification from our superintendent’s office informing you that all AOS 98 schools are now officially closed. Please be aware that school staff will be at work this week and will be formulating plans to keep children learning in a remote setting.
This is a time of uncertainty for us all, so please know that we will be doing everything we can to support you and your children, and to keep you informed. I will be sending out... Read more
Dresden’s school unit closes for two weeks
RSU 2 schools will be closed for two weeks, from Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 27. It is in the best interest of our school communities, Kennebec County, and the state of Maine to practice social distancing now in our collective attempt to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. This action is not in response to any known or suspected case of COVID-19 in any RSU school or community but rather to the increasing number of confirmed cases in Maine.
In making this decision, I have met... Read more
UPDATE: Second presumptive positive case for Lincoln County
UPDATE: According to Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday, Lincoln County has had a second presumptive positive test and the first has gone from presumptive positive to confirmed. The Center lists the county’s latest case as a male in his 40s.
Original post: A Lincoln County case was among new ones Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) announced Sunday related to the disease caused by the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Maine CDC received five new... Read more
SVRSU schools closed through March 27
Sheepscot Valley Regional School Unit 12 schools are closed through March 27, Superintendent of Schools Howie Tuttle confirmed Sunday afternoon in a text reply to Wiscasset Newspaper.
The district serves Alna, Westport Island, Whitefield, Somerville, Chelsea, Windsor and Palermo. Tuttle announced on svrsu.org: “All RSU 12 schools will be closed for two weeks from March 16-March 27 in order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The situation will be revisited next week. Educators will be... Read more
UPDATE: No school in Wiscasset School Department through March 27
Wiscasset Middle High School’s Facebook page announced Sunday afternoon: “Students in Wiscasset schools will not have school starting on Monday, March 16 and schools will stay closed until March 27.” Superintendent of Schools Terry Wood emailed local newspapers the following letter:
“Dear School Community,
“We have continued to monitor and evaluate the COVID-19 situation closely this weekend. I have gathered information from many sources, heard from many of you, and paid attention to the... Read more
Boothbay Harbor Police Department ready to help
The Boothbay Harbor Police Department and Fire Department have been receiving calls and questions about the current situation involving coronavirus and what we can do to assist people who are at high risk in the community,. We want the public to know we have been working on this issue night and day.
Currently, if you are a person (or are caring for a person) in a high risk health group in Boothbay Harbor, and you are concerned about how you will obtain basic needs, or you have questions about... Read more
Good Shepherd Food Bank
GSFB preparing for the COVID-19 virus
Good Shepherd Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief organization in Maine and distributes 25 million meals per year through more than 450 partner hunger-relief programs across the state. Including food pantries, meal sites, schools, and health centers that serve families and individuals who are struggling with hunger. We are continuing this work as Maine starts to realize the impacts of COVID-19.During times of crisis, a Food Bank’s role evolves. Good Shepherd Food Bank’s role in a declared... Read more
All AOS 98 schools closed through April break
As you are probably well aware, at this time, the decision whether to open or close schools is being left to superintendents. After consultation with the Maine, Department of Education and other superintendents yesterday and today, I have decided that schools in the AOS will be closed to students beginning tomorrow and will remain closed until the conclusion of the Spring vacation period. At that time we will reevaluate what is the next course of action.
Administrators and teachers will report... Read more
LincolnHealth restricts visitors at senior living facilities
LincolnHealth announced March 14 that it is limiting visitation to all of its long-term care, assisted living facilities and the Schooner Cove retirement community. Exceptions may be made for patients receiving end-of-life care after the visitor is screened.
“Given the impact COVID-19 has on the older population, we believe the best way to eliminate opportunities for infection and protect the health of our residents and team members is to limit visitation,’’ said Timothy Fox, MD, LincolnHealth... Read more
Harbor Theater closing temporarily
Out of sincere concern for our patrons and employees and following the advice of the Maine CDC to reduce the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) by social distancing, the Harbor Theater will be temporarily closed starting Monday, March 16.
For the latest information on our plans to reopen, go to the website at www.boothbaycinema.org., check out our Facebook page or call the Theater (207) 633-0438. We look forward to welcoming you back to Harbor Theater as soon as possible.
In the interim, please... Read more
Town of Boothbay Harbor
Town taking steps to avoid possible spread of virus
As a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the town is taking additional precautions and asking that those with flu-like symptoms or those who have visited areas where outbreaks of COVID-19 have occurred within the last 14 days, to please refrain from visiting our town office to conduct regular business.
A large number of town office services from tax payments, to vehicle, recreational and boat re-registrations, to burn permits and more, are available through our website at: www.... Read more
Preliminary testing indicates two new presumptive positive COVID-19 cases in Maine
AUGUSTA — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) was informed this morning, March 13, by MaineHealth that preliminary testing in their lab indicates two more individuals in Maine have tested presumptively positive for the disease caused by the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19), according to a press release.
Those test samples have been sent to the Maine CDC for review and will require confirmation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Maine recorded... Read more
Start of spring sports delayed to late April
AUGUSTA — The Maine Principals’ Association announced in a March 13 news release the start of spring sports will be delayed.
In response to recommendations from Governor Janet Mills to not have mass gatherings, the MPA Board of Directors and Interscholastic Management Committee voted Friday morning to delay practices for the high school spring sports season until April 27.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and will make the appropriate changes as needed to ensure the safety of all... Read more
Boothbay conditionally approves county EMA pandemic response plan
Boothbay selectmen were underwhelmed by a proposed Boothbay Region Pandemic Response Plan March 11, but gave it conditional approval anyway. Southport and Boothbay Harbor select boards had previously approved the plan drafted by the Lincoln County Emergency Management Agency in response to the coronavirus. The plan was developed on information from Maine State Center for Disease Control, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and United Nations World... Read more
Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD School Committee
CSD begins feeling COVID-19 educational impacts
Not much can put a small hitch in the giddy-up for a school board in the full throes of budget season, but it turns out a global pandemic can. While COVID-19 (coronavirus) didn't impose itself on school budget talks March 11, it did crop up in reports from teachers and Superintendent Keith Laser.
The CSD School Committee voted to deny an April trip to Costa Rica due to the virus and the likelihood host company Explorica will cancel trips anyway. Explorica recently canceled over 600 trips (and... Read more
Coronavirus scare impacts local lobster markets
While Maine lobster exporters are reporting a drop in prices due to lost sales to China, area dealers see a mixed picture of supply and demand at the local level.
“It is not the Chinese market. It is domestic,” said Spencer Fuller, a manager at Cozy Harbor Seafood, Inc. in Portland. “People are not going out.”
Fuller said prices are “soft” due to the fears connected with the coronavirus. “It is scaring everybody.”
Closer to home, Hugh Thompson of Robinson’s Wharf and Seafood Restaurant of... Read more
Governor announces insurance emergency proclamation, temporary suspension of non-essential out-of-state work travel for State employees, and a recommendation to postpone large, indoor gatherings
Maine announces first presumptive positive case, advises additional steps to respond to COVID-19
Governor Janet Mills and the Maine CDC announced today Maine’s first presumptive positive case of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Maine. The individual who tested positive is a woman in her 50s from Androscoggin County, according to a news release from the governor’s office.
The Maine CDC is speaking to the individual and her medical provider to assess travel history and begin to investigate possible community exposure. The individual is quarantined at her home.
“The Maine CDC has... Read more
Press release
Midcoast Senior College cancels its spring courses
In the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, Midcoast Senior College has decided to cancel its spring term effective immediately. We are also suspending, until further notice, our Current Events forum in conjunction with Curtis Memorial Library and our sponsor, Thornton Oaks.
Midcoast Senior College is dedicated to its mission of providing educational opportunities for seniors in the Midcoast region of Maine. When this health concern has passed, we will continue to operate and plan future classes... Read more
Hotline available to answer general questions about COVID-19
AUGUSTA — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) and 211 Maine announced today, March 11, a new option for Mainers to get answers to questions about the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) at any time.
This service is available by dialing 211 (or 1-866-811-5695), texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or emailing info@211maine.org.
Maine has no confirmed cases or presumptive positive tests for COVID-19. Maine CDC will inform the public if positive tests are confirmed and... Read more
Special Olympics Maine suspends activities through March due to virus concerns
Special Olympics Programs worldwide have been very strongly advised by Special Olympics International to suspend all sports training and competition activities involving their athletes through March 31, at which time the situation will be re-evaluated.
Due to the growing concerns surrounding COVID-19, Special Olympics Maine has made the difficult decision to suspend all sports, training and competition activities through the end of the month.
“This is a difficult time that calls for tough... Read more
Edgecomb school committee discusses precautions for coronavirus
Alternative Organizational Structure 98 schools are formulating plans for handling the coronavirus. Superintendent Dr. Keith Laser reported during the March 9 Edgecomb School Committee meeting the district is sending out letters to staff and parents updating precautions regarding the virus which originated in the People’s Republic of China and is spreading worldwide. Globally, 114,000 cases have been confirmed with 4,028 deaths reported by LiveScience.com since the virus occurred in December in... Read more
Preparing for the coronavirus
Like hospitals and health care provides across the state, LincolnHealth has been working since the earliest reported case of COVID-19, or coronavirus, to prepare for a response when it is needed.
The challenge with an evolving and novel virus is that the spread of misinformation and fear is often swifter than the movement of the virus. That’s why it is critical for all of us to choose reliable sources for the latest information.
If you visit www.lincolnhealthme.org, you can get the most up-to... Read more
Where the germs are
As we watch the news about coronavirus, it seems like a good time to find out how to keep everyone’s exposure down. The coronavirus is primarily spread by droplets in the air so it’s important to cover coughs and sneezes.
But viruses can linger on surfaces, so here are some things you may want to consider so you can avoid what’s lurking out there – whether corona or flu or whatever.
- Avoid touch screen ordering at fast food restaurants and opt for ordering at the counter instead. Turns out... Read more
Steps include updating equipment and protocols, working with partners statewide
Maine CDC continues coronavirus preparations
AUGUSTA — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) outlined today, Feb. 28, steps that Maine is taking to prepare for the potential spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus to the state.
Maine currently has no confirmed cases of the 2019 novel coronavirus. As Maine CDC previously reported, one individual in Maine who met federal requirements to be tested for the virus tested negative. The risk to the public remains low, and Maine CDC continues comprehensive planning to... Read more
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