Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 2nd of April.
Good morning, Bangor.
After buying Bangor Natural Gas two months ago, Unitil announced a deal to purchase Maine Natural Gas Company from Avangrid for $86 million.
The agreement must be approved by the Maine Public Utilities Commission and will be finalized by the end of 2025 — making the company a wholly owned subsidiary of Unitil.
State and local groups recently tested ropeless lobster traps in Stonington to help prevent endangered right whales from getting entangled—nearly 1,000 square miles have been closed to traditional gear.
Experienced fishermen like Jerry Weed, who has fished for 45 years, raised concerns about cost and reliability as regulators work with the fishing community to refine the untested system.
Emergency crews arrived at Mount View High School in Thorndike yesterday afternoon—Maine State Police assisted the Waldo County Sheriff's Office as students left on buses and K-9 units entered the school.
After losing $91 million in federal contracts on March 24, the Maine CDC laid off at least 40 subcontracted workers who helped over 70 vendors provide public health services—Maine DHHS said the cuts will harm vaccine distribution, disease monitoring, and mental health support.
Planned Parenthood of Northern New England was notified Monday that federal Title X funds used for birth control and other health services have been frozen due to alleged civil rights violations and executive orders restricting diversity equity and inclusion—Maine receives about $2 million in these funds annually and over 6,400 Title X patients were served last fiscal year.
Northern Light Health supports organ and tissue donation by honoring donors, their families and transplant recipients during National Donate Life Month.
In 2024, Eastern Maine Medical Center supported 21 organ donors that led to 51 transplants — additional Northern Light Health hospitals had 53 tissue donors resulting in 126 tissues donated.
Low home supply and rising mortgage rates slowed Maine home sales as the median price reached $381,500 in February, up more than $30,000 from last February, and the lock-in effect kept homeowners with low rates from selling.
Experts at MaineHousing expect the market to soften if rates drop below 6 - though they doubt rate changes will come soon - as more housing is needed to balance demand and supply.
UMaine men's hockey forward Taylor Makar signed a one-year entry-level contract with the Colorado Avalanche on March 31—he will join his older brother Cale on the team and will report to the Colorado Eagles on an amateur tryout for the rest of the 2024-2025 season, with his contract effective for the 2025-2026 season.
Trailblazing Women of Country
7-10 p.m. — Collins Center for the Arts — Tickets from $30 — Celebrate the legendary women of country music, featuring their iconic hits performed by rising stars.
Great Home Expo
Various times — Cross Insurance Center — Check local listings — An excellent opportunity for Maine businesses to showcase their products and services.
20th Annual Spring Paving Seminar
7:15 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Cost information not available — Engage with industry professionals at this informative seminar on paving techniques.
Ricky Montgomery Performance
7 p.m. — Collins Center for the Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience Ricky Montgomery's journey in music with his electro-laced, emo-tinged alt-pop hits.
Ham Trot at Bangor Elks Lodge
1-5 p.m. — Bangor Elks Lodge — Proceeds benefit the Elks National Foundation — Enjoy the annual Ham Trot with a chance to win while savoring delicious ham lunch.
Steven Page Live Concert
7-10 p.m. — Collins Center for the Arts — Tickets from $30 — Experience the unmistakable sound of Steven Page, the beloved voice of Barenaked Ladies, performing live with The Steven Page Trio.
One Night of Queen
7:00 – 8:30 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling tribute to the legendary music and theatrics of Queen.
Anah Shrine Circus
3:00 – 4:30 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Family-friendly fun — Experience world-class circus performances and thrilling acts at this beloved annual event.
Joey Avery and Mark Gagnon Live Comedy Show
8-11 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of laughs with rising star Joey Avery and comedian Mark Gagnon.
Open House at a Charming Victorian Home in Bangor
5-7 p.m. — 261 Ohio Street — Free entry — Explore this Victorian home filled with character and unique features perfect for year-round adventure.
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