2 arrested in connection to Fort Fairfield fires
On March 10, authorities responded to a structure fire on Park Street in Fort Fairfield.
The state’s Fire Marshal’s office confirmed another fire unfolded shortly before the initial fire investigators looked into concluding that the fires were considered arson.
Authorities tell Star 97.7 that 19-year-old Leo Rideout Jr. of Fort Fairfield was arrested and charged with arson and he’s being held at Aroostook County Jail.
Over the weekend, investigators arrested another person in connection with the two fires and confirmed it is a juvenile male.
The juvenile was placed on conditions of release and released to his guardians.
However, the investigation is still ongoing and more charges are pending.
Lamoine woman arrested on drug trafficking charges
A Lamoine woman has been arrested after a traffic stop in Ellsworth.
Police say 28-year-old Gabrielle Battis of Lamoine is charged with aggravated drug trafficking and violation of conditions of release.
Police say on Thursday, drug activity outside of a local business had been observed and Battis was involved.
Police say Battis was on a pre-conviction bail following an arrest in June.
Authorities stopped Battis and found fentanyl, meth, cocaine and over $2,000 in drug proceeds.
Battis was transported to Hancock County jail however no bail was set.
Maine Senior FarmShare program enrollment
In an effort to connect Maine seniors to access to fresh Maine-grown foods, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Maine Senior FarmShare program will enroll participants for the 2026 season.
It’s the 25th anniversary of the program where eligible older adults will receive a $50 share during the growing season and enjoy fresh, unprocessed, locally grown produce.
Now due to USDA compliance requirements, the program will implement an enrollment system on their website starting April 1.
If you know someone or if you’re interested in enrolling in this program yourself, follow the link on our website for more information.
If you need help navigating the application or if you have limited access to technology please find a friend, relative, neighbor or caseworker to help you and make the process smoother.
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/ard/food-assistance/farmshare/olderadults.shtml
Loaves and Fishes free course on money and credit scores
Join local experts from KeyBank on Friday, March 20 for a free course discussing the importance of credit scores, proper handling of money and how to protect yourself from identity theft.
The event hosted at Loaves and Fishes starting at 11 a.m. will give participants a refresher on the important topics.
You can create strategies that work for you all while ensuring you know how to build and improve your credit with KeyBank’s help.
https://www.loavesandfishesellsworth.org/event-details/money-me-key-credit-scores-and-reports
Sooth the Monday blues with Simple Stretching & Breathing
Mondays can be stressful as you get back into the groove of weekly responsibilities.
However, there’s some simple ways to manage your stress or pain and leaders at the Ellsworth Public Library want to help you.
Stop at the library and enjoy the Simple Stretching & Breathing for Stress and Pain class starting at 1 p.m. this afternoon to take a moment for yourself.
Everyone is welcome and if you need to zip out a little early no worries.
Just click the link on our website attached to the story to register for the relaxing session.
They ask those who would like to participate to register by 10 a.m. this morning.
https://ellsworth.libcal.com/event/16479127
Seal Cove Auto Museum ‘Swing & Swap’
As we just start the workweek it never hurts to mark something on your calendar for the weekend ahead.
Leaders at the Seal Cove Auto Museum in Tremont invite the community for their Swing and Swap.
On Friday, March 20 starting at 6:30 p.m. participants can dust off their swing dancing skills for free by enjoying a lesson from a professional instructor and bringing your 1920’s attire to swap.
Guests are encouraged to bring extra 1920’s attire and accessories.
For more information on the museum just follow the link on our website to contact the museum.











