Two 19-year-olds charged in connection to Belfast fire
After Belfast police and fire responded to a fully engulfed structure on Friday, two 19-year-olds have been arrested.
The state’s Fire Marshal’s office says 19-year-old Isaac Cummings and 19-year-old Rowan Locke, both of Belfast, have been taken into custody.
Police say authorities determined the fire was intentionally set and both were charged with arson.
The two have been taken to Somerset county jail with bail set at $10,000.
Blue Hill residents prepare for vote on public safety building
During an annual town meeting on Saturday, April 4, residents in Blue Hill plan to vote on important matters.
The decision to fund work for design and construction of a new public safety building will be at the forefront.
The Ellsworth American says the town has provided a list of issues with the current building pointing out the lack of an exhaust system, poor insulation, the concern of disabling emergency services during a severe storm and more.
The publication reports a town vote could strengthen the chance of approval for the funding application.
Maine’s Paid Family Medical Leave program opens
On Monday, applications for Maine’s Paid Family Medical Leave program officially opened.
The program offers up to 12 weeks of pay for Mainers who qualify and will cover medical, parental, military family and safe leave.
According to WMTW, the state began collecting a 1% tax from worker paychecks and employees to build the funding.
Maine joins 13 other states and Washington D.C. with similar programs.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/03/
Gas prices inch closer to $4 per gallon
As of Monday morning, gas prices across the state are inching closer to $4 per gallon.
On Monday, the average price for a gallon of regular gas was $3.83 which is four cents up from last week.
WABI news reports diesel in Maine has also gone up averaging at $5.72 a gallon which is nearly 15 cents higher since last week.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/03/
Coffee Klatsch at Ellsworth Public Library
There’s nothing like conversation over a cup of joe or tea if that’s your liking.
For seniors in the area, the Ellsworth Public Library wants to do just that.
On Friday, April 3, the library will host their ‘Coffee Klatsch’ where seniors can create connections over a warm beverage.
The social gathering starts at 9 a.m. on the main floor of the library which is located at 20 State Street.
https://www.ellsworthmaine.
Portland Pie Place to expand into wholesale business
After feeding the community through their food truck at a slew of community events and hotspots, the couple who owns Portland Pie Place food truck are expanding.
The couple decided they will pivot their business to sell wholesale to area restaurants, pubs, and specialty stores.
WABI news reports the couple naked a few thousand pies each week and this will be a great way to ensure their handmade pies don’t go to waste while reaching father into the community.
To learn more about the business, where you can get your favorite pies and more, just follow the link below.
