Search for missing sea kayaker underway
The Maine Marine Patrol searched the waters near Deer Isle Tuesday for a missing sea kayaker.
Authorities say the man who they’re searching for is a summer resident and overturned his kayak shortly after he launched.
The search near the Deer Isle Bridge was prompted after family members saw the event and reported it.
No further information is available at this time.
Benton man arrested after high speed chase in stolen car
Fairfield Police were asked to check the area of Mill Street for a car that had been reported stolen in Oakland.
That led officers on a high-speed chase and later arrested a Benton man.
WABI news reports 30-year-old Christopher Groves of Benton was arrested after he led police on a high-speed chase driving erratically.
Police tell WABI Groves drove on the interstate, drove the wrong way and reached speeds over 90 mph.
The car was later found and Groves had five active warrants out for his arrest and is now facing additional charges related to the chase.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/05/05/man-arrested-after-high-speed-chase-stolen-car/
Work on the Franklin Street Parklet set to begin soon
A community favorite is set to open again soon for the warmer months ahead.
The City of Ellsworth announced the transformation of a portion of Franklin Street into the Franklin Street Parklet will start on May 10.
Residents can expect to see city crews place new plants, seating and park amenities in hopes to be open to the public by May 11.
So, to make this happen city officials want you to know that the short connector street will be closed to vehicle traffic and a few parking spaces may be unavailable.
However, happenings on the other side such as live music, a space for businesses to host events and more will make it well worth it.
https://www.ellsworthmaine.gov/franklin-street-to-close-for-seasonal-parklet-beginning-may-10-2026/
Celebrate Ellsworth by attending the Union River Watershed Summit
A celebration of the Union River will take place on May 15 and 16 in Ellsworth.
The Union River Watershed Summit will focus on the management of the watershed and how residents can protect and strengthen the water resource.
The Ellsworth American reports the event will be hosted by ‘Green Ellsworth’ and the theme for this year’s summit is Back to the Future.
The publication reports an online panel will be held on the 15 following in-person sessions on the 16 ending with their annual American Canoe Association Union River Paddle on the 17.
‘Discover Ellsworth’ announced as new platform for tourism
A new era in tourism has launched for the City of Ellsworth.
The Heart of Ellsworth and the city collaborated with area partners to create ‘Discover Ellsworth’ a comprehensive platform highlighting all the city has to offer year-round.
The platform highlights arts, history, dining, trails and more for visitors to take in when spending time in the city and through Downeast Maine.
Organizers say they hope the digital hub will reflect on real experiences in Ellsworth that are family-friendly, affordable and rooted in everyday moments.
https://www.discoverellsworth.org/
Fruit tree cultivation at COA
On Saturday if you’re eager to expand your gardening skills, the College of the Atlantic Community Garden has the perfect event for you.
Starting at 1 PM, you could learn the essentials of cultivating fruit trees during a food and farming workshop.
The free event is structured for beginners and home growers.
Attendees will not only learn the key areas of cultivating healthy fruit trees but factors such as pruning, pest management and ongoing seasonal care.
Registration is required.
