Blue Hill hospital maneuvers after finding excessive PFAS

Leaders at Northern Light Health Blue Hill have learned there’s an excessive amount of PFAS otherwise known as ‘forever chemicals’ in their well.

Now, they’ll have to resort to other options.

The Bangor Daily news reports plans are to use a tanker truck and bottled water while they work to fix the issue.

https://www.bangordailynews.com/2026/07/23/hancock/hancock-health/maine-blue-hill-hospital-northern-light-health-pfas-bottled-water/

Juniper Ridge Landfill expansion battle continues

A hearing was held on Thursday as the battle over a proposed landfill expansion continues.

The Penobscot Nation has been fighting the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and Casella Waste Management for a year to deny the expansion of Juniper Ridge Landfill in Old Town.

WABI news reports if it’s approved the largest landfill will increase by half amounting to 61 acres.

Attorneys representing the Maine DEP and Casella said the expansion could reduce pollutants in the Penobscot River with specific treatments and additional odor monitoring.

The judge is expected to issue a ruling in the coming months.

https://www.wabi.tv/2026/07/23/rally-outside-bangor-courthouse-follows-hearing-juniper-ridge-landfill-expansion/?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=organicclicks&tbref=hp

Temporary traffic detour planned for memorial highway dedication

Friday morning if you’re traveling toward the intersection of Beechland Road and Route 3 to Bayside Road expect a detour.

A formal dedication ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. to unveil the Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway signs.

Expect to see Ellsworth Police guiding you and officials say the detour is only expected to last 10-15 minutes.

https://www.ellsworthmaine.gov/temporary-traffic-detour-planned-for-deputy-luke-gross-friday-july-24-2026/

Phase 2 of Franklin Schoodic Hall project underway

The historical Franklin Schoodic Hall is now entering phase two of a restoration project.

The building is now lifted for foundation work.

The Ellsworth American reports the building has been around for more than a century so this project will address foundation concerns by installing a new concrete slab which is expected to be resilient for years.

The publication reports in addition to the foundation, pane windows will be replaced.

https://www.ellsworthamerican.com/news/franklin-schoodic-hall-lifted-foundation-work-underway/article_cf79377f-5d72-4ca5-9724-4431975dcb3a.html

Changes for Pineland Farms dairy building in Bangor

The City of Bangor announced changes at the Pineland Farms Dairy manufacturing building.

City leaders say the building has been acquired by Tropical Cheese Industries LLC.

WABI news reports they intend to keep the same management and staff at the Bangor location.

Officials say existing customers and suppliers shouldn’t expect any immediate change.

https://www.wabi.tv/2026/07/23/cheese-company-buys-pineland-farms-dairy-manufacturing-building-bangor/?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=organicclicks&tbref=hp

The Grand Theater  hosts ‘Lobster Rollin on the River’

On August 7, you could be rolling on the river as The Grand Theater brings a popular fundraiser back!

The Lobster Rollin on the River fundraiser will be held at Union River Harbor Park where you can enjoy a free performance by The Crown Vics and some fresh lobster rolls for dinner.

Don’t worry if lobster isn’t your thing, red hot dogs will be available.

Organizers say this event will  help support The Grand’s year-round programming and offer residents and visitors a chance to soak up the summer time fun while giving back.

If you’d like to purchase tickets ahead of time follow the link below.

Don’t forget your lawn chairs and your appetite.

https://yourgrand.org/waterfront-concerts

Castine House & Garden Tour returns

Tickets are selling fast for the 2026 Castine House and Garden Tour!

Happening Friday, July 24 is the exceptional tour of 12 historical homes and three beautiful gardens.

With history dating back to the 1600’s, it’s one of the many ways Castine highlights the structures and views that make it unique.

Many homeowners still have artifacts that were in the homes since it was first built and many structures haven’t changed, it’s simply been added onto.

The tour is happening from 10am to 4 pm so to get your tickets or learn more follow the link below.

https://www.castinehistoricalsociety.org/castine-house-tour/