Northern Light and Anthem agree to 30-day extension
In a press release sent out on Wednesday afternoon, Northern Light Health and Anthem released a joint statement saying they have agreed to extend their existing contract by 30 days as both parties continue working toward a long-term agreement that prioritizes affordability, patient access, and quality of care according to WABI news.
Northern Light Health and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Maine failed to reach a new deal by the end of Tuesday’s deadline for contract mediation.
WABI news reports physicians and medical providers (including primary care and specialists) will remain in-network with Anthem employer-sponsored and individual health plans through October 31, 2025.
In the statement, they say inpatient care and services from hospital outpatient departments will stay in-network with Anthem employer-sponsored and individual plans through December 31, 2025.
All of the Northern Light hospitals will also remain in-network for Anthem Medicare Advantage plans through December 31, 2025.
Police investigating package of ballots delivered to Newburgh resident
The Maine Secretary of State’s Office released a statement to WABI news after a Newburgh resident allegedly received 250 election ballots in an Amazon package sent to their home.
This story was first reported by The Maine Wire.
“We are aware of the serious allegations that packages of ballots were received by a private citizen. Law enforcement is investigating the matter,” the office wrote in an email to WABI.
This comes just weeks before Question 1, a voter ID citizens referendum, is expected to appear on the Maine ballot.
Washington County set to discuss $11 million bond issue
Washington county commissioners will hold hearings in the coming weeks to discuss an $11 million bond issue they’re asking voters to approve in an upcoming election, according to the Bangor Daily News.
The paper reports the bond issue is over budget mismanagement and a tax hike of up to 40 percent.
This after officials tell the Bangor Daily News they’ve discovered years of poor bookkeeping, improper money transfers and unaudited expenses.
The first hearing will be for the third district on October 8.
The second hearing will address the second district on October 14 and the third will be for the first district on October 15.
Residents who own waterfront properties in Ellsworth see substantial tax increase
The Ellsworth American reports waterfront properties collectively saw a 31 percent increase in assessed property values this year, from $346.7 million to $455 million in total, according to City Manager Charlie Pearce.
However the paper reports non-waterfront property values saw a 13 percent increase, and commercial property values rose 19 percent.
The large increases are in result to the city’s tax bills sent out in September but the increases for waterfront properties in particular was brought forward in multiple City Council meetings over the last month according to the Ellsworth American.
Veazie Salmon Club hosting an ‘Oktoberfest’
Happening this Saturday, October 4 at the Veazie Salmon Club is an Oktoberfest!
From 2PM to 4PM attendees can enjoy German-style food and pretzels, a 50/50 raffle, cornhole and stein lifting competitions.
However, whether you have the best arm for that contest or not, it’s a fun way to celebrate autumn on the river!
Operations resume at Camden Snow Bowl for Fall Chairlift
Fall Chairlift Rides are back at the Camden Snow Bowl beginning Sunday, Oct. 5, and running every Sunday through October from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Pen Bay pilot says it’s an opportunity to take in the fall foliage from the chairlift summit on Ragged Mountain.
You can purchase tickets upon arrival for $15 per person, children five and under are free.
The paper says after riders have taken in the views they then have the option to reload and ride the chairlift back down or hike down.
The chairlift ride is approximately 25 minutes in duration one way and there will be breakfast and lunch served.
Ellsworth Elementary Middle school hosts ‘Fall Festival’ Saturday
The Ellsworth school department is gearing up for their ‘Fall Festival this Saturday, October 4.
From 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, the 4th Annual Fall Festival will be hosted at the school which is located at 20 Forest Avenue in Ellsworth.
Families can enjoy a craft fair, food trucks, games, and plenty of seasonal fun.
Officials at the school department say those attending may even get the chance to “Pie” one of their favorite teachers.
The fall fun is open to the public!
