Maine Republicans voice concerns over fraud
WABI news reports Maine Republicans say the state could be headed into the wrong direction if changes aren’t made regarding fraud involving MaineCare.
This after the Maine Department of Health and Human Services temporarily suspended payments to Gateway Community Services.
WABI news reports the third audit of the organization revealed the state overpaid Gateway for over $1 million.
The organization provides services to immigrants and refugees.
WABI says on Tuesday in Augusta, Republicans called on Democrats as well as state agencies to cooperate with a U.S. House Oversight Committee investigation.
Corinth man charged with murder argued with mother over handling of dogs
WABI reports more information has been revealed after a Corinth man has been accused of shooting and killing his mother Saturday.
Court records show 22-year-old Daniel Derosier was staying with his mother, 41-year-old Abigail Thomas and her husband along with the husband’s teen son.
WABI states Derosier had moved in before Thanksgiving and records say he had some mental health issues and could become manic however he was improving.
WABI reports the documents reveal Derosier and his mother were fighting over the way he treats his dog, progressing into an argument of how Thomas was as a mother.
Court records say that escalated into him burning cash for rent in the kitchen, smashing a cell phone with a hammer and after the dogs began fighting he then shot his mother..
Derosier is being held without bail.
https://www.wabi.tv/2025/12/30/corinth-man-mother-argued-before-she-was-shot-court-records-say/
New case management will be provided in Ellsworth schools
According to the Ellsworth American, Ellsworth schools will provide public education for 3 and 4-year-olds with disabilities.
For all qualified children, the city is implementing the new order to comply with state law.
The paper reports free appropriate public education will help children who have disabilities be granted a special education provided at the public’s expense will meet state standards.
The Ellsworth American says the Ellsworth schools superintendent explained the change during a recent finance committee meeting and the entry into the program involves a referral and evaluation process.
Holden Elementary school water tests over PFAS limit
The results of an annual water test at Holden Elementary school found the water contains more PFAS than state standards allow, according to the Bangor Daily News.
The RSU 63 Superintendent Sheila Caldwell tells the paper the school’s PFAS levels were found at just over the state standard of 20 parts per trillion.
Now, the BDN reports the school will install filters to decrease the levels and make the water safe to consume.
https://www.bangordailynews.com/2025/12/30/bangor/bangor-health/holden-elementary-school-pfas-water/
Versant Power customers will see an increase in 2026
Versant Power tells Star 97.7 customers will see an increase in their monthly bill starting in 2026.
Versant says the rate will be higher for some compared to others.
A customer using 500 kilowatts could see a $14 increase in the Bangor Hydro District where those using 750 kilowatts will see an approximate $20 increase.
Customers in th eMaine Public District using 500 kilowatts will pay an additional $16 where those using 750 kilowatts will see an increase of about $24.
AC/DC Tribute Band at The Grand
Things will be turning up at The Grand in the new year!
The AC/DC Experience will bring the thunder to the Stanley Subaru Stage on Friday, Jan. 16 at 7 p.m.
Noise Pollution has been recognized as one of the premier AC/DC tribute bands in the entire country giving fans an electrifying experience.
It’s $25 in advance or $30 at the door and tickets are expected to sell quickly so to get yours just follow the link on our website.
https://yourgrand.org/upcoming-events
Happy New Year!
There’s many activities going on for New Years Eve including the Kids Noon Years Eve at the Ellsworth Public Library to the New Years Eve 2026 party at Fogtown Brewing or Black Moon!
You and your family could take in the last bit of 2025 for an annual New Year’s Eve Sunset hike along the Old Pond railway in Hancock.
No matter the event or if you’re staying in with close family and friends, stay safe and I want to wish you a very Happy New Year!
