Support for bill designating Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway continues
Sen. Nicole Grohoski of Ellsworth and Rep. Nina Milliken of Blue Hill testified before the Legislature’s Transportation Committee voicing support of LD 2033.
The bill would designate a portion of Route 3 in Trenton as the “Deputy Luke Gross Memorial Highway.”
Just last week lawmakers, fellow officers and friends of Gross spoke reflecting on his life and his service.
The Transportation Committee is expected to vote on advancing the bill in the coming weeks.
Mainers mourn the loss of state representative
A state representative from Chester lost her battle with cancer.
The Communications Director for Maine House Republicans confirmed to WABI news that Kathy Javner has died.
Javner was serving her fourth term for House District 29 which includes the towns of Chester, Millinocket, Medway and Patten.
Nearly a year ago, Javner announced her breast cancer had returned and it was incurable.
Javner leaves behind a husband and three children.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/01/12/maine-state-representative-loses-battle-with-cancer/
Earthquake reported in Ellsworth
It was just days ago that an earthquake had been reported in Washington County when officials at the U.S. Geological Survey detected another one in Ellsworth.
The survey detected a 1.8 magnitude earthquake with a depth of more than six miles on Saturday morning.
WABI news reports it happened just after 5 a.m. giving the Pine Tree state its second recorded earthquake this year.
Volunteer Pool launched to support community needs
The City of Ellsworth has announced a new community initiative led by Bill Nelson and Anthony Wyman of the Ellsworth Moose Lodge #2698.
The two are organizing a volunteer pool which will be an active list of community members who are willing to dedicate some time when needed.
When the city or local organizations are in need of assistance, leaders will go to the list for a starting point.
In addition to the volunteer pool, the Moose Lodge will create a community bulletin board at their location to highlight volunteer opportunities and community efforts.
If you’re interested in volunteering, call 207-664-5199.
Ellsworth Public Library to host Hygge Events
The Ellsworth Public Library has taken notes in Winter 2025 and they’re bringing back a program that was a hit.
On Jan. 14 and Feb. 11 from 5-7 p.m. join them for their Hygge Events.
The Danish concept of comfort, well-being and connection will provide space for community members to relax at no cost.
During the winter months, early sunset times and cold weather can be hard to get through so library representatives tell us this serves as a great way to get out and socialize.
https://www.ellsworthlibrary.net/
Belfast Maskers open submissions to Maine Playwrights One Act Festival
The second annual Maine Playwrights One Act festival has officially opened submissions!
The Belfast Maskers are looking to celebrate the voices and visions of playwrights living across the state.
The festival will be June 4-14 in Belfast!
It’s a great opportunity for aspiring writers to get their projects on the stage and the writers of the four chosen plays will receive $150 in royalties and a complimentary ticket to a performance!
If you’re interested in submitting a One Act play follow the link on our website for guidelines and instructions.
The deadline is January 31.
