Bangor Mall set to be acquired by local buyer
Big news for the Bangor Mall after months of work to move things forward.
The mall is formally under contract with a local buyer in final negotiations to move forward with the property.
WABI news reports Sen. Joe Baldacci of Bangor shared information stating redeveloping the mall has been a key goal of his.
He also tells WABI it’s encouraging to see local stakeholders playing a central role in the deal.
More information regarding buyers and their plans for the property has not yet been released.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/03/31/bangor-mall-set-be-sold-local-buyer/
Mount Desert Island officials to hold public forums on parking challenges
After receiving feedback regarding challenges of parking around Mount Desert Island, officials are analyzing different ways to solve the issue.
Officials say they’re at a crossroads with how to manage the issue and now they’re seeking the public’s input.
They’re debating whether to maintain the current approach which prioritized leniency for residents and acknowledging long-standing local habits.
However they say this has led to an increase in violations.
The other option is to implement stricter enforcement strategies with fair yet impartial enforcement for parking regulation.
Their first public forum will be April 6 and 6 p.m. at the Town Hall Meeting Room and May 18 at 6 p.m. at the Neighborhood House.
https://www.mtdesert.org/m/newsflash/home/detail/70
‘Big Jim’ taken down for restoration project
The iconic 40-foot-tall Maine fisherman that stood tall outside of a former sardine cannery in Prospect Harbor is on the move.
Well, Big Jim didn’t move himself.
According to WABI news, leaders at the Penobscot Marine Museum out of Searsport are leading the renovation project on the legendary Downeast landmark.
Big Jim has stood tall there for six decades and now mural artists at the WOW Collective will bring him back to his original 1959 image, holding a Maine Sardine can.
As to when he’ll return to his home, there’s no details on that.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/03/31/40-foot-tall-big-jim-fisherman-prospect-harbor-removed-restoration/
1814 home in Blue Hill awarded grant funding to preserve historic timber frame
In 2024, The Jonathan Fisher House in Blue Hill was one of the organizations to receive funding from a $10 million bond for restoration of historic community buildings.
Now the Maine Historic Preservation Commission has awarded nearly a quarter-million-dollar grant for repairs to the 1814 home.
The Ellsworth American reports the most serious repairs are needed on the southeast wall of the structure and larger needs will address the whole house.
However the publication reports the grant of $247,152 requires an $82,478 match.
AIO announces matching grant opportunity to help Community Members with power shut off
AIO Food and Energy Assistance say for many April 15th is Tax Day but for others it’s also the day community members could face power shut off.
According to officials in the State of Maine, power companies can’t shut off power for households non-payment from Nov. 15 through April 15.
However with the long winter, severe weather and higher bills, more community members are facing hard choices.
That’s why AIO’s Spring Energy Assistance program helps families who face power shut off and this season AIO is the recipient of a $120,000 matching opportunity.
If AIO raises $60,000 in April it can unlock the gift creating a fund of $180,000 to prevent shut off.
To donate just follow the link below.
https://www.aiofoodpantry.org/
Ellsworth High show choir brings home silver at state competition
A huge congratulations to those a part of Ellsworth High School’s show choir for bringing home silver after their performance in a state competition.
The Maine Show Choir State championships were held at Stearns High School in Millinocket over the weekend.
The Ellsworth American reports soloist Finley Harmon got an Outstanding Musicianship award and other choir soloists were recognized as well.
Congratulations!
Ellsworth Moose Lodge hosting Community Easter Egg Hunt
Preparations are underway for Easter weekend.
No matter your family traditions, leaders at the Ellsworth Moose Lodge want to invite you to their community-wide Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 4.
Starting at 1 p.m. at Knowlton Park, the free, family-friendly event will feature over 1,000 candy-filled eggs with one special prize egg.
The lucky winner of that could receive a brand new bike!
Of course, the Easter bunny will be there for the fun as well.
For more information, please contact Anthony Wyman at the Ellsworth Moose Lodge at 207-664-5199.
