Portions of public comment policy in Augusta blocked
A federal judge partially blocked an Augusta school board policy around public comment citing parts of it is likely violating the First Amendment.
The lawsuit was filed by Augusta resident Nicholas Blanchard against the Augusta Board of Education.
WMTW reports Blanchard challenged the board’s public comment policy after being held back from speaking fully at meetings out of concern he would be removed or cut off.
The court found terms like gossip, abusive or vulgar language to be too subjective and likely to restrict protected speech; however WMTW reports the district can continue enforcing the ban on defamatory statements.
The decision is not final.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/04/28/judge-blocks-parts-augusta-school-board-public-comment-policy/
Investigation launched into cause of house fire in Ashland
After a house fire took place in Ashland over the weekend, officials are trying to nail down what caused it.
The fire happened on Watt Street Saturday morning.
WABI news reports a dozen firefighters from multiple departments battled the blaze for about three hours.
The Ashland Fire Chief tells WABI the fire appears to have started in the kitchen however the home was vacant and nobody was displaced.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/04/28/officials-trying-determine-cause-house-fire-ashland/
Maine DOL commemorates ‘Workers Memorial Day’
On Tuesday at the State House leaders in the Maine Department of Labor and Maine Labor Group on Health honored workers in the state who’ve lost their lives.
For ‘Workers Memorial Day’ state leaders held a remembrance for Maine workers who died in 2025.
According to the Maine Department of Labor, 19 people working in Maine lost their lives to workplace injuries or illnesses that resulted from their job.
Gov. Janet Mills read a proclamation declaring April 28 as Workers Memorial Day.
Bus system will connect Acadia National Park and MDI
Launching this spring season is a bus system that will connect Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island.
Three routes could begin around Memorial Day Weekend.
The Bangor Daily News reports following an extremely busy year, the fare-free shuttle service could begin early to manage the crowds.
For the first time in decades, the 34-vehicle fleet Island Explorer will be operated by nonprofit transit provider Downeast Transportation.
Union River Sculpture trail begins next phase
The Heart of Ellsworth announced a major move in a downtown Ellsworth project.
The Union River Sculpture Trail aims to bring a unique trail experience that intersects art, outdoor recreation and Downeast Maine’s culture heritage.
Organizers of the project say the next phase in the initiative will focus on implementation, expanded access and community participation.
The trail will follow a .75 mile loop connecting Downtown Ellsworth, the Union River and surrounding neighborhoods to create a new destination for residents and visitors alike.
Vote for your favorite non-profit in the ‘Community Matters More’ project
Launched by the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation is a way to thank non-profits in the community that matter.
The ‘Community Matters More’ project aims to thank those who give back and provide essential resources in the community.
Under the Hancock, Washington County tab you’ll find Camp CaPella, the Grand Theater, the Messenger Animal Rescue or you can write in your favorite non-profit if it’s not listed.
https://www.bangor.com/the-bangor-savings-bank-foundation/cmm/cmm/
