Suspects in Hancock County break-ins arrested
An 18-year-old and four juveniles are charged in connection with a multi-county crime spree that included several smash and grab robberies at dispensaries and smoke shops in Hancock and Waldo Counties.
Ellsworth Police tell Star 97-7 officers were called to Smokey Bear Tobacco and Beverage on High Street around 5:30 Monday morning.
They determined the business was broken into.
An investigation led police to 18-year old Lorando Sweeting of Auburn and four juveniles.
They are all charged with burglary, aggravated criminal mischief, and theft.
Ellsworth City Council discusses short-term rental
The next fiscal year for the City of Ellsworth starts in July.
The Ellsworth City Council met to determine how new requests and proposals could work into the fiscal budget.
The Ellsworth American reports council members discussed short-term rental registration, tree maintenance management and IT support.
The publication reports a short-term rental registry is already factored into the draft budget however town officials are concerned about unregulated rentals not meeting enough occupancy.
Town officials also suggested tagging ash trees downtown to tackle the emerald ash borer.
Maine lumber company donates $100K to victims of Searsmont explosion
There’s many efforts in place to support the Robbins Family and the victims of the Searsmont explosion.
Now, $100,000 has been donated to support victims and families affected.
The Ellsworth American reports the contribution will be made to the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation which assists those affected financially and with other needed resources.
The publication reports the foundation is working with the town of Searsmont and community representatives to ensure that 100% of donations are distributed directly to victims and families.
Community Action in Aroostook, Washington and Hancock hosts peer visit
Officials at the Community Action in Aroostook, Washington and Hancock Counties welcomes a delegation this week.
Leaders say Opportunities Inc. which is based out of Montana will visit to discuss an immersive whole family approach.’
The visit started Tuesday, where leaders will discuss ways to integrate services to support families in long-term economic mobility and stability.
Parents Night out at Ellsworth YMCA
The school year is ending and kids are excited to celebrate all the accomplishments over the 2025-2026 school year and hit Summer time.
However, the Ellsworth YMCA wants to give parents a chance to celebrate as well.
On Friday, May 29, the YMCA will host a Parents Night Out Ice Cream Social from 5 to 8 PM.
If you’re looking for a few quiet hours to yourself, would like to hang out with other parents or guardians, join them while kids 5-12 can indulge in pizza, ice cream, open gym activities and a movie night in a supervised environment.
For more information on the cost and to register for a well-deserved evening for both kids and parents, just follow the link below.
https://www.ellsworthmaine.gov/parents-night-out-ice-cream-social-at-the-ymca/
Bagaduce Chorale set to perform ‘Mass for Peace’ in Ellsworth
Memorial Day weekend is coming up!
The Bagaduce Chorale and GEM Orchestra will perform at the Ellsworth High School Auditorium on both Saturday, May 23 and Sunday May 24.
WABI News reports the 80-voice group will present ‘The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace.’
Leaders say it’s one of the most hopeful and inspirational music sets you could see on Saturday starting at 4 PM and Sunday at 3 PM.
Tickets will cost $20 at the door and students are allowed to enter for free.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/05/19/bagaduce-chorale-perform-mass-peace-ellsworth-memorial-day-weekend/
