Graham Platner faces sexual assault allegation, Maine Democratic party calls for withdrawal
Maine Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Graham Platner faces allegations of sexual assault from a woman he previously dated.
41-year-old Jenny Racicot of Maine came forward.
WABI news reports Racicot stated in a POLITICO report that in late 2021, Platner came to her home uninvited, intoxicated and forced her to have sex despite her repeatedly telling him to stop.
Racicot also did an interview with CNN Monday night.
WABI news reports Racicot says she did not report the incident to police and initially confided only in her therapist.
Before the story was published Platner abruptly cancelled three public events and called the allegations ‘troubling, serious and false.’
The Maine Democratic party has now called for his withdrawal.
Bangor Mall purchase under new extension agreement
After a group announced earlier this year they were under contract to purchase the Bangor Mall property, there is now an extension.
A due diligence period of 60 days has been granted to Bangor Marketplace and Residences LLC.
WABI news reports the group was eyeing to close on the purchase in June with current owners Namdar Realty Group.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/07/06/bangor-mall-purchase-agreement-extended-60-days/
Sen. Angus King pushes for new Arctic Security Cutter
Senator Angus King is making his pitch to the Coast Guard on why Maine should be a homeport for a new Arctic Security Cutter.
The Coast Guard announced in February it awarded contracts for 11 new Arctic Security Cutters as directed by President Trump.
It’s a push to expand the existing fleet and defend the nation’s interest in the Arctic for years to come.
Two of those new vessels will call Alaska home.
The first one is expected to be delivered in 2028.
Drive to Save Lives campaign ramps up across New England
Coinciding with the summer speed reduction awareness and high visibility campaign, the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety calls on all drivers to be aware of their speeding and aggressive driving behaviors.
Communities across the country face record fatalities during this time of year due to speed-related crashes.
Officials say in 2024, there were over 11-thousand speed related traffic fatalities showing 39% of male drivers and 20% of female drivers between 15-20-years-old involved in fatal crashes due to speeding.
So, drive to save lives and as you get to your destination, enjoy the journey, try not to be in a rush.
Water safety advice
If you’re looking for swimming sessions, those at the Bangor Region YMCA say classes are available for kids ages 6 months to 12 years old.
Their aquatics program teaches kids water safety skills from the basics to lifesaving techniques.
WABI news reports the American Red Cross shared drowning remains one of the leading causes of death for young kids due to the fact that it’s silent and can happen in a few inches of water.
Experts say it’s important to always watch your children and wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket.
https://www.wabi.tv/2026/07/06/bangor-region-ymca-urges-water-safety-summer-swim-season-begins/
A common injury tends to find visitors at Acadia National Park
Hikers stay alert if you’re venturing to Acadia National Park.
Local officials say visitors tend to run into an uncomfortable situation more often than not – Acadia ankle.
The Bangor Daily news says MDI Search and Rescue have helped with countless missions over the years and majority of them are ankle injuries.
The publication reports one woman who recently suffered an injury advises other hiking enthusiasts to simply be careful of the common injury seen in Acadia and across the country.
https://www.bangordailynews.com/2026/07/05/hancock/hancock-health/acadia-ankle-common-joam40zk0w/
Woodlawn volunteer opportunity
If you’re looking to get out and volunteer your time this week the Woodlawn in Ellsworth needs your help.
On July 9, starting at 8 a.m., leaders are looking for a few helping hands to help clean up the gravel paths around the Black House.
There’s no limit to how many people come out on Friday because the more the merrier.
To RSVP your spot to volunteer just follow the link below.
Cafe Sci returns to Bigelow Laboratory
If you’re interested in what’s going on in the ocean, you won’t want to miss this free popular event!
Starting July 22 through Aug. 12 Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences will host its annual Cafe Sci series.
The Pen Bay Pilot reports presentations will take place at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays where attendees can enjoy free science talks and hear from ocean researchers about critical happenings and developing science.
If you’re not able to get to East Boothbay for the events, you can also engage virtually.
https://www.penbaypilot.com/article/bigelow-laboratory-s-caf-sci-program-kicks-july-22/271968
