Maine’s new $30 million trails program has drawn 105 proposals requesting over twice the first-year $7.5 million allocation.
Joe Charpentier
Staff Writer
Joe Charpentier came to the Sun Journal in 2022 to cover crime and chaos. His previous experience was in a variety of rural Midcoast beats which included government, education, sports, economics and analysis, crime, and environment. He loves surprising his editors with spontaneous enterprising stories and prides himself on mastering the ability to slip the odd Oxford comma by the copy editors. When not on the beat, Joe enjoys spending time with family, writing fiction and woodworking.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Maine trims emergency heating assistance as COVID-era program runs down
The state Emergency Crisis Intervention Program now caps assistance at $500 amid dwindling pandemic relief funds and administrative strain.
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Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Despite challenges, Maine’s apple crop looks ‘excellent’
Orchardists say this year’s harvest is providing high-quality fruit despite uneven yields caused by a host of factors. However, there are worries for next year.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Expanded protections for Maine vernal pools, wildlife to get public hearing
The proposals, which come as the result of 2 recently passed laws, are aimed at protecting endangered and threatened species.
Posted inLocal & State, News, Schools and Education
Feds cut funding for Maine high school program, citing diversity concerns
The program, which helps low-income students in central and western Maine get into college, ‘conflicts’ with the federal government’s goals, the Trump administration said.
Posted inHealth, Local & State, News
Maine public water supply complies with law, but is it safe?
A national advocacy group says federal limits for three carcinogens found in tap water from public systems in Maine and across the U.S. are too low. Water districts say it’s not fair to expect ratepayers to fund improvements to meet its lower recommended levels.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Maine’s forests, yards and lakes under siege by invasive species
The state faces a growing threat from nonnative plants and insects that are reshaping its landscapes. Experts urge early detection and public vigilance.
Posted inLocal & State, Maine Crime, News
Repeat offenders drive frustration with Maine’s bail system
Police and prosecutors say offenders are being released without any real consequences. But with jails crowded, and constitutional rights at risk, judges have a lot to consider when deciding who should go free.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Dry year cuts into hay crops, leaving Maine farmers to adapt
Maine farmers and experts say the dry summer is part of a larger cycle that the agriculture industry must be ready for.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Tired of silence, Lewiston shooting survivors say they’re suing Army to force response
Lawyers for people affected by the mass shooting two years ago say the Army has offered nothing but silence after a reservist shot 18 of their loved ones.