The number of Christmas tree farms in Maine continues to decline, but those still in operation say sales this season have exceeded expectations.
Local & State
Maine news from the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.
Posted inLocal & State, News
The FBI set a standard for active shooter training. Ten years later, Maine still isn’t widely using it.
Ongoing training varies by department and agency, and not all departments use the program identified by the FBI as the national standard for active shooter trainings.
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Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Maine lobstermen signal opposition to participating in ropeless testing program
The state has been awarded $5.1 million to research alternatives to the traditional trap-and-buoy lobster gear that requires vertical lines that can entangle whales.
Posted inLocal & State, Politics
Maine expects $265 million budget surplus over 2 years
The stronger-than-expected revenue forecast – including a $139 million surplus in this fiscal year – is driven primarily by consumer spending, sales tax growth and income tax returns.
Posted inKennebec Journal, Local & State, Maine Crime, News
Oakland man sentenced for high-speed police chase, eludes kidnapping charges after one alleged victim dies
Brian Charette Jr. pleaded guilty to several charges stemming from police chase in January in the Waterville area and was sentenced to 30 months in prison, even as he escaped prosecution of more serious kidnapping charges because one woman died and another didn’t show up in court.
Posted inLocal & State, Uncategorized
Portland officers armed with long guns confront groups involved in fight
A department spokesman said both groups were threatening to use firearms, but that no shots were fired and no injuries were reported.
Posted inLocal & State
Portland’s homeless population often relies on dangerous propane heaters to stay warm
A warming shelter for 75 people will open in Portland when the temperature drops below 20 degrees or there is more than 10 inches of snow.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, Morning Sentinel
Renys plans to open Waterville store in 2025
Owner John Reny confirmed Tuesday that the company plans to launch its Waterville location in 2025, likely at either the JFK Plaza on Kennedy Memorial Drive or Elm Plaza on upper Main Street.
Posted inLocal & State, Maine Crime, News
Avon woman to serve two 30-month sentences concurrently for drug-related crimes
Brandice Dotolo, 41, pleaded guilty in August to using and maintaining drug premises, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Deaths in Searsmont were murder-suicide, according to police
Investigators believe Lance Lucas, 50, shot and killed Amy Nickerson, also 50, and then took his own life.