Freeport faces 3.87% tax hike, officials look to reduce burden

The proposed $10.5 million municipal budget would lower taxes by .12%, but when combined with Freeport’s projected $19.7 million share of the Regional School Unit 5 budget, it would raise taxes. The town’s saving grace may come in the form of a $1 million tax rate stabilization fund.

For now, Great State of Maine Air Show still in works for August

Under the current statewide reopening plan, gatherings are limited to 50 people through the end of August. The 2017 air show drew about 35,000 people. Officials will make a decision by July 1 at the latest.

Annual Run for Independence goes virtual

The event is Independence Association’s largest public-facing fundraiser, and funds go toward the organization’s health and wellness services.

Photos: A new location and look, but business as usual at land trust’s farmers market

Brunswick rolls back some restrictions to comply with governor’s reopening plan

Some of the town’s stricter limitations, like requiring restaurants not allow customers to enter the business, only allowing child care centers to have 12 children per group and mandating face coverings for all employees of indoor public-serving businesses, still stand.

Freeport approves tax break for L.L. Bean corporate HQ expansion

In exchange for a tax incentive, L.L. Bean officials granted an easement on property intended for a multi-use trail and will help clean up Concord Gully Brook, a longtime priority for the town.

Brunswick council loosens restrictions for non-essential retail, allows contactless pickup and delivery

Councilors also voted to “strongly recommend” masks or facial coverings for people entering indoor public spaces after failing to gather enough support for a mandate.

Midcoast farmers markets prepare for start of summer season amid pandemic

The Crystal Spring and downtown Brunswick markets are both operating in temporary new locations, and new safety and social distancing measures will be instituted there and in Bath.

Bowdoin College expects to lose more than $8 million by the end of the semester

Bowdoin was allocated $1.12 million through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act passed by Congress. Half of the funds, about $562,000 must go toward low-income students and the other half can be used to help defray the costs incurred with the transition to remote learning. Bowdoin officials have not yet decided whether to accept the funds.

Rising to the occasion: In quarantine, some find baking is exactly what they knead

Across the country, grocery store shelves normally stocked with flour and yeast are bare, and social media is flooded with pictures of homemade loaves of bread. As people are stuck at home during a global pandemic, many are turning to bread and baked goods for comfort.