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Good morning:
Summer went out with a bang on Mount Desert Island this week, with the temperature dropping into the high 40's. The change was abrupt but felt appropriate, accompanied by a shift in the crowds on the streets of Bar Harbor (more couples, fewer families) and parades of children with drooping backpacks streaming up the steps of the elementary school.
Speaking of school: We're reporting this week that the University of Maine at Presque Isle, long one of Maine's smallest universities, is driving an increase in enrollment across the system, fueled by an online program called YourPace, which offers self-paced degrees for adults online.
We're also covering Maine's red flag law, which allows a judge to order the temporary removal of weapons from those deemed to be a danger to themselves or others. Since the law went into effect six months ago, five people have filed petitions to have weapons removed from their family members.
In legal news, we’re reporting an update on a case that began in 2024. This week, the Maine Supreme Judicial Court ruled that a father could decide whether his daughter could attend an evangelical church, following a clash with the girl’s mother over her religious upbringing.
We also have a story on threats by an industry group to sue towns over local ordinances restricting rent increases at mobile home parks and a profile of a family in Belfast that lives largely without electricity, oil, or cars.
Most of our summer interns and fellows departed this past week. They did incredible work for The Monitor this summer, and we’re so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with them. I hoped you’ve enjoyed their reporting and fresh eyes on Maine as much as I have. It’s always a learning experience on both sides.
Have a wonderful long weekend,
Kate |
