Alex Lear

1 week ago | centralmaine.com | Alex Lear

WINTHROP — Plagued by the increasing costs of veterinary care, the Protectors of Animal Life Society No-Kill Cat Shelter is asking for donations to help keep its cat rescue in operation. Executive Director Theresa Silsby said although the shelter plans to remain open, it might close if it doesn’t receive the revenue it needs to care for the shelter’s nearly 100 cats. For now, the cat and kitten intake is on pause, but people may still adopt cats at the shelter located at 188 Case Road.

1 week ago | centralmaine.com | Alex Lear

The browntail moth population collapse that began in 2024 is continuing this year, which means a less itchy spring for Maine residents. Browntail moth caterpillars shed microscopic hairs that drift through the air and can provoke an allergic reaction when they come into contact with human skin, often resulting in red, itchy rashes that can last for several weeks. The hairs can also cause respiratory problems for people with chronic conditions, like asthma.

1 week ago | centralmaine.com | Alex Lear

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1 week ago | centralmaine.com | Alex Lear

The number of available jobs in Maine is the lowest it’s been since a pandemic-induced drop in 2020, according to new data from the federal government. There were 28,000 openings in March in Maine, according to seasonally adjusted data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That number has been trending downward for the last 18 months. Experts say it is a sign the state’s labor shortage is easing as available workers and available positions start to balance out.

1 week ago | centralmaine.com | Alex Lear

AUGUSTA — Maine lawmakers have rejected a proposal that would have required the state to stop issuing driver’s licenses and identification cards known as Real ID that meet strict new federal security standards. The Senate voted without a roll call and without any discussion Tuesday to reject the bill. It was rejected 109-34 in the House of Representatives last week. The bill, sponsored by Rep.