Community coronavirus updates

These are some of the latest updates we’ve received regarding events and schedules changed due to coronavirus precautions. Visit our websites, thepenobscottimes.com and bangordailynews.com, for continually updated information about coronavirus in Maine.

The University of Maine System has stated that employees who are able to work remotely were asked to do so starting Thursday, March 19. UMS is prohibiting all domestic travel with narrow exceptions for travel within Maine. Classes will resume via distance instruction and other modalities on Wednesday, March 25. There are no other adjustments being made to the semester calendar at this time.  Decisions on commencement ceremonies are expected by April 15.  

Secretary of State Matt Dunlap said all Bureau of Motor Vehicles offices are closed, effective immediately, until further notice. Dunlap said he is working with the Maine Legislature to extend all registrations, temporary plates, registrations, disability placards, State ID cards and driver’s licenses that are expiring during this state of emergency.

With attention to the guidance from the Center for Disease Control & Prevention and upon consideration of the size of the usual congregations, Bishop Robert P. Deeley is temporarily suspending all daily and Sunday Masses and religious services throughout the Diocese of Portland (covering the entire state of Maine), effective immediately. The bishop is also issuing a dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass for Maine Catholics during this time.

All local Social Security offices were closed to the public for in-person service as of Tuesday, March 17. Services are available online and by phone. Visit the Social Security & Coronavirus webpage for updates and contact information.

The Maine Prisoner Re-Entry Network is suspending all community meetings for the foreseeable future.