In respect for the memory of former astronaut and U.S. senator John Glenn, Gov. Paul R. LePage has directed the United States flag and the State of Maine flag to fly at half-staff immediately until sunset on the day of his interment on Thursday, Dec. 15.

The public hearing and special town meeting scheduled to be convened by the Bremen Board of Selectmen at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 15 to allow voters to decide whether to enact a six-month ban on retail marijuana sales and cultivation has been postponed until further notice.

The Leapfrog Group announced this week that eight Maine hospitals, including Lincoln County’s own LincolnHealth, have been named to its 2016 Top Hospital list, which honors the highest performers on the Leapfrog hospital survey. The winning facilities were officially recognized at Leapfrog’s annual meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 6 in Washington, D.C.

As it snows throughout much of Maine and the temperatures drop, it is the time of year when driving in winter storms becomes more prevalent and many people begin to use their heating sources more frequently, causing the number of home fires to go up.

Central Maine Power Co. is urging its customers to follow some simple electrical-safety and energy-saving tips so they can have a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

The American Legion Post #36 will serve a free Christmas dinner from noon-3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 25 for residents of Boothbay and the surrounding area at 25 Industrial Park Drive, Boothbay. Reservations are recommended. Call Barbara House by Friday, Dec. 16 at 633-7195.

The pet pantry is open from 9-11 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month, next on Dec. 6. Its mission is to assist people who, due to their economic circumstances, may be having trouble buying food for their cat or dog.

The Central Lincoln County YMCA is accepting applications for families in need of gifts this holiday season. Those in need may pick up an application from the CLC YMCA, local schools, churches, and town offices. The simple, confidential application form should be returned by the CLC Y, located at 525 Main St. in Damariscotta, by Tuesday, Nov. 29.

Those who served in the U. S. military or are the widow or dependent of a veteran may be entitled to benefits. Maine has a variety of benefits available to qualifying veterans and dependents in addition to those offered by the federal government.