Casino application released by state

OXFORD — A proposed casino in Oxford County took another step forward on Friday, when the state's Gambling Control Board approved an application form for Black Bear Entertainment (BBE) to complete.

BBE will now be able to begin the lengthy application process. Peter Martin, legislative liaison for BBE, says that the company would like to turn it around quickly.

"It's about 75 or 80 pages," he said. "We'd like to do it as soon as we possibly can."

Lit cigarette blamed for Cottage Street fire

PARIS — The state Fire Marshal has found that a cigarette was the cause of a house fire on Cottage Street in Paris.

Following an interview with Dale Brackett, the owner of the house, Senior Investigator Dan Young with the Fire Marshal's office, was able to determine the cause to be "accidental, due to smoking materials."

"He admits to drinking and falling asleep while smoking on the bed and that's what it is," said Young.

Area residents look for ways to keep strays local

PARIS — Local animal lovers are jumping to the aid of towns hurt by the closure of Allen Hill Animal Shelter.

The shelter at Allen Hill had served towns in the Oxford Hills for 30 years before officially closing on April 22.

Smart Meter opt-out options weighed

AREA — Residents may be able to opt-out of smart meters, but it will cost them more, if a plan developed by the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC), is implemented. 

The PUC, which regulates Central Maine Power (CMP), outlined a plan that would provide options for those uncomfortable with smart meters, but require them to pay to keep their old meters.