In The News
With Cases Rising in Maine & Nationwide, Mills Administration Announces Measures to Prevent Spread of the Deadly COVID-19 Virus
The measures include extending the Keeping Maine Healthy Grant Program; reducing Indoor Gathering Limits; Postponing the Reopening of Bars and Tasting Rooms; and Adjusting States Exempt from Maine’s Quarantine or Testing Alternative.
Effective Wednesday, November 4, 2020, people traveling from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut are no longer exempt from Maine’s quarantine or negative test requirement; and indoor gatherings will return to a maximum of 50 people, regardless of capacity.
The final Roy W. Dean Grant of 2020 is now open for applications
“Created to help independent filmmakers get their films started or completed, the final Roy W. Dean Grant of 2020 is now open for applications. Grant winner will receive $3,000 cash as well as approximately $28,000 more in film goods and production services.
“Founded in 1993 by Carole Dean, President of top rated non-profit, From the Heart Productions, the Roy W. Dean Grant is awarded to filmmakers with a unique film that makes a contribution to society. It is open to documentaries, features, short films and web series budgeted under $500K. Students are welcome to apply.”
Governor Mills Announces Phase 2 of Maine Economic Recovery Grant Program Funding for Expanded Pool of Maine Businesses & Non-Profits
Phase 2 will make available approximately $95 million in remaining funds from Phase 1 and expand access to the program by increasing the number of eligible businesses and non-profits. Under Phase 2, businesses and non-profits that employ up to 250 people will be eligible for grant rewards. Previously, small businesses and non-profits with up to 50 people were eligible. Additionally, licensed childcare and behavioral health organizations will be eligible in this round. The Department of Economic and Community Development estimates that nearly 3,000 more businesses and non-profit organizations will be eligible for grants as a result of the program’s expansion.
Anonymous donor gives $200K to support 20 Maine theaters during pandemic
“An anonymous donor has contributed $200,000 through the Maine Community Foundation to help 20 community theaters across the state stay afloat during the pandemic.
The Ellsworth-based charitable organization has been working with donors to fund emergency responses to COVID-19, as well as initiatives to build community resilience.”
Hollywood Unions Reach Deal With Studios on Safety Protocols for Restarting Production
“Guiding principles include strictly enforced testing regimens and safety protocols, a zone-based system, and diligent use of personal protective equipment,” the unions said. “The new measures will be implemented by employers in order to minimize the risk of transmission. To ensure workers’ livelihoods are not burdened with added uncertainty during the pandemic, the agreement also includes COVID-19 sick leave and quarantine pay.”
The agreement was signed by the Directors Guild of America, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Basic Crafts and SAG-AFTRA with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.”
