Your morning starts here.

Local land trusts recommend top fall color spots in the Lakes Region now that leaves are peaking; visitors can enjoy trails at preserves in Gray, North Yarmouth, Westbrook, and Bridgton (with the Universal Access Trail at 189 Falmouth Road opening Oct.

17).

Portland-based nonprofit After Party, led by former wedding videographer Nora McCormack-Bowen, collects event florals (rearranged by volunteers) to donate to hospitals and care centers and reduce waste.

The service spreads cheer and supports community members across the city.

Multiple local events are underway through Oct.

25, including performances at Portland Stage and Footlights Theatre, a monster truck show in Portland, a final Biddeford Art Walk, and special events at the Maine Jewish Museum and Saco River Theatre + the Northeast Sports Card Expo awaits collectors in Portland.

Friends of Casco Bay said red tide is still killing soft-shell clams as the algae bloom fades slightly in Casco Bay.

Maine officials say fish and shellfish remain safe to eat, although some areas stay closed for harvesting.

The U.S. Department of War determined that Bath Iron Works in Bath will build a second guided-missile destroyer for fiscal year 2027 if Congress provides funding.

The shipyard showed key operational improvements and continues to support local jobs.

Portland's State Theatre will host the drag Grateful Dead tribute band Bertha: Grateful Drag (a Nashville-based act) at 8 p.m. Saturday, offering lively renditions of classic Dead tunes in flashy outfits.

A 12-hour Radiothon airs Thursday, Oct.

15 on WGAN to support Veterans Forward after Governor Mills declared it Veterans Forward Day. A Hot Rods and Heroes car show is Sunday, Oct. 18 at Bill Dodge Auto Group in Westbrook, featuring live music, food + awards.

Health experts report that Maine is experiencing an early rise in flu cases this season and may see a peak in November.

Residents are urged to get their flu shot soon to guard against the virus.