Good morning, Portland.

Portland Parks and Recreation announced that the splash pad will open early for the holiday weekend while the community pool is set to open on July 6.

Firefighter Katie Paige, who suffered burns to her face and hands in the May 15 explosion at Robbins Lumber mill, will be released from Maine Medical Center today around noon and head to the Belmont Fire Station—she was moved out of intensive care in early June.

Firefighter Katherine Paige is set to head home after she is released from Maine Medical Center in Portland around noon today following injuries from the Searsmont lumber mill explosion (a limited convoy will carry her from the hospital to the civic center then to the Belmont Fire Department).

An exhibit exploring Maine’s early golf history opened yesterday at the Maine Historical Society.

The display (featuring rare artifacts) shows how the sport evolved locally (drawing on historic records) for visitors eager to learn about our traditions.

Central Maine Power said that average monthly electric bills will drop by about $11 this month due to the recovery of storm repair costs and a decrease in Efficiency Maine expenses (a proposed rate increase is still under review).

Maine Audubon reported a record 185 nesting pairs with 207 chicks hatched on local beaches as of Wednesday.

Officials urge visitors to avoid fireworks and follow posted signs (protecting scarce nesting habitat) during the busy holiday weekend.

Business owners say a decades-old zoning rule that creates a 100-foot buffer between entertainment licenses hinders downtown growth.

The housing and economic development committee forwarded a proposal to the Planning Board to remove the barrier, and a workshop and public hearing will be scheduled before early fall.

City officials and postal workers celebrated Portland’s 250-year-old post service on July 2 at the Main Post Office on Forest Avenue.

Mayor Mark Dion proclaimed the historic event and thanked mail carriers — recognizing their vital role in connecting the community since the Revolutionary era.

Experts warn that today’s extreme heat in Maine endangers pets by causing heat stroke, with signs such as excessive panting, drooling, and red tongues — owners should walk dogs during cooler times and test pavement temperature before outings.

SMCC men’s basketball coach Matt Richards stepped down Wednesday after 23 seasons, having led the SeaWolves to over 400 wins and a 2022 national title.

He will continue at SMCC as chief of institutional advancement and engagement.

Maine Historical Society Celebrates America's 250th

10 AM – 2 PM — Maine Historical Society and the Wadsworth-Longfellow House — Free entry — Celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence with music and holiday-themed festivities.

Wine and Oyster Experience on Casco Bay

3:15-5:15 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $175 — Join Sommelier Erica Archer for a sailing adventure pairing exquisite wines with fresh oysters amidst stunning views.

Black Country, New Road Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — State Theatre — Discount tickets available — Experience the unique sounds of Black Country, New Road live in Portland.

A Brief History of Chasing Storms

7-8:30 p.m. — SPACE — All ages — Explore the mythologies of tornadoes with a film and Q+A featuring director Curtis Miller.

Live + Local on the Terrace with Shelly Coombs

6-9 p.m. — Harbor Bistro + Terrace — Free entry — Enjoy soulful vocals and heartfelt folk-Americana storytelling by the water.

Joe Jackson Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — State Theatre — Concert tickets available — Enjoy an evening of music with the iconic Joe Jackson.

Wine Sail in Portland, Maine: Tuscany

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $150 — Experience a scenic wine sail with expert guidance while tasting exquisite Tuscany wines.

Introduction to Volleyball for Kids

July 14th – July 22nd — Reiche Community School — Refunds available up to 2 days before event — Let your child discover the joy of volleyball in a fun, supportive environment.

Daniel Mason: On Nature

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Halo at the Point — $15-$20 — Engage in a literary discussion with acclaimed author Daniel Mason on nature and his new book 'Country People'.

Narrated Train Ride

10 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — $0 to $24.10 — Enjoy a scenic train ride with rich stories of Maine's railroading history and stunning views of Casco Bay.