Good morning, Portland.

Scammers are sending text messages that falsely warn of license suspensions and reference a non-existent Maine law, and at least 13 Mainers have reported the scam to the Attorney General's Office.

Experts advise anyone who falls for these messages to freeze credit and monitor bank records — and report the incident to local police to help stop further fraud.

Maine has secured a federal grant to start a two-year pilot program that hires Kennebunk police officer Candice Simeoni as the state’s first elder justice investigator—she will focus on fighting scams and abuse against vulnerable seniors.

A congressional committee is considering a 10-year delay on new lobstering regulations aimed at protecting endangered North Atlantic right whales so that Maine lobstermen have more time to adjust their practices.

Rep. Jared Golden argued the amendment would give the industry extra time to prepare while conservation groups warned that a longer delay may further endanger the whales.

Senator Angus King spoke on Wednesday about rising electricity costs in Maine—he said a modernized grid using battery technology and energy sources like wind, solar and hydropower could lower ratepayers’ expenses.

Portland officials are updating the city's disaster plan after recent floods and heat showed gaps in safety measures.

The new plan will be reviewed by the health and human services committee this fall and go to the full council in December — it will invite public input — to help all city workers know what to do during emergencies.

Maine DHHS has not yet received guidance from USDA—so 40,000 SNAP recipients in Maine will face new work rules requiring 20 hours of work per week in the fall, with affected individuals notified a month before the changes.

Local restaurant owner Mr. Tuna and his wife traveled to Washington, D.C. to urge lawmakers to protect food benefits for those in need.

The Maine Legislature concluded its First Special Session on June 25 and approved measures that improve education by establishing a Student Homelessness Prevention Program—while also enhancing supports to secure affordable housing and safeguard mobile home communities.

The session's wins set a framework for the upcoming second regular session in early 2026.

Maine champion Bonny Eagle won its game by a score of 7+1 over Vermont champion Champlain and will face Connecticut champion Guilford at noon today on ESPN.

Jasmine Peters struck out 10 batters in six innings to help the team reach its second regional final in three years.

Central Coastal Maine Private Day Tour

8 AM – 3 PM — City of Portland, Maine — Pricing varies — Discover the beauty of Maine’s coast with a personalized private tour featuring lighthouses, gardens, and charming coastal villages.

BBQ Benefit for Peaks Island Children's Workshop

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Peaks Island Lions Club — Contribution appreciated — Enjoy delicious BBQ while supporting local kids and preserving island heritage.

PASTA 212 Food Truck at Belleflower Brewing

4-11 p.m. — Belleflower Brewing — Check Instagram for updates — Enjoy fresh and flavorful pasta made with fewer ingredients than traditional fast food.

Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine

1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Tickets required — Explore Portland’s scenic coast and historic sites aboard a classic fire engine while enjoying live narration.

Dan Soder Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Dan Soder, the comedic talent behind 'Mafee' from Billions.

Yoga for Good

8-9 AM — Toad&Co. — $15 Donation — Practice yoga for a good cause while supporting a local non-profit.

CatVideoFest 2025

12:00 PM – 1:15 PM — Portland Museum of Art — Ticket proceeds support local animal charities — The world's premier festival for feline enthusiasts returns with a compilation of the best cat videos.

The Avett Brothers Concert

7-10 p.m. — Thompson's Point — Tickets from $170 — Experience an unforgettable evening with The Avett Brothers in Portland, ME.

National Root Beer Float Day Celebration

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME — Donations encouraged — Enjoy delicious root beer floats while supporting The Barbara Bush Children's Hospital.

The Flaming Lips and Modest Mouse Live

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Thompson's Point — Not specified — Experience a night of psychedelic rock with The Flaming Lips and indie vibes from Modest Mouse.