Good morning, Portland.

A new public restroom opened at Portland Downtown offices after a TP-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Thursday.

Community leaders said the project (five years in the making, started during COVID-19) meets a critical downtown need.

This Saturday in Portland, the third annual Tunnel to Towers 5K Run and Walk will honor fallen first responders, injured veterans, and others through a day of remembrance and support for their families (race director Ralph Munroe explained its mission).

The Lake Region Photovoice exhibit opens today at the Magic Lantern Theater and Innovation Center in Bridgton, featuring photos taken by local community members that document rural housing struggles.

The project, led by USM researchers, aims to raise awareness and prompt change in how homelessness is viewed across rural Maine.

Richard Day, 22, was critically injured last Sunday in Gorham when his green Jeep struck a utility pole — his father, Greg Day, remained by his side at Maine Medical Center as staff worked to stabilize him.

Coffee shop and cannabis dispensary Higher Grounds in Old Port is closing this month after almost 10 years, with dispensary sales ending Thursday while coffee service runs until Saturday, according to owner Mark Barnett who said his lease was not renewed for the cannabis side.

Wigon Office Supplies, a downtown store in business since 1932, will close this fall after 94 years as owner Sally Wigon retires.

The store hosted a back-to-school event Tuesday and Wednesday where teachers could take supplies free + celebrate its legacy.

Business experts warned that a looming trade dispute with Canada may hurt local industries dependent on cross-border trade, including lobstering and gasoline supply.

The New England-Canada Business Council said negotiators must reach an agreement before the September deadline to protect jobs and economic ties.

After Canada removed seafood and fish products from its planned 25% tariff on live and frozen lobster starting Sept.

8, Maine lobstermen welcomed the change on Thursday as it protects roughly half of the fall catch and coastal economies.

Portland has launched Grow Wild Portland to help residents switch from turf lawns to native gardens+ the campaign offers weekly emails, starter kits and planning tools to improve water quality and support local wildlife.

A pilot program called Dementia Respite Without Walls will launch weekly four-hour respite sessions for people living with dementia and their caregivers in Casco at the Community Center starting on Sept.

22. Funded by a $100,000 grant, the program serves 12 to 24 participants (more info available from SMAAA).

Burke Cherrie, who served as interim CEO since May, is now officially the leader of the Maine Mariners.

He will work with head coach Rick Kowalsky to build team culture and launch the Mariners Foundation as the season begins Oct. 17 at Worcester.