Good morning, Portland.

This Labor Day in Maine, union leaders highlight recent contract wins at Bath Iron Works and the opening of the Maine MILL in Lewiston — a museum celebrating local labor heritage — while calling for worker input on AI decisions and fair wages amid rising living costs.

Maine school districts will gradually raise teacher starting salaries from $40,000 to $50,000 over the next three years.

The state budget allocates funding (worth $26.3 million) to help meet increments—$45,000 by next year, $47,500 in 2028 and $50,000 in 2029.

Troy Jackson visited People’s Inclusive Welding in South Portland (Saturday, Sept.

5) to see a hands-on facility that trains non-traditional students in welding trades. Shop owner Jo Remillard said the school needs more state funding to grow Maine’s skilled workforce.

A local couple celebrated their first wedding anniversary with a civil ceremony at Portland City Hall and a family gathering that included stops at Wolfes Neck Farm, Isabella’s Cafe, and a British goods store.

They also researched cross-country ski pricing for an upcoming winter outing and chose to buy art together instead of exchanging gifts.

Mt. Ararat opened its girls soccer season with a 3-1 win over Mt. Blue at Topsham on Saturday.

Hannah Hunt set up the first goal and scored a penalty while Makenna Trockman restored a two-goal lead after Mt. Blue briefly equalized.

In Bowie, Maryland Saturday night, the Sea Dogs overcame a 4-run deficit with a six-run eighth inning to beat the Chesapeake Baysox 6-4.

Ronald Rosario hit a two-run homer while Tyler McDonough drove in key runs to spark the comeback.

High school soccer teams kicked off their season on Saturday — local schools took to the field with competitive matches underway.

The event signals a fresh start for school sports and community energy in the area.