Good morning, Portland.

Burger King at the Maine Mall charged a dine-in customer a 5¢ bag fee despite no bag being given — state law says fees are allowed only when a bag is provided and customers can use their own to avoid the charge.

The third annual Maine PoutineFest celebrates Franco-American heritage on Sept.

19 at Thompson’s Point by featuring poutine samples from local food trucks + supporting Francophone cultural programs.

The Portland Press Herald is surveying residents to learn about financial hardships and tough choices in covering housing, food, utilities, and other basic needs—responses remain anonymous unless a participant opts to talk with a reporter.

After a new state law banned nonwater-dependent floating camps, the Oram family removed their 11-year-old houseboat from the Androscoggin River, and local residents have started a petition to let them use it next summer.

The family is considering adding a motor so the camp meets legal rules.

Yesterday, Sept. 8, advocates observed National 988 Day to boost awareness of the mental health lifeline that offers crisis support via calls, texts + chats.

Maine centers answered calls in 19 seconds and connected those in need to trained counselors.

Tom McGowan of Windham launched his wellness app, HappyTrek (Oct.

2025), to share mental, emotional and physical health lessons he learned during treatment. The free app offers subscriptions for personalized guidance.

Douro is a Portuguese-inspired seafood and brunch restaurant serving seasonal dishes like tempura Romano beans and grilled octopus.

Located at 110 Thames St. — it operates Tuesday through Friday from 3:30 to 9 and Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 — it earned a 4-star rating.

Travel + Leisure named Portland one of the top 14 foodie cities on Sept.

6 — the smallest city and only New England spot on the list. It highlighted local places like Katie Made Bakery, Eventide and Fore Street, known for Maine lobster rolls and pork belly yakitori.

The New England Patriots have agreed on a four-year, $135 million extension with cornerback Christian Gonzalez — making him the NFL's highest-paid at his position.

The contract, which guarantees $102 million, will start in 2028 as the team prepares for a new season.

A review of southern Maine girls soccer teams for 2026 highlights ten contenders with standout players and demanding matchups.

Scarborough, Windham, Yarmouth, and others will face challenges in games starting Sept. 15, with experts noting strong defense + scoring threats ahead.