Good morning, Portland.

Communities held ceremonies Friday to mark 25 years since 9/11.

In Portland, a wreath-laying at the 9/11 Memorial in Fort Allen Park was part of Gov. Mills’ directive to fly flags at half-staff — a respectful nod to victims and survivors.

Ceremonies were held in Lewiston and Freeport yesterday to remember lives lost during the Sept 11 attacks.

City officials in Lewiston shared memories at the fire department while residents at Freeport gathered at the public safety building (featuring steel beams from the World Trade Center) around 8:30 a.m.

The events of Sept. 11, 2001 changed security at Portland International Jetport, where director Paul Bradbury watched daily flights to Boston give way to major federal screening upgrades.

The jetport captured the only recorded CCTV images of the terrorists (a stark reminder of how quickly travel rules evolved).

Maine trail builders are set to benefit as the state’s trail program, which awarded $7.5 million in grants last year, will announce a second round of awards this fall to support increased work on public and private projects.

A study by Educate Maine found that only about half of the 46 reading programs used in over 93 school districts follow evidence-based methods while fourth-grade proficiency remains low — state lawmakers plan to meet with report leaders to explore education policy changes.

University of Maine professor Cora Caton said 9/11's legacy (25 years ago) still shapes views on civil liberties.

She noted that the national push for security led to the TSA and Homeland Security—a shift underscored by Friday's commemorations.

Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King recalled how the 9/11 attacks reshaped their roles, with Collins describing a sudden Capitol warning and King setting up an emergency hub at Camp Keyes.

Their memories highlight the lasting impact on local and national security.

Hannaford recalled packages of 81% lean/19% fat ground beef sold at its Yarmouth store at 756 Route 1 on Sept.

7 because the product may contain foreign material (no injuries were reported) and advises customers to return it for a refund.