Mornings

Portland Mayor Mark Dion

Photo: Newsradio WGAN, WGAN

Portland Mayor Mark Dion

Mayor Mark Dion discussed the uncertainties surrounding Portland’s budget due to potential supplemental funding from Augusta, which could impact city planning until July. He highlighted the school department’s ballot proposal in June and the rising costs of education. Dion mentioned a new railroad station on St. John Street, which could cost around $50 million, aiming to enhance public transportation and reduce car usage. He also addressed a lawsuit against Maine DHHS over a 50% cut in shelter funding, arguing for legislative oversight. Dion emphasized the need for law enforcement to address criminal conduct among the homeless and noted progress in reducing police vacancies from mid-20s to the mid-20s.

Local Headlines

2 days ago in Local

Universal healthcare question to potentially appear on Maine ballots in 2027

The question would instruct the Legislature to develop a bill by 2028 that would establish a health care system that ensures all Maine residents can choose comprehensive, publicly funded health care, or stay with private care.

2 days ago in Local

Motorcyclist killed after crash in Hancock Friday morning

The cyclist, 44-year-old Jim Hoyt of Sullivan was pronounced dead at the scene.

2 days ago in Local

Man accused of “cloning” Mainers’ EBT cards to steal thousands in benefits

A man has been charged in Maine after a months-long investigation into $100,000 in stolen EBT benefits.

National Headlines

2 days ago in National

Couple charged with felonies for Empire State Building climb-turned-proposal

A skyscraper-scaling daredevil told police that he and his girlfriend climbed the Empire State Building's antenna and unfurled a banner about love and peace because he wanted to "do something special" for their engagement, prosecutors said Thursday at the couple's arraignment on felony reckless endangerment, burglary and other charges.

3 days ago in National

The Onion’s new parody of Alex Jones’ Infowars starts with $100,000 to Sandy Hook families

The satirical news site The Onion isn't waiting to take possession of Infowars to launch a parody of Alex Jones ' conspiracy platform. More than a year after first trying to buy Infowars, The Onion on Thursday will debut a send-up under its own website with plans to give some of the revenue to families of the victims in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

3 days ago in National

US employers pull back on hiring in June amid elevated inflation, global turmoil

U.S. employers slowed hiring last month and added only 57,000 jobs, less than half the previous month's total and a sign companies still have a cautious economic outlook.

4 days ago in National, Trending

Americans step out for their nation’s 250th in a proud moment sown with division and doubt

One of the stars of the American firmament once advised citizens of all stripes how to express their love of country. Mark Twain's long-ago words capture how Americans are stepping out this week to wish their nation a happy milestone birthday.