Lobster festival returns / Versant Power hike / PFAS worries

Today is Friday. Temperatures will be in the low 80 to low 90s with a chance of scattered thunderstorms in the south. See what weather is in store for the rest of the day here, and where to find cooling centers across the state here. Here are the latest on gas prices in Maine. Here’s what we’re talking about in Maine today.

The latest on the coronavirus in Maine

Five more Mainers have died and another 314 COVID-19 cases were reported across the state on Thursday, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. That brings the statewide death toll to 2,486. Check out our tracker for more information.

Doctors hear more from worried Mainers that PFAS are making them sick

Practitioners are speaking more with patients about how to limit risks and to keep up with routine screenings and follow-ups.

Maine politicians duck questions on Trump and Biden’s 2024 prospects

If the 2024 election was not already hanging over November’s election, it undoubtedly would be if Trump announces his candidacy before then.

Bates, Bowdoin and Colby join Supreme Court fight to keep affirmative action

The three schools argued that admissions practices that consider race as a factor in acceptance are key for a diverse student body.

Most Maine boaters aren’t prepared for the worst despite recent drownings

While boaters may think they’re prepared for a worst-case scenario, some aren’t taking the proper precautions.

Versant proposes $10 rate increase starting next summer

Versant Power cited maintenance and upgrades, technology investments and labor market pressures as reasons for the proposal.

Penquis gets $4M to convert Bangor hotel into housing for formerly homeless

The social services agency plans to develop 18 efficiency units and 18 one-bedroom apartments and will allow vouchers to cover the majority of the monthly rent.

JPMorgan’s Jamie Dimon tours Maine as bank announces expansion

The leader of the global company, which plans to add two branches to the existing four in Maine by 2025, has been described as “America’s least-hated banker.”

Maine Lobster Festival returns with plenty of crustaceans for eager visitors

It was back to normal for the Maine Lobster Festival, which is one of the signature happenings on the midcoast during the summer.

Glenburn man accused of arson allegedly told father he planned to burn down his home

Colby Gilgan also allegedly left his homeowners’ insurance policy on the living room floor, which investigators found.

UMaine is hiring for one of nation’s lowest-paid hockey coach positions

The salary of the former women’s hockey coach, $69,999.96, is a fraction of the $235,000 UMaine’s second-year head men’s ice hockey coach Ben Barr makes.

Blue Hill has a new late-night hangout spot

With a menu of rotating cocktails, local beers and wine, Jill Clendenen hopes to give people a place to socialize when most places on the peninsula have closed.

Aroostook County golf tourney to raise funds for local health care

The County Open Charity Golf Tournament has contributed more than $668,000 toward critical health care needs in southern Aroostook County.

In other Maine news:

State board denies appeal of state permits for Jonesport fish farm proposal

Defense wants Bobby Nightingale’s murder charges thrown out

3rd case of monkeypox confirmed in Maine

Penobscot County administrator is leaving after less than 2 years on the job

A Down East town had an exceptionally hot July

Rare tufted puffin spotted along Maine’s coast

Rural Mainers with opioid use disorder face barriers to treatment as demand increases

Teen victim in Winterport stabbing is home from the hospital

Victim of Winslow car crash identified