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QUOTE OF THE DAY

“There’s a lot of major factors that unfortunately are coming together not in our favor all at the same time.” 

— Old Town City Manager Bill Mayo on the potential for a 38 percent property tax increase following the closure of the ND Paper mill.

TODAY’S TOP STORIES

President Donald Trump’s Canada tariffs have caused Maine fire truck costs to spike. A Maine business that builds and sells fire trucks said the 25 percent duty will add $80,000 to $90,000 to the price tag for local departments.

Most Mainers disapprove of U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, according to a new poll. Collins came in second nationally among senators for disapproval behind fellow Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.

Old Town residents are facing a 38 percent tax hike amid a city budget crisis. The city is seeking state relief for the “sudden and severe” disruption to its tax base from the closure of the ND Paper mill.

A Brewer baby who inspired millions on TikTok died of a rare skin disease. Children with the condition are often called “butterfly children” because their skin is as fragile as a butterfly’s wing.

Construction started on a $55 million potato chip plant in Aroostook County. The Taste of Maine Potato Chip Co. expects to begin producing chips next spring.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

MAINE IN PICTURES

A look inside the progress of the University of Maine’s renovations to Alfond Arena on Thursday. A view looking down the hallway of what was the main entrance area and Bear Necessities team store. Credit: Linda Coan O'Kresik / BDN

FROM THE OPINION PAGES

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, arrives before President Donald Trump addresses a joint session of Congress at the Capitol in Washington on March 4, 2025. Credit: Ben Curtis / AP

“With so many recent flip-flops from President Donald Trump on tariffs, one has to wonder if this isn’t just about playing stock markets so Trump, his family and friends, and his enablers can profit, while average Americans see their retirement savings dwindle one day only to see them somewhat rebound the next.”

Editorial: Trump tariff rollercoaster shows why Congress needs to reclaim its authority

LIFE IN MAINE

Maine extended its gray squirrel hunting season. Additionally, youth waterfowl hunting dates in the north zone will start and end a week later than last year.

Take a look inside UMaine’s $50 million Alfond Arena renovation. Work is expected to continue through the fall, but enough should be done in time to start the next hockey season.

The first major wave of migratory songbirds returns to Maine in a week, Outdoors contributor Bob Duchesne writes. Three warbler species will lead the way, but that’s just the start.