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QUOTE OF THE DAY

I’ve got a lot of feedback from people who are saying this feels like, ‘rules for thee but not for me.’”

— Bangor City Councilor Michael Beck, referring to council Chair Susan Hawes’ failure to pay fees for a vacant home she owns in the city.

TODAY’S TOP STORIES

Mike Michaud is either the driving force behind revitalizing East Millinocket’s former mill site or misusing millions of dollars meant to bring it back to life, depending on whom you ask. Since winning a seat on the town’s Select Board eight years ago, Michaud has poured much of his time into rehabilitating the industrial property, but not everyone there agrees he’s made improvements.

Maine’s Susan Collins-Graham Platner race expected to draw nearly $400 million in ads. Overall ad spending in Maine this election cycle could reach almost $500 million, according to the latest projection from AdImpact. 

Maine’s property tax revolt collides with the reality of rising school budgets. Local officials are crashing into a heavy political challenge: Deep cuts are not just unpopular, they are difficult to find.

Bangor City Council has no plans to punish its chair for not registering her vacant home. The news has sparked frustration among residents who want the council to take action, but it’s unclear whether councilors have the authority to do so.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

MAINE IN PICTURES

Former Congressman and current East Millinocket Select Board member Mike Michaud stands with the crumbling old East Millinocket paper mill behind him. Credit: Linda Coan O’Kresik / BDN

FROM THE OPINION PAGES

Credit: BDN illustration by Eric Zelz

“To prevent this cycle from continuing, we must implement a ‘safety ecosystem’ that combines innovative technology, professional teamwork and better support for families.”

Opinion: We all have a role in preventing elder abuse

LIFE IN MAINE

Why finding the right fishing partner is harder than finding fish. Bad weather, slow fishing, flat tires, poor accommodations and unanticipated disasters can test the bonds of any fishing friendship.

The next turtle you see on the road may need your help. Here’s what to do. Twice a year, turtles travel up to a mile as they nest and then hatch, crossing roads, yards and even construction sites.

Why you shouldn’t rely on this popular birding tool. “I played with Merlin this week, trying to figure out why some of its guesses miss the mark,” Bob Duchesne explains.

Six Maine summer hikes where you can go swimming. Many Maine hiking trails lead to or past swimming holes that are bound to be less crowded than most public beaches.