Maine
Why Florida might sue Maine over abortion, transgender health care shield law. What to know
VP Kamala Harris makes historic visit to Planned Parenthood clinic
United States Vice President Kamala Harris made a historic visit to a Planned Parenthood clinic in Minnesota to talk about abortion rights.
Florida’s attorney general is one among many from red states across the country threatening Maine with legal action as the New England state considers a shield law that would protect those seeking abortions and health care from criminal repercussions in Florida.
As more Republican states have taken action to limit or altogether ban abortion access and transgender health care, Democratic Party-led states see shield laws as a way to protect those seeking those services away from home, according to according to the Guttmacher Institute, an abortion rights advocacy group.
Florida is now among the states unhappy with Maine’s plans to prevent those seeking abortions and gender affirming care up north to face legal repercussions from the Sunshine State, saying that Maine’s legislation is an “ill-considered attempt to influence and intimidate” Florida officials.
Maine’s law passed the state’s House of Representatives earlier this month after debates, the Maine Morning Star reported. The bill’s passage quickly drew the ire of many red states who see it as a direct affront to their own policies.
More: A year after the fall of Roe v. Wade, abortion access is reshuffled on state lines
What are abortion and transgender shield laws like Maine’s LD 227?
Shield laws like the one currently being considered in Maine are designed to protect patients from legal action taken in other states.
For instance, if abortion were to become nearly outright banned in Florida — as is the case in over a dozen states since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Floridians may seek to end pregnancies in more hospitable states for the procedure such as Maine.
Laws like LD 227 would mean both healthcare providers and patients are not required under Maine law to cooperate if lawsuits are filed or if law enforcement from their home state attempt to subpoena or extradite them on potential criminal charges for seeking that care elsewhere. Currently, shield laws are on the books in 11 states while similar governor-issued executive orders are in place three others, according to Movement Advancement Project, an LGBTQ rights organization.
Why is Florida threatening over another state’s laws?
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody was one of sixteen state prosecutors around the country to sign a letter this past week, saying that the law is too far-reaching.
According to the open letter, Maine’s legislation would create a “right of action for damages against law enforcement, prosecutors, and other officials in our States who are enforcing our own valid state laws, even lawswhose constitutionality has been confirmed by federal appellate courts. On top of that, LD227 purports to block valid orders and judgments from our state courts enforcing laws upheld by federal appellate courts.”
If Maine’s legislation were to pass, the Republican prosecutors claimed in the letter it could create a “rapid tit-for-tat escalation that tears apart our Republic.”
Are abortions legal in Florida?
Abortion is currently legal in Florida up to the 15th week of pregnancy. Last year, however, Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law implementing a ban on abortions after six weeks except in cases of incest and rape, the Tallahassee Democrat reported.
Florida’s six-week limit law is currently not yet in effect as activists are challenging the 15-week limit, passed in 2022, in the Florida Supreme Court. If the Supreme Court affirms the 15-week ban is valid, the six-week ban would go into effect thirty days after the ruling, according to the Center for Reproductive Rights.
Is transgender health care legal in Florida?
DeSantis also last year signed a new law that banned gender-affirming care for minors, the Tallahassee Democrat also reported last year.
That law also instituted new rules for adult patients seeking trans health, requiring a signed informed consent form, visits with a physician to oversee any health care related to transitioning, and for those doctors visits to take place in person, meaning it would be a crime to seek gender affirmation treatment through telehealth providers.
Earlier this year, we asked you, our readers, earlier this year to tell us your favorite places in Maine for budget-friendly feasting. You know where to find bang for your buck — Asian takeout, pizzerias, diners and hole-in-the-wall pubs held heavy sway in your voting, though you named some hip tourist favorites as well. Here are the top 25 our readers loved:
171 Cumberland Ave., Portland. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. 207-613-9399, bahnappetitme.com. $7-$18. No reservations.
Vietnamese takeout spot specializing in bahn mi sandwiches. Popular dishes include lemongrass beef bahn mi and bbq pork bahn mi. “It’s just a near perfect bahn mi,” one reader said.
390 Commercial St., Portland. 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days. 207-773-7070, beckysdiner.com. No reservations.
Located in the heart of Portland’s working waterfront, Becky’s has been pleasing locals and tourists alike with budget-friendly meals and all-day breakfasts since 1991. Some of the most beloved dishes include blueberry pancakes, corned beef hash, fried clams and lobster rolls.
671 Congress St., Portland. 4-9 p.m., Sunday, Tuesday-Thursday; 4-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-347-7557, bodamaine.com. $9-$28. No reservations.
Boda bills itself as a “very Thai” kitchen and bar. Regulars often choose the Thai sticky rice balls and drunken noodles.
262 Island Ave., Long Island. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. seven days through Labor Day, 207-766-2512, lobakehouse.com. $8-$24. No reservations.
Accessible only by boat, Byers & Sons offers sunset views from their deck on Casco Bay. Popular orders include lobster rolls, buffalo chicken pizza and donuts; don’t miss their Oyster & Champagne weekends with an added raw bar menu. “From Memorial Day to Labor Day it’s THE place to get a great lunch by the ocean, and then after the beach, stop by for a beer or prosecco on tap while you wait for a glorious ferry ride back to town,” one reader gushed.
1472 Lisbon St., Lewiston. 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Tuesday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. 207-376-3870, chickadeeoflewiston.com. $7-$26 with market price seafood dishes. Reservations online through website.
A family restaurant institution for 19 years, Chick-a-dee offers a variety of local seafood dishes along with sandwiches, steaks, chicken and soups. Bestsellers include fried clams, haddock, seafood scampi and lobster stew.
447 US-1, Yarmouth. 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 207-846-1117, claytonscafe.com. Breakfast $7-$11; lunch $10-$15. No reservations.
A homey local staple since 1994, Clayton’s is known for its fresh-baked pastries, sandwiches and seasonal soups. House favorites include the chicken salad and curried chicken salad sandwiches.
Purchase this image
617 Congress St., Portland. 11 a.m.-1 a.m. seven days. 207-613-9356, cbgportland.com. $11-$20. No reservations.
A hip Portland pub celebrated for its fried snacks, craft cocktails and cheeseburgers. Regulars swear by the fish & chips, smash burger and fried chicken sandwich. “A veggie burger and a beer is under $25, and the vibes never fail,” one reader said. “Local, tastes good, no frills.”
Purchase this image
90 Exchange St., Portland. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m., seven days. 207-536-1017, crispygai.com. lunch $9-$21; dinner $9-$25. Reservations only available for groups of 6-10.
This Old Port hotspot specializes in Southeast Asian street food and expertly crafted tropical-inspired cocktails. Must-orders include hat yai fried chicken/wings, crispy deluxe sandwich, pad see ew and Crying Tiger.
43 Middle St., Portland. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-774-8080, duckfat.com. $9-$25. No reservations.
Cozy sandwich shop known for its flavorful Belgian-style frites cooked in duckfat. Don’t miss the Duckfat grilled cheese with raclette and cheddar, poutine with duck gravy, milkshakes and donut holes.
240 US-1, Falmouth. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-536-0771, on Instagram @fuegofalmouth. $8-$27. No reservations.
Casual, kid-friendly Mexican eatery known for its fast, friendly service. Popular orders include uniquely-wrapped chimichangas, coconut shrimp and margaritas. “The smothered burritos are heavenly, ” one reader noted.
540 Forest Ave., Portland. Noon-10 p.m., seven days. 207-772-0300, greatlostbear.com. $8-$25. No reservations.
This laid-back brewpub is a Portland institution known for its eclectic decor, extensive comfort food menu and wide array of beers on tap. Top-sellers include the pulled pork nachos, cheesesteaks and peanut butter and jelly wings. “Tons of options, all done pretty darn well,” one readers said. “And it’s a piece of Portland history; there aren’t many affordable, family friendly, classic bar/diners like GLB left!”
36 Main St., South Freeport. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday-Wednesday. 207-865-3535, harraseeketlunchandlobster.com. $8-$37. No reservations.
A family-owned business operating on the South Freeport waterfront since 1970, specializing in fresh local seafood. Seafood baskets are on the more expensive end of their offerings, but sandwiches are value-priced.
72 Maine St., Brunswick. 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Sunday-Tuesday, Thursday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-798-6888, online menu. $5-$25. No reservations.
Cozy Japanese sushi restaurant with some hot specialty entrees. Customers laud the bento boxes, chicken teriyaki and sushi boats. One customer notes: “The bento box at lunch is full of delicious fish, and other there are other tasty dishes.”
Purchase this image
145 Main St., Waterville. 10 a.m.-9 p.m, Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday. 207-873-4300, nikoswatervillehouseofpizza.com. $9-$25. No reservations.
This Waterville mainstay has been serving pizza, pasta and subs since 1980. Regulars recommend the meatball subs, Big Mac pizza and steak bombs.
Purchase this image
10 locations throughout Maine. Find days/hours of operation of specific locations at ottoportland.com. $10-$28. No reservations.
Portland-based pizza chain known for their creative toppings. Popular pizza orders include the butternut squash, ricotta and cranberry; mashed potato, bacon and scallion; and fresh pineapple, bacon and hot honey. “Top-quality, thin crust pizza,” one reader said. “Try the Mushroom and Manchego option. Great combo and unusual.”
93 Alfred St., Biddeford. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days. 207-283-0002, pizzabyalexmaine.com. $9-$14. No reservations.
A beloved family-owned Biddeford pizzeria, serving New England Greek-style 10-inch pies topped with cheddar for 66 years. Fan favorites include Alex’s special, Hawaiiand pizza, and Yaya’s Greek, with feta cheese and spinach. “Prices for a personal pizza can’t be beat, and Yaya’s Greek pizza is sooo good,” raves a regular.
189 Main St., Saco. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday-Thursday. 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday. 207-282-1847, rapidrays.net. $4-$16. Takeout only.
Another York County institution, Rapid Ray’s has been Southern Maine’s hometown go-to for takeout fast food since 1953. Top sellers include the burgers and hot dogs, onion rings, clam cakes and lobster rolls.
501 Cottage Road, South Portland. Noon-8 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; noon to 9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-747-4089, rattleshakegrill.com. $10-$24.
Rattle Shake began life as A&C Soda Shop before rebranding last December. Popular orders include the burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, ice cream floats and boozy milkshakes. “Best cheeseburger I’ve ever eaten anywhere,” one reader said.
190 State St., Portland. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday. 207- 536-1354, elcorazonportland.com. $10-$20. Reservations by phone.
Downtown restaurant serving authentic regional Mexican fare, as well as specialties like goat birria and deviled shrimp. Regulars love the pollo en mole, tamales and fried green tomato tacos.
212 Danforth St., Portland. 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days. 207-774-7604, ruskisportland.com. $8-$22. No reservations.
A landmark dive bar in Portland’s West End dating back to 1892 with a surprisingly expansive menu offering sandwiches, pizza, burgers and dogs, salad and soups, pubby starters and breakfast all day. Popular orders include eggs Benedict, fish & chips and Ruski’s steak bomb.
131 Ossipee Trail W., Standish. 4-8 p.m., Wednesday-Thursday; 11 a.m. -8 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-772-0360, sillys.com. $10-$17. No reservations.
This cherished restaurant operated out of Portland since the 1980s before relocating to Standish last year. The fun and quirky space serves up whimsically named dishes like Empire Strikes mac, a protein-topped mac and cheese, the Stop Bacon Sense BLT wrap, and Gravy Danger fries with gravy, bacon and cheese.
548 Congress St., Portland. 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., seven days. 207-541-9097, tacoescobarr.com. $5-$18. No reservations.
A funky downtown taqueria offering tacos, tortas, enchiladas, burritos and more. Crowd pleasers include the puffy tacos, chipotle sweet potato taquitos and fish tacos.
333 Clarks Pond Parkway, South Portland. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30-10 p.m., Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. 207-828-6677, tajofmaine.com. $6-$19. Reservations available online.
Renowned for its bountiful all-you-can-eat lunch buffet, Taj also offers a wide selection of tasty Indian fare at budget-friendly price points for lunch and dinner. Fan favorites include the samosas, butter chicken, masala dosa and chicken tikka masala.
782 Forest Ave., Portland. 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., seven days. 207-828-1114, online menu. $9-$21. No reservations.
Longstanding Vietnamese restaurant near Woodfords Corner offering a variety of pho, vermicelli dishes, fried rice and other hot entrees, as well as pan-Asian selections like pad Thai and lo mein. Regulars swear by the rare beef salad, beef pho and stir-fried chicken with Chinese broccoli.
18 Hampshire St., Portland. 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday-Sunday. 207-536-1285, tomasoscanteen.com. $9-$18. No reservations.
A friendly, no-frills neighborhood bar in the East End, Tomaso’s serves up a menu of pub grub classics like wings, burgers, dogs, chicken sandwiches and their house special sausages. Fan faves include loaded Dump Truck Fries, mac & cheese and The Costanza reuben.
Posted inCommunity, News, Outdoors, Schools & Education
The group from Skowhegan Area High School’s outdoor leadership program built tables for the overlook in Dallas Plantation.
The loons are back and nesting on lakes statewide and we need your help to monitor their population! Every year since 1983, hundreds of volunteers have gone out to lakes and ponds across Maine on the third Saturday in July. These volunteers submit data about the number of loons they observe from 7 to 7:30 am, which gives us an excellent “snapshot” of the loon population. The Annual Loon Count allows us to monitor how the number of adults and chicks has changed over the past 40 years and make sure we know how to best protect their population!
This year, the Loon Count will take place on Saturday, July 18. We encourage you to join a group of over 1,800 volunteers and help us count the number of loons in Maine! The Loon Count occurs on lakes and ponds all across the state and volunteers can survey by boat or shore (you don’t have to have a boat to take part!).
If you’re interested in getting involved, please contact us at conserve@maineaudubon.org and tell us if there’s a specific lake or area you’d like to survey. We are always aiming to expand our coverage across the state and particularly encourage volunteers in northern Maine to get involved!
The deadline to sign up for the Annual Loon Count is July 10, so please reach out as soon as possible.
If you can’t make it on July 18, or if one day just isn’t enough for you, you can monitor loons throughout the summer.Through our Loon Pair Monitoring project, you can submit observations of breeding loon pairs over several months to help us better understand nest and chick success across Maine. Find out more here >
If talking to people and doing outreach appeals to you, and you’d like to help spread the word about loon conservation, check out our Look Out for Loons outreach program.
-
Business2 minutes agoVince McMahon and others are sanctioned for destroying evidence in WWE shareholder lawsuit
-
Entertainment5 minutes agoReview: Alicia Keys’ glorious music fuels blazing ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ at the Hollywood Pantages
-
Politics17 minutes agoCommentary: A second offering to Spencer Pratt, and 5 points about the L.A. mayor’s race
-
Sports25 minutes agoAlyssa and Gisele Thompson joined NWSL in high school. Their younger sister might be better
-
World35 minutes agoConfirmed Ebola cases nearly double in days as WHO chief visits DR Congo
-
News1 hour agoPride celebrations struggle as corporate sponsorships dry up
-
Los Angeles, Ca2 hours agoMan stabbed to death after violent dog attack on Hollywood Walk of Fame
-
Detroit, MI3 hours ago
Black Legacy Day to be celebrated May 30th in Detroit
