1. The University of Maine will launch a pilot program this month to better understand tick populations on the heels of a record-setting year for Lyme disease. Maine logged a record 2,943 Lyme disease cases in 2023. Researchers plan to study how local weather conditions and the presence of different wildlife species influence tick populations and health risks to humans. (PH)
2. With digital deals now dominating the grocery market, some shoppers are struggling to adapt. Consumer advocates call it “digital discrimination.” They’re concerned that seniors, poor people, those who are not digitally savvy, are missing out on these discounts at the worst possible time. Stop and Shop, whose parent company owns Hannaford, is piloting a program at some Massachusetts stores where customers can print out all digital coupons from a kiosk. (WGME)
3. Barnes & Noble will open a bookstore and cafe in the old Bed Bath and Beyond spot near Target in South Portland on May 22. It is the retailer’s third location in Maine. A spokesperson for Barnes & Noble said it expects to hire 20 to 30 workers at the new shop. (PH)
4. Universal Music Group and TikTok have settled a royalty dispute. UMG removed its songs from the social media site in February. The new agreement will improve compensation opportunities for artists and musicians and add protections against AI. (Variety)
5. Sunday is Cinco De Mayo – Much more than chips, salsa, and margaritas. It is to celebrate the Mexican army’s victory over the French in 1862. Taco Bell Rewards members who order online or through the chain’s mobile app can get five crunchy or soft tacos for just $5 on May 5th Chipotle customers can enjoy a $0 delivery fee on all orders from May 1 through May 5. Use code CINCO24.
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