1. House Democrats approved legislation Thursday to raise the federal minimum wage for the first time in a decade, to $15 an hour. The increase, which would boost pay for some 30 million low-wage workers, is intended as one answer to income inequality. Even though the bill’s chances in the Republican-controlled Senate are slim, and President Trump is unlikely to sign it into law, the outcome is important because it puts $15 into the campaigns as the new benchmark for debate. (Press Herald)
2. This Saturday marks the 50 year anniversary of humans stepping on the moon for the first time. About 650 million people around the world watched the historic landing on July 20, 1969. This monumental moment is remembered by many by the famous sentence, “…one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” that Neil Armstrong said as he stepped off Apollo 11. (Vox)
3. Portland could break a 70-year old high temperature record Saturday when a scorching wave of summer heat that has been affecting much of the United States finally arrives in Maine. The heat index will make it feel like it’s 100 degrees in Portland by Saturday afternoon. It is recommended that Mainers avoid exercise such as running during the heat of the day and stay in air conditioning when possible. (Press Herald)
4. The 54th annual Yarmouth Clam Festival kicks off today at 10 am with a full weekend of events! Visitors can expect a lot of sunshine, hot temperatures and clams on the menu this weekend. Tonight there iis a parade at 6 pm, fireworks Saturday night, live music on three stags, fantastic food, arts and crafts shows, road races, and more. (WGME)
5. HOT SUMMER 2019 Saturday August 31 Maine Savings Pavilion At Rock Row In Westbrook starring Wiz Khalifa, A Boogie, YK Osiris, Iyla Tickets on Sale Now – Hot1047maine.com / waterfrontconcerts.com or locally at the box office located at Aura – 121 Center Street Portland.
Made Hot In Maine By the US Army. Make a difference in the world around you in the boots of a US Army soldier and gain leadership skills in one of more than 150 career fields. (Go Army)
