1. A report by the website “24/7 Wall Street” ranked Maine at the top of a list of a dozen states for the highest number of cases of Lyme Disease, which is spread by the bite of infected ticks. The report is based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2016 Maine reported nearly 90 cases of Lyme Disease per 100,000 people. (NewsCenterMaine)
2. A new study ranks Portland as one of the most expensive housing markets in the country, showing many renters are being priced right out of certain areas. A new study from the National Low-Income Housing Coalition ranks Maine the ninth highest in the country for the gap between wage and rent. The new study says the average Maine renter makes $11.44 an hour, but they need to make just under $19 an hour to afford a two-bedroom apartment, which means there’s a $7 gap in between. (WGME)
3. Cape Elizabeth is once again talking about charging for parking at Fort Williams Park. The town has tried this before, sending a referendum question to voters in 2006 and 2010. It was voted down both times. Now the town council is attempting to implement fees on its own, without input from voters. The town manager estimates Cape Elizabeth could make approximately $400,000 in the first year from parking fees. (WGME)
4. McDonald’s has joined the fight against plastic pollution by switching to paper straws at its restaurants in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The change, which will begin to take effect in September. The US fast food chain said a majority of its customers supported the move away from plastic. The full switch to paper straws will only be taking place in the UK and Ireland for now, but McDonald’s confirmed testing of alternatives has already begun in Belgium, and will begin later this year in the US, France, Sweden and Norway. (CNNMoney)
5. TODAY!! Hot 104.7 & SIS Bank Present: Hot Summer 2018 featuring Fabolous, Big Boi (of Outkast), Bazzi, Joyner Lucas, HoodCelebrityy. June 15th – Maine State Pier. Tickets on Sale HERE / Aura’s Box Office 121 Center Street Portland / Charge By Phone 1-800-745-3000 //
Made Hot in Maine by Job Corps! Job Corps offers housing and FREE career training classes to those who qualify!