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1. Maine has the nation’s lowest COVID infection rate, with Vermont and New Hampshire close behind, according to the most recent federal data. Maine briefly had the nation’s highest infection rate in early May.

2. The Senate voted 65-34 on Thursday night to approve a bipartisan gun control bill. The bill gives states funding to execute red flag laws. It also enhances background checks for gun buyers under 21.

3. The FDA on Thursday officially blocked Juul from selling its e-cigarettes in the U.S.

4. L.L. Bean is giving the University of Southern Maine Foundation $850,000. Most of the money – $750,000 – will go toward construction of the 42,000-square-foot Career & Student Success Center. The building will overlook an acre of green space, to be named the Bean Green.

5. Hot Beach Bash starring Lil Jon is on July 21st at Bernie’s Beach Bar on Hampton Beach. Tickets on sale now – Ticketmaster / HotRadioMaine.Com