Education & Workforce: Maine DOE and the University of Maine rolled out interactive Literacy and Numeracy Playbooks for educators statewide, aiming to turn the state’s literacy and numeracy plans into classroom-ready practice. Cybersecurity & Consumer Risk: Carnival Corporation confirmed its April ransomware incident hit 5,995,277 people, with stolen data including names, birth dates, contact info, and loyalty details; the company is offering two years of free credit monitoring. Local Government & Municipal Services: Jay’s Select Board approved nearly $500,000 in trash and paving contracts, including a new trash pickup deal starting July 1 and a summer road paving contract with price adjustments tied to materials costs. Healthcare Coverage Operations: UnitedHealthcare expanded Synapse Health’s role managing durable medical equipment orders for certain Medicare Advantage plans, including Maine, starting Sept. 1, 2026. Energy & Cost Pressure on Providers: A new HME Newspoll finds high gas prices are squeezing home medical equipment providers, with most still not making major operational changes. Environment & Waste Management: Maine’s PFAS sludge disposal fight continues as Juniper Ridge landfill expansion in Old Town/Alton faces appeal over pollution and public benefit claims. Industry & Manufacturing: Elmet Group reported Q1 results showing revenue growth and margin expansion, with aerospace/defense demand supporting performance. Defense & Shipbuilding: Submarine Squadron TWO held a change of command at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, highlighting recent submarine delivery and overhaul milestones.