Defense & Manufacturing: The U.S. Department of Defense is investing $450 million in Lewiston-based Elmet Group to expand domestic tungsten production, with $165 million earmarked for Maine hiring about 30 workers; the deal gives DoD a 20% stock stake and a board seat. Energy & Infrastructure: Eversource, National Grid and Unitil are suing Hydro-Québec in federal court after the Maine transmission line flickered back on earlier this year, alleging contract violations and seeking recovery of added power costs; Hydro-Québec counters with its own $50 million claim. Tourism & Transportation: Acadia National Park reported record crowds and is rolling out major transportation and parking upgrades, including a plan to replace buses over the next several years and a $1.5 million grant for real-time parking tracking. Housing & Community Services: FlixBus is adding a new stop at the University of Maine Augusta campus, replacing the current Augusta location. Local Government & Schools: RSU 73 in Jay unanimously approved new contracts for bus drivers, custodians and office employees, including pay increases retroactive to July 1, 2026. Agriculture & Climate Resilience: A GAO study says USDA has taken few actions to help farms and forests handle climate-related disease and pest risks, with staffing and funding for key programs declining. Winter Costs: Maine heating oil prices are near a six-month high, pushing more households toward LIHEAP as winter approaches. Public Works: Waterville’s Carter Memorial Bridge will shift to one lane starting Sept. 15, with detours via the Ticonic Bridge.