The first of 12 vessels has already arrived for the weekend festival that will add another chapter to Portland’s nearly 400 years of maritime activity.

Four of six paintings stolen from Portland resident Joseph Soley in 2013 have been recovered, and Soley made a public plea for the return of the two missing works.

That scar on his chest – evidence of the latest of two heart surgeries – belies the thriving 8-year-old dynamo who’s beaten the odds.

Devon Staples died Saturday after lighting a fireworks mortar on his head.

While no-cost screenings are available, the state lacks treatment options, especially for low-income addicts.

Both patient and donor are reported to be doing well after surgery, capping an unusual story of strangers and sacrifice.