After a year’s delay, the Olympics arrive during a COVID-19 state of emergency in Japan, with most Japanese citizens wishing the Olympics weren’t taking place and most events occurring in near-empty venues.
Business
Local, state and national business news from the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.
Portland’s FBI field office included in scathing report on USA Gymnastics sex abuse probe
A local attorney tried to prod investigators into moving faster on the case of Dr. Larry Nassar, who later was convicted of abusing dozens of female athletes, including Olympic gymnasts.
Stocks end a wobbly week lower, breaking 3-week win streak
The downbeat close to the week suggests investors are uncertain about how strongly the economic recovery will be in the second half of the year.
U.S. retail sales rose 0.6% in June as economy opens up
The increase was a surprise to Wall Street analysts, who had expected sales to fall slightly last month.
Officials advise wearing masks in Las Vegas as COVID cases rise
The recommendation affects casinos, concerts and clubs where business has boomed since restrictions were lifted.
Federal judge hears arguments over Maine’s residency requirement for medical cannabis sellers
Wellness Connection of Maine sued the state in December to overturn a requirement that all medical marijuana dispensaries be owned by Mainers.
Maine adds 3,000 jobs in June, but jobless rate holds steady at 4.8%
The unemployment rate, adjusted seasonally, has been unchanged in Maine for five consecutive months.
Duck boat captain, 2 managers charged in Missouri sinking that killed 17
The state charges are filed after federal charges were dismissed for lack of jurisdiction.
PAC spending on CMP power line referendum hits $15.2 million in 2021
A ballot question in November will ask voters if they want to prohibit the project. Proponents and opponents of the power line have spent more than $42 million since 2019 to influence the vote.
Video games coming to Netflix? Latest hiring offers a clue
Adding video games would give Netflix another way to build on the nearly 208 million subscribers that it had at the end of March.