1. Hanukkah celebrations in Portland and Brunswick saw heightened security after the deadly attack in Australia, with extra police officers on site, coordination with local and state authorities, and increased monitoring at public menorah lightings. Jewish leaders say the visible police presence helped reassure attendees while allowing celebrations to continue openly and safely. (PH)
2. A family escaped safely after their SUV fell through the ice on a frozen pond in Lyman, Maine. Bystanders helped keep them warm until firefighters arrived, and officials stressed the importance of staying calm, unbuckling seatbelts, and exiting quickly—children first—when a vehicle ends up in water. (PH)
3. Residents in South Portland (Knightville), Sidney, Chelsea, Augusta, and Hallowell are reporting mail delays and missed deliveries, with some going weeks without receiving bills, paychecks, or medications. The U.S. Postal Service cites staff shortages, leaving locals frustrated and concerned about the impact on daily life. (WMTW)
4. The Powerball jackpot has rolled to $1.25 billion, the second-largest prize of 2025, after no one matched Monday’s numbers. The next drawing is tomorrow, offering a lump sum of $572.1 million before taxes. (ABC)
5. National Chocolate Covered Anything Day: Indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy all things dipped in chocolate! It’s the perfect excuse to share your favorite chocolate-covered treats with friends and loved ones.
Made Hot in Maine by the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. Accidents happen… to be their specialty. 207-CALL-JOE or online at: joebornstein.com.
