1. A major fire destroyed a three-apartment building on North Street in Westbrook Thursday evening, forcing road closures and leaving the building uninhabitable. Everyone got out safely with only minor injuries, and the cause remains under investigation. (NCM)
2. South Portland schools may cut about 70 jobs, including 30 teachers, and could close an elementary school to help close a $7 million budget gap. Officials say the cuts are aimed at keeping property tax increases below 6 percent. (WMTW)
3. Parents in Poland say poor ventilation and high CO2 levels inside RSU 16 schools are still making some students sick, with reports of headaches, bloody noses, and fatigue. The district says aging HVAC systems are the issue, but funding repairs remains a challenge. (WGME)
4. Apple is warning iPhone users to update their software after a dangerous spyware called DarkSword was found targeting older iOS versions. The malware can steal emails, passwords, photos, and other sensitive personal data. Experts say updating your phone is the best protection. (SKY)
5. The Maine Association of Realtors says home sales dropped more than 8 percent in February compared to a year ago, as the fast-paced pandemic buying continues to slow down. Realtors say the market is becoming more balanced, with buyers now able to schedule inspections and take more time looking at multiple homes instead of rushing offers. They also say some sellers may need to adjust prices as demand normalizes. Experts add the return to in-person work is also impacting prices, especially in rural areas that saw growth during the remote work boom. (WGME)
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.
