1. Officials say SNAP benefits will not be issued for November because of the ongoing federal government shutdown. The USDA says current benefits can still be used, but no new funds will be released until the shutdown ends — leaving over 160,000 Mainers scrambling to find other ways to feed their families. (WGME)
2. Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner voluntarily disclosed that he has a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery, saying he got it while drunk on leave in 2007 and didn’t know its meaning. Platner says he’ll have it removed, and Bernie Sanders is standing by him, calling him “an excellent candidate” who bravely served in Iraq and Afghanistan. (PH)
3. A record-breaking night in Portland — the Hearts of Pine sold 500 extra standing-room tickets to set a new USL League One attendance record with 6,440 fans at Fitzpatrick Stadium. The crowd was rewarded with a 6-1 win. Portland could see a home playoff game with a win this weekend and a little help. (PH)
4. From Newport, Maine to the NBA — Cooper Flagg makes his official debut for the Dallas Mavericks Wednesday night against the Spurs. His former coach Andy Bedard, who first worked with him in fourth grade, says he still “pinches himself” seeing Flagg on basketball’s biggest stage. The No. 1 overall pick is already drawing LeBron-level comparisons and is a favorite for Rookie of the Year. (PH)
5. HBO Max just raised prices across all its plans — and didn’t even warn customers. The streamer announced Tuesday that monthly plans are going up by as much as two bucks, with the top-tier Premium plan now $22.99 a month. (Variety)
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.
