1. After hitting Jamaica as one of the most powerful storms in recorded history, Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Cuba this morning. Jamaica faced sustained winds reaching 185 mph, heavy rains, severe flash flooding and landslides as more than two-thirds were left without power. 7 people were killed. Melissa has weakened to a Category 3 storm over Cuba. (NYTimes)
2. Maine is joining 24 other states in suing the Trump administration over the expected suspension of SNAP benefits starting November 1 due to the ongoing government shutdown. Attorney General Aaron Frey says the administration is unlawfully withholding billions in available funds, putting 169,000 Mainers at risk of going hungry. (PH)
3. Karmo Sanders, best known to Mainers as “The Marden’s Lady,” has passed away at age 74. Her obituary says she died peacefully Saturday at her home in Scarborough. Sanders was a beloved actress and playwright who appeared in countless theater productions, but she became a household name for her iconic role as Birdie Googins in Marden’s commercials. (WMTW)
4. Lewiston Police are testing new AI-powered “Flock” cameras to help solve crimes faster. Fourteen cameras are being installed across the city during a 60-day trial, mainly in high-crime areas. Police say the cameras only read license plates and are already helping with investigations. Privacy advocates, however, argue the technology is invasive and could lead to over-policing in certain communities. (WGME)
5. The Better Business Bureau is warning shoppers to watch out for Halloween costume scams. Fake websites and emails promising “90% off” deals are tricking buyers out of their money. Experts say to avoid searching for “cheap Halloween costumes” and only shop from trusted retailers. Misspellings, broken links, and slow-loading pages are big red flags for scams. (WMBF)
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.
