1. Hundreds of firefighters and community members gathered in Belfast Thursday night to honor 27-year-old Morrill firefighter Andrew Cross, who was killed in the Robbins Lumber explosion in Searsmont. First responders from across Maine attended the public visitation to pay their respects. Maine flags are at half-staff today in honor of Cross. (PH)
2. A proposed Maine ballot question involving transgender athletes in school sports may not qualify for the November ballot after election officials ruled the petition fell 532 signatures short. Supporters can still file objections through Saturday, and Secretary of State Shenna Bellows is expected to make a final decision Tuesday. (NCM)
3. Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner says he ranked Troy Jackson first, Shenna Bellows second, and Hannah Pingree third in Maine’s Democratic gubernatorial primary. (NCM) Platner will appear on the next cover of Time magazine ahead of Maine’s June 9 primary. The cover reads: “Party Crasher: The Rise of Scandal-Plagued Democrat Graham Platner,” as the magazine profile dives into his rapid political rise, controversies, and polling lead over Senator Susan Collins. (WGME)
4. The Portland Water District says some customers may notice brown or discolored water during spring water main flushing in Cape Elizabeth and Windham. Officials say the discoloration comes from sediment and mineral buildup being stirred up inside the pipes during routine maintenance, but the water remains safe to use. (WGME)
5. The Portland Sea Dogs set a franchise record for a nine-inning game Thursday, striking out 20 batters in a 1-0 win over Reading. (PH)
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