1. The federal government is releasing 315,000 barrels of emergency heating oil to help lower prices across New England. Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King requested the release as heating oil prices in Maine average nearly $6 a gallon, up 77% from last year. The additional supply is expected to arrive next month, although it’s unclear how much prices will drop. (PH)
2. Troy Jackson’s longtime partner is speaking out against Republican attack ads targeting their family. Lana Pelletier, who’s been with Jackson for 40 years and is reportedly his second cousin, wrote, “Our children have been dragged into this campaign. Our relationship has been mocked. Our family has been talked about as though there is something shameful about who we are or where we come from.” Senator Susan Collins says she wants the ads taken down and points to personal attacks she’s faced from Democratic groups. (PH)
3. A Waterville man is facing multiple charges after allegedly throwing knives at police during a six-hour standoff Tuesday night. Police say 41-year-old John Whitney threatened to shoot and kill officers who were trying to arrest him for making online threats. A Maine State Police tactical team arrested him around midnight. No officers were reported injured. (WMTW)
4. Portland’s Franklin Street could be getting a major makeover. A city committee approved a plan to shrink the roadway from 200 feet wide to as little as 50 feet, freeing up 3.5 acres of land for up to 720 new homes. The proposal also includes bike paths, expanded parks and a more walkable street grid. It now heads to the full city council. (WGME)
5. Maine’s Cooper Flagg made NBA history Wednesday night, scoring 32 points in the Dallas Mavericks’ season opener against the Houston Rockets. That’s the most points ever scored by a teenager in an NBA season opener. Flagg led all scorers, but Dallas fell to Houston 128 to 110. The Mavericks face Indiana tomorrow night. (WABI)
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.
