1. After scorching 230,000 acres as of Sunday evening, the Thomas fire became the fifth largest wildfire in modern California history. The Los Angeles Times reports that the out-of-control fire in Santa Barbara County grew by 5,000 acres on Sunday and dropped from 15 percent to 10 percent containment. The fire has resulted in 80,000 people ordered to evacuate their homes. Animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo are being cared for in their night quarters and the chancellor of U.C. Santa Barbara postponed final exams until 2018. Meanwhile, the three fires in Los Angeles Country were 75 percent to 90 percent contained and San Diego County’ s Lilac fire was 60 percent contained. Officials, however, warn that the intense Santa Ana winds could stir embers and start new fires. (LA Times)
2. In Waterville a man was detained by police late Sunday morning following an hourslong standoff with authorities that ended dramatically when officers fired several rounds of non-lethal pepper balls to disable him. No one was hurt. Waterville’s Police Chief says Micheal Joslyn was taken into custody around 11:30 Sunday morning after firing six shots inside an apartment building. (Press Herald)
3. A winter storm watch has been issued ahead of the next round of snow that will arrive in Maine overnight tonight and last through much of Tuesday. Heavy snow is possible. Plan on difficult travel conditions for both the morning and evening commutes Tuesday. Maine will likely receive a widespread 4-8 inches of snow. Mixing along the immediate coastline may reduce snow totals there. (WMTW)
4. The Patriots are 11 point favorites in Miami tonight. A win would be their 9th straight and clinch the AFC title. Patriots will be without tight end Rob Gronkowski, who is serving a one-game suspension for a late hit to the head of Buffalo Bills defensive back Tre’Davious White. (Press Herald)
5. Have a Bagel Day. Round and dense and best served with a rich luxuriant topping of cream cheese, the bagel found its origins among the Jewish population of the 1600’s. From there it has become incredibly popular and spread throughout the world, and even into outer space! Have a Bagel Day encourages you to enjoy this delicious doughy delight in your favorite configuration, and remember the long history of this bread and the people that made it famous.
