1. Mike Pence is reportedly set to announce he is running for president in 2024. According to reports, the former vice president will enter the race on June 7. (JN)

2. Eliot Cutler, a former gubernatorial candidate who pleaded guilty to possessing sexually explicit images of children, is scheduled to report to the Hancock County Jail this morning.Cutler, 76, will serve nine months before he is expected to be released on a six-year probation. (PH)

3. The state extended plans to operate a Saco hotel as transitional housing for asylum seekers at least through December. The program has housed 440 people in its first year. It has helped meet shelter needs the city of Portland has seen because of an influx of homeless asylum seekers. (PH)

4. Lawmakers heard testimony Wednesday on a bill to replace the chickadee plates with a version of the 1901 Maine flag that features a navy blue star and green pine tree. If lawmakers approve the bill – and the lack of any opposition on Wednesday suggests they will – the state would begin issuing new plates in May 2025. Motorists would get the new plates when they re-register their vehicles. (PH)

5. After operating as a takeout-only restaurant for almost three years, Empire Chinese Kitchen has reopened its dining room to welcome customers back for indoor dining. Empire opened their upstairs venue in March. (PH)

Made Hot by the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein. Over 25,000 victories for injured Mainers since 1974. 207-CALL-JOE or online at joebornstein.com