1. Fox News Channel host Tucker Carlson faced criticism Wednesday for declaring white supremacy “a hoax” the same day President Trump visited El Paso, Texas. Carlson said, “White supremacy, that’s the problem. This is a hoax, just like the Russia hoax. It’s a conspiracy theory used to divide the country and keep a hold on power. That’s exactly what’s going on.” Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and national director of the Anti-Defamation League commented and said “I think it’s disgusting and I don’t think it deserves a place on a major news network.” (Press Herald)
2. Central Maine Power wants to create a $6 million “customer benefit fund” to deal with customers complaining over higher than expected bills. CMP announced a set of organizational changes and program proposals aimed at improving the customer experience. They said that “Possible uses for the Customer Benefit Fund could include compensation for customers that were impacted by delayed bill, or by identified, and since corrected, SmartCare system errors.” (WGME)
3. Tom Brady just signed a new contract extension to continue playing with the New England Patriots, but a posting on a real estate website fueled speculation that he may be planning to make changes in other parts of his life. The Chestnut Hill home owned by the six-time Super Bowl champion and his wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen, appeared Tuesday on Barrett Sothebys Realty website. Asking price for the five bedroom, seven bathroom home is $39.5 million. Last week, the New York Post reported that Brady and his wife were house hunting in Connecticut and New Jersey. (WCVB)
4. In Palm Springs, a pop-up Taco Bell hotel called “The Bell” is making the final touches before opening today. The location includes 70 rooms-worth of accommodations that sold out in two minutes after reservations opened. Guests will be able to place an order from an exclusive menu and shop from an exclusive gift shop. Guests can also take part in events and activities such as an on-site salon for Taco Bell inspired fades, a braid bar, and nail designs, movies, an in-house DJ by the pool, and surprise musical performances. (KESQ)
5. HOT SUMMER 2019 Saturday August 31 Maine Savings Pavilion At Rock Row In Westbrook starring Wiz Khalifa, A Boogie, YK Osiris, Ally Brooke, Big Freedia, Lil Tecca, Iyla and a Maine Made Showcase. Tickets on Sale Now – Hot1047maine.com / waterfrontconcerts.com or locally at the box office located at Aura – 121 Center Street Portland.
Made Hot In Maine By the US Army. Make a difference in the world around you in the boots of a US Army soldier and gain leadership skills in one of more than 150 career fields. (Go Army)
