1. Maine officials will seek a disaster declaration in the wake of the powerful wind and rainstorm that knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses across the state. Federal assistance could help Mainers pay expenses not covered by their insurance policies, and state officials encouraged residents and business owners to take photos of damage – including food that spoiled – and keep receipts for repairs. (PH)
2. The Town of Wells is considering changing its high school team name following accusations of racism by a Lisbon mother. The town decided to make another committee, one devoted to discussing the logo, the Warrior team name and the issue of Native American imagery at the school. School leaders passed a resolution after plenty of discussion Thursday night. It would make a committee of school administrators, community members, and student athletes and coaches to discuss the issue further. (WGME)
3. Otto Pizza weighed in Thursday morning after Papa John’s blamed its slagging growth on the NFL’s dropping ratings. Papa John’s shares dropped 11 percent Thursday on the news that the company’s revenue growth was slowing. John Schnatter, founder and CEO of the pizza chain, said protests during the national anthem at NFL games are the problem. That led Otto Pizza, which has locations in Portland, South Portland and Yarmouth, to tweet: “We value individuality, freedom of expression, and the exchange of diverse ideas. Sales are fine.” Otto’s tweet included a link to a story about Papa John’s financial troubles. (PH)
We value individuality, freedom of expression, and the exchange of diverse ideas. Sales are fine. https://t.co/ejpUhg64l6
— OTTO (@OTTO_Pizza) November 2, 2017
4. Several dental offices in Maine will offer free services Friday as part of the ninth annual Dentists Who Care for ME event. Dentists, hygienists and other staff members will volunteer their time to provide teeth cleanings, fillings and extractions for people who can’t afford regular dental care and don’t have dental insurance. Check www.dentistswhocareforme.com or www.medental.org for more details. (PH)
5. Sandwich Day. The best way to celebrate this day is to make yourself every kind of sandwich you can imagine.
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