1. The Maine Public Utilities Commission issued an order for a summary investigation into Central Maine Power Company and Emera Maine. The investigation will gather information on CMP and Emera’s preparedness and response to the October 2017 storm. Central Maine Power President Sara Burns says there are lessons-learned from this storm, but a faster response could be dangerous for crews. (WCSH)
2. A bill before the Legislature would help set the stage for putting self-driving buses on the streets of Portland and other Maine communities within the next five years. The proposal, sparked by the Portland city manager’s interest in autonomous transit, is the first piece of Maine legislation to deal specifically with self-driving vehicles. Rep. Heather Sanborn, sponsored L.R. 2611, which would allow towns and cities to start pilot programs in partnership with state agencies. (PH)
3. Falmouth High quarterback Jack Bryant and running backs Owen Garrard of Scarborough and Nolan Potter of Wells are the three finalists for the James J. Fitzpatrick Trophy, given annually to the top senior in Maine high school football. This year’s winner will be announced at a banquet on Sunday, Jan. 14 at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in Portland. (PH)
4. McDonald’s is going vegan. The fast food chain plans to start selling a McVegan burger in hundreds of restaurants across Sweden and Finland starting on December 28. The sandwich, which has already been tested at a handful of McDonald’s locations in Finland, consists of a soy patty, bun, tomato, lettuce, pickles, onion, ketchup, mustard, oil and an egg-less sandwich sauce. (CNN)
5. Sangria Day. This day offers the perfect excuse to meet with friends and sample the delicious, fruity drink that is one of Spain’s claims to fame in the area of the culinary arts: sangria.
