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We expect (and oftentimes enjoy) a bit of wind in the fall months, if nothing else than to rustle the leaves, but last Saturday was too much of a good thing.

A cold front drove remarkably powerful winds across western Maine, with the National Weather Service reporting gusts in the high 40s. The wind uprooted trees, many of which still have their leaves and therefore acted as effective sails, knocked out power to thousands and even tore up local greenhouses, signs and tin roofs.

Grid resiliancy is an issue that's in the links today, as are community fights over schools, the Lewiston shooting response and more. Click through as you enjoy a hot beverage, the pretty leaves and (of course) the wind. Just not too much please.

At Maine EMS, a debate over funding and process

A committee tasked with distributing $31 million in funding to faltering emergency medical service agencies around the state met in Alfred earlier this month to determine how the remaining $19.3 million would be spent. 

Some think all the money should go directly to EMS agencies, while others emphasize the need to support training centers.

Read this story by Adrienne Washington of The Maine Monitor.

While The Maine Monitor does not place its content behind paywalls, some newsrooms we link to in this newsletter may. 

ICYMI from The Monitor: Child care providers across the state cited for numerous safety violations. | The Maine Monitor

Damaging winds swept across western and southern Maine last Saturday, with gusts near 50 mph dropping trees and power lines. | WMTW

After more than 130,000 customers lost power in last weekend's windstorm, utility companies hoping that recent investments in grid resilience can keep pace with higher sustained winds. | News Center Maine

A federal appeals court has denied a motion to end a federal prosecution against a couple charged in relation to a multimillion dollar marijuana operation in Franklin County. | Sun Journal

A Maine State Police review into the October 2023 Lewiston shooting that killed 18 people made a number of recommendations for future police responses. | Associated Press

Selectboards in West Paris and Paris have voted unanimously to authorize a joint lawsuit against MSAD 17, making the case that the decision to close local Agnes Gray Elementary School last February violated state law. | Advertiser Democrat

In a further complication for MSAD 17, the town of Harrison is considering leaving the school district entirely. | Advertiser Democrat

AN ATV club in Turner is starting from scratch after its treasurer allegedly stole $15,000 from the club. | WMGE

Rangeley voters will consider implementing an alternative energy system ordinance at the Nov. 5 polls. | Sun Journal

RSU 10 parents concerned with the closing of Mountain Valley Middle School due to mold and other issues addressed the school board this week. | Rumford Falls Times

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