Good morning, Portland.

Rising heating oil prices — nearly 75% above last year — have driven more residents to apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program, which plans to deliver about $700 in aid directly to fuel vendors this winter, though it will not cover all heating expenses.

Southern Maine's only furniture bank expanded its Westbrook warehouse on Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting event to mark a nearly 50% boost in service capacity that will help up to 1,000 more people each year (a grant from Cumberland County and donations made this possible).

Harriet Beecher Stowe School in Brunswick canceled classes Thursday after routine maintenance found a faulty fire alarm panel, prompting the district and fire department to order repairs; technicians ordered replacement parts and officials planned to update families by 5 p.m. on whether the school would reopen Friday.

Federal officials awarded a $5M grant to Maine community colleges to launch short-term courses in high-tech manufacturing such as robotics & welding.

The funding will expand hands-on classes at Central Maine, Southern Maine and York County schools to train 612 workers and boost local supply chains.

Portland Public Schools reported that over 42% of high school students are chronically absent, missing about 17 or 18 days a year.

District leaders said they will address issues (including homelessness and transportation) while noting improved attendance in lower grades.

A nor'easter is set to bring dangerous waves, gusty winds, and periods of heavy rain to Maine's coast this weekend, with high surf reaching 10 feet and winds topping 35 mph near Casco Bay (raising risks for splashover and coastal flooding).

Maine remains in moderate drought & coastal areas need nearly 11 inches of rain per month for relief; a nor’easter will bring 2 to 4 inches along the coast this weekend, offering temporary help but not ending the long-term dryness.

Department of Marine Resources officials said the Karenia mikimotoi bloom is easing in inner Casco Bay with lower cell counts and clearer water but growing stronger in western Penobscot Bay (with discolored water reported near Stonington).

They stress fish and shellfish remain safe to eat.