Maine Energy Help: MaineHousing says HEAP is still accepting applications through May 29 for households struggling with heating costs, with no waiting list right now. Heating Costs Watch: A new Maine DOER survey finds heating oil averaging $5.43 a gallon (April 6) and kerosene $6.32, warning that a 275-gallon fill could cost nearly $450 more than in February. Public Safety/EMS: Maine EMS opened nominations for the Maine EMS Awards and announced major leadership changes, including Dr. Matt Sholl’s retirement as State EMS Medical Director effective July 1, 2026, plus updated Togus VA transport guidance. Local Incident: Bath fire officials say an American flag at a Masonic temple was intentionally set and later replaced, with the Maine Fire Marshal classifying it as arson. Data Centers in Maine: Gov. Mills signed an executive order creating the Maine Data Center Advisory Council, tasked with recommending how to protect ratepayers and the environment as large projects expand. National Politics (Maine link): The U.S. House voted to require congressional approval for continued Iran war operations; Maine Democrat Jared Golden switched to support the resolution. Social Security Warning: A new analysis says Social Security trust fund depletion could trigger an average $500-a-month cut for retirees by 2032.