Daily editionFriday, January 30th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 30th of January.
Community
Cape Elizabeth middle schoolers (15 students) organized Cumberland County's first winter Special Olympics at Gull Crest Fields on Thursday, where nearly 100 athletes competed in speed skating, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing.
The event served as a lesson in event planning as statewide games are set for Feb. 27.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Business
Mölnlycke announced an expansion at Brunswick Landing that will more than double production from 100 million to over 200 million dressings annually — a move that will create new jobs and boost hospital supplies nationwide.
WMTWRead more
Culture
Four Maine cookbooks were honored Wednesday evening at the Readable Feast gala held at the Summer Shack restaurant in Cambridge.
Catherine Walthers' cookbook won top awards in three categories while another seafood title and a second book received honorable mentions.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Economy
Low-income Maine residents faced extra electricity costs as a report for the Electric Ratepayer Advisory Council found non-standard offer customers overpaid $156 million from 2016 to 2024.
Public Advocate Heather Sanborn warned a LIAP redesign in October + higher supply costs will reduce monthly electric bill discounts for eligible households.
WMTWRead more
Education
Eight UNE business students will work for the NFL during Super Bowl weekend as they travel to Santa Clara next week for interactive, guest-facing roles and college credit.
They will also meet with executives from the SF Giants, San Jose Earthquakes, and San Jose Sharks to learn key business strategies.
WGMERead more
Government
A water main break closed Ocean Street between Broadway and Highland Ave and caused Broadway to shut between Ocean Street and Cottage in South Portland yesterday, with the Portland Water District working to restore service.
FOX23Read more
Portland Events
Holy Cross School Dance with The Jim Ciampi Band
Saturday, January 31st, 2026 · 7-11 p.m. — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cash bar and snacks available — Groove all night with live music and good vibes from The Jim Ciampi Band.
Student Matinee – Lend Me A Tenor
Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 · 10 a.m. — Portland Stage — Discounted tickets available — Experience a hilarious Tony Award-winning comedy that explores the misadventures of a theater company.
An Evening of Middle Eastern Music and Dance
Friday, February 6th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Cadenza — Free entry — Enjoy a captivating blend of Middle Eastern music and dance performed by talented ensembles and artists.
Kouchera In Concert
Saturday, February 7th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — The Hill Arts — Cost info not provided — Experience a vibrant R&B journey from the 70s to the 2000s with high-energy performances and soulful rhythms.
Lost & Found Vintage Market
Sunday, February 8th, 2026 · 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Thompson's Point — $10-$6 prior to 2 p.m., free afterwards — Explore Maine's largest vintage pop up market with over 100 vendors and unique DIY activities.
Writer as Flaneur: Braided Essay Workshop
Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Mechanics' Hall — $275 Members/$475 Nonmembers — Explore the art of the braided essay while embracing the wandering spirit of the flaneur.
Valentine's Day Dinner at Earth
Thursday, February 12th, 2026 · 4-6 p.m. — Earth at Hidden Pond — $115++ per person — Experience a romantic prix fixe menu with seasonal ingredients in a charming setting.
Jeff Dunham Live in Portland
Friday, February 13th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket purchase required — Experience the hilarious antics of world-renowned comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham.
Groovin' Your Heart Out: Valentine's Dance Night
Saturday, February 14th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — Woodfords Club — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of live R&B music and learn Rhumba on Valentine's Night!
Turkish Lamp Mosaic Workshop
Sunday, February 15th, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Best Western Merry Manor Inn — Book Now on Eventbrite — Explore the art of Turkish mosaic lamps while enjoying Turkish tea and treats.