Daily editionWednesday, February 4th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 4th of February.
Community
Fifteen-year-old Avery MacNair flew from Portland Tuesday morning for five days of Super Bowl LX festivities in California courtesy of Make-A-Wish Maine.
He, who recently completed treatment for leukemia, will enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Levi’s Stadium and other special events before the Patriots game on Sunday.
WMTWRead more
Snowshoers gathered at Hurricane Valley Farm on Feb. 1 for a full moon hike where naturalist Jack Kennell explained how deer and wood frogs adapt to winter, and the Falmouth Land Trust event ended with a campfire serving hot chocolate (a cozy community tradition that warmed the group).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Education
Gov. Janet Mills called for a statewide ban on cellphones during school days to boost student performance.
In Portland and other districts, bell-to-bell bans are already in place, and the measure will be included in her supplemental budget as lawmakers weigh local control challenges + policy benefits.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Owners Jessica Dobson and Todd Roma of Roma Farm in Raymond have disputed town claims over alleged ordinance violations linked to hosting events after receiving an Oct. 24 consent agreement that limits events and requires legal fee reimbursement while pursuing FOAA requests in Superior Court.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Health
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Tick Lab says Maine’s frigid winter and last summer’s drought are unlikely to reduce tick numbers this spring—cold snaps may delay their usual mid-March to early April start while insulating snowfall helps ticks survive.
FOX23Read more
Registration for the unique all-women triathlon Tri For A Cure opened at 6 a.m. Tuesday and is nearly three-quarters filled with over 500 individuals + 150 teams, and the race will take place on July 12 at Southern Maine Community College, starting with a 7:30 a.m. opening ceremony.
WMTWRead more
Lifestyle
Local couples are finding that shared gardening projects build strong bonds and beautiful landscapes.
From a Windham home with lush vegetable beds to a Cape Elizabeth community garden boasting an abundant garlic harvest, they celebrate love growing alongside local blooms.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Paula Kersch, an herbalist at Botanically Curious in Portland, advises residents to try tea (a cozy alternative to coffee) for winter warmth.
Her tips are available now for anyone seeking a comfortable change this chilly season.
FOX23Read more
Real Estate
Standish saw a 40.7% surge in home sales and a 13.6% rise in median prices during 2025, driving a local real estate boom.
Local agents noted that new housing projects and access to nearby recreation spurred buyers to choose the town.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Maine native Sam Morse earned a spot on Team USA’s men’s Alpine ski team for the Winter Olympics and begins training today for Saturday’s downhill race in Italy (the 29-year-old from Carrabassett Valley surged past a 20% selection chance with a strong World Cup showing).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Bethel native Frank Del Duca was named a flag-bearer for Team USA’s Olympic opening ceremony and will lead 232 athletes at Friday’s Parade of Nations at San Siro Olympic Stadium in Milan (he will pilot the four-man bobsled team alongside speedskater Erin Jackson).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Sunny Jain's Wild Wild East
Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — Ticketed event — Experience a raucous and electrifying performance by Sunny Jain of Red Baraat fame.
Tuvergen Band - Mongolian Folk Fusion
Friday, February 20th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Street Arts — Check the box for an evening of Mongolian folk fusion sounds with Tuvergen Band blending traditional tunes and modern rhythms.