Daily editionSaturday, February 21st, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 21st of February.
Culture
Religious groups in Portland are observing a rare convergence of Ramadan, Lent and Lunar New Year that highlights shared traditions and fosters community unity.
Experts at Bowdoin College say these celebrations prompt reflection and interfaith connection throughout the month.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Education
Twenty-one first responders from the US and Canada are training today at Wassamki Springs Campground in Scarborough at the 27th International Ice Rescue Instructor Academy, where they split 13 classroom hours with 20 hours on the ice.
Participants will graduate Sunday afternoon and share their new skills with local firehouses.
WMTWRead more
A state commission released its final report on Feb. 10 recommending a sliding-scale funding model and higher renovation fund limits for nearly 600 school buildings in Maine.
The proposal, based on over a year of review, aims to cut costs and address deferred maintenance statewide.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
A water main break forced the Portland Water District to order a boil water advisory for Peaks, Little Diamond, Great Diamond, House, and Cushing Islands until further notice.
Water samples were collected Friday morning (results expected in about 24 hours).
WMTWRead more
Government
After natural gas prices hit a record high on Jan. 27, Maine officials met on Feb. 5 to discuss speeding up permitting and grid upgrades to ease rising electricity costs in the state + experts warn that cold snaps and aging pipelines are adding to the cost pressures.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Officials in Connecticut called for a federal investigation into the parent company of Redbank Village in South Portland after State Representative Chris Kessler reported the complex broke tenant protection laws with illegal rent increases and fees, and the company currently owns properties in 23 states (J.R.K. Property Holdings).
FOX23Read more
Health
Winter can worsen mood for those with substance use disorder due to low sunlight and isolation, according to Ali Zubrod at Sweetser’s Hope and Healing Center in Brunswick.
The center’s Substance Use Intensive Outpatient Program offers flexible, three-day weekly treatment options—helping recovery while managing daily commitments.
WMTWRead more
Sports
York co-op beat Greely 8-2 in Friday’s boys hockey game at Family Ice Center in Falmouth.
The Wildcats now have a 14-4 record heading into the Class B South playoffs while Greely is expected to be the No. 5 seed.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Varsity Maine offers analysis of regional and state basketball finals as Lee Horton explains recent game trends and suggests that big leads (which have proved risky) may shape final matchups.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
ASME/NNE Networking Event
Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 · 5-8 p.m. — 300 Fore St Garage — Free entry — Connect with local mechanical engineers during E-Week festivities in Portland.
Paper Art Collage Workshop
Sunday, March 1st, 2026 · 3-5 p.m. — Root Wild Kombucha — $10 entry — Create unique paper art collages while supporting local charities in a friendly atmosphere.
PSMJ Project Management Bootcamp
Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 · Daytime — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland, ME — Pricing details available upon request — Enhance your project delivery skills and boost client satisfaction in this intensive two-day workshop.
Corey B Live Show
Friday, March 6th, 2026 · 9:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of comedy with radio personality and TikTok star Corey B.
Pine State Home and Garden Show
Saturday, March 7th, 2026 · 10 AM – 5 PM — Thompson's Point — Free entry — Discover ideas for home improvement and gardening at this engaging showcase with expert demonstrations.
Artistic Perspective Discussion on LIKE FLIES A RAGE
Sunday, March 8th, 2026 · 4:15 p.m. — Portland Stage — Free entry — Engage in a deep dive into creative themes and questions with special guests at this public discussion.
Irish Heritage Night at the Maine Mariners
Friday, March 13th, 2026 · 7:15–8:15 PM — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket proceeds support the Maine Irish Heritage Center — Celebrate Irish culture while enjoying a thrilling hockey game.
St. Patrick's Day Celebration
Sunday, March 15th, 2026 · 1-4 p.m. — Maine Irish Heritage Center — Free entry — Celebrate Irish culture with live music, food, and family-friendly fun at this annual event.
Scuffed Realtor: Live with Nick Rochefort and Alex Schultz
Thursday, March 19th, 2026 · 7 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — $35+ — Experience hilarious live reviews of viewer-submitted houses and unsolicited life advice from your favorite realtor duo.
Scottish Fish Concert
Friday, March 20th, 2026 · 8 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — $30 — Experience a lively blend of original and traditional Scottish and Cape Breton music.