Daily editionTuesday, May 5th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 5th of May.
Community
On Sunday, May 4, Maine Wood Banks Network hosted its Community Wood Bank-quet at Flight Deck Brewing in Brunswick after delivering over 150 cords of firewood to families.
The nonprofit also honored Bruce Wildes (godfather of wood banks) for starting the first wood bank in Cumberland 19 years ago.
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STRIVE hosts a weekly social for teens and young adults with developmental disabilities in South Portland every Friday night with karaoke, games, pool & pizza, and will also hold its annual STRIVE Rocks fundraiser at 8 p.m. this Friday at USM’s Sullivan Gym to raise funds through donations.
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Maine WWII veteran Delmont Johnston (from Monmouth) will receive a burial with military honors on Monday at 10 a.m. at the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta.
He was captured at 22 during the war and died in a Japanese POW camp, with his remains identified over 80 years later.
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Business
Gorham's planning board reviewed Amazon's plan for a 150,000 sqft facility on 94 acres off Main Street Monday at 7 p.m. Residents voiced concerns about increased traffic and light pollution while the project would add roughly 175 jobs (Amazon spokesperson).
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Culture
On Oct. 17, 1973, the Carpenters performed at the Portland Expo before 3,500 fans with tickets priced at $5.50, and sixth graders from Cummings School joined them to sing hits including 'Sing' and 'Close to You'.
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Economy
GasBuddy reports that gas prices in Maine have risen 22 cents over the week to average $4.41 per gallon + global events and seasonal shifts are pushing costs higher, with the lowest price hitting $4.09 on Sunday.
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According to GasBuddy, Maine’s average gas price is now $4.41 per gallon after a 22-cent rise in one week.
Global events (including plans for an extended oil blockade) and seasonal factors are pushing prices at stations from $4.09 to $4.75.
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Environment
State researchers found that an $85 Cyclopure kit produced PFAS results within a 30% margin of certified lab tests for private wells, offering a cost-effective alternative for homeowners.
However, the kit cannot be used for state-funded filtration systems (research conducted after Brunswick's 2024 incident).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Maine's new Paid Family and Medical Leave program is fully operational as Mainers began taking leave on May 1.
The first benefit payments will be made on May 7 (the department has received over 2,000 applications).
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Lifestyle
Maine is ready for a summer hot dog tour that features 13 local spots offering classics and creative takes.
From old-school stands in Lewiston to inventive menus in downtown Portland, residents can plan visits to sample unique dogs & special flavors all summer.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket prices vary — Explore your creativity in the beautiful outdoor setting of Fort Williams Park.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Thursday, May 7th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a peaceful morning of painting in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Friday, May 8th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy a morning of creativity surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Saturday, May 9th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a morning of creativity amid the beautiful scenery of Fort Williams Park.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Buy tickets online — Enjoy a morning of painting in the scenic beauty of Fort Williams Park.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Wednesday, May 13th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy a morning of outdoor painting in the picturesque setting of Fort Williams Park.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Thursday, May 14th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Unleash your creativity in a picturesque outdoor setting and enjoy painting among nature.
All Roads Music Festival - Day 2
Saturday, May 16th, 2026 · 12:00 – 11:59 PM — One Longfellow Square — Ticket prices vary — Experience Savoir Faire's jazz-infused music that connects modern themes to a nostalgic sound.
Rescued Hearts Film Screening
Sunday, May 17th, 2026 · 2-4:30 p.m. — Entertainment Luxury Cinemas South Portland — Ticketed event — Experience the award-winning documentary on the healing power of the horse-human connection with special guests.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Monday, May 18th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy a morning of creativity in the scenic outdoors of Fort Williams Park.