Daily editionMonday, May 12th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 12th of May.
Culture
Bangor native Shelby Howell won the Miss Maine USA pageant after a two-day contest at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in Portland and will represent Maine at Miss USA—Jordon Hudson, the girlfriend of former Patriots coach Bill Belichick, finished as second runner-up while Isabelle St. Cyr placed in the top 10.
WMTWRead more
Education
Maine college graduates from institutions including Maine College of Art & Design, Husson University and University of Maine walked across the stage over the weekend—marking the start of their next chapter.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Residents at a recent meeting asked for a municipal commission to oversee operations at Portland Jetport after the Planning Board approved a parking expansion that critics say ignores the airport’s master plan.
The group will submit a proposal to the city council's Sustainability & Transportation Committee this summer to boost public input & improve communication.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
After announcing his candidacy for governor last month, GOP candidate Bobby Charles— a former naval intelligence officer from Leeds endorsed by Buzz Aldrin— outlined his plan to combat fentanyl with measures to fight addiction, cut the state budget, reduce taxes, and improve education during his Total Maine interview on Sunday.
WMTWRead more
State lawmakers are reviewing two bills that would strengthen Maine’s dam safety program by boosting enforcement, expanding mapping, raising the chief inspector’s pay, and setting aside $5 million for municipally-owned dams—steps aimed at addressing aging infrastructure and growing climate risks. Lawmakers plan to refine the proposals after listening to concerns about underfunding and potential disaster risks.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Community Bingo Event
Tuesday, May 13th, 2025 · 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cards for sale with lunch options available — Enjoy a fun day of bingo with friends and community members.
Trivia Night
Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge and enjoy a fun-filled evening of trivia with friends.
The Magic of Motown
Friday, May 16th, 2025 · 7:30-9 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the joy and nostalgia of Motown classics in a vibrant evening of music.
Outdoor Painting Class in Cape Elizabeth
Saturday, May 17th, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — Scenic Location Near Portland — Booking Required — Capture Maine's natural beauty in a private painting class for all skill levels.
Scenic Train Ride along Casco Bay
Sunday, May 18th, 2025 · 10 AM – 1 PM — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticketed event — Experience a picturesque 40-minute train ride while learning about Maine's railroading history and enjoying beautiful waterside views.
Book Reading with Jamie Loftus
Monday, May 19th, 2025 · 6-7 p.m. — Longfellow Books — No tickets needed — Celebrate the paperback release of Jamie Loftus's bestselling book, Raw Dog, in a fun-filled evening.
pollinateHERS - Support Group for Women Entrepreneurs
Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 · 5:30-7:30 p.m. — coworkHERS — Free entry — Connect and collaborate with fellow female entrepreneurs every third Tuesday of the month.
Lecture on Greater Portland's Mid-20th Century History
Wednesday, May 21st, 2025 · 6:30-7:30 p.m. — South Portland Recreation Center — Free entry — Discover the rich history of Greater Portland in the mid-20th century with local historian Michael.
Cage Match Showdown
Thursday, May 22nd, 2025 · 6-9 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — $15 admission — Witness the comedic clash of Sporks vs Pitch to Pilot in an improv battle for the ages.
May 2025 Commencement Ceremony
Friday, May 23rd, 2025 · 11 a.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Free admission — Celebrate Unity Environmental University’s graduating class of 2025 with keynote speaker Neil deGrasse Tyson.