Daily editionSaturday, May 16th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 16th of May.
Community
A tragedy at a Portland group home left a young mother dead and raised concerns about widespread safety issues (linked to understaffed facilities and budget cuts); local stakeholders report that improved federal oversight and funding are needed to boost training and prevent further incidents.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
The Southern Maine Agency on Aging is hosting Community Cafés for adults 60 and older to enjoy $9 meals and social activities at one of 15 sites across York and Cumberland counties.
Guests should call the RSVP number to reserve a seat — details are available online.
WMTWRead more
Culture
Maine chef Cara Stadler won $1 million on America’s Culinary Cup after beating a Michelin-starred competitor while she was pregnant; she said she will use the prize money for housing when her family moves to England.
FOX23Read more
Economy
Portland drivers will face statewide gas prices of $4.52 per gallon (only a cent below the $4.53 national average) as Memorial Day travelers prepare to hit the road next week, AAA said these are the highest prices since 2022.
WMTWRead more
Finance
Two Mainers became millionaires after splitting a $4 million Megabucks jackpot, with tickets bought at a Circle K in Bethel and a Big Apple in Gray (Maine Lottery officials reported the win on Friday).
WGMERead more
Government
City officials will review over 1,100 public survey responses Tuesday regarding the Midtown lots on Somerset Street, where 62% favored housing with some open space — the review will guide The Boulos Co. as it markets the 3.5-acre site for a balanced mixed-use development.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Local sports writers nominated high school athletes from last week’s games, and readers will vote for their top pick with the winner announced in the paper next Sunday.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Heavy rain postponed Friday's games for the NCAA Division III baseball tournament hosted by USM; play was rescheduled for Saturday at Ed Flaherty Field in Gorham with the first game between No. 1 seed Rowan + No. 4 RIT at 11 a.m. and USM facing Babson at 2:30 p.m.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Paint Outdoors in Portland
Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Check the website for ticket prices — Experience creativity in nature while painting at a scenic park.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed entry — Enjoy a morning of outdoor painting at a scenic park in Cape Elizabeth.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Thursday, May 21st, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy an outdoor painting session amid the scenic beauty of Fort Williams Park.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Friday, May 22nd, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Check website for ticket prices — Enjoy a morning of painting in a beautiful outdoor park setting.
Turkish Ceramic Painting Workshop
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 · 1 PM – 3:30 PM — Best Western Merry Manor Inn — All materials included — Unleash your creativity while enjoying Turkish tea and sweet treats in a beginner-friendly environment.
Paint Outdoors in Portland
Monday, May 25th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a morning of creativity in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Playing Card Painting Workshop
Tuesday, May 26th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Belleflower Brewing Company — $10 entry — Create unique painted cards while supporting the Maine Cancer Foundation and meet fellow crafting enthusiasts.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Wednesday, May 27th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Check website for pricing — Enjoy a morning of creativity in a beautiful outdoor setting.