Daily editionThursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
Community
Searsmont endorsed Maine Strong Memorial Foundation's donation drive on Monday when the selectboard approved the official Robbins fire relief fund to support residents affected by the Robbins lumber mill fire and explosion.
The drive raised roughly $125,000 in 24 hours (including a $100,000 contribution from Hammond Lumber).
WMTWRead more
Culture
Andrew Wyeth Foundation for American Art donated Olson Field Preserve in Cushing to the Georges River Land Trust so locals enjoy free access to the site that inspired 'Christina’s World.' Summer events will offer art performances, with walking paths, swimming, and paddling + an island with tide pools.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland film events show a mix of genres this May.
The Maine Mayhem Film Festival on May 23 at PMA Films (7 Congress Square) features Southern Maine Community College’s final shorts, while screenings of Frederick Wiseman’s Belfast, Maine and cult classics take place at local theaters.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
Maine state parks are getting ready for a busy Memorial Day weekend as summer begins.
Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands director Andy Cutko said more people will enjoy camping + hiking and other outdoor activities across the parks.
FOX23Read more
Coastal Maine experienced elevated ozone pollution earlier this week as warm, sunny weather spurred reactions from car exhaust and power plant emissions.
Officials said the ozone rise, different from last summer’s wildfire smoke, led to hazy skies and possible health concerns (officials).
WGMERead more
Health
Westbrook Fire Department will begin administering Suboxone on July 1 to treat opioid withdrawal symptoms in the field & connect patients to follow-up care as part of a three-year pilot program aimed at reducing overdose deaths.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Thursday, May 28th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket required — Explore your creativity while painting amidst the natural beauty of Fort Williams Park.
Outdoor Painting Experience in Portland
Friday, May 29th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Unleash your creativity with a morning of outdoor painting amidst stunning park scenery.
Jacob Augustine Album Release Party
Saturday, May 30th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate a decade in the making with Jacob Augustine's first new album release and special guests.
You Got Gold: A Celebration of John Prine
Sunday, May 31st, 2026 · 2-5 p.m. — The Hill Arts — Ticket information available — Experience a heartfelt tribute to the legendary songwriter John Prine featuring artists sharing stories and performances.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Monday, June 1st, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Capture the beauty of Portland in vibrant hues at this outdoor painting session.