Daily editionFriday, May 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 22nd of May.
Community
Island residents have organized for more than two decades to build and adapt affordable housing – from multifamily homes on Chebeague to converted duplexes on Isle au Haut – sustaining essential services and community life.
In the past three years, 10 coastal islands have launched or completed affordable housing projects.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Maine towns host Memorial Day events honoring fallen service members this week with varied start times from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.—Portland’s procession at Stevens Ave begins at 2 p.m., while ceremonies in Augusta, Bangor, and Cape Elizabeth offer quiet remembrance ahead of the holiday.
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Community members gathered for Gerald Talbot’s funeral at Merrill Auditorium on Thursday at 10 a.m., honoring the state’s first elected Black legislator and civil rights activist.
Gov. Janet Mills ordered flags to half-staff, and family members (including state senator daughter Rachel Talbot Ross) celebrated his lasting legacy.
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Public visitation for fallen firefighter Andrew Cross was held Thursday evening at Riposta Funeral Home in Belfast (with shuttle service from local schools) and drew 500 firefighters.
A memorial service will be held today at 1 p.m. at Veracity Chapel in Morrill while flags are lowered statewide to honor him.
WMTWRead more
Business
Greenlight Maine is spotlighting innovation by linking startups with mentorship & support as explained by longtime mentor John Karp.
The program will offer local entrepreneurs valuable exposure and resources to help boost new businesses.
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Culture
Midcoast Youth Center and Skatepark launched its first Youth Voices Film Festival to highlight youth views with films, live music and skateboarding + storytelling, inviting local community members to join in a fresh celebration of creative expression.
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Government
Officials warn that the Maine Turnpike will see heavy traffic this holiday weekend — peak hours are 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. Memorial Day as more than 1 million vehicles travel the route; drivers are urged to plan ahead and drive safely.
FOX23Read more
Officials expect over 1 million vehicles on the Maine Turnpike this Memorial Day weekend with heavy travel Friday between 3 and 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., so drivers are urged to plan ahead and drive safely.
WGMERead more
Health
Maine’s lakes, ponds, and coastal waters remain dangerously cold, with water in the 40s to low 50s despite sunny weather today.
Two paddling deaths in May triggered safety tips from officials and outdoor experts, who urge paddlers to check temperatures, wear life jackets, and use dry suits if needed.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket prices vary — Create your masterpiece against the stunning backdrop of Fort Williams Park.