Good morning, Portland.

Footlights Theatre in Falmouth will host 'Mrs. Smith goes to Washington' from November 13 through November 22 to honor Maine’s pioneering congresswoman Margaret Chase Smith—the first woman elected to both the House and Senate—whose legacy inspired future public servants such as Senator Susan Collins.

Thomas College in Waterville has begun a four-year paid residency program for student teachers to help solve Maine's teacher shortage caused by low salaries — the pilot saw 40 students join with six working in classrooms now and 12 expected next spring.

The program requires a 3.0 GPA, 200 substitute hours, and weekly mentor meetings as students receive rigorous training before teaching their own classes.

The Maine Public Utilities Commission is reviewing Central Maine Power's five-year proposal that would raise most electric bills by up to $35 per month.

CMP plans to invest over $1 billion in infrastructure—critics say this may shift risks to consumers, and a decision is expected next year.

Julie Morringello, a Maine cancer survivor on an ACA plan, said her monthly premium is expected to triple if Congress does not extend tax credits.

More than 60,000 Mainers could face higher costs and Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services said local brokers are available—helping people compare options.

Kimberly Geraghty, a pharmacist from Northern Light Mercy Hospital in Portland, explained that during Diabetes Awareness Month devices—like blood glucose meters, continuous monitors, insulin pens and pumps—and medications are available to help manage diabetes.

She urged patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to consult their primary provider to choose the best treatment option.

Maine bakeries are offering holiday treats to ease the stress of special-season cooking.

Local shops sell artisanal items such as a chocolate advent calendar, gluten-free pies and festive cakes—orders must be placed soon since popular items sell out quickly for pickup or delivery.

The USM women's soccer team will travel to Messiah University in Pennsylvania on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. to play an opening round NCAA tournament game—its fourth straight trip—and will build on a five-game win streak.

Historical photos from different eras—spanning a 1959 image of Carmine Maddaluno with his children to Mia Hamm’s 1998 visit—show Maine’s long love for soccer and its ties to local teams and events.

Ballads and Crankies: Music and Visual Art Experience

8-11:30 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — All ages — Experience an intimate evening of folk music and visual art combining haunting ballads and intricate paper animations.

Intro to Argentine Tango and Practica

7-9 p.m. — The Portland Yoga Project — First lesson free, $50 for all six classes — Discover the elegant fundamentals of Argentine Tango with expert guidance.

Maine Irish Song Project Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Maine Irish Heritage Center — $25 general admission or $35 front row — Experience the rich tradition of Maine's Irish songs performed by the celebrated duo Castlebay.

Annual Makers Market Christmas Arts & Craft Show

9 AM — South Portland High School — Free entry — Explore a festive array of Maine-made crafts and holiday goodies at this 2-day market.

Bess Jacques & The Strays Live Performance

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Blue Portland Maine — Check for tickets — Experience an eclectic mix of jazz, Americana, and more with lush vocal ballads and vibrant tunes.

2025 The Polar Express Train Ride

4 PM — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Standard pricing — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole on a festive train ride with storytelling and treats.

The Polar Express Train Ride

4 PM — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Standard Pricing — Experience a magical train journey to the North Pole with hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa.

Maine Mariners vs Norfolk Admirals

3:00-4:30 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — $10 tickets — Enjoy an exciting hockey game with fun activities for all ages.

PMP Certification 4-Day Classroom Training

9 a.m.–5 p.m. — Portland Maine — $1599 — Comprehensive PMP certification training offering real-world examples and lifetime access to recordings.

Thanksgiving Celebration at Westin Portland Harborview

11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — The Westin Portland Harborview — No refunds — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a festive buffet of holiday favorites and desserts.