Daily editionTuesday, December 16th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 16th of December.
Community
Brunswick’s Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program had 1,889 pantry visits last month (including 113 first-time visitors) as community donations helped offset challenges from a recent government shutdown that threatened SNAP benefits.
Neighbors and local partners continue to boost food supplies for residents.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Chabad of Maine hosted a menorah lighting at City Hall on Monday, Dec. 15 to mark Hanukkah’s first night (using a unique menorah built entirely from donated cans).
Attendees later distributed the donated food to local families in need.
FOX23Read more
The Salvation Army is running its Red Kettle campaign to raise $150,000 this year and has raised about $65,000 so far.
Residents can donate or volunteer to help reach the goal.
FOX23Read more
Culture
Historical photos show Congress Street decorated with Christmas lights, trees, and garland in 1937, capturing a festive downtown look that continues to inspire the community.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Education
At Westbrook Middle School, students learn by planting apple trees and building greenhouses, and new state legislation promises dedicated outdoor education coordinators for more classrooms.
Grants have funded these lessons (including two-night ecology school stays), and Maine schools will soon expand programs that blend science with literature and math.
WMTWRead more
Government
Nearly 80% of drivers sped through work zones on the Turnpike in July–October, with over 42% exceeding limits by 21 mph or more, and the authority plans to pilot traffic cameras after supporting a bill earlier this year to reduce risks for workers.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland officials began dredging at the harbor and Fore River on Monday to remove sediment that reduced water depths and limited berths along the working waterfront.
Workers placed the contaminated material in a South Portland aquatic disposal cell (CAD cell).
FOX23Read more
Lifestyle
Maine artisans offer a wide array of holiday charcuterie options from award winning cheeses, unique cured meats and even vegan alternatives for festive spreads, plus handcrafted serving boards that add a local touch.
Shoppers can find these Maine made treats at specialty stores and online from local producers.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
UMaine's men's hockey team blanked Lindenwood 5 to 0 on Saturday night at Alfond Arena — their power play scored three times in six chances, including two goals by Justin Poirier, and coach Ben Barr said the game improved after early mistakes.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Bess Jacques & The Strays Performance
Wednesday, December 17th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Blue Portland Maine — Ticket info not provided — Experience an eclectic mix of jazz, Americana, and faux-tango-pop with Bess Jacques & The Strays.
2025 The Polar Express™ Train Ride
Friday, December 19th, 2025 · 5:15 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Premium pricing applies — Experience the magic of the holiday season with a delightful ride to the North Pole inspired by the classic story.
Disney on Ice: Into the Magic
Saturday, December 20th, 2025 · 7-11 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Tickets available — Experience your favorite Disney characters realizing their dreams in a spectacular ice skating show.
Maker's Market
Sunday, December 21st, 2025 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Thompson's Point — Free entry — Explore local Maine artisans, enjoy mimosas, and embrace the community spirit.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025 · 5:15 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Premium pricing — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole on a festive train ride filled with holiday cheer.
SAFe® 5.1 Lean Portfolio Management Training
Thursday, December 25th, 2025 · 9 AM - 1 AM — Portland, ME — Early Bird $1299, Regular $1499 — Enhance your agile skills in a hands-on workshop designed for leaders and managers in portfolio management.
Polar Express Train Ride
Friday, December 26th, 2025 · 5:15 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole aboard a festive train ride this holiday season.
Maine Mariners vs Trois-Rivières Lions
Saturday, December 27th, 2025 · 3:00 – 4:30 PM — Cross Insurance Arena — Watch an exciting hockey matchup featuring the Maine Mariners and Trois-Rivières Lions.
Technology Tutoring at Peaks
Tuesday, December 30th, 2025 · 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. — Peaks Island Community Center — Free entry — Enhancing digital skills for all levels of computer users in a community setting.
Throwback to the 80s New Year's Eve Party
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025 · 7-11:30 p.m. — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — $25 per person — Dance the night away with Jetport FM and enjoy a dessert bar and champagne toast at midnight.