Good morning, Portland.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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).

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.

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.

Bess Jacques & The Strays Performance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

New Year's Eve Gala: The Golden Age of Hollywood

7 PM - 12:30 AM — Après — $60 single, $80 couples — Celebrate the New Year with old Hollywood glamour, dancing, and a champagne toast.