Daily editionWednesday, January 28th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 28th of January.
Community
A fundraiser for fishermen and dock workers recovering from the Custom House Wharf fire has raised nearly $200,000 from local donations (including contributions from area shops) and will close Friday when final funds are disbursed.
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The Center for Grieving Children’s annual LOVE Gala will be held on Friday, Feb. 6 at Brick South at Thompson’s Point from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and will raise funds to support families coping with loss (attire is winter festive).
WGMERead more
Culture
Singer Barry Manilow will give his final Portland concert at Cross Insurance Arena on April 19.
Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m., and he will honor local music educators with the Music Teacher Award (nominees announced Feb. 19 will receive $5,000 cash and $5,000 for classroom instruments).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
About 100 climate activists, led by Bath City Councilor Jean Guzzetti, rallied at the statehouse on Tuesday to support a proposed climate superfund bill that would force big oil companies to help pay for local repairs — lawmakers will review the bill again on Wednesday.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
A 2024 study by Bigelow scientists found that kelp in cooler waters absorbed nutrients all winter while kelp on the southern coast declined due to warming temperatures — a sign of shifting marine conditions.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Oxford Casino sued the state gambling director in U.S. District Court on Friday after Gov. Mills allowed tribal online casino games, arguing the move violates equal protection (risking millions in revenue and jobs).
The law will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Stews & Stories Potluck Supper
Thursday, January 29th, 2026 · 5:30-8:30 p.m. — Mechanics' Hall — Pay-what-you-can, suggested $20 — Enjoy a cozy evening of shared stews and storytelling that warms both body and spirit.
Night Moves Pizza Night at Lambs
Friday, January 30th, 2026 · 4:30-8 p.m. — Lambs — Bring your own pizza — Enjoy a casual evening with delicious pizza from Night Moves in a great neighborhood bar setting.
Holy Cross School Dance with The Jim Ciampi Band
Saturday, January 31st, 2026 · 7-11 p.m. — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cash bar and snacks available — Groove all night with live music and good vibes from The Jim Ciampi Band.
Student Matinee – Lend Me A Tenor
Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 · 10 a.m. — Portland Stage — Discounted tickets available — Experience a hilarious Tony Award-winning comedy that explores the misadventures of a theater company.
An Evening of Middle Eastern Music and Dance
Friday, February 6th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Cadenza — Free entry — Enjoy a captivating blend of Middle Eastern music and dance performed by talented ensembles and artists.
Kouchera In Concert
Saturday, February 7th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — The Hill Arts — Cost info not provided — Experience a vibrant R&B journey from the 70s to the 2000s with high-energy performances and soulful rhythms.
Lost & Found Vintage Market
Sunday, February 8th, 2026 · 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Thompson's Point — $10-$6 prior to 2 p.m., free afterwards — Explore Maine's largest vintage pop up market with over 100 vendors and unique DIY activities.
Writer as Flaneur: Braided Essay Workshop
Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Mechanics' Hall — $275 Members/$475 Nonmembers — Explore the art of the braided essay while embracing the wandering spirit of the flaneur.
Valentine's Day Dinner at Earth
Thursday, February 12th, 2026 · 4-6 p.m. — Earth at Hidden Pond — $115++ per person — Experience a romantic prix fixe menu with seasonal ingredients in a charming setting.
Jeff Dunham Live in Portland
Friday, February 13th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket purchase required — Experience the hilarious antics of world-renowned comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham.