Daily
Portland
Thursday, April 16th, 2026
Good morning, Portland. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 16th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Disabled American Veterans is asking for volunteer drivers to help veterans get rides to medical appointments as numbers decline; the organization will cover 14 routes and expects to transport 3,000 to 4,000 veterans this year in underserved areas such as Rumford, Portland, Sanford and Windham (background checks required). WMTW
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Portland Museum of Art has proposed turning the demolished children’s museum site at 142 Free Street into a temporary, 4,200 sqft open-air event space — designed for museum programs. The plan is part of its expansion as further development on the block is expected soon. WGME
- ➤ Kittery author Rodman Philbrick’s YA novel Freak the Mighty is being turned into a stage musical that will debut in Cleveland next month at the Cleveland Play House before moving to Seattle later this summer—its adaptation pays tribute to the classic tale of friendship. Portland Press Herald
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ UMaine professor Caroline Bicks used her sabbatical to explore Stephen King’s 50-year-old handwritten manuscripts and letters in a compact, climate-controlled Bangor archive to write her book Monsters in the Archives (a study of his first five published works). Her research shows how King’s early storytelling shaped childhood fears. Portland Press Herald
- ➤ UNE hosted its annual Adaptive Projects Expo Tuesday, April 15, where first-year occupational therapy students displayed over 20 interactive designs that help children overcome play and learning barriers. The projects will be donated to local families and community organizations. WGME
- ➤ Portland school board approved a $179.3 million 2026-27 budget that raises property taxes by 5.68%—adding $229 for the median homeowner—and restores key positions like a Latin teacher and guidance counselor before sending the plan to city council and then voters in June. Portland Press Herald
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Nutritionist Sara Sullivan (local expert) demonstrates a bright and crunchy spring spinach feta pasta recipe on today’s In the Kitchen segment, showing how to blend fresh spinach, creamy feta, dill, and lemon zest with penne nearly al dente. The dish uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful, spring-inspired meal. WGME
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Bissell Brothers brew a new ballpark beer that debuts during upcoming Sea Dogs games—served at the ballpark this season to offer fans a refreshing taste. FOX23
- ➤ Portland’s Bob Dunfey (74) will run his 36th consecutive Boston Marathon on Monday, Apr. 20. The 130th race will feature over 30,000 runners from 130 countries and challenge him with its tough course and supportive crowd. WGME
- ➤ The Sea Dogs have teamed up with Bissell Brothers to debut a new ballpark beer at the stadium + fans will be able to try it at games this season. WGME
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Film Screening of 'Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong'
7-9:30 p.m. — South Portland High School — Free entry — Discover the challenges of maintaining aging wastewater systems in this captivating documentary with a Q&A featuring industry professionals.
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Portland Earth Day Celebration
11 AM – 2 PM — Deering Oaks Park — Free entry — Celebrate nature and sustainability with local music, activities, and food options.
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John Butler Concert
8:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — Last-minute ticket availability — Enjoy a lively performance from renowned artist John Butler at the iconic State Theatre.
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Women’s MTB Workshop: Bike Setup
6-8 p.m. — Allspeed Cyclery & Snow — Pre-registration required — Discover mountain bike setup essentials and enhance your ride with fellow riders.
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Celtic Woman: A New Era
7:30-9:00 p.m. — State Theatre — $75-$45 reserved seating — Experience the captivating blend of Irish music and culture as Celtic Woman returns with their all-new show.
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Bloodshot Bill with Holly & Her Buddys
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Veterans of Foreign Wars — $20/$15 presale — Experience an electrifying rockabilly performance by Bloodshot Bill and local sensations Holly & Her Buddys.
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Life Drawing in the Light
11:00 AM — Mechanics' Hall — Pay what you can — Enjoy a figure drawing session with live music and fresh coffee in a vibrant community setting.
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Art Mondays at Ugly Duckling Maine
5-7 p.m. — Ugly Duckling Maine — Free entry — Experience a cozy creative meetup filled with art, music, and good energy.
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40 Hour Yin Yoga Teacher Training
9 a.m. - 6 p.m. & 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — The Portland Yoga Project — $775 — Deepen your practice and teaching skills in an immersive Yin Yoga training experience.
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John Legend Concert
6:59 AM – 1:59 PM — Merrill Auditorium — Last-minute tickets available — Don't miss the chance to see John Legend perform live in Portland.
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