Daily editionThursday, April 16th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 16th of April.
Community
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).
WMTWRead more
Culture
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.
WGMERead more
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 HeraldRead more
Education
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 HeraldRead more
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.
WGMERead more
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 HeraldRead more
Lifestyle
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.
WGMERead more
Sports
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.
FOX23Read more
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.
WGMERead more
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.
WGMERead more
Portland Events
Film Screening of 'Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong'
Friday, April 17th, 2026 · 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.
Badfish Concert
Saturday, April 18th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — State Theatre — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the sounds of Badfish, a tribute to Sublime, at one of Portland's top venues.
John Butler Concert
Tuesday, April 21st, 2026 · 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.
Women’s MTB Workshop: Bike Setup
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Allspeed Cyclery & Snow — Pre-registration required — Discover mountain bike setup essentials and enhance your ride with fellow riders.
Celtic Woman: A New Era
Friday, April 24th, 2026 · 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.
Bark in the Park
Saturday, April 25th, 2026 · 1 p.m. — Hadlock Field — Dog-friendly event — Celebrate furry friends with the Portland Sea Dogs at this fun-filled day.
Life Drawing in the Light
Sunday, April 26th, 2026 · 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.
Art Mondays at Ugly Duckling Maine
Monday, April 27th, 2026 · 5-7 p.m. — Ugly Duckling Maine — Free entry — Experience a cozy creative meetup filled with art, music, and good energy.
STOLEN MOJO + THE MIDDLE MEN
Thursday, April 30th, 2026 · 8 PM – 12 AM — Vinegar Hill Music Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an engaging night of hard pop tunes from The Middle Men and more.
John Legend Concert
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 · 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.