Daily editionThursday, April 17th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of April.
Community
The outdoor Portland Farmers’ Market will start on Saturday at Deering Oaks Park.
It will run on Wednesdays and Saturdays through the end of November from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and accepts SNAP/EBT benefits—also offering double SNAP spending with Maine Harvest Bucks.
WGANRead more
Education
Restoration work on USM’s Academy Building found hidden student notes from the 1800s in the walls and floors; workers fixed wood rot using old methods and noted sums, lists, and funny drawings of teachers (the building was built in 1806 as a private school).
The notes are now kept in special collections for study.
WMTWRead more
Yesterday, the Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs held a public hearing at the State House on two bills that would limit or ban phones in classrooms.
Supporters said the change would help kids focus on learning — while opponents argued schools should decide their own phone rules.
WGMERead more
Portland Events
SPOUSE with Spottiswoode & His Enemies
Friday, April 18th, 2025 · 7:30-11 p.m. — Oxbow Blending & Bottling — Ticket prices vary — Experience a lively night of music with SPOUSE and Spottiswoode & His Enemies.
Comedy Night at Empire Comedy Club
Saturday, April 19th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy laughter with headliner Doug Key and featuring Cathy Boyd.
Scenic Train Ride Experience
Sunday, April 20th, 2025 · 10 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a beautiful 40-minute roundtrip train ride along Casco Bay with historical insights and picturesque views.
Boho Mommy & Me Mini Sessions
Monday, April 21st, 2025 · 10 AM – 5 PM — The Beaux and Arrows Collective — Pricing based on session details — Capture the beauty of motherhood in a lush, boho-inspired setting with tailored portrait sessions.
PMP Certification Classroom Training
Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025 · 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Portland, ME — Early Bird pricing available — Comprehensive 4-day training for aspiring project managers to prepare for CAPM certification.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly Weekly Meeting
Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 · 5:15-6:15 p.m. — Westbrook Community Center — Free entry — Weekly weight loss support group focused on community and accountability.
Empire Improv Show
Thursday, April 24th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — $15 admission — Enjoy an evening of laughter with improv performances in a lively atmosphere.
Latin Night Celebration with PM Salsa
Friday, April 25th, 2025 · 7 PM - 12 AM — Blue Portland Maine — Introductory salsa lesson included — Dance the night away with salsa and bachata beats from DJ Avel.
Scenic Train Ride Along Casco Bay
Saturday, April 26th, 2025 · 10 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket prices vary — Experience a picturesque 40-minute roundtrip train ride while immersing yourself in Maine's narrow gauge railroading history.
Scenic Train Ride Along Casco Bay
Sunday, April 27th, 2025 · 11 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Check website for ticket price — Experience a scenic 40-minute train ride with stunning waterside views and insights into Maine's narrow gauge railroading history.