Daily editionWednesday, April 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 22nd of April.
Culture
The Ying Quartet will perform at 7 p.m. on Monday, April 27 at Dutchman's in Brunswick with guest violist Masumi Rostad joining for a string quintet performance, and doors will open at 6 p.m. for a beer and wine social followed by a post-concert pizza chat.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Iron Chef Jose Garces has launched Shokutsu, his new culinary studio at the Pepperell Mill campus in Biddeford, to host pop-up dinners and cooking classes starting May 16.
The loft-style space offers intimate demos for local chefs + winter cooking classes for couples.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust will host its ninth Wild and Scenic Film Festival from 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, at Lincoln Theater in Damariscotta.
The event features films like Maine’s Seaweed Moment that show how kelp farming can boost local conservation and support the coastal economy.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Education
Bethany Connolly, principal of Skillin (9-year leader), was named Maine Association of School Libraries’ Administrator of the Year today for her support of engaging library programs and improvements including a makerspace and vibrant mural.
She has championed diverse, hands-on learning spaces for all students.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
Communities are celebrating Earth Day 2026 with events across Maine today and this week, featuring outdoor cleanups, guided exploration sessions, and family activities in Auburn (Life Forest Whistle Ridge), Freeport and nearby towns.
Local organizations will host hands-on projects to raise sustainability awareness and protect natural habitats.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Students from UNE and community members planted 12,000 dune grass stalks along Biddeford beach this March in a research project aimed at restoring dunes damaged by January storms & to determine the best plant spacing for future coastal protection.
WMTWRead more
Dry and breezy conditions raised fire danger in Maine Tuesday and officials enforced strict restrictions on outdoor burning to prevent wildfire spread, warning residents to avoid sparks from equipment or open flames.
WMTWRead more
Government
Maine dispensary owner Jim Hamilton said the state is not enforcing the rule that mandates labels on remediated marijuana products once found to have mold, warning that such products could pose health risks.
The Office of Cannabis Policy said it will issue guidance soon (to ensure consumer safety).
WGMERead more
On Tuesday, Apr. 21, advocates and public officials gathered at City Hall to mark National Crime Victims' Rights Week and boost victim support by creating new advocate roles in the police department and district attorney's office; leaders also launched a resource website (Mayor Mark Dion noted the shift).
WMTWRead more
Franklin County leaders wrote letters urging Gov. Mills to veto a statewide moratorium on new data center permits, arguing that a $550M project in Jay would secure jobs and tax revenue.
The bill (LD 307) passed the Legislature last week and Mills has until Saturday to decide.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Health
A Penobscot County jury awarded Travis Getchell $6.5M after finding that Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center delayed his 2021 surgery for an emergency spinal injury, leaving him partially paralyzed + the decision aims to cover his future care and medical expenses.
WGMERead more
Sports
Set for Sept. 27 at Hannaford Hall on the USM campus, the Maine Sports Hall of Fame will induct 11 honorees (including Al Bean, Mike Brown and Christina Strong) for their lasting contributions to Maine sports.
WMTWRead more
Ten top southern Maine boys tennis players, led by reigning champion Matt Morneault, are set to compete in local tournaments this season.
The list spotlights rising talent from schools in Falmouth, Brunswick and Camden Hills.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Tuesday, May 5th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Cost info not available — Experience the beauty of outdoor painting in a picturesque setting.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket prices vary — Explore your creativity in the beautiful outdoor setting of Fort Williams Park.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Thursday, May 7th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a peaceful morning of painting in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Friday, May 8th, 2026 · 9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy a morning of creativity surrounded by the beauty of nature.