Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 26th of June.
Good morning, Portland.
🏘️ Community
Wayside Food Programs launches summer Pop Up Picnics to offer community members food and fun at various Portland locations.
Mary Zwolinski (executive director) said the events will bring local organizations and family-friendly activities throughout the season.
Local businesses can be nominated across 70 categories from Friday, June 5 to Sunday, June 28 and finalists voted on from Friday, July 17 to Sunday, Aug.
9; winners will be honored at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Maine Maritime Museum.
💼 Business
South Portland's Cobblestone Coffee and Co. opened its bakery and café at 200 Gorham Road after a noon ribbon cutting yesterday, and the shop launched by the owner of Taj Indian Cuisine offers custom coffee roasts, scratch made meals and artisan décor while donating all profits to community feeding initiatives.
Caesars Entertainment is set to extend its partnership (with three Wabanaki Nations) to add online casino gaming in the state, with online table games expected by the end of 2026.
New rules allow operators to take up to 40% while tribes secure at least 42% of gross revenue.
🎭 Culture
Portland muralist Ryan Adams was named TD Garden’s 2026 House Artist — he began work on a new mural featuring Boston landmarks to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
His project is part of the venue’s annual program that supports underrepresented local talent.
📰 Economy
Greenlight Maine wraps up its season with a finale airing Saturday on CBS13+ the program highlights Maine entrepreneurs and innovative businesses that strengthen the local economy.
🎓 Education
Portland Public Schools announced Tuesday night that Beverly Stevens and Tremain Holloway will serve as assistant superintendents for elementary and secondary schools.
Stevens replaces Angela Atkinson Duina while Holloway takes over from Abdullahi Ahmed after the board approved the budget.
Patten Free Library marked the start of its Summer Reading program with a kickoff party that included *free family fun* such as a bounce house, books and ice cream on Friday, June 2.
It runs from June 22 through August 15 with games, activities and prizes for all ages.
🌲 Environment
After a wetter-than-average spring eased drought in northern and western areas, Maine still faces moderate dry conditions and severe drought in part of York County — extra rains and thunderstorms are needed this month to offset summer heat and rising evaporation.
🎉 Portland Events
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Disney and Pixar's Finding Nemo Musical
June 27 - August 23 — Maddy's Theatre — $22 — Immerse yourself in this vibrant musical adventure filled with music, color, and unforgettable ocean creatures.
Hello Newman June Booze Cruise
1-4 p.m. — The Porthole Restaurant & Pub — Ticketed event — Enjoy a lively afternoon with Maine's favorite 90s rock party band featuring eclectic music styles.
The Bug Club Live Performance
7:30-10:30 p.m. — SPACE, 538 Congress St, Portland, ME — Ticket prices vary — Experience the UK rock duo The Bug Club as they showcase their latest album 'Every Single Muscle'.
Paint Outdoors in Portland
1-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy a morning of outdoor painting in the scenic Fort Williams Park.
13 Scotland Rd Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Wander at LongWoods — Check website for pricing — Experience a dynamic blues and acoustic roots duo from Portland, ME, as they blend soulful melodies with unique instrumentation.
Wine Sail in Casco Bay
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $150 — Sail through Casco Bay while tasting exquisite European white wines with a knowledgeable sommelier.
Maine Historical Society Celebrates America's 250th
10 AM – 2 PM — Maine Historical Society and the Wadsworth-Longfellow House — Free entry — Celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence with music and holiday-themed festivities.
Wine and Oyster Experience on Casco Bay
3:15-5:15 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $175 — Join Sommelier Erica Archer for a sailing adventure pairing exquisite wines with fresh oysters amidst stunning views.
Black Country, New Road Concert
8:00 – 9:30 PM — State Theatre — Discount tickets available — Experience the unique sounds of Black Country, New Road live in Portland.
A Brief History of Chasing Storms
7-8:30 p.m. — SPACE — All ages — Explore the mythologies of tornadoes with a film and Q+A featuring director Curtis Miller.
🏠 Portland Real Estate
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💼 Portland Job Board
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📣 Portland Announcements
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