Daily editionThursday, April 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of April.
Education
The nonprofit Women Standing Together will host a Leadership Intensive conference (at the University of Southern Maine, Abromson Community Center) on April 21 for women aiming to enhance leadership skills and expand business networks.
WGMERead more
Environment
Retired photojournalist Kevyn Fowler captured video of a rare piebald deer in southern Maine; experts say the genetic trait (affecting less than 1% of deer) is distinct from albinism.
Fowler also spotted a similar deer in Eastport last fall.
WMTWRead more
Government
Portland officials launched an anonymous online survey to collect residents’ feedback on plans for the 3.5-acre site along Somerset Street between Trader Joe’s and Noyes Self Storage.
Public meetings are scheduled for April 15 and April 29; residents’ comments will guide future marketing + development proposals.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
City officials remind downtown property owners to register for a new program aimed at reducing storefront vacancies (registration is due by April 1, with a starting fine of $500 if not waived) and supporting business revitalization; fee collection will begin May 1.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
MaineHousing released its 2025 annual report on Wednesday showing a record number of first-time homebuyer loans, 21 completed affordable housing projects, and $7.7 million in grants to prevent homelessness in Portland (with a new three-year strategic plan aiming to boost affordable housing).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Casco Bay Lines is considering raising peak-season round-trip fares from $14 to $17 in June to help reduce its operating deficit, with the board reviewing the proposal at a public workshop on April 8.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Maine lawmakers plan a $50 million bond — aimed at funding low-interest loans for logging and trucking businesses like Maine Custom Woodlands — to help them buy safe equipment and protect rural jobs.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Lifestyle
Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland has featured Stryker, a 9-year-old mixed breed dog looking for a home that offers constant companionship; the Westbrook shelter on 217 Landing Road welcomes prospective adopters between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. except Wednesdays (call first to book a meeting).
WMTWRead more
Real Estate
An analysis finds that Portland’s restaurant workers struggle to secure affordable apartments near key dining areas.
The study shows that workers earning near minimum wage have only a few units within a radius of three miles from food hubs, and farther options require increased budgets (which may mean longer commutes).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Marshwood’s Henri Rivard secured 15 wins from 16 races this winter, capturing state titles and a New England mile crown and earning Varsity Maine Boys Indoor Track Athlete of the Year.
He will defend his 800-meter title this spring and compete at the University of Rhode Island starting in fall.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
An Evening With Geordie Greep
Saturday, April 4th, 2026 · 8-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — $50/ea — Experience an evening with Geordie Greep in Portland's vibrant State Theatre.
Emo Philips Live
Thursday, April 9th, 2026 · 7 PM – 1 AM — Empire Comedy Club — Tickets required — Experience the brilliance of renowned joke-writer Emo Philips in a night of hilarity.
Randy's Cheeseburger Picnic Comedy Show
Friday, April 10th, 2026 · 7-11 p.m. — Oxbow Brewing Company — Tickets starting at $30 — Enjoy a night of laughs with Randy from Trailer Park Boys, featuring comedy, songs, and prizes.
Keller Williams Concert
Saturday, April 11th, 2026 · 7-11 p.m. — State Theatre — General Admission from $55 — Enjoy a night of vibrant music featuring Keller Williams in Portland's lively atmosphere.
Curtain Call Discussion – OUR TOWN
Sunday, April 12th, 2026 · 4:30 PM — Portland Stage — Free entry — Engage in a thoughtful conversation about the production with its performers and dive into insights on rehearsal and character development.
Bess Jacques & The Strays Concert
Wednesday, April 15th, 2026 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Blue Portland Maine — Tickets available — Experience an eclectic mix of jazz, Americana, and faux-tango-pop with Bess Jacques & The Strays.
Brandy Clark Concert
Thursday, April 16th, 2026 · 8-11 p.m. — State Theatre — Tickets from $43 — Catch Brandy Clark live in concert at the beautiful State Theatre in Portland.
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.