Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of April.
Good morning, Portland.
Powerhouse vocalist Chelsea Berry will perform at Concert for a Cause at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Brunswick at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Apr.
11, to raise funds for Oasis Free Clinics and the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (tickets cost $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and $10 for students and children).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
An Evening With Geordie Greep
8-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — $50/ea — Experience an evening with Geordie Greep in Portland's vibrant State Theatre.
Band Of Horses Concert
8-10 p.m. — State Theatre — $73/ea — Experience an unforgettable night with the soaring sounds of Band Of Horses in Portland.
Randy's Cheeseburger Picnic Comedy Show
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
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
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 Live Performance
7-8:30 p.m. — Blue Portland Maine — Admission details not provided — Enjoy an eclectic mix of jazz, Americana, and faux-tango-pop tunes performed live.
Brandy Clark Concert
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'
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.
Portland Earth Day Celebration
11 AM – 2 PM — Deering Oaks Park — Free entry — Celebrate nature and sustainability with local music, activities, and food options.
John Butler Concert
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.
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