Daily editionMonday, April 7th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 7th of April.
Culture
Furcationland, a furry convention, will run from Thursday through Sunday at the Holiday Inn By The Bay with planned activities inside the hotel and a public photo event in Monument Square at 1:30 p.m. Saturday plus a free street fair from 3-6 p.m.; organizers expect about 1,500 attendees (theme: Fuzzytown Fair) (per organizers).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Maine lawmakers are considering a bill that would create a statewide tracking system for rape kits so survivors can easily check the status of their evidence—building on pilot projects in Cumberland, Kennebec and Penobscot counties.
The legislation would require all kits be sent to the state police lab for testing starting January 2027 and give the state nearly two years to complete an inventory.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
At a Senate hearing last week, Sen. Angus King asked Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard why the March 18 threat assessment did not include climate change—a factor many say worsens Maine's extreme weather and risks coastal communities and the lobster industry.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Health
Nurses at Maine Medical Center recalled how they cared for the first COVID-19 patients five years ago and helped families when visits were not allowed—working together during a hard time with few treatment options and many very sick patients.
WMTWRead more
Sports
Maine native Cooper Flagg won the Naismith Trophy after a standout freshman season at Duke, earning his fifth major national player award while averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists.
He became only the fourth freshman winner in the trophy’s 56-year history — a milestone that boosts his prospects as he will likely turn his focus to the NBA draft soon.
WMTWRead more
Portland Events
Dementia Support Group
Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 · 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. — The Atrium At the Cedars — Free entry — Attend a supportive gathering featuring insights from elder law attorney Tracy Nale Sewall.
Art in Bloom 2025
Wednesday, April 9th, 2025 · 10 a.m.–8 p.m. — Portland Museum of Art — Free with admission — Experience a vibrant display of floral artistry inspired by the museum's collection.
International Building Code Transition Training
Thursday, April 10th, 2025 · 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — In-person attendance only — Learn about the transition from the 2015 to the 2021 International Building Code with expert John Gibson.
Puzzling Adventures Scavenger Hunt
Friday, April 11th, 2025 · 2 PM – 12 AM — Custom House Parking Garage — Price per team — Engage in a fun scavenger hunt adventure combining puzzles and informative self-guided exploration.
Portland Maine Home Show
Saturday, April 12th, 2025 · 9 AM – 6 PM — Brick South Events & Catering Co. — Check website for entry fee — Discover beautiful displays and innovative solutions for home improvement projects.
Frozen Yoga on Ice Before Mariners Game
Sunday, April 13th, 2025 · 8 a.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket purchase required — Glide into mindfulness before cheering on the Mariners!
Puzzling Adventures Scavenger Hunt
Monday, April 14th, 2025 · 2 PM – 12 AM — Custom House Parking Garage — Price per team — Engage in a thrilling scavenger hunt blending adventure and puzzles.
2025 New England Home Care & Hospice Conference
Tuesday, April 15th, 2025 · 12 PM – 3 PM — Holiday Inn Portland-By The Bay — Early Bird registration available — Explore the region's premier event for home care and hospice agencies featuring workshops and networking.
Puzzling Adventures Scavenger Hunt
Wednesday, April 16th, 2025 · 2 PM – 12 AM — Custom House Parking Garage — Price per team — A fun-filled scavenger hunt that combines puzzles, adventure, and informative exploration of Portland.
Nature Photography Show
Thursday, April 17th, 2025 · 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM — She Doesnt Like Guthries — Free entry — Explore vibrant nature photography by Timothy Amero, a retired Maine Guide and outdoor enthusiast.