Good morning, Portland.

Aaron Karp of Naples pleaded guilty on Thursday to manslaughter for shooting 54-year-old Susan McHugh of Gray and will spend five years in prison under a plea deal that dropped a murder charge—her death occurred on July 30 near a mechanic shop during a fight between rival motorcycle clubs.

Sen. Mike Tipping introduced a bill on Thursday to protect free school meals by adding state funds and requiring schools to use available federal resources—this proposal carries a $6 million price tag for the next biennium.

Lawmakers will review a fiscal note later, and the measure is designed to prevent potential funding gaps if federal cuts occur.

Walk a Mile in Their Shoes released a report showing that Maine’s child welfare system has serious flaws that leave children vulnerable through issues like poor record-keeping and heavy workloads.

The group urges legislators, Gov Mills and DHHS to reform practices immediately — advocates say Maine kids cannot wait any longer.

The Maine Senate passed a bill on Tuesday to help domestic violence survivors by letting judges set rules that block abusers from certain places—such as job sites and stores.

The governor has 10 days to sign, veto, or let the law pass.

Bowdoin’s baseball team defeated Thomas College 17-6 after taking a six-run lead in the first inning and scoring 11 of the next 12 runs to invoke the mercy rule—capitalizing on six hits, 12 walks, and key errors to secure the win.

Portland Maine Home Show

9 AM – 6 PM — Brick South Events & Catering Co. — Check website for entry fee — Discover beautiful displays and innovative solutions for home improvement projects.

Hope In The Attic Meeting

7:30-8:30 p.m. — 279 Danforth St, Portland, ME — Free entry — Engage in a supportive discussion around recovery themes with an open speaker format.

Puzzling Adventures Scavenger Hunt

2 PM – 12 AM — Custom House Parking Garage — Price per team — Engage in a thrilling scavenger hunt blending adventure and puzzles.

Saco River Wildlife Center Presentation

6-7:30 p.m. — South Portland Public Library: Main Library — Free entry — Learn how to help wild animals in need with a special presentation from Saco River Wildlife Center.

Rick Springfield & Richard Marx Acoustic Concert

Full evening — One Longfellow Square — Adult tickets only — Experience the melodic hits of two iconic musicians in an intimate acoustic setting.

Anton Chekhov: The Darling Discussion

7-9 p.m. — Novare Res Bier Cafe — Free entry — Explore Chekhov’s mastery through a discussion of 'The Darling' and an optional essay by George Saunders.

Baby DINO Egg Hunt

9-11 a.m. — Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine — Ticketed event — Help collect colorful dino eggs while enjoying crafts, snacks, and fun activities.

Comedy Night at Empire Comedy Club

7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy laughter with headliner Doug Key and featuring Cathy Boyd.

Scenic Train Ride Experience

10 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a beautiful 40-minute roundtrip train ride along Casco Bay with historical insights and picturesque views.

Boho Mommy & Me Mini Sessions

10 AM – 5 PM — The Beaux and Arrows Collective — Pricing based on session details — Capture the beauty of motherhood in a lush, boho-inspired setting with tailored portrait sessions.