Daily editionFriday, April 18th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of April.
Business
The first cruise ship of the season docked in Portland on Thursday at 7 a.m.—Victory I arrived with more than 200 passengers.
More than 90 ships will visit the harbor this season through November.
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Culture
The Pine State Expo, formerly known as Maine Comic & Toy Con, runs today through Sunday at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in Portland and will feature fans in costumes such as superheroes and Star Wars characters (organizers Will Hesketh and Miki Mays say themed displays and activities will bring pop culture to life).
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Actor David Walton from New Girl is podcasting his path to learn stand-up as he performs at Maine clubs like The Comedy Mill in Biddeford.
He recorded his set in early April and said his podcast—Starting Stand-Up in Maine—shows how he is turning his midlife crisis into humor.
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Education
Today the Department of Energy announced it will limit future college grants to 15% for administrative costs — a move meant to save $405 million; groups representing the University of Maine and other universities are challenging the decision in court as they study its impact on research.
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Government
Lawmakers debated a long-overdue bill, LD 1226, at a hearing on Thursday as they discussed new rules for home contractors working on projects over $15,000 to increase consumer protection.
If passed, the bill will create a nine-member Residential Construction Board, require contractors to show liability insurance and meet education standards (such as board-approved training), and take effect in 2027.
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Seven legal aid organizations held a press conference at the State House to ask lawmakers to pass a $15.9 million emergency funding bill over the next two years so Mainers facing civil legal challenges can get needed help—such as those battling domestic abuse or housing issues.
The groups warned that without the new funds, many people in urgent legal situations will lose access to proper representation.
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Portland Events
Comedy Night at Empire Comedy Club
Saturday, April 19th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy laughter with headliner Doug Key and featuring Cathy Boyd.
Scenic Train Ride Experience
Sunday, April 20th, 2025 · 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
Monday, April 21st, 2025 · 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.
PMP Certification Classroom Training
Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025 · 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Portland, ME — Early Bird pricing available — Comprehensive 4-day training for aspiring project managers to prepare for CAPM certification.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly Weekly Meeting
Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 · 5:15-6:15 p.m. — Westbrook Community Center — Free entry — Weekly weight loss support group focused on community and accountability.
Empire Improv Show
Thursday, April 24th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — $15 admission — Enjoy an evening of laughter with improv performances in a lively atmosphere.
Latin Night Celebration with PM Salsa
Friday, April 25th, 2025 · 7 PM - 12 AM — Blue Portland Maine — Introductory salsa lesson included — Dance the night away with salsa and bachata beats from DJ Avel.
Scenic Train Ride Along Casco Bay
Saturday, April 26th, 2025 · 10 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket prices vary — Experience a picturesque 40-minute roundtrip train ride while immersing yourself in Maine's narrow gauge railroading history.
Scenic Train Ride Along Casco Bay
Sunday, April 27th, 2025 · 11 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Check website for ticket price — Experience a scenic 40-minute train ride with stunning waterside views and insights into Maine's narrow gauge railroading history.
Boho Mommy & Me Mini Sessions
Monday, April 28th, 2025 · 10-11 a.m. — The Beaux and Arrows Collective by Rebecca Pinkham-Stevenson — Pricing available upon inquiry — Capture the magic of motherhood in a boho-inspired photography session surrounded by vintage elegance.