Daily editionMonday, April 21st, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 21st of April.
Culture
Maine Wildlife Park in Gray opened last week, letting visitors view over 30 species including mountain lions—an engaging chance for local nature lovers.
This weekend will feature a Sea Dogs game with a dog parade at Hadlock Field, EqualityMaine’s 40th anniversary gala with live music at Brick South, a Portland Ballet production of The Sleeping Beauty, and singer Mary Fahl’s performance at One Longfellow Square—offering a mix of outdoor and cultural events for the community.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
The Maine Department of Health and Human Services approved a new rule on April 1st that cuts Portland's emergency shelter reimbursement from $84 to $48 per night based on fair market rents—this change will cost the city about $4.4 million and has led leaders to plan an executive session on Wednesday to review their legal options. The city had based its budget on the higher rate, and the new rule may widen its funding gap if pending proposals also take effect.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
A Maine advocacy group said that officials wrongly deported Kilmar Abrego Garcia from Maryland to El Salvador based only on a photo of tattoos linking him to MS-13.
The Supreme Court ordered his return earlier this month — but government officials have not set plans to do so — raising legal concerns over due process.
WGMERead more
Maine will honor $19.3 million in NEVI funds to install fast chargers at 15 approved sites, even after a federal memo stopped new approvals.
The state will also use $15 million from a separate grant to build level two chargers for cities and towns—an effort to improve charging options in less-serviced areas.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Theatre Playmaking Squad: Deep Sea Adventures
Tuesday, April 29th, 2025 · 3:45-5:15 p.m. — Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine — $225 per person — Dive into creativity with a submarine adventure while crafting original stories and characters.
Trivia Night at Brickyard Hollow
Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge with fun trivia every Wednesday evening.
Intro to Quilting Workshop
Thursday, May 1st, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Factory 3 — Cost info pending — Master the art of quilting with expert guidance as you create your own quilt over four weeks.