Good morning, Portland.

South Portland’s Mill Creek Shopping Center will soon host The Barkery Dog Bar—featuring a full-service bar, fast-casual restaurant, and indoor dog park where staff help manage dog play.

Co-owners Nate Viens and Haley Michaud said the design, inspired by similar venues in other states, is pending Planning Board review with an expected opening in September.

Pope Francis’ death on Monday deeply affected many Mainers, as locals recalled his personal calls and kind gestures that had inspired faith and acceptance.

A memorial mass was held in Portland on Wednesday as the community honored his compassionate legacy—an influence felt among Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

The Saint Dominic Academy high school board is asking to buy the school building for $4.9 million from the Roman Catholic Diocese to operate as an independent Catholic school—aiming to keep the campus open amid financial difficulties.

The board expects a response by April 30 and will hold a town hall meeting on April 28 at 6:30 p.m. in Lewiston.

Residents at Friendly Village in Gorham met with state lawmakers to discuss a proposed bill that would let mobile home park residents form a cooperative and have first refusal on buying their park when it is sold—state Senator Tim Nangle said residents already have a 60-day window to counter the $22 million sale offer. The bill aims to protect residents from out-of-state buyers who could raise lot rents.

The National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association filed a lawsuit on April 24 against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for withholding $65.8 million in Title X grants, leaving Maine among seven states without these vital services.

More than 31,000 Mainers rely on Title X—federal funding for birth control and preventive care—centers, and the suit seeks to restore funding to keep them open.

Fewer homes were sold across Maine in March with under 850 houses sold—a 6% drop from last year.

The median price for houses sold dipped slightly to just over $376,000.

Nick Laughlin, a Cape Elizabeth graduate, is moving from wide receiver to running back for UMaine this season—his coaches praise his quickness and balance after he showed his new role in a rainy spring game.

The Black Bears will open play on August 30 when his position shift is set to boost the offense.

Boho Mommy & Me Mini Sessions

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

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

6-8 p.m. — Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge with fun trivia every Wednesday evening.

Intro to Quilting Workshop

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.

Yoga for Good

8-9 a.m. — Toad&Co. — $15 donation — Participate in a beginner-friendly yoga class while supporting a local non-profit.

Scenic Train Ride Along Casco Bay

10 a.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Cost varies — Experience a scenic 40-minute train ride through Portland’s picturesque waterfront and learn about Maine's narrow gauge history.

Medium Build and Petey USA Concert

7-10 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — VIP Upgrade available — Experience a night of unplugged performances from Petey USA and Medium Build.

Boho Mommy & Me Mini Sessions

10-11 a.m. — The Beaux and Arrows Collective by Rebecca Pinkham-Stevenson — Pricing available upon inquiry — Capture the authentic magic of motherhood in a beautifully styled boho-inspired photography session.

Bingo at the Elks Lodge

10 AM – 3 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cards for sale; refreshments available — Enjoy a fun-filled day of Bingo with food and games.

Meet Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters

4:30-6:00 p.m. — Rising Tide Brewing Company — Free entry — Connect with nature enthusiasts and learn about Katahdin Woods & Waters initiatives.