Daily editionThursday, May 1st, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of May.
Community
Auggie Monsen’s grandmother—Heather O’Neil—is organizing a silent auction to cover his medical bills after a car accident left him paralyzed from the chest down.
The auction features more than 200 donated items and will be held at the Morse High School gym, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and bidding starting at 6 p.m.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
The Bicycle Rodeo will be held on Saturday at Crooked River Elementary School in Casco from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The free event offers helmet giveaways, prizes, snacks, instructional rides on a closed course, and bike check-ups — all designed to teach Maine kids how to ride safely.
WGMERead more
Government
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry awarded $3 million to seven projects to help farmers study and manage PFAS contamination, which has affected over 90 farms.
Researchers from the University of Maine and Harvard will build fast testing tools for on-site use — a step aimed at keeping food and farm workers safe.
WGMERead more
Lawmakers are considering a bill to remove referendum votes for school budgets — Representative Mana Abdi said the current system delayed Lewiston Public Schools’ budget approval in 2024.
Supporters argue that elected officials should handle budget decisions while critics worry the change may disconnect citizens from school funding.
FOX23Read more
Portland Events
Yoga for Good
Friday, May 2nd, 2025 · 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
Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 · 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
Sunday, May 4th, 2025 · 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
Monday, May 5th, 2025 · 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.
Whose Live Anyway? in Portland
Tuesday, May 6th, 2025 · 7:30-9:00 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of improv comedy and audience participation from a beloved group of comedians.
Stereo Dreams Concert
Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 · 7:30-11 p.m. — The Apohadion Theater — $5-$15 — Enjoy live performances by Grand Vizier, JB!! aka Dirty Moses, and Shiloh The Messenger hosted by Graphic Melee.
Count Basie Orchestra Concert
Thursday, May 8th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — $35-$70 — Experience the legendary Count Basie Orchestra, continuing a rich tradition of jazz excellence.
Farmer's Market
Friday, May 9th, 2025 · 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Brunswick Town Mall — Free entry — Browse fresh produce and local goods at the vibrant community market.
Live Music in the Brewhouse
Saturday, May 10th, 2025 · 5:30-7:30 p.m. — Allagash Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy local live music alongside locally-brewed beer in Portland's vibrant brewhouse.
Portland Sea Dogs Mother's Day 5K
Sunday, May 11th, 2025 · 12:30 p.m. — 271 Park Ave, Portland, ME — Registration needed — Celebrate Mother's Day with the community at the 23rd Annual 5K road race featuring commemorative shirts for the first 750 registrants.