Daily editionFriday, May 2nd, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of May.
Community
A citizenship ceremony in Portland welcomed 30 new citizens from 22 countries who took the oath and waved small American flags—acts that stirred both pride and concern about the American dream.
The event left many with mixed emotions amid a politically divided climate.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Business
Mast Landing Brewing Company is debuting its crowdsourced beer today at its taprooms—this brew was developed with input from thousands of social media users in the 'Let's Brew a Beer Together' project.
FOX23Read more
Economy
Tourist season nears and local lobster shacks are reporting higher prices as rising lobster costs and lower hauls push rates upward—restaurants in Brunswick, Boothbay and Belfast charge about $25 to over $40 for a lobster roll while some still offer rolls for under $35.
FOX23Read more
Government
Maine began rolling out its new Pine Tree Plate on May 1 as state officials replaced the old chickadee plate that had deteriorated since 1999.
Drivers renewing registration can choose between a design featuring a modern pine tree and one without—those wishing to keep their plate number will pay a $25 fee.
FOX23Read more
Last month, lawmakers passed a two-year continuing services budget (to secure funding for vital programs and prevent a government shutdown this summer).
The budget avoids new taxes or cuts while keeping municipal revenue sharing at 5% (supporting school meals, child care and MaineCare payments).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Accidents
A 35-pound pipe that may have fallen from an airplane hit a car in Portland's Casco Bay Lines parking lot on May 1 at around 10:10 p.m.—the impact shattered the rear window and dented the frame while the FAA investigates.
FOX23Read more
Portland Events
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.
Community Bingo Event
Tuesday, May 13th, 2025 · 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cards for sale with lunch options available — Enjoy a fun day of bingo with friends and community members.