Daily editionThursday, May 8th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of May.
Business
Portland designer Daphne Murphy of Daphne Michelle Designs turns old blankets, quilts and tapestries into custom jackets that sell for about 150 to 300 dollars.
Her work gained attention online and in person when artist Lisa Bello wore one of her jackets at Fenway Park — fans now line up for her sustainable, one-of-a-kind pieces.
WMTWRead more
Government
Portland is suing Maine DHHS after a rule change cut shelter funding nearly in half, which Mayor Mark Dion said should have required a vote from lawmakers.
He is asking the court to pause the rule to restore funding for the city's shelter that houses over 250 people a night — most of whom come from outside the city.
FOX23Read more
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission repealed planned changes to Maine’s minimum lobster catch size that would have required fishermen to release more lobsters into the Gulf — a decision reflecting fishermen’s view that the lobster population is healthy.
Local fishermen will continue catching lobsters at the current size.
FOX23Read more
Real Estate
East Brown Cow and Safdie Architects unveiled plans on Tuesday to redevelop the Canal Plaza Block in the Old Port into Old Port Square— a mixed-use project that will include a 30-story, 380-foot tower at 45 Union St, retail space, hotels, residences, offices, and a timber and glass pavilion at 55 Union St. The developer said the project will transform Portland’s skyline while honoring the area’s historic character.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
The team behind Old Port Square unveiled plans Tuesday for a new 380-foot building in downtown Portland that will have a 30-story tower with a sky lobby — a spot to see the city and Casco Bay.
The project still needs approval from Planning and Urban Development and will break ground in 2027 if approved.
WMTWRead more
Portland Events
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.
Trivia Night
Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge and enjoy a fun-filled evening of trivia with friends.
The Magic of Motown
Friday, May 16th, 2025 · 7:30-9 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the joy and nostalgia of Motown classics in a vibrant evening of music.
Outdoor Painting Class in Cape Elizabeth
Saturday, May 17th, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — Scenic Location Near Portland — Booking Required — Capture Maine's natural beauty in a private painting class for all skill levels.
Scenic Train Ride along Casco Bay
Sunday, May 18th, 2025 · 10 AM – 1 PM — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticketed event — Experience a picturesque 40-minute train ride while learning about Maine's railroading history and enjoying beautiful waterside views.
Book Reading with Jamie Loftus
Monday, May 19th, 2025 · 6-7 p.m. — Longfellow Books — No tickets needed — Celebrate the paperback release of Jamie Loftus's bestselling book, Raw Dog, in a fun-filled evening.
pollinateHERS - Support Group for Women Entrepreneurs
Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 · 5:30-7:30 p.m. — coworkHERS — Free entry — Connect and collaborate with fellow female entrepreneurs every third Tuesday of the month.