Daily editionThursday, May 15th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 15th of May.
Culture
Josh Schlesinger has leased two adjoining buildings at 144 Fore Street—he said his new venue, Live at Madrid’s, will hold about 800 people and host live music, comedy, podcasts and events featuring local bands.
The $3.5 million renovation will add stages and a bar and is expected to open later this year.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Brian Reynolds was sworn in Wednesday to fill a seat left vacant for seven years by the Houlton Band of Maliseets in the Maine House—his term ends Oct. 31 and reflects improved ties between state lawmakers and local Wabanaki tribes.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Maine is preparing to hold habeas corpus hearings that may release low-income defendants who have waited over 14 days for an attorney and drop charges for those waiting 60 days—data from May 6 show waiting counts fell from 492 to 358 for attorney assignment and from 111 to 57 in custody since the March 7 ruling. Lawmakers passed an emergency bill to add more than $3.3 million over three years to hire more lawyers—experts say the move follows lessons learned from a Massachusetts case.
WMTWRead more
Health
Lawmakers debated two bills to create a universal health care system in Maine; one bill would implement universal care with an oversight agency while the other would study costs and funding.
Representative Anne-Marie Mastraccio from Sanford said clear data is needed for future decisions — a public hearing held Wednesday provided input — as legislators weigh if a publicly funded system is achievable.
FOX23Read more
Lifestyle
Spring has arrived and warmer temperatures invite residents to try kayaking and paddle boarding in Casco Bay.
Zack Anchors from Portland Paddle said outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the waterfront—making the most of fresh seasonal opportunities.
FOX23Read more
Real Estate
Portland developers and Safdie Architects propose Old Port Square—a 30-floor, 380-foot tower at 45 Union St. that would be Maine’s tallest building if built; the project is under review by the planning commission, and critics say it may disrupt the historic fabric by serving only affluent residents.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Mt. Ararat baseball came from behind to win 3+2 against Brunswick after scoring three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, putting the Eagles in first place in Class A North.
Coach Brett Chase said the team played together after a nine-day break and gained the needed boost for the season.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Lecture on Greater Portland's Mid-20th Century History
Wednesday, May 21st, 2025 · 6:30-7:30 p.m. — South Portland Recreation Center — Free entry — Discover the rich history of Greater Portland in the mid-20th century with local historian Michael.
Cage Match Showdown
Thursday, May 22nd, 2025 · 6-9 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — $15 admission — Witness the comedic clash of Sporks vs Pitch to Pilot in an improv battle for the ages.
May 2025 Commencement Ceremony
Friday, May 23rd, 2025 · 11 a.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Free admission — Celebrate Unity Environmental University’s graduating class of 2025 with keynote speaker Neil deGrasse Tyson.
Live Music in the Brewhouse
Saturday, May 24th, 2025 · 5:30-7:30 p.m. — Allagash Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy local live acts while savoring craft beer and cider in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Burst & Bloom Variety Show
Sunday, May 25th, 2025 · 8 p.m. — The Apohadion Theater — Check site for details — Experience a modern mix of comedy, music, and magic in this vibrant variety show.