Daily editionWednesday, May 21st, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 21st of May.
Community
After flood waters washed away the historic Willard Beach fishing shacks in January 2024, many donors gave funds for their rebuild that the South Portland Historical Society later refunded or redirected when rebuilding became unsafe because of the flood zone.
The society is working with the city to complete a historic marker by fall (donors chose to receive refunds or donate directly) to honor the shacks.
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Mainers and visitors will explore the bustling waterfront at Walk the Working Waterfront on Saturday, May 31 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) on Commercial Street in Portland.
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Culture
Victoria Mansion has launched a five-year campaign to raise $8 million for repairs and educational programs as crews have already started masonry and exterior work (the museum, built around 1860 and opened in 1941, has raised about $5 million so far including a $4 million bequest).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Portland city councilors will set a date on Tuesday for voters to decide on an amendment to raise the minimum wage from $15 to $20 by 2028.
A study from the Maine Center for Economic Policy shows the increase would most help low-wage workers, and residents have shared mixed views (some worry local businesses may be hurt).
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On Monday, city council approved a change in the code that lets cannabis stores sell non-alcoholic beverages to customers 21 and older.
Businesses like Higher Grounds on Wharf Street can now offer coffee and lattes again — a move designed to ease economic pain and help retailers diversify revenue streams.
WGANRead more
Portland Events
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.
An Afternoon with B. Dylan Hollis
Monday, May 26th, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — Books-A-Million — Ticket required — Celebrate the release of Baking Across America with a lively discussion, meet-and-greet, and an autograph from the beloved author.
PMP Certification Classroom Training
Tuesday, May 27th, 2025 · 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Portland, ME — Check for varying costs — Gain Project Management skills with extensive training and personalized support.
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland
Wednesday, May 28th, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Ticket pricing varies — Explore Portland’s coast and historic neighborhoods on a classic fire truck with live narration.
CoComelon Live: Sing-A-Long
Thursday, May 29th, 2025 · 6-10 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience your favorite CoComelon songs live in a thrilling interactive show for kids.
Maine Fungi Fest 2025
Friday, May 30th, 2025 · 12 PM – 5 PM — Saint Joseph's College of Maine — Free entry — Celebrate all things fungi, plant-based healing, and evolving consciousness.
Scenic Train Ride
Saturday, May 31st, 2025 · 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket required — Experience a nostalgic ride through beautiful Casco Bay while learning about Maine's narrow gauge railroading history.