Daily editionThursday, May 22nd, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 22nd of May.
Community
The annual Ride of Silence—honoring bicyclists, pedestrians and others killed on Maine roads—took place Wednesday night with the ride starting at 6:30 p.m. at CycleMania in Portland and continuing in Saco and Lewiston as organizers expected between 40 and 50 riders.
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Several Maine towns will hold Memorial Day events on Monday with Biddeford hosting a ceremony at Waterhouse Field at 10 a.m. and Cape Elizabeth starting its parade at 8:30 a.m.—Topsham, Freeport, Lisbon Falls, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Westbrook, and Portland will also conduct parades and commemorations with planned route adjustments and brief street closures.
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Memorial Day parades and ceremonies will be held on Monday in many Maine towns—Biddeford, Topsham, Cape Elizabeth, Freeport, Lisbon, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Portland and Westbrook.
Local officials will announce updates and adjustments, including parking changes and road closures, as the events approach.
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Business
L.L. Bean began renovating its flagship store in Freeport after investing millions to improve pedestrian access, expand Discovery Park, and add features such as a redesigned trout pond, expanded stream tank, in-store eatery and Custom Shop—renovations that started in 2023.
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Casco Bay Lines announced that it will raise vehicle rates on Peaks Island starting June 21 due to uncertain federal funding — the increase varies by time of year and day of week, with noncommercial rates rising by about $10 to nearly $100 and pass holders paying between $46 and $82 — marking the first fare hike in over a decade.
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Government
Maine faces a severe housing shortage as it must add 84,000 new homes by 2030.
The Maine Affordable Housing Coalition is urging lawmakers to cut permitting delays and zoning restrictions — using bipartisan bills to streamline reviews and reduce red tape — so families, workers and seniors can have affordable homes.
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Maine lawmakers introduced a package of eight tax relief bills designed to lower prices on items like medical equipment, diapers and groceries while raising taxes on luxury services—Senate President Mattie Daughtry said the measures are meant to protect working families.
Four of the bills have passed committee and include doubling the child tax credit and forming a property tax relief working group—steps aimed at easing the cost of living.
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Sports
Cheverus pitcher Addison DeRoche reached her 300th career strikeout during a 10 to 0 win over Kennebunk on Wednesday when her coach informed her of the milestone.
She struck out 15 batters and threw a one hitter in a six inning game—boosting the team to an undefeated record.
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Portland Events
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.
Sunny Day Real Estate Concert
Sunday, June 1st, 2025 · 8 AM – 2 PM — State Theatre — VIP Package Available — Enjoy a nostalgia-filled performance with exclusive merchandise from the iconic band.