Daily editionThursday, June 26th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of June.
Business
University of Maine graduate David Holomakoff started Kinotek in Portland to use LiDAR to create 3D reports of body movement for therapists, trainers and athletes.
The company uses AI to measure body angles and will reach $1 million in revenue while serving 400 locations worldwide—expanding local innovation into a global service.
WGMERead more
Government
On the final day of the session, Maine lawmakers approved dozens of bills including funding for reproductive care, money for emergency homeless shelters, and a ban on ghost guns—bills now sent to Gov. Mills for her signature or veto.
They also sustained all five of her vetoes as the session ended after months of work since January.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Gov. Mills backed Rep. Poirier’s measure to add funding for mental health treatment and law enforcement—an alternative to a red flag referendum aimed at changing the state's yellow flag law.
The Legislature’s Judiciary Committee will meet again to review the proposal before it goes to voters in November.
WGMERead more
South Portland City Council selected the field next to the former Mahoney Middle School for a new police station last week to replace a small, flood-prone facility.
The Mahoney City Center Committee will gather public input until November to refine plans for the $70 million project — which will include civic and recreational spaces.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Health
Officials advise Maine pet owners to keep dogs and cats inside with air conditioning, plenty of water, and wet towels to beat the heat.
Experts recommend offering frozen treats—such as fruit popsicles—to keep pets engaged and to contact a veterinarian if a pet appears off.
FOX23Read more
Real Estate
A new Harvard report finds that nearly 52% of Portland renters spend over 30% of their income on housing and more than 24% are severely burdened by costs (the study marks a record high for the area amid slow new construction).
Local housing advocates and officials warn that rising rents and fewer affordable units will make it harder for low-income residents to manage their budgets.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Newport native Cooper Flagg became the first Mainer picked first overall in the NBA draft by the Dallas Mavericks at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn yesterday.
Gov. Mills declared June 25 as Cooper Flagg Day—state residents celebrated his success as he looks forward to signing a four-year deal and beginning his NBA career.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
ESPN NBA draft analyst Jeremy Woo compared Maine standout Cooper Flagg to top NBA players — he measured 6 feet, 8 inches tall, had a 7-foot wingspan and a 35.5-inch vertical leap at Duke’s combine, while averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks per game as a freshman who led Duke to the Final Four. Woo said his defensive strength and emerging scoring skills will make him a key two-way player in the upcoming NBA draft.
WMTWRead more
Portland Events
Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch Tour
Friday, June 27th, 2025 · 3:00 – 5:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Cost included — Indulge in local seafood delicacies while learning about Maine's vibrant lobster industry.
Outdoor Painting Class in Cape Elizabeth
Saturday, June 28th, 2025 · 1–4 p.m. — Scenic location near Portland — Cost varies — Capture Maine's beauty with professional guidance in a private painting class.
Scenic Train Ride
Monday, June 30th, 2025 · 10 AM – 1 PM — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — $0 to $23.50 — Experience a unique 40-minute roundtrip train ride through beautiful Casco Bay while learning about Maine's rich railroading history.
Capoeira Classes
Tuesday, July 1st, 2025 · 6:30-8 p.m. — The Salt Flat Dance Collaborative — Classes for all levels — Learn the Brazilian martial art combining movements, music, and history.
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine
Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025 · 1:30 – 2:30 PM — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Check website for ticket prices — Experience Portland’s scenic coast and historic sites from a classic fire engine.
Stolen Mojo - Annual Music Cruise
Thursday, July 3rd, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — Casablanca Cruises — $40-$100 — Celebrate the 4th of July with live music and cocktails on Casco Bay.
Wine Sails in Portland, ME
Friday, July 4th, 2025 · 7:15-9:15 p.m. — Casco Bay — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beauty of Casco Bay on a wine sailing adventure with stunning views.
Prester & Samargia Jazz Trio Performance
Saturday, July 5th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Blue Portland Maine — Free entry — Experience a captivating blend of standards, originals, and Brazilian & Latin jazz with talented musicians.
Wine & Raw Bar Sail
Sunday, July 6th, 2025 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Maine State Pier — Ticketed event — Enjoy fine wine and a gourmet raw bar experience aboard a beautiful tall ship as you sail through picturesque Portland waters.
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland, Maine
Wednesday, July 9th, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Ticket prices vary — Experience Portland’s scenic coast and historic sites aboard a classic fire engine with live narration.