Daily editionWednesday, July 23rd, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 23rd of July.
Business
Hannaford is recalling its 15 oz four-pack store brand blondies sold through July 21 due to mislabeling that may omit the walnut allergen info—customers should check storage areas and return the product for a full refund.
WGMERead more
Hammond Lumber announced Tuesday it is buying Ware-Butler Building Supply to expand its retail footprint from 22 to 34 locations across Maine and New Hampshire.
The deal will close on July 31 and include 15 Maine locations while keeping Ware-Butler employees — a move that will boost the company’s headcount to over 1,200.
WMTWRead more
Culture
The Back Cove Music & Arts Festival will be held on August 2 and 3 at Payson Park and will feature nearly two dozen artists, but Andre 3000 will not perform due to unforeseen personal circumstances and is replaced by The Roots — organizers will donate $100,000 for park expenses and urge guests to use the free citywide shuttle since there is no public parking.
WMTWRead more
Claws N’ Country Festival returns Sunday, July 27 at Brunswick Landing to support the Brunswick Naval Aviation Museum and sailors who trained here—popular local acts including The Mallet Brothers Band, Don Campbell Music, and Isaiah Bennett will perform while food, drinks and family games are offered.
WGANRead more
Government
A new federal law signed on July 4 allowed Maine tipped workers such as servers and bartenders to deduct up to $25,000 of their tips from federal income tax; the law took effect retroactively on Jan 1, 2025 and expires on Dec 31, 2028—experts expect detailed rules within 90 days and note the deduction phases out for higher incomes while not affecting state or FICA taxes.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Amtrak Downeaster officials announced upgrades at the Wells train station that include twin platforms and a pedestrian bridge — these improvements will add a sixth round-trip to boost commuter service between Wells and Brunswick.
The agency also plans to relocate the Portland station to a site behind Mercy Hospital to eliminate delays and reduce railroad bottlenecks.
FOX23Read more
Real Estate
The Portland Planning Board approved plans for Stroudwater Commons, a new 156‑unit condo complex near the Portland International Jetport on Tuesday night.
The project will mix condos and ADUs — small apartments for family or rental use — and reserve some units for workforce housing under a state law that boosts density.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Ask A Librarian! Drop-in Question Sessions
Thursday, July 24th, 2025 · 11 a.m. — Freeport Community Library — Free entry — Get tech support and research assistance from friendly librarians Meghan and Andrew.
Maine Yoga Festival
Friday, July 25th, 2025 · 1 PM – 5 PM — Southern Maine Community College — Check website for ticket info — Celebrate wellness with diverse yoga workshops and live music overlooking Casco Bay.
Central Coastal Maine Private Day Tour
Saturday, July 26th, 2025 · 8 AM – 3 PM — City of Portland, Maine — Pricing varies — Discover the beauty of Maine’s coast with a personalized private tour featuring lighthouses, gardens, and charming coastal villages.
PMA Films: In the Mood for Love (2000) + In the Mood for Love 2021
Sunday, July 27th, 2025 · 12:00 – 1:50 PM — Portland Museum of Art — $ — Experience the breathtaking romance and visual splendor of Wong Kar Wai's masterful films exploring intimate connections.
Lewis Robinson Discusses The Islanders
Tuesday, July 29th, 2025 · 6:30-8 p.m. — Peaks Island Community Center — Free entry — Maine author Lewis Robinson shares insights about his new novel, The Islanders, during the Friends of Peaks Island Library Annual Meeting.
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine
Wednesday, July 30th, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Tickets required — Explore Portland’s scenic coast and historic sites aboard a classic fire engine while enjoying live narration.
Dan Soder Live
Thursday, July 31st, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Empire Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Dan Soder, the comedic talent behind 'Mafee' from Billions.
Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch Tour
Friday, August 1st, 2025 · 3:00-5:30 p.m. — Waterfront in Portland — Ticket price includes food and drinks — Explore Maine's seafood culture with local delicacies and insightful guidance.
Outdoor Painting Class in Portland, Maine
Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — Scenic Spot near Portland — Cost included — Capture Maine's stunning landscapes with guidance from a local artist.
The Avett Brothers Concert
Tuesday, August 5th, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — Thompson's Point — Tickets from $170 — Experience an unforgettable evening with The Avett Brothers in Portland, ME.