Daily editionFriday, July 25th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 25th of July.
Government
Portland officials are updating the city's disaster plan after recent floods and heat showed gaps in safety measures.
The new plan will be reviewed by the health and human services committee this fall and go to the full council in December — it will invite public input — to help all city workers know what to do during emergencies.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
A congressional committee is considering a 10-year delay on new lobstering regulations aimed at protecting endangered North Atlantic right whales so that Maine lobstermen have more time to adjust their practices.
Rep. Jared Golden argued the amendment would give the industry extra time to prepare while conservation groups warned that a longer delay may further endanger the whales.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Maine DHHS has not yet received guidance from USDA—so 40,000 SNAP recipients in Maine will face new work rules requiring 20 hours of work per week in the fall, with affected individuals notified a month before the changes.
Local restaurant owner Mr. Tuna and his wife traveled to Washington, D.C. to urge lawmakers to protect food benefits for those in need.
WMTWRead more
The Maine Legislature concluded its First Special Session on June 25 and approved measures that improve education by establishing a Student Homelessness Prevention Program—while also enhancing supports to secure affordable housing and safeguard mobile home communities.
The session's wins set a framework for the upcoming second regular session in early 2026.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Senator Angus King spoke on Wednesday about rising electricity costs in Maine—he said a modernized grid using battery technology and energy sources like wind, solar and hydropower could lower ratepayers’ expenses.
WGMERead more
Sports
Maine champion Bonny Eagle won its game by a score of 7+1 over Vermont champion Champlain and will face Connecticut champion Guilford at noon today on ESPN.
Jasmine Peters struck out 10 batters in six innings to help the team reach its second regional final in three years.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
National Root Beer Float Day Celebration
Wednesday, August 6th, 2025 · 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME — Donations encouraged — Enjoy delicious root beer floats while supporting The Barbara Bush Children's Hospital.
The Flaming Lips and Modest Mouse Live
Thursday, August 7th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Thompson's Point — Not specified — Experience a night of psychedelic rock with The Flaming Lips and indie vibes from Modest Mouse.