Daily editionSunday, December 29th, 2024
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 29th of December.
Economy
Maine's minimum wage will rise to $14.65 an hour, and tipped workers' wage to $7.33, starting next Wednesday, reflecting an adjustment based on the region's cost of living increase.
WGMERead more
Environment
Maine introduces new boating, fishing, and hunting laws for 2025, aiming to reduce noise pollution and protect wildlife, including restrictions on airboat decibel levels and increasing fees for invasive species control.
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Maine faces ethical and safety challenges in disposing of over 22,000 gallons of toxic firefighting foam, with much of it incinerated in low-income communities outside its borders.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
The Maine Supreme Court ruled DHHS need not share child death records with the Government Oversight Committee, potentially pending legislative changes for future transparency.
WMTWRead more
Maine employers to start contributions for Paid Family and Medical Leave Act starting Jan. 1, with benefits available from May 2026.
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Health
Maine is experiencing a notable decline in drug overdose deaths in 2024, projecting the lowest annual total since 2019 with efforts in harm reduction and treatment being credited.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Cheverus/Yarmouth, the defending Class B state champions, secured the St. Dom's Christmas Classic title with a 3-2 win over Thornton Academy, highlighting their potential for another championship run.
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December 28 marked a day of intense high school basketball action, featuring key wins and standout performances across both boys and girls teams.
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The Varsity Maine Holiday Hoops Showcase highlighted teams from Maine and New York experiencing new challenges and competition.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Adirondack Thunder clinched a 2-1 victory over the Maine Mariners with a decisive goal in the third period during an ECHL game.
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Portland Events
New Year's Eve Vegas Party at Elks Lodge
Tuesday, December 31st, 2024 · Celebrate New Year's Eve with a glamorous Vegas-themed party featuring live music from the Jim Ciampi Band at the Portland Elks Lodge.
BLACK UHURU Concert Featuring Roots, Rhythm, & Dub
Friday, January 10th, 2025 · GRAMMY-winning reggae band BLACK UHURU will perform with supporting acts in a concert at the Good Medicine Collective.
Xander Nelson: Solo Performance at Brickyard Hollow
Saturday, January 11th, 2025 · Xander Nelson, a Portland-based singer and guitarist, showcases his energetic blend of garage rock, pop-punk, and blues in a live solo set at Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company.
Floating Full Moon Yoga Nidra at Leaping Waters Yoga
Sunday, January 12th, 2025 · Experience a restorative yoga session that combines aerial hammocks, body awareness, and intention setting under the full moon, guided by Robin.
Tuesday Coed Dodgeball League
Tuesday, January 14th, 2025 · This coed dodgeball league at Breakwater School offers fast-paced action and is suitable for players of all abilities, with the option for corporate team building and socializing after games.
DevelopME Committee Lunch & Learn: Flood Hazard Mitigation Strategies
Wednesday, January 15th, 2025 · This event focuses on understanding flood hazards and exploring strategies for designing buildings that are resistant to flood damage to enhance community resilience.
Jimmy the Greek's Frozen 4-Miler
Sunday, January 19th, 2025 · The Frozen 4-Miler at Jimmy the Greek's in Old Orchard Beach is a community run event that supports local youth, featuring a scenic course and awards for various age categories.
Community Bingo Event
Tuesday, January 21st, 2025 · A public bingo event held at the Portland, Maine Elks Lodge, featuring food options and games throughout the day.
Forget, Forget with Future Mailmen and DiRocco and Cato
Friday, January 24th, 2025 · A night of diverse musical performances featuring the indie synth-pop sounds of Forget, Forget, the eclectic Future Mailmen, and the funk-infused tracks of DiRocco and Cato.
Paul Brinnel and His Personnel Performance
Saturday, January 25th, 2025 · This donation-based music event features Paul Brinnel and his personnel at Blue Portland Maine.