Daily editionTuesday, June 10th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 10th of June.
Community
Maine nonprofit ArtVan, led by licensed therapist Jamie Silvestri, has been running a mobile art therapy program in a paint-covered 15-passenger Ford van since 2004—visiting communities like Lewiston, Auburn, Brunswick, Bath and Rumford.
Silvestri will soon fundraise for a new van to continue making art-based mental health care accessible.
WMTWRead more
Culture
Peaks Island artist Doug Smith carved an octopus from a fallen tree outside Baba’s Cafe using a stump left by a 2022 storm—he spent nearly three years on the work and unveiled the piece to celebrate the island’s art.
The sculpture reflects his dedication to transforming natural remnants into public art that honors local spirit.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
Maine summers have grown hotter over the past 55 years with more days reaching 77°F or higher—a trend linked to climate change.
In the 2020s, Portland saw about 10 extra extreme heat days on average, and experts say this pattern may continue as the summer warms.
FOX23Read more
Government
Sen. Angus King and 39 senators sent a letter on Monday asking the U.S. Department of Labor to undo a decision that paused Job Corps centers, leaving nearly 25,000 students and thousands of workers at risk.
They demanded that enrollments, background checks and contracts be restarted to keep the program running smoothly—steps needed after last month’s pause halted 99 centers.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Officials warned thousands of Mainers today that a scam text posing as the Maine DMV falsely claims that unpaid traffic fines will lead to vehicle registration and license suspension—officials advise not to click the link in the message.
WGMERead more
Health
Mia Ferrara said a new one-minute mental health PSA series by Redbird Media Group and Maine Youth Thriving, made after her 14-year-old son Theo's suicide, has helped her adjust how she listens to her children.
Phoebe Williamson explained the videos urge teens to share their feelings—without quick fixes—as Maine has seen several teen suicides recently.
WMTWRead more
Real Estate
In Maine's biggest cities, few homes for sale are built as most new projects create rental units; in Portland, only 8 of 690 approved units are for buyers — pushing first-time homebuyers like Lydia Horn to move from southern Maine to find more affordable options.
Horn secured a 2-bedroom home in Old Town for $227,500 after living with her parents while saving, showing how tight the market has become.
WGMERead more
Portland Events
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine
Wednesday, June 11th, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Ticket required — Explore Portland’s scenic coast and historic sites aboard a classic fire engine for a unique sightseeing experience.
Paper Lady, Red Eft, Beach Broads Live Show
Thursday, June 12th, 2025 · 8-10:30 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — Tickets available — Experience an enchanting evening of indie dream-rock and amphibian rock performances in Portland.
Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch Tour
Friday, June 13th, 2025 · 3:00 – 5:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Price includes seafood and drinks — Immerse yourself in Maine's seafood culture while enjoying lobster rolls and chowder by the waterfront.
Wine Sail in Casco Bay
Saturday, June 14th, 2025 · 3:15-5:15 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $150 — Indulge in five exquisite white wines while sailing through the stunning Casco Bay.
15th Anniversary Sunset Champagne & Oysters Sail
Sunday, June 15th, 2025 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — $ — Celebrate 15 years of Wine Wise with a sunset sail featuring world-class champagne and fresh oysters.
Community Bingo Event
Tuesday, June 17th, 2025 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cards for sale — Enjoy a lively day of Bingo with lunch options and prizes in a friendly local atmosphere.
Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine
Wednesday, June 18th, 2025 · 1:30-2:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Ticketed — Experience Portland’s coast, lighthouses, and neighborhoods on a classic fire engine.
Old Port Seafood Lovers Walking Lunch Tour
Friday, June 20th, 2025 · 3:00-5:30 p.m. — 489 Congress St, Portland, ME — Price includes lunch and drinks — Savor Maine's seafood culture with tasty lobster rolls and chowder while learning about the local industry.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
Saturday, June 21st, 2025 · 1-4 p.m. — Scenic Outdoor Location — Tickets required — Learn to paint beautiful Maine landscapes with a local instructor while enjoying the great outdoors.
Sleep Theory Concert
Sunday, June 22nd, 2025 · 6:00 – 8:30 PM — State Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the dynamic rock sounds of Sleep Theory, featuring powerhouse vocalist Cullen Moore.