Daily editionWednesday, June 11th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 11th of June.
Community
US Army Private Willard Merrill, captured in 1942 in the Philippines and lost for more than 80 years, was laid to rest in Dover-Foxcroft after his remains were identified in April—first responders lined the route from Logan Airport.
He was buried beside his mother and brother.
FOX23Read more
Education
Retired teacher Jayne Sawtelle was elected to the school board with 75% of the vote in a special election and will serve a six-month term before running again in November for a full term.
The school district also approved a $171.8 million budget with 67% voter support—this plan increases spending by 6% and adds early literacy and special education staff.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
A new report from the 2025 Kids Count Data Book shows Maine schools rank among the bottom 10 states for K-12 education as rankings drop from 37th to 41st due to low preschool enrollment, poor test scores, and falling graduation rates—experts say remote learning left many students behind. Local leaders have voted to raise teacher pay and are seeking federal funds to help small districts—future support efforts are not yet confirmed.
FOX23Read more
Environment
Massive wildfires burning in Canada have made the skies hazy and the air hard to breathe in Maine in recent weeks.
Forecasts show rain will help fires in western Canada—but smoke from over 7 million acres burned is expected to linger for weeks.
FOX23Read more
Government
A commemorative stamp honoring Barbara Bush was issued by the USPS on June 10 in Kennebunkport after a dedication ceremony at Ganny's Garden on the Green near the Walker's Point Estate.
Former President George W. Bush with his wife Laura spoke about her love of books and family—reflected in the stamp’s design—while it became available to the public.
WMTWRead more
Falmouth student Abby Werthmann, who experiences up to 60 seizures on her worst days, urged Gov Mills to sign a seizure safety bill now on her desk— the law would give schools the resources to develop seizure action plans.
Gov Mills’ Office is reviewing the legislation.
FOX23Read more
Sports
Saturday night the Father's Day Pro Boxing Classic will be held at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland — local boxing expert Bobby Russo of the Portland Boxing Club and boxer Casey Streeter shared details highlighting the event's excitement.
WGMERead more
Portland Events
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.
Bingo at the Elks Lodge
Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cards for sale — Enjoy a day of bingo with lunch options and fun prizes.