Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of June.
Good morning, Portland.
A memorial service for fallen Searsmont Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Woodbury is scheduled for Wednesday, June 24 at 1 p.m. at Belfast Area High School—honoring his service after he died Sunday from injuries sustained in a May 15 fire at Robbins Lumber.
Falmouth Community Fest returns Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Falmouth Community Park — the annual event features live music, food trucks, kids' games, a cornhole tournament, an arts and crafts sale and over 50 vendor booths.
A recent report shows Maine ranked seventh nationwide for population growth after gaining over 7,400 residents between July 2024 and July 2025.
The state reached a record population of 1.4 million in 2025 (about five new residents per 1,000 people).
The Portland Theater Festival launches its sixth season on June 25 at Portland Stage Studio with The Monsters — a two-character play.
It will show Octet from July 23 to Aug. 9 at Maine Irish Heritage Center and Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People from Aug. 20 to Sept. 6.
East End Community School celebrated its 20th birthday on June 12 with busy activities and a planned party later, featuring community support from longtime culture coordinator Peter McCormack (formerly retired).
His active role helps create a calm, supportive environment for students.
Election officials reported that the final ranked-choice count for the governor and House primaries was delayed because of vote discrepancies in Searsmont & South Berwick, and extra time is needed to check all ballots.
Officials said results will be announced quickly once every vote is reconciled.
Traffic on Route 302 in Windham slowed Wednesday morning when a water main break near Trails End Road (between Sullivan Tire and Whites Bridge Road) forced the Portland Water District to reduce lanes for repairs, police said drivers were advised to allow extra travel time.
A recent report from SEO Backlinks shows Maine ranked seventh nationally for population growth, gaining over 7,400+ residents from July 2024 to July 2025.
The state added roughly five residents per 1,000 people, reaching a record total of 1.4 million in 2025.
The unbeaten Black Bears advanced to the state final with a 19-2 win over Traip Academy in a lacrosse semifinal Wednesday at Lewiston High School.
They will face North Yarmouth Academy in the championship match Saturday at Deering High School.
Wine Sail in Portland, Maine: The Loire Valley
3:15-5:15 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $150 — Enjoy an unforgettable wine experience while sailing through Casco Bay with expert guidance from a sommelier.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
9-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Check website for tickets — Unleash your creativity in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Porches Live Performance
8-11 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — All ages — Experience the dynamic sounds of Porches as they debut their latest album, Shirt, in an intimate setting.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
1-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Ticketed event — Experience the joy of painting outdoors in a picturesque park setting.
Paint Outdoors in Portland, Maine
1-10 a.m. — Fort Williams Park — Tickets available — Enjoy a creative outdoor painting session in a beautiful park setting.
Thunderstruck Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — $30-$39 — Experience rock anthems reimagined through a powerful violin performance in a candlelit setting.
PortConMaine 2026
Thursday-Sunday — Holiday Inn Portland-By The Bay — Admission varies — Celebrate Maine's largest geek culture event with anime, gaming, and more.
Wine Sail Experience in Portland, Maine
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Maine State Pier — $150 — Sail the beautiful Casco Bay while tasting exquisite wines from Spain's finest regions.
Disney and Pixar's Finding Nemo Musical
June 27 - August 23 — Maddy's Theatre — $22 — Immerse yourself in this vibrant musical adventure filled with music, color, and unforgettable ocean creatures.
Hello Newman June Booze Cruise
1-4 p.m. — The Porthole Restaurant & Pub — Ticketed event — Enjoy a lively afternoon with Maine's favorite 90s rock party band featuring eclectic music styles.
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