Daily editionFriday, August 15th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 15th of August.
Environment
More than 1 million Mainers now face moderate drought from weeks of dry weather and extreme heat, while another 43.6% of the state is nearly in drought.
The National Weather Service said conditions will worsen by month's end — local fire officials have warned residents as wildfires increase.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Regina Dyer from UNE is mapping Maine's lighthouses to see which ones face future storm risks using GIS data—she works with the American Lighthouse Foundation as part of UNE's Sustainability Fellowship.
She will publish her findings online to help communities plan for preservation based on damage seen in past storms.
WMTWRead more
Health
Federal Medicaid funding cuts are threatening home and community-based services in Maine and could leave people with disabilities like Olivia without the help they need.
Maura McDermott warned that if the funding continues to decline, programs such as STRIVE and Café will lose staff and support—putting community care at risk.
FOX23Read more
Portland Events
Lake Street Dive Concert Pass
Saturday, August 16th, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — Thompson's Point — Tickets from $102 — Experience the genre-defying sound of Lake Street Dive live in Portland, ME.
Wine Sail - Piedmont
Sunday, August 17th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — Tickets required — Experience a delightful evening of wine education and sailing on Casco Bay.
Ask A Librarian! Drop-in Question Sessions
Monday, August 18th, 2025 · 1-3 p.m. — Freeport Community Library — Free — Get help with technology, research, and more at this community resource session.
Community Bingo Event
Tuesday, August 19th, 2025 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Purchase cards on-site — Enjoy a fun day of Bingo with food and prizes.
Bess Jacques & The Strays
Wednesday, August 20th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Blue Portland Maine — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an eclectic mix of jazz, Americana, and faux-tango-pop from the talented Bess Jacques & The Strays.
Josh Ritter Concert
Thursday, August 21st, 2025 · 7-9 PM — State Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful and deep songwriting of Josh Ritter at a charming live venue.
Wine Sail Aboard the Tall Ship Frances
Friday, August 22nd, 2025 · 3-5 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — $150 — Experience an unforgettable wine journey through Casco Bay with expert guidance and scenic views.
Lakeside Poker Run
Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 · VacationLand V Twin Cruisers, MC is having a Poker Run, Saturday 8/23. Registration opens at 9:00 AM, $20 per hand, kickstands up at 11:00 am. Starts at American Legion Post 155, Casco Road, Naples Maine and finishes at Lakeside Dairy Bar, Naples Maine. We'll be riding through Naples, Bridgton, Norway and Casco. $500 to the Winning Hand, $240 for Second Place, $50 for the Worst Hand. First 5 Hands with a Full House wins a $10 Gift Certificate to Lakeside Dairy Bar. PLUS Cash 50/50. Come join us for a day of summer fun!
Lakeside Poker Run
Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 · VacationLand V Twin Cruisers, MC is having a Poker Run, Saturday 8/23. Registration opens at 9:00 AM, $20 per hand, kickstands up at 11:00 am. Starts at American Legion Post 155, Casco Road, Naples Maine and finishes at Lakeside Dairy Bar, Naples Maine. We'll be riding through Naples, Bridgton, Norway and Casco. $500 to the Winning Hand, $240 for Second Place, $50 for the Worst Hand. First 5 Hands with a Full House wins a $10 Gift Certificate to Lakeside Dairy Bar. PLUS Cash 50/50. Come join us for a day of summer fun!
Wine Sail Experience
Sunday, August 24th, 2025 · 12-2 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — Ticketed — Enjoy a wine education course paired with an evening of sailing on beautiful Casco Bay.
Community Craft Night
Monday, August 25th, 2025 · 4-7:30 p.m. — Freedom's Edge Cider Tasting Room — Enjoy craft time with local crafters while sipping cider.