Daily editionMonday, August 18th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 18th of August.
Community
On Aug. 7, volunteers at the Ocean Gateway Visitor Information Center helped cruise passengers from the Volendam by offering clear local guidance on where to find a lobster roll and key attractions—ensuring visitors quickly found what they needed.
The center opened earlier than usual to serve busy travelers who had little time to explore the city.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Culture
Aura in Portland will host the second annual Yacht Rock Festival on Aug. 29—local musicians will play soft rock hits from the 70s and 80s including songs by Toto, Christopher Cross, and Olivia Newton-John.
The event begins at 8 p.m. and offers a live music experience that brings nostalgic tunes to fans.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Environment
Late Sunday, Hurricane Erin grew into a Category 4 storm with winds near 130 mph—this followed an eyewall change—and officials on Hatteras Island ordered evacuations before the storm moves toward North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Maine will feel the storm's effects with rough surf, rip currents, and minor coastal flooding expected from Thursday through Saturday during a New Moon.
WMTWRead more
Researchers explain that Maine is seeing more tick-borne diseases like babesiosis as warmer winters extend the active tick season and let ticks survive longer.
The study shows that infected ticks rose from 6% in 2019 to 14% today — prompting health experts to advise residents to take protective measures when outdoors.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
In June, Maine updated its abuse law by adding the word coercion to better cover acts like controlling money or keeping someone isolated—this change is meant to help victims.
Some groups support the update while others worry the law is still too unclear.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Lifestyle
Several companies around Maine offer boat rides for visitors to view lighthouses, seals and puffins this summer and into fall — from short guided tours to longer whale-watching trips.
Portland residents can ride local Casco Bay Lines boats for daily trips that run year round.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Jackson Castillo’s three-run homer in the top of the 10th inning lifted Somerset Patriots to a 4-3 win over the Sea Dogs in the series finale on Sunday at Hadlock Field—Portland tied the game in the ninth with Marvin Alcantara’s RBI double and Hayden Mullins pitched six strong innings.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Community Bingo Event
Tuesday, August 26th, 2025 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cards for sale — Enjoy a fun day of bingo with lunch options and prizes.
Wine Sail - Chef Series with Frances
Wednesday, August 27th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — $90 — Experience a sunset cruise with live acoustic music and drinks on beautiful Casco Bay.
Weekly Pub Trivia Night
Thursday, August 28th, 2025 · 6 p.m. — Olive Pit Brewing Company — $25 gift card for winners — Test your trivia skills while enjoying local brews at this weekly showdown.