Daily editionMonday, August 25th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 25th of August.
Community
Willard Beach reopened today after the South Portland Fire Department closed it to investigate an unusual substance in Portland Harbor.
Officials said the substance is a naturally occurring material (from the sea floor) stirred up by boat traffic at low tide and poses no harm.
FOX23Read more
Education
Maine public schools now offer special education to preschoolers aged 3 to 5 under a four-year plan that shifted services from CDS — many districts faced challenges like double the expected enrollment and staffing shortages despite receiving a $39 million state commitment.
School leaders say the effort helps kids get early therapies and plan monthly check-ins to guide future improvements.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
At the University of New England in Biddeford, nearly 400 new students began move-in week on Sunday with families and returning peers helping them settle in.
The school has planned family events—including Tacos on the Saco and rock climbing—and upperclassmen will assist with move-ins on Monday and Tuesday.
WGMERead more
At UNE, move-in week is underway as about 400 new students and their families arrive for fun events—like tacos, art, and rock climbing—that help everyone feel welcome; returning students and staff provide support to ensure a smooth start to college.
FOX23Read more
Environment
Maine beaches including Ogunquit were closed to swimming Saturday—dangerous rip currents and strong waves from lingering storm effects forced lifeguards to post red flags while assisting swimmers.
NOAA data shows nearly 40 surf hazard deaths this year and officials advise staying on the sand for safety.
WMTWRead more
Sports
Binghamton Rumble Ponies rallied with two eighth-inning home runs by Jacob Reimer and Kevin Parada to win 12-10 over the Sea Dogs at Hadlock Field in Portland — Brooks Brannon hit a grand slam in the seventh that gave Portland a 10-9 lead before an insurance run came on a balk by Yovanny Cruz.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Titus Washington, Ollie Wright, and Nathan Messer scored goals as the Portland Hearts of Pine beat Westchester SC (3-2) in a USL League One game on Sunday in Mount Vernon, New York.
The team ended with a record of (5-9-4) and is tied with Union Omaha and Greenville Triumph SC at 24 points while Union Omaha holds the final playoff spot.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Stand-Up Comedy with Greg Warren
Saturday, August 30th, 2025 · 7 PM – 1 AM — Empire Comedy Club — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with Midwestern comic Greg Warren as he shares his hilarious take on life and personal anecdotes.
Wine Sail - Chef Series with Sommelier Erica Archer
Sunday, August 31st, 2025 · 12-2 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — $150 — Experience a scenic wine sail with a sommelier and enjoy exquisite wines from California's Central Coast.
Community Craft Night
Monday, September 1st, 2025 · 4-7:30 p.m. — Freedom's Edge Cider Tasting Room — Free entry — Connect with local crafters while enjoying some cider and working on your projects.
Bingo Bash
Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 — Cards for sale — Enjoy a fun day of bingo with food options and prizes available.
Trivia Night at Brickyard Hollow
Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge and enjoy a fun night of trivia at a local brewpub.
Liz Cooper Live at SPACE Gallery
Thursday, September 4th, 2025 · 8-11 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — All ages — Experience the genre-defying sounds of Liz Cooper, blending psychedelia and indie grunge in her Portland debut.
Library Technology Help
Friday, September 5th, 2025 · 1-3 p.m. — South Portland Public Library — Free — Get expert assistance with library online services and digital resources.