For the second year in a row, Maine recorded a record number of Lyme disease cases in 2023, continuing a long-term trend of the deer tick-borne infection increasing in the state.
Lyme cases jumped from 2,617 in 2022 to 2,904 cases last year, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Cases were most prevalent in the Midcoast and Down East regions, with Knox County having the highest concentration of Lyme disease, at 661 cases per 100,000 population. Waldo, Hancock and Lincoln counties also had among the highest levels of Lyme disease, while Cumberland County, the state’s most populous, recorded 123 cases per 100,000 population.
Griffin Dill, integrated pest management professional for the University of Maine Cooperative Extension’s tick lab, said the range of the deer tick is expanding, and tick populations are now firmly established in the Midcoast and Down East.
“The focal point of tick-borne disease has been shifting from Cumberland and York counties to along the Midcoast and Down East,” Dill said.
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Why Lyme disease cases are most concentrated farther down the coast is unclear, Dill said, but with its humid, coastal climate, the “Midcoast area is highly conducive for ticks and their wildlife hosts.”
Dill said that although research shows climate change is contributing to the deer tick expanding its range, it’s difficult to conclude that climate change played a large role in the greater prevalence of Lyme disease in the Midcoast.
“The conditions (in the Midcoast and Down East) were probably always somewhat favorable, but the ticks hadn’t made it there yet,” Dill said. “Now that they’ve arrived, they’re thriving, and that’s allowed their populations to expand.”
Overall weather conditions in Maine also may have contributed to the record number of Lyme cases in 2023, including a lot of rain in the late spring and summer, and warmer conditions in fall and winter.
Also, submissions to the tick lab in 2023 changed with more ticks in the nymph stage being sent in, from about 15% of all submissions to 30%, Dill said. People send in dead ticks to the tick lab for identification and to test for pathogens.
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Dill said ticks in the nymph stage are less likely to carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease than adult ticks, but are much harder to detect on the human body. Dill said that means nymph ticks are more likely to be attached to the host long enough to transmit Lyme disease. A tick needs to be attached for at least 36-48 hours in most cases before being able to transmit Lyme disease, according to the U.S. CDC.
Symptoms of Lyme disease include a bull’s-eye rash, fever, headache, joint pain and fatigue. The rash is not always present. If caught early, Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics.
While Lyme set a new record, the other two most prevalent tick-borne diseases in Maine – anaplasmosis and babesiosis – experienced slight downturns last year, although long-term trends are still showing higher numbers of those diseases.
Maine logged 744 cases of anaplasmosis, down from 824 in 2022, and 188 cases of babesiosis, a slight reduction from 192 in 2022. Anaplasmosis is caused by a bacterial infection while babesiosis is caused by microscopic parasites.
Research about ticks is ongoing, and the University of Maine was recently awarded $6.2 million in federal funding to research ways to control tick populations, identify emerging tick species and expand public health efforts.
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Lindsay Hammes, spokesperson for the Maine CDC, said “education for the public about the prevalence and risks of ticks has been, and continues to be, a top priority for the Maine CDC.”
Hammes said the Maine CDC is “reminding the provider community to consider tick-borne diseases for patients presenting with relevant symptoms has been another key to our approach in helping to combat tick-borne diseases across Maine.”
To help prevent tick-borne diseases, wear long pants and long sleeves when in the woods or raking leaves, use insect repellant and conduct tick checks on your body after spending time in tick habitat.
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After Maine’s first Democratic gubernatorial debate, I commented that the candidates seemed to be vying with each other to be agreeable. Would it last? Back then, I thought I’d be happy with any of them as Maine’s next governor.
Not so now, as I observe the cronyism of Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson and Hannah Pingree, whose plan to rank each other when they vote provides a blueprint for gaming the ranked-choice voting system in the primary. The political insiders are forming an alliance against the outsiders, Nirav Shah and Angus King III.
Shah’s campaign responded that it would stay focused on winning voters’ support, a more principled approach, in my estimation.
I prefer a governor who listens and learns from his constituents over one experienced at alliances and deal-making. I want integrity and leadership, not manipulation and exclusion.
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I no longer believe that Bellows, Jackson or Pingree would make a good governor.
BANGOR, Maine (WABI) – A Wall Street Journal article reports that Amy Gertner, the wife of Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, told campaign aides she found sexually explicit text messages on Platner’s phone after he launched his bid for office last year.
According to the report, Gertner disclosed the messages while aides were conducting opposition research, and she asked a campaign aide to review what Platner had sent—reportedly to several women—to determine whether it could become a liability for his campaign.
The Wall Street Journal reports Gertner believed she was confiding in someone she considered a friend.
The article also states the couple discussed the messages in marriage counseling.
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In a statement from Gertner provided by the Platner campaign, she wrote that they have gone through counseling and that their marriage today “is stronger than ever before.”
Amy Gertner provided a statement through the Platner campaign.
“I confided deeply personal details about my marriage to someone I considered a friend. In the months since, I have had to watch as she spread malicious gossip to anyone who would take her call. I trusted this person with the most private chapter of our lives – the early days of our marriage before any campaign was on our mind – and I am deeply hurt by her betrayal and the invasion of our privacy.
“It is no secret that Graham and I have struggled on our fertility journey. We did the hard work that marriage requires. We went to counseling. We were honest with each other in ways that weren’t easy. And we came through it, not in spite of how much we’ve been through, but because of how much we love each other and the life we’ve built. Our marriage today is stronger than ever before.
“I know who Graham is. I know the man I married and the husband he has been to me on the best and the worst days of my life. That hasn’t changed, and it won’t.” – Amy Gertner
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Platner and Gertner married in 2024, according to the report.
Earlier this year, we asked you, our readers, earlier this year to tell us your favorite places in Maine for budget-friendly feasting. You know where to find bang for your buck — Asian takeout, pizzerias, diners and hole-in-the-wall pubs held heavy sway in your voting, though you named some hip tourist favorites as well. Here are the top 25 our readers loved:
BBQ pork bahn mi at Bahn Appetit on Cumberland Avenue in Portland. (Photo by Meredith Goad)
Vietnamese takeout spot specializing in bahn mi sandwiches. Popular dishes include lemongrass beef bahn mi and bbq pork bahn mi. “It’s just a near perfect bahn mi,” one reader said.
Becky’s Diner in Portland has been a local favorite since 1991. (Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer)
390 Commercial St., Portland. 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days. 207-773-7070, beckysdiner.com. No reservations.
Located in the heart of Portland’s working waterfront, Becky’s has been pleasing locals and tourists alike with budget-friendly meals and all-day breakfasts since 1991. Some of the most beloved dishes include blueberry pancakes, corned beef hash, fried clams and lobster rolls.
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Boda restaurant in Longfellow Square, shown in 2016. (Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer)
671 Congress St., Portland. 4-9 p.m., Sunday, Tuesday-Thursday; 4-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-347-7557, bodamaine.com. $9-$28. No reservations.
Boda bills itself as a “very Thai” kitchen and bar. Regulars often choose the Thai sticky rice balls and drunken noodles.
262 Island Ave., Long Island. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. seven days through Labor Day, 207-766-2512, lobakehouse.com. $8-$24. No reservations.
Accessible only by boat, Byers & Sons offers sunset views from their deck on Casco Bay. Popular orders include lobster rolls, buffalo chicken pizza and donuts; don’t miss their Oyster & Champagne weekends with an added raw bar menu. “From Memorial Day to Labor Day it’s THE place to get a great lunch by the ocean, and then after the beach, stop by for a beer or prosecco on tap while you wait for a glorious ferry ride back to town,” one reader gushed.
A family restaurant institution for 19 years, Chick-a-dee offers a variety of local seafood dishes along with sandwiches, steaks, chicken and soups. Bestsellers include fried clams, haddock, seafood scampi and lobster stew.
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Clayton’s Cafe & Bakery on Route 1 in Yarmouth. (Staff photo by Eric Russell)
A homey local staple since 1994, Clayton’s is known for its fresh-baked pastries, sandwiches and seasonal soups. House favorites include the chicken salad and curried chicken salad sandwiches.
Funky lodge-style decor at CBG Bar & Grill, shown in 2020. (Derek Davis/Staff Photographer)
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617 Congress St., Portland. 11 a.m.-1 a.m. seven days. 207-613-9356, cbgportland.com. $11-$20. No reservations.
A hip Portland pub celebrated for its fried snacks, craft cocktails and cheeseburgers. Regulars swear by the fish & chips, smash burger and fried chicken sandwich. “A veggie burger and a beer is under $25, and the vibes never fail,” one reader said. “Local, tastes good, no frills.”
Visitors to the Old Port pass Crispy Gai on Exchange Street in 2025. (Daryn Slover/Staff Photographer)
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90 Exchange St., Portland. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m., seven days. 207-536-1017, crispygai.com. lunch $9-$21; dinner $9-$25. Reservations only available for groups of 6-10.
This Old Port hotspot specializes in Southeast Asian street food and expertly crafted tropical-inspired cocktails. Must-orders include hat yai fried chicken/wings, crispy deluxe sandwich, pad see ew and Crying Tiger.
Cozy sandwich shop known for its flavorful Belgian-style frites cooked in duckfat. Don’t miss the Duckfat grilled cheese with raclette and cheddar, poutine with duck gravy, milkshakes and donut holes.
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240 US-1, Falmouth. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-536-0771, on Instagram @fuegofalmouth. $8-$27. No reservations.
Casual, kid-friendly Mexican eatery known for its fast, friendly service. Popular orders include uniquely-wrapped chimichangas, coconut shrimp and margaritas. “The smothered burritos are heavenly, ” one reader noted.
Great Lost Bear bartender Tina Hafner pours beer from a large range of taps. (Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer)
This laid-back brewpub is a Portland institution known for its eclectic decor, extensive comfort food menu and wide array of beers on tap. Top-sellers include the pulled pork nachos, cheesesteaks and peanut butter and jelly wings. “Tons of options, all done pretty darn well,” one readers said. “And it’s a piece of Portland history; there aren’t many affordable, family friendly, classic bar/diners like GLB left!”
A busy scene at Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster in South Freeport in 2022. (Jill Brady/Staff Photographer)
36 Main St., South Freeport. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday-Wednesday. 207-865-3535, harraseeketlunchandlobster.com. $8-$37. No reservations.
A family-owned business operating on the South Freeport waterfront since 1970, specializing in fresh local seafood. Seafood baskets are on the more expensive end of their offerings, but sandwiches are value-priced.
72 Maine St., Brunswick. 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Sunday-Tuesday, Thursday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-798-6888, online menu. $5-$25. No reservations.
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Cozy Japanese sushi restaurant with some hot specialty entrees. Customers laud the bento boxes, chicken teriyaki and sushi boats. One customer notes: “The bento box at lunch is full of delicious fish, and other there are other tasty dishes.”
Nikos Waterville House of Pizza, a family-owned staple in town, shown in 2022. (Rich Abrahamson/Staff Photographer)
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145 Main St., Waterville. 10 a.m.-9 p.m, Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday. 207-873-4300, nikoswatervillehouseofpizza.com. $9-$25. No reservations.
This Waterville mainstay has been serving pizza, pasta and subs since 1980. Regulars recommend the meatball subs, Big Mac pizza and steak bombs.
A mashed potato, bacon and scallion slice from Otto in Auburn. (Andree Kehn/Staff Photographer)
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10 locations throughout Maine. Find days/hours of operation of specific locations at ottoportland.com. $10-$28. No reservations.
Portland-based pizza chain known for their creative toppings. Popular pizza orders include the butternut squash, ricotta and cranberry; mashed potato, bacon and scallion; and fresh pineapple, bacon and hot honey. “Top-quality, thin crust pizza,” one reader said. “Try the Mushroom and Manchego option. Great combo and unusual.”
The iconic sign for Pizza by Alex in Biddeford. (Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer)
93 Alfred St., Biddeford. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days. 207-283-0002, pizzabyalexmaine.com. $9-$14. No reservations.
A beloved family-owned Biddeford pizzeria, serving New England Greek-style 10-inch pies topped with cheddar for 66 years. Fan favorites include Alex’s special, Hawaiiand pizza, and Yaya’s Greek, with feta cheese and spinach. “Prices for a personal pizza can’t be beat, and Yaya’s Greek pizza is sooo good,” raves a regular.
Don Camire outside Rapid Ray’s. Camire runs the legendary Saco spot, which his father, Ray, launched 72 years ago. (Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer)
Another York County institution, Rapid Ray’s has been Southern Maine’s hometown go-to for takeout fast food since 1953. Top sellers include the burgers and hot dogs, onion rings, clam cakes and lobster rolls.
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501 Cottage Road, South Portland. Noon-8 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; noon to 9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-747-4089, rattleshakegrill.com. $10-$24.
Rattle Shake began life as A&C Soda Shop before rebranding last December. Popular orders include the burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, ice cream floats and boozy milkshakes. “Best cheeseburger I’ve ever eaten anywhere,” one reader said.
Joseph Urtuzuastegui, who owns El Corazon with his wife, in the restaurant’s dining room in 2024. (Staff photo by Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer)
190 State St., Portland. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday. 207- 536-1354, elcorazonportland.com. $10-$20. Reservations by phone.
Downtown restaurant serving authentic regional Mexican fare, as well as specialties like goat birria and deviled shrimp. Regulars love the pollo en mole, tamales and fried green tomato tacos.
Ruski’s Tavern, shown in 2022. (Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer)
212 Danforth St., Portland. 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days. 207-774-7604, ruskisportland.com. $8-$22. No reservations.
A landmark dive bar in Portland’s West End dating back to 1892 with a surprisingly expansive menu offering sandwiches, pizza, burgers and dogs, salad and soups, pubby starters and breakfast all day. Popular orders include eggs Benedict, fish & chips and Ruski’s steak bomb.
131 Ossipee Trail W., Standish. 4-8 p.m., Wednesday-Thursday; 11 a.m. -8 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 207-772-0360, sillys.com. $10-$17. No reservations.
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The interior of Silly’s in Standish has the same idiosyncratic charm of the original restaurant in Portland. (Courtesy of Colleen Kelley)
This cherished restaurant operated out of Portland since the 1980s before relocating to Standish last year. The fun and quirky space serves up whimsically named dishes like Empire Strikes mac, a protein-topped mac and cheese, the Stop Bacon Sense BLT wrap, and Gravy Danger fries with gravy, bacon and cheese.
548 Congress St., Portland. 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., seven days. 207-541-9097, tacoescobarr.com. $5-$18. No reservations.
A funky downtown taqueria offering tacos, tortas, enchiladas, burritos and more. Crowd pleasers include the puffy tacos, chipotle sweet potato taquitos and fish tacos.
Renowned for its bountiful all-you-can-eat lunch buffet, Taj also offers a wide selection of tasty Indian fare at budget-friendly price points for lunch and dinner. Fan favorites include the samosas, butter chicken, masala dosa and chicken tikka masala.
782 Forest Ave., Portland. 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., seven days. 207-828-1114, online menu. $9-$21. No reservations.
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Longstanding Vietnamese restaurant near Woodfords Corner offering a variety of pho, vermicelli dishes, fried rice and other hot entrees, as well as pan-Asian selections like pad Thai and lo mein. Regulars swear by the rare beef salad, beef pho and stir-fried chicken with Chinese broccoli.
Tomaso’s Canteen in Portland, shown in 2023. (Sofia Aldinio/Staff Photographer)
A friendly, no-frills neighborhood bar in the East End, Tomaso’s serves up a menu of pub grub classics like wings, burgers, dogs, chicken sandwiches and their house special sausages. Fan faves include loaded Dump Truck Fries, mac & cheese and The Costanza reuben.
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