Daily editionFriday, August 28th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 28th of August.
Community
A new public restroom opened at Portland Downtown offices after a TP-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Thursday.
Community leaders said the project (five years in the making, started during COVID-19) meets a critical downtown need.
FOX23Read more
The Lake Region Photovoice exhibit opens today at the Magic Lantern Theater and Innovation Center in Bridgton, featuring photos taken by local community members that document rural housing struggles.
The project, led by USM researchers, aims to raise awareness and prompt change in how homelessness is viewed across rural Maine.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
This Saturday in Portland, the third annual Tunnel to Towers 5K Run and Walk will honor fallen first responders, injured veterans, and others through a day of remembrance and support for their families (race director Ralph Munroe explained its mission).
WGMERead more
Business
Wigon Office Supplies, a downtown store in business since 1932, will close this fall after 94 years as owner Sally Wigon retires.
The store hosted a back-to-school event Tuesday and Wednesday where teachers could take supplies free + celebrate its legacy.
WMTWRead more
Coffee shop and cannabis dispensary Higher Grounds in Old Port is closing this month after almost 10 years, with dispensary sales ending Thursday while coffee service runs until Saturday, according to owner Mark Barnett who said his lease was not renewed for the cannabis side.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Business experts warned that a looming trade dispute with Canada may hurt local industries dependent on cross-border trade, including lobstering and gasoline supply.
The New England-Canada Business Council said negotiators must reach an agreement before the September deadline to protect jobs and economic ties.
FOX23Read more
Environment
Portland has launched Grow Wild Portland to help residents switch from turf lawns to native gardens+ the campaign offers weekly emails, starter kits and planning tools to improve water quality and support local wildlife.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Health
A pilot program called Dementia Respite Without Walls will launch weekly four-hour respite sessions for people living with dementia and their caregivers in Casco at the Community Center starting on Sept. 22.
Funded by a $100,000 grant, the program serves 12 to 24 participants (more info available from SMAAA).
WMTWRead more
Sports
Burke Cherrie, who served as interim CEO since May, is now officially the leader of the Maine Mariners.
He will work with head coach Rick Kowalsky to build team culture and launch the Mariners Foundation as the season begins Oct. 17 at Worcester.
WGMERead more
Accidents
Richard Day, 22, was critically injured last Sunday in Gorham when his green Jeep struck a utility pole — his father, Greg Day, remained by his side at Maine Medical Center as staff worked to stabilize him.
Portland Press HeraldRead more