Daily editionTuesday, September 2nd, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 2nd of September.
Government
Bill Diamond, a longtime Maine public servant and child welfare advocate, died on August 31 at age 80 in Windham—he founded Walk a Mile in Their Shoes to protect children and served as secretary of state from 1989 to 1996.
WGANRead more
Portland City Council will vote on an ordinance tomorrow to fine commercial property owners who leave storefronts vacant for three months or more.
The rule requires owners to register empty spaces and connects them with potential tenants—if tenants are not secured, fines start at $250 and rise to $7,500 at 10 years—each additional year adds $1,000.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Former secretary of state—state senator Bill Diamond died Sunday, Aug 31, in Windham at age 80.
He founded Walk a Mile in Their Shoes to support Maine children in state care and was a longtime advocate for the child welfare system.
WMTWRead more
Health
A guide from The Maine Monitor explains how to research nursing homes and assisted living facilities by using public databases and official websites to check inspection reports, fines, quality measures and staffing details.
The guide helps families understand the difference between federally regulated nursing homes and state-regulated assisted living facilities — key information to ensure a safe choice for an older family member.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Southern Maine field hockey stars are in the spotlight as 25 players, including 15 seniors, prepare for the 2025 season.
The list names key players from Gray-New Gloucester/NYA and Freeport who show strong scoring and defense skills—helping their teams chase a playoff spot.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Five fieldhockey games will feature top school teams in southern Maine this fall, with matchups scheduled (Cheverus vs. Biddeford on Sept. 5, York vs. Mt Ararat on Sept. 11, Thornton Academy vs. Gorham on Sept. 19, Gorham vs. Biddeford on Oct. 1, and Freeport vs. Yarmouth on Oct. 20). These contests will shape regional standings as teams compete for state title contention.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
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.
Old Port Historic Walking Tour
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 · 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Monument Square — Check website for entry fee — Discover Portland's vibrant past on this engaging 2.5-hour walking tour through the Old Port.
Wine and Oyster Sail
Sunday, September 7th, 2025 · 4:45-6:45 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — $175 — Experience a delicious pairing of wines and fresh oysters aboard a beautiful sailing ship in Casco Bay.
Godspeed You! Black Emperor Concert
Sunday, September 14th, 2025 · 8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — Ticket details available — Experience an evening of compelling post-rock with Godspeed You! Black Emperor.
pollinateHERS - Support Group for Women Entrepreneurs
Tuesday, September 16th, 2025 · 5:30-7:30 p.m. — coworkHERS — Free entry — Empowering networking space for female entrepreneurs in Portland.
Maine Irish Makes: September Session
Thursday, September 18th, 2025 · 2-4 p.m. — Maine Irish Heritage Center — Free entry — Gather with local crafters for an afternoon of creativity, conversation, and community building.
Ekphrasis Poetry Workshop
Saturday, September 20th, 2025 · 5:30-7 p.m. — Dunes — Entry fee applies — Explore the art of poetry inspired by visual art with Poet Laureate Emeritus Maya Williams.
The Revivalists Concert
Sunday, September 21st, 2025 · 7:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — Tickets starting at $81 — Enjoy an evening with The Revivalists in a vibrant live music setting.