Daily editionFriday, September 5th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 5th of September.
Community
Portland photographer and disability advocate Derek O’Brien, known for riding with a red superman cape, died on Aug. 25 at home with his cat Kiwi by his side—he helped others with spinal cord injuries and pushed for better wheelchair access in local businesses.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Business
Vertical Harvest in Westbrook will begin producing 6,850 pounds of salad greens per day this autumn from a half-acre facility—matching the yield of 250 rural acres.
The automated farm features 40,000 moving modular trays that will supply local supermarkets and schools.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Central Maine Power installed 250 smart devices in 2025 to let its control center reroute power quickly around outages—benefiting over 100,000 customers.
The upgrade is part of a broader plan to strengthen Maine’s energy grid and 500 more devices will be added by next year.
FOX23Read more
Environment
Portland saw one of its driest summers with very little rain in June, July, and August, and over half the state now faces severe drought—raising concerns that fall leaves will not be as bright and trees may lose leaves early.
Experts say some trees like oaks may hold color better, but the overall display will likely be patchy.
FOX23Read more
Health
Dempsey Challenge, the largest fundraiser for the Dempsey Center that supports cancer patients and families, will hold a 25-mile event on September 20—featuring a 4.5-mile run/walk and a 21.5-mile bike ride—to provide free, personalized care for those battling cancer.
Founded by Maine-native Patrick Dempsey, the event has raised nearly $20 million to support holistic services.
WGMERead more
Portland Events
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.
Marc Ribot Solo Acoustic Show
Thursday, September 25th, 2025 · 7:30-10:30 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — Ticketed — Experience the genre-defying guitar legend Marc Ribot as he celebrates his new record with a solo acoustic performance.
Wine Sail - Cabernet Sauvignon Experience on the Frances
Friday, September 26th, 2025 · 4:45-6:45 p.m. — Maine Sailing Adventures — Ticket required — Enjoy a picturesque sailing experience while tasting five exquisite Cabernet Sauvignons from renowned wine regions.
The 502s Concert
Sunday, September 28th, 2025 · 6:00 – 9:30 PM — State Theatre — Ticket prices starting at $51 — Catch the energetic vibes of The 502s live in Portland!