Daily editionThursday, December 4th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 4th of December.
Business
Nearly 43,000 Mainers were affected by a data breach at Marquis Software Solutions on Wednesday, Dec. 3; the breach exposed names, addresses, and sensitive financial information of Maine State Credit Union customers and others, and the company now offers free credit monitoring + identity theft protection.
WGMERead more
Amazon presented its plan for a 158,100 sqft warehouse on 20 acres in Gorham at a Dec. 1 Planning Board meeting + it includes parking for 565 vans and 330 employees with separate truck entrances + officials said review could yield approval next spring, with state and federal permits required.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Culture
Season 4 contestant Zach Dickey, a local Mainer, discussed his experience on 'The Floor' — an interactive game show that aired Wednesday night on Fox 23.
FOX23Read more
Government
Portland partnered with the Gulf of Maine Research Institute yesterday to build defenses against rising sea levels.
The plan installs new EV-charging stations and informative signage in the Old Port + aims to protect local businesses and Maine’s blue economy.
WMTWRead more
Health
Maine CDC reported that the five HIV cases in Cumberland County appeared unlinked while Bangor experienced an outbreak with 30 cases recorded since Oct. 2023.
Meanwhile, Portland's health department and local clinics increased testing+ expanded mobile services for at-risk groups.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
At MaineHealth Maine Medical Center, veteran Donald Plummer’s ring and watch went missing while staff prepared him for surgery, his family says, and efforts to track the items later remain unresolved.
Steve Plummer now pushes for clearer policies & accountability to protect patient valuables.
WGMERead more
Lifestyle
A holiday gift guide from WGME (published Wednesday, Dec. 3) highlighted creative gift options to impress family and friends this Christmas season.
WGMERead more
Portland's Thompson's Point offers festive holiday shopping, three Maker's Markets, and an ice rink that opened last week for winter fun.
Director Caroline Bisi (event sales) said visitors can enjoy cozy chalet experiences and more throughout the season.
FOX23Read more
Sports
Local girls basketball players in southern Maine have been spotlighted as 25 standouts with strong season stats and a promising push for championship wins this winter.
Key names come from teams at Oceanside, Thornton Academy, and Biddeford (among others).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Jim Gaffigan - Everything is Wonderful Tour
Friday, December 5th, 2025 · 7-9 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Grammy-nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan as he brings his unique observations on life to Portland.
2025 The Polar Express Train Ride Experience
Saturday, December 6th, 2025 · 6:30 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Premium pricing available — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole with hot chocolate and holiday cheer.
Brad Terry Jazz Performance
Sunday, December 7th, 2025 · 4:00–5:30 p.m. — Cadenza — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Experience Maine jazz legend Brad Terry alongside talented musicians in an unforgettable live performance.
DIY Holiday Cork Ornaments & Mod Podge Votives
Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Hardshore Distilling Company — Ages 21+ — Craft your own festive cork ornaments and decorative votives for the holiday season.
The Wood Brothers Live Concert
Friday, December 12th, 2025 · 7:30-9:00 p.m. — State Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of The Wood Brothers blending folk and roots music.
Designing Women Portland Maine Market
Saturday, December 13th, 2025 · 9 AM - 4 PM — Ocean Avenue School — Suggested $3 donation — Experience a vibrant market with local exhibitors supporting community education initiatives.
2025 THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Sunday, December 14th, 2025 · 5:15 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical roundtrip journey to the North Pole with hot chocolate, cookies, and holiday carols.
A Victorian Nutcracker
Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the magic of a classic ballet in the heart of Portland.
Bess Jacques & The Strays Performance
Wednesday, December 17th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — Blue Portland Maine — Ticket info not provided — Experience an eclectic mix of jazz, Americana, and faux-tango-pop with Bess Jacques & The Strays.
2025 The Polar Express™ Train Ride
Friday, December 19th, 2025 · 5:15 p.m. — Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — Premium pricing applies — Experience the magic of the holiday season with a delightful ride to the North Pole inspired by the classic story.