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Thursday, March 20th, 2025

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Good morning, Portland. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of March.

CRIME NEWS

  • Officials positively identified 52-year-old Sari Carlson from Portland—whose body was found on March 13 at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth—as police continue investigating while the cause of death remains pending.  WGME

GOVERNMENT NEWS

  • Maine lawmakers have introduced a bill to let courts hire qualified private lawyers when public defenders are not available—this move follows a ruling that found Maine breached the Sixth Amendment and would add up to eight new jobs as the Maine Commission on Public Defense Services works on a plan due by April 3. The proposal aims to ensure every criminal suspect receives timely legal representation amid a growing case backlog.  WGME
  • A bill in Augusta will add $4 million each year to Maine's domestic violence help services to make up for cuts caused by flat funding—forcing lost programs and job reductions. Family members, survivors, and police back the measure as they say it will help victims get the help they need.  FOX23
  • Westbrook and Scarborough withdrew support for the proposed 4.8-mile toll connector that would link Gorham to South Portland, and a legislative bill was introduced to reverse state approval of the project. Gorham Town Councilor Phil Gagnon said the town lost opportunities to expand its industrial park (and attract non-residential growth) because of the setback.  Portland Press Herald
  • Maine emergency shelter providers say state funding is not enough to cover operating costs—shelters pay an average of $102 per bed per night while receiving only $7, and they are asking for a bill to raise the subsidy to $18 to help meet demand.  FOX23

EVENTS

SUBMIT EVENT
  • Keys to The City: A Dueling Piano Show

    This interactive dueling piano show features talented performers Jim Ciampi and Seth Holbrook, promising an evening filled with music, laughter, and audience participation.

    Fri, 3/21/25

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  • Dooryarders Concert

    Dooryarders will be performing live at Hi-Fidelity in Portland.

    Sat, 3/22/25

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  • Book Signing with Jenn Bouchard

    Jenn Bouchard will be signing copies of her romance novel 'Considering Us' at Barnes & Noble in South Portland.

    Sun, 3/23/25

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  • Portland Maine Career Fair at Immigrant Welcome Center

    This career fair offers job seekers the opportunity to connect with top employers across various sectors, including Government, Sales, Education, and more.

    Mon, 3/24/25

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  • Bingo at Elks Lodge

    10 AM – 3 PM | Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188 | Cards for sale | Enjoy a fun-filled bingo day with lunch options and plenty of prizes.

    Tue, 3/25/25

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  • Wine Down Wednesdays at C2-Congress Squared

    C2-Congress Squared offers midweek relaxation with half-off select wine bottles and $5 house wines in a cozy atmosphere.

    Wed, 3/26/25

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  • Portland, Maine Madness Amazing Race & Tour

    11:24 a.m. — Bard Coffee — Ticketed event — Experience a fun-filled adventure in the heart of Portland with this amazing race and tour.

    Thu, 3/27/25

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  • Love Unfolded Fine Art Show

    10 AM – 5 PM | Merrill Memorial Library | Free entry | Explore stunning local artworks paired with unique floral arrangements at this community art show.

    Fri, 3/28/25

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  • World Oddities Expo

    11 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Thompson's Point | Ticket prices vary | Experience a unique showcase of the bizarre and unusual at this entertaining expo.

    Sat, 3/29/25

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  • On-Site Tour at The Cedars

    9 AM - 7 PM | The Cedars | Free entry | Explore one of the top-rated senior living communities recognized for exceptional care and engaging activities.

    Sun, 3/30/25

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REAL ESTATE

SUBMIT LISTING

No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.

JOB BOARD

SUBMIT JOB

No new job posts today. You can submit one here.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SUBMIT

No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The graveyard is the richest place on earth, because it is here that you will find all the hopes and dreams that were never fulfilled.

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