Daily editionThursday, March 20th, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of March.
Government
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.
WGMERead more
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 HeraldRead more
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.
FOX23Read more
Portland Events
Live Music: Covered in Bees, Pigboat, and Cadaverette
Friday, March 21st, 2025 · An evening featuring the unique sounds of Covered in Bees, Pigboat, and Cadaverette, showcasing their eclectic blend of rock genres.
Dooryarders Concert
Saturday, March 22nd, 2025 · Dooryarders will be performing live at Hi-Fidelity in Portland.
Book Signing with Jenn Bouchard
Sunday, March 23rd, 2025 · Jenn Bouchard will be signing copies of her romance novel 'Considering Us' at Barnes & Noble in South Portland.
Portland Maine Career Fair at Immigrant Welcome Center
Monday, March 24th, 2025 · This career fair offers job seekers the opportunity to connect with top employers across various sectors, including Government, Sales, Education, and more.
Bingo at Elks Lodge
Tuesday, March 25th, 2025 · 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.
Wine Down Wednesdays at C2-Congress Squared
Wednesday, March 26th, 2025 · C2-Congress Squared offers midweek relaxation with half-off select wine bottles and $5 house wines in a cozy atmosphere.
Reverie Road with Alice Howe & Freebo
Thursday, March 27th, 2025 · Reverie Road, a genre-defying Celtic ensemble featuring renowned musicians, will perform alongside Americana artist Alice Howe and folk icon Freebo, offering an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary music.
Live Concert: Glacier at Oxbow Blending & Bottling
Friday, March 28th, 2025 · Glacier will perform live at Oxbow Blending & Bottling, showcasing their music in a cozy Portland venue.
Seba Molnar Live Jazz Performance
Saturday, March 29th, 2025 · Award-winning saxophonist Seba Molnar will perform an evening of jazz at Blue Portland, featuring talented musicians and a pay-what-you-can admission.
From A Woman's Perspective - A Group Exhibition Of Visual Arts
Sunday, March 30th, 2025 · 11 AM – 3 PM | Richard Boyd Art Gallery | Free entry | Explore a diverse range of award-winning visual art created by talented women artists.