Daily editionFriday, March 20th, 2026
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of March.
Community
Foundation Brewing Company is celebrating 12 years in business and invites the community to join its anniversary event this Saturday in Portland.
The celebration offers a chance for friends and family to enjoy local food and community spirit.
WGMERead more
Business
Owner Cleo Brengman of Ladyfine Collective explained in an interview with ARC Maine how local demand for permanent jewelry grew as spring and summer approached, with the Portland business offering handmade pieces built to last.
WGMERead more
Culture
Grammy-winning singer Brandi Carlile will perform her Human Tour at Cross Insurance Arena on Aug. 13, marking her first Maine show since 2023; tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday with doors opening at 9 a.m.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Education
Lawmakers approved an amended school funding formula on Thursday that may reshape how state funds support schools; the bill—sponsored by Rep. Kelly Murphy—adds a 10% poverty rate adjustment and a three-year hold harmless clause to help districts transition.
It will be the first update to the formula in over 20 years.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Government
Gov. Janet Mills announced on Thursday, Mar. 19 (yesterday) that Maine’s Home for Good program awarded $12M to fund 92 affordable apartments in Portland, South Portland, and Bangor; the award will generate an extra $24M through tax credits and bonds while DHHS will provide on-site 24-hour supportive services.
WGMERead more
Lawmakers have proposed an extra $15 million for the Child Care Affordability Program to help working families; the bill passed the House by 72 to 68 and is now on the appropriations table.
Advocates say the measure will ease long waitlists and high costs (especially for low-income families).
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland will close its asylum shelter on Riverside Industrial Parkway later this spring because the last occupant leaves today; the closure will save $1.5 million and cause 35 layoffs after a drop from 160 residents last year.
Future shelter plans will be discussed (pending reviews).
WMTWRead more
Health
Maine CDC advised clinicians Wednesday to extend RSV vaccinations from March 30 to April 30 as hospitalizations climb amid a prolonged RSV season.
Local pediatricians expect the extra month to give at-risk infants longer-lasting protection.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Sports
Soccer stars Sam Coffey, Michelle Akers, and Sara Whalen Hess will join a town hall hosted by Portland Hearts of Pine to discuss plans for a pre-professional team for 2027.
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Mar. 24 at 3 p.m. & registration is available on the club website.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Maine Mariners vs Worcester Railers
Saturday, March 21st, 2026 · 6-7 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Admission varies — Grab your furry friend and enjoy an exciting hockey night with the Maine Mariners.
Song Circle
Wednesday, March 25th, 2026 · 6-7:30 p.m. — Good Medicine Collective — All ages welcome — Experience the healing power of community singing in a family-friendly setting.
Peking Acrobats Performance
Thursday, March 26th, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Tickets from $25 — Experience a mesmerizing display of acrobatics and artistry from the famed Peking Acrobats.
Anastasia The Musical
Friday, March 27th, 2026 · 8 p.m. — Lyric Music Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting journey of Anya and the mystery of her royal past.
Downtown Boys with Red Eft and Bait Bag
Saturday, March 28th, 2026 · 7:30-10:30 p.m. — SPACE Gallery — Tickets required — Experience the lively performance of Downtown Boys and the catchy tunes of Bait Bag, including their hit 'Pockets'.
Maine Track Club Longfellow 3K
Sunday, March 29th, 2026 · 12:00 PM – 3:59 AM — Congress St. Portland, ME — Registration details available — Celebrate Portland's literary heritage with an engaging 3K run or virtual participation option.
Tuesday Bingo Night: Women’s Edition
Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 · 7-10 p.m. — Ugly Duckling Maine — Free entry — Enjoy traditional bingo with a women in music vibe hosted by Maggie Unzen.
An Evening With Geordie Greep
Saturday, April 4th, 2026 · 8-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — $50/ea — Experience an evening with Geordie Greep in Portland's vibrant State Theatre.
Emo Philips Live
Thursday, April 9th, 2026 · 7 PM – 1 AM — Empire Comedy Club — Tickets required — Experience the brilliance of renowned joke-writer Emo Philips in a night of hilarity.
Randy's Cheeseburger Picnic Comedy Show
Friday, April 10th, 2026 · 7-11 p.m. — Oxbow Brewing Company — Tickets starting at $30 — Enjoy a night of laughs with Randy from Trailer Park Boys, featuring comedy, songs, and prizes.