FINAL WEEKEND! Imagine Steel Magnolias meets The Golden Girls in the hilarious and heartwarming comedy HALFWAY THERE, playing at The Public Theatre now through March 23.

Filled to the brim with humor, heart and romance, this delightful comedy about four lovable ladies who meet every day for coffee and a gab fest at a diner in Nova Scotia celebrates the unshakeable bonds of female friendship and is the perfect antidote to chase away the winter blues! For tickets visit thepublictheatre.org or call 782-3200.

LEWISTON, ME – Much may have changed in Lewiston since the city’s 90s punk era, but punk, rock, and post-punk are still alive and well in L/A. Not only is the music–and the ethos–still relevant to the original generation of area musicians, it’s inspiring their kids, too. In fact, they’ll even share a stage on Friday, March 21st when local headliners Mouth Washington play with area bands Art Car and Curfew at LA Arts’ gallery and performance space at 168 Lisbon St. Doors open at 7pm, music at 7:30. The general admission show has been curated for an all-ages audience to reflect the deep and living culture of the scene.

The show kicks off LA Arts’ stylistically eclectic Downstage Performance Series and will be the first plugged-in event on the organization’s brand new stage. Envisioned as a mixed-use community arts and culture space, the downtown art gallery may seem at first glance like an atypical venue for a punk show. But the event itself makes perfect sense to local musician, performance organizer, and LA Arts Board member Elijah True, whose production vision is behind the Downstage series and the makeup of the March 21st bill.

“Punk is deeply connected to art, culture, and political expression, often tackling nuanced or difficult topics,” says True. “Over the last two decades, opportunities for punk artists to perform in L/A have mostly been limited to a dwindling number of bars and unofficial DIY spaces. These opportunities are now virtually nonexistent. I think punk bands deserve a sustainable, above-board space to perform where they can remain appropriately connected to the arts and our community.”

Image: Event flyer for 3/21 Mouth Washington show with Art Car and Curfew

Details

· Mouth Washington with Art Car & Curfew at LA Arts

· Friday, March 21, 2025

· Doors: 7pm; Music: 7:30

· LA Arts, 168 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, ME · Tickets: $15 at laarts.org/performances

· General Admission, all ages

· Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase

LA Arts, the arts agency for the cities of Lewiston and Auburn Maine, has pursued a mission to engage and inspire a vibrant community through arts and culture since 1973. The agency works with governments, businesses, schools, and local arts and cultural organizations to create opportunities for community members across the generations to experience, learn, and participate in the arts. LA Arts organizes arts programs and initiatives, supports the work of local artists and arts organizations, and highlights the essential role the arts play in shaping an economically vital, socially integrated, and forward-looking future for its community. Learn more at www.laarts.org.

AUBURN, ME — The Auburn Public Library presents “A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” with Jon Waterman on Monday, March 24th at 5:30 PM. All are welcome to join for an engaging performance exploring the history of American popular music.

“A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music,” is a program of songs and stories about the origins of the blues, rock and country music presented by singer and songwriter Jon Waterman. In the show, Jon is joined by Li Waterman on bass. The program, which also features an accompanying slideshow, explores some of the fascinating characters and events that are part of the history and the role of music in our lives.

The performances have received enthusiastic reviews from those in attendance. Sarah Swifter, the Director of MAGMA in Gloucester, MA, where the program was presented in November of 2019 writes:

“A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” by Jon Waterman is a unique performance experience combining music history, storytelling, and original songs inspired by his research. Waterman successfully transforms fascinating tales from history into an evening-length performance that feels personal, contemporary, and politically relevant. A must see for anyone interested in American history or American music!” – Sarah Swifter, Director, MAGMA – Gloucester, MA (November, 2019)

This program is paid for by proceeds from the Lisa Giguere & Ralph Tuttle Endowment Fund. It will take place in the Androscoggin Community Room at the Auburn Public Library. Registration is not required.

For more information about this and other programs offered at the Auburn Public Library, visit their website at www.auburnpubliclibrary.org or call the Reference Desk at 207-333-6640, ext. 4

LEWISTON, ME — Central Maine Medical Center’s (CMMC) soon-to-be new neighbor is already making a positive impact.

cPort Credit Union is preparing to open its doors this fall at its Lewiston location on Main Street, directly across the street from CMMC. In a show of support for the hospital and its team members, cPort has generously given CMMC a $10,000 donation, reinforcing its commitment to community well-being, even before its official launch.

“We are excited to be partnering with Central Maine Medical Center,” said Gene Ardito, CEO of cPort Credit Union. “This collaboration represents an important milestone as we work together to better serve this region. We are particularly enthusiastic about being partners and neighbors, contributing to the strong sense of community in the Lewiston-Auburn area.” 

“This partnership with Central Maine Medical Center underscores our commitment to our community’s well-being by supporting both financial and physical health,” said Kelsey Marquis, President of cPort Credit Union. “Together, we can work towards ensuring a healthy future for all area residents.”

“We are grateful to cPort Credit Union for their generous $10,000 donation to support our Corporate Partnership Program,” said Lisa Lavallee, Development Director at Central Maine Healthcare. “This contribution will directly impact our ability to provide vital services and resources to our patients and team members. Their commitment to our mission strengthens our community and enables CMMC to continue delivering exceptional care.”

For more information on Central Maine Healthcare’s Corporate Partnership program, please contact System Director of Philanthropy Lisa LaVallee at 207-795-2685 or giving@cmhc.org.

Pictured left to right: Sophia Giancotti, Marketing Manager, cPort, Kelsey Marquis, President of cPort, Lisa Lavallee, System Director of Philanthropy, Central Maine Healthcare, Kara Johnson, Senior Vice President of Business and Community Development, Central Maine Healthcare, Dick Kropp, Chief People Officer, Central Maine Healthcare, Gene Ardito, CEO of cPort, Mandy Hill, Marketing and Communications Coordinator of cPort

AUBURN, ME—SeniorsPlus, the designated Agency on Aging for Western Maine, will hold a breakfast to benefit its Meals on Wheels nutrition program. The 2025 Fill the Plate Breakfast will be held from 7 to 9 a.m. Friday, March 21, at the Hilton Garden Inn Riverwatch in Auburn. The breakfast will honor Lewiston resident Margaret Craven with the 2025 Ikaria Award.

For the keynote, singer Julia Gagnon will give a talk titled The Music in My Veins. Tickets are $30 per person ($35 at the door) and are available at www.seniorsplus.org/march-for-meals or by calling 207-795-4010. Seats are limited and advance registration is recommended.

Margaret Craven will be the recipient of the 2025 Ikaria Award, which recognizes an individual or organization for singular and outstanding contributions toward improving the lives of older adults. A resident of Lewiston, Craven recently stepped down from the Maine State Legislature after serving in the House for nine years and the Senate for six. She holds a master’s degree in adult education from USM Gorham and an undergraduate degree in social sciences from USM.

In a talk titled “The Music in My Veins,” singer Julia Gagnon will reflect on her upbringing and the people who helped her carve a path from Cumberland, Maine, to the 22nd season of “American Idol.” Gagnon is a student at the University of Southern Maine.

Ikaria is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea. It is considered one of the world’s five “Blue Zones” – places where an estimated one in three members of the population regularly lives an active life into their 90s.

The Fill the Plate Breakfast is presented in conjunction with March for Meals, a national campaign of the Meals on Wheels America. The fundraiser is made possible by the support of major sponsor Andwell Health Partners and additional sponsors Northeast Bank, Vital I/O, AARP Maine, Berman & Simmons, and Richard Brothers Financial Advisors.

Last year, SeniorsPlus delivered 147,000 meals to more than 1,000 homebound older adults and adults with disabilities in Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties through its Meals on Wheels program.  Each meal provides one third of the recommended daily allowance of nutrition, a safety check, and a visit to these vulnerable adults. The majority of the clients of Meals on Wheels are lower income or on fixed income.

The overall program goal of SeniorsPlus is to assist older adults and adults with disabilities in our tri-county area to remain at home safely for as long as possible .The overwhelming majority of older adults (greater than 95% in an AARP survey) wish to remain at home until they die. The Meals on Wheels program provides nourishment, socialization and regular safety checks.

Since 1972, SeniorsPlus has been improving the lives of older adults and adults with disabilities. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for Western Maine, SeniorsPlus provides statewide services with an emphasis on Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties for core services (ie nutrition and information and assistance) that support independent living, healthy aging, and fight isolation. The mission of SeniorsPlus is to enrich the lives of older people and adults with disabilities, their families and communities, and to support them to make informed choices. SeniorsPlus envisions a future where all older adults and individuals with disabilities are engaged and respected while living quality, independent lives in the communities of their choice. Annually, SeniorsPlus serves 8,000 individuals and fields 101,000 phone inquiries. SeniorsPlus offers a network of support, including information and assistance, short-term care management, Medicare counseling, caregiver support and respite, health and wellness education, benefits counseling, and Meals on Wheels and congregate dining. 

Former Maine State Legislator Margaret Craven will be honored with the 2025 Ikaria Award on Friday, March 21 at the Fill the Plate Breakfast to benefit Meals on Wheels at SeniorsPlus.

LEWISTON, ME — Central Maine Healthcare is encouraging the communities it serves to remember the saying, “You are what you eat” throughout March, which is National Nutrition Month.

The theme for this year’s National Nutrition Month is “Food connects us.” Food is a beautiful way that we can connect with one another through culture and community, registered dietician nutritionists say.

Central Maine Healthcare, which includes Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC), Rumford Hospital, Bridgton Hospital and numerous practices, includes a team of registered dietitians that plays a critical role in helping patients and its own team members understand the connection between the food we eat and how it impacts our health throughout our lives.

“It’s no secret: healthy food choices are key to well-being and longevity,” said Sandy Collins, RDN, LDN, clinical dietitian, Central Maine Bariatric Surgery. “Some of the steps we can take to achieve this include dining out less, eating more plant foods and fiber, choosing whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread and sides such as quinoa and consuming healthy fats and lean protein. Regular physical activity can also make a big difference.”

Members of Central Maine Healthcare’s nutrition team are hosting information tables in the CMMC cafeteria in March to help spread the word about healthy food choices.

Central Maine Healthcare dieticians at CMMC nutrition information table

AUGUSTA, ME – The Central Western Maine Workforce Development Board (CWMWDB) is inviting local businesses and employer partners within Kennebec, Somerset, Franklin, Oxford, and Androscoggin counties to apply for transportation pilot program funding.

The transportation pilots will be created to help mitigate transportation as a barrier to the recruitment and retention of qualified employees. These pilots may include but are not limited to van pools, shuttles, e-bikes, or other viable solutions. CWMWDB will select up to nine projects with an allocation not to exceed $25,000 each.

“Any conversation about barriers to employment often brings up transportation,” explained Erin Benson, CWMWDB’s executive director. “Most areas of the central western Maine region are rural in nature with little access to public transportation. Recruiting and retaining employees who don’t have access to a vehicle or public transportation is a difficult task.”

CWMWDB will be partnering with GoMaine, an organization that assists employers and employees with commute options, and works with planning agencies, businesses, advocacy groups, and other partners to reduce barriers to transportation.

The pilot will help employers, groups of employers, or employer partners gauge the success of a program and find ways to keep it going beyond the life of the grant.

Applicants must submit a fillable application along with an excel file that lists the individual zip codes of all employees. GoMaine will use this information to create a map that identifies the scope of transportation needs. All materials must be submitted electronically to workforce@cwmwdb.org by April 15.

Information about the grant and a fillable application can be found at www.cwmwdb.org.

Maine CareerCenters and Maine Department of Labor are equal opportunity providers.

Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

LEWISTON, ME — The Woman’s Hospital Association (WHA) Rotating Art Gallery at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston is proud to display the paintings of Kate Cargile and Connie McVey during the month of March.

A local art teacher, interested in literature, history and visual culture studies, Cargile uses these aspects of her life to shape and inspire her artwork. She works in a variety of media, including painting, drawing, and printmaking with subject matter ranging from the beauty of the people, objects and places that make up her everyday life to fanciful ideas from myths, legends, tales and her imagination.

“A few years ago, I decided to bring the beautiful, intricate patterns of quilt fabrics into some of my paintings. I associate fabric remnants with memory: each scrap has associations that come flooding back as they are pieced together. I mix these fabric-inspired patterns with diverse visual elements from my life, and combine them in a non-specific space saturated with color. While the resulting paintings have clear narratives for me I wanted viewers to be able to put their own stories into these paintings”.

Retiring after 40 years working in the field of commercial art, McVey moved to Auburn where she expanded her art studio time to include more paintings of Maine’s scenic vista. She finished her art education with a BFA in 2012 from the University of Southern Maine in Gorham. Presently working at her Pond Lily Art Studio, she has exhibited her work at the Main St. Art Gallery and the Matolcsy Arts Center in Norway, the Greenwood Gallery in Auburn and at many local art fairs.

The works on display may be purchased through the WHA Gift Shop located adjacent to the main lobby at Central Maine Medical Center. A percentage of sale proceeds benefits patients of CMMC.

 “Tree Logic” by Kate Cargile (photo supplied by artist)

LEWISTON, ME — From the author of Lunenberg and The Ladies Foursome, comes HALFWAY THERE, a hilarious and heartwarming comedy about the unshakeable bonds of female friendship playing March 14 – 23 at The Public Theatre.

Imagine Steel Magnolias meets And Just Like That when four lovable ladies meet every day for coffee and a gab fest at a local diner in Stewiacke, Nova Scotia. A bit of change is inspired in everyone’s life when a handsome new doctor takes an interest in the youngest of the women and her three wise-cracking friends decide to offer their advice. Filled to the brim with humor, heart and romance, grab your best friend or sweetheart and treat yourself to a great night out!

As the most produced playwright in Canada, Norm Foster is often referred to as the “Canadian Neil Simon” for the delightful way he finds humor in all situations. “The great thing about this show is the way it celebrates both the strength and vulnerability of women and showcases the power of friendship”, say Artistic Director Janet Mitchko. “Aside from Norm Foster’s delicious sense of humor, I think his true success comes from how easy it is to recognize yourself or someone you know in every character he creates”.

HALFWAY THERE March 14 – 23 at The Public Theatre, Lewiston/Auburn’s Professional Theatre, 31 Maple St, Lewiston. For tickets and more information visit ThePublicTheatre.org or call 782-3200.

Sponsored by Auburn Manufacturing, Lee Auto Malls, Schooner Estates, Twin City Times, Bennett Radio Group, Sun Journal, and Platz Associates.

LEWISTON, ME – The Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the Maine B2B Trade Show, returning on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM at the Norway Savings Bank Arena in Auburn, Maine. This highly anticipated event is designed to connect businesses across the state and New England, fostering new opportunities, partnerships, and industry growth.

Formerly organized by Dow Media, the event has now transitioned fully under the leadership of the LA Metro Chamber, ensuring its continued impact and expansion. The Maine B2B Trade Show is one of the largest business networking events in the state, drawing hundreds of professionals eager to showcase their products, services, and innovations.

This year, the LA Metro Chamber is honored to have Maine Community Bank as the Presenting Sponsor. Their support enhances the reach and impact of the event, providing businesses with greater opportunities for visibility and connection.

The streamlined, single-day format allows businesses to make the most of their time, with vendor setup beginning at 8:00 AM and the show opening at 11:00 AM. Attendees will experience unparalleled networking opportunities, engaging activities such as mini learning sessions throughout the day, and the chance to exhibit their brand, generate leads, and explore new collaborations. The event will conclude with a cocktail hour at 4:30 PM, providing a relaxed atmosphere for further networking and business discussions.

Businesses looking to maximize their presence at the show can secure single or double booths. Booth options include standard 10’x10’ spaces with tables, chairs, and electricity, while double booths offer expanded 10’x20’ spaces for increased exposure. Locked location booths provide guaranteed premium placement on a first-come, first-served basis. The deadline to reserve a booth is Friday, March 7th, 2025.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available, offering prime visibility and branding benefits.

For more information, booth registration, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit the event site, LAMetroCC.com/MaineB2B or contact Katie Palmer, Director of Events at Katie@LAMetroChamber.com

About the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce:

The Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting and promoting the business community in Androscoggin County. Through advocacy, networking, and resources, the Chamber works to foster a thriving economic environment for businesses of all sizes. As an engine for economic vitality and enhanced quality of life, the Chamber challenges business and community to build, lead, and thrive.