Maine citizen initiative to restrict transgender student-athletes moves to legislature

The Maine secretary of State’s office validated signatures for a citizen initiative petition effort that would restrict transgender student-athletes from playing on sports teams that align their gender identity.

‘Protect Girls Sports in Maine’ accumulated more than 82,000 signatures with more than 71,000 being validated by the Secretary of State’s office.

WABI news reports the bill that would reflect the petition ‘An Act to Designate School Sports Participation Facilities by Sex’ would require all Maine schools to designate sports teams, bathrooms and locker rooms by a student’s assigned gender at birth.

The initiative now goes to the legislature for consideration.

https://www.wabi.tv/2026/03/17/maine-citizen-initiative-restrict-transgender-student-athletes-heads-legislature/

Hancock County probate judge turns himself in for past due child support

Tuesday morning William B. Blaisdell IV turned himself in on an arrest warrant after he failed to appear in court for overdue child support.

The Hancock County probate judge posted $16,929.50 bail and was later released.

The Bangor Daily News reports after he failed to appear before a judge in Belfast an arrest warrant was issued given the fact that it’s not the first time he had fallen behind on child support payments.

https://www.bangordailynews.com/2026/03/17/hancock/hancock-police-courts/hancock-county-probate-judge-arrested-child-support/

Judge reduces bail for woman charged in grandson’s death

A woman accused of killing her 10-year-old grandson in Bangor appeared before a judge Tuesday morning.

A Penobscot County judge ruled on a $100,000 cash bail for Mistie Lautorette in the killing of 10-year-old Braxtyn Smith.

WABI news reports her attorney believes there’s little evidence that Lautorette played a part in Smith’s death after alleged abuse was discovered.

Just last month Smith’s mother who was also charged pleaded guilty to manslaughter and his father Joshua Smith is charged with murder in the case.

Lautorette remains at Penobscot County jail.

https://www.wabi.tv/2026/03/17/judge-reduces-bail-bangor-grandmother-charged-10-year-old-grandsons-death/

Free physical therapy screening event

Husson University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is collaborating with the Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center for a free physical therapy screening.

Happening on April 3, community members will get the chance to get individualized screenings and education.

Each screening will take about 45 minutes with students in the program who are advised by licensed physical therapists followed by a 20-minute movement session designed to be safe, accessible and enjoyable for all ability levels.

To register you can call 207-664-0339.

The Grand auditions for ‘Make Way for Ducklings the Musical’

Have you ever wanted to put your singing skills to the test in theater?

If so, now is the time to prepare for auditions at The Grand.

Auditions for ‘Make Way for Ducklings: The Musical’ will be held on Tuesday March 31 at 6 p.m on the Stanley Subaru Stage.

Performances are scheduled for May 21 and 22 including two school performances at 10 a.m. on both days.

This is based on the beloved 1941 children’s book and the musical follows a family of ducks navigating life in Boston with themes of responsibility, cooperation and growth.

https://yourgrand.org/auditions

Dancing with the Ellsworth Stars returns

If you want to check out local stars and talented dancers you won’t want to miss ‘Dancing with the Ellsworth Stars’ on May 16!

Back by popular demand the event will be hosted by our very own Paul Dupuis as you check out phenomenal entertainment by community leaders.

Each team will perform two contrasting dances, showcasing elegance, rhythm, and plenty of personality.

The best part is that it’s a fundraiser event to support The Grand!

Snag your ticket right now by following the link below!

https://yourgrand.org/dwes-2026