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    "entity": {
        "id": "business:1492",
        "type": "LocalBusiness",
        "name": "Portland, Maine Elks Lodge #188",
        "description": "Portland Elks Lodge #188 on Congress St offers banquet hall rentals, in-house catering, and community events in Portland, ME since 1888.",
        "url": "https://portland-me-188.elks.club",
        "telephone": "(207) 773-7396",
        "address": "1945 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102, USA",
        "city": "Portland",
        "state": "ME",
        "geo": {
            "lat": 43.6540978,
            "lng": -70.3191317
        },
        "niche": "banquet_hall",
        "category": "",
        "rating": 4.3,
        "review_count": 139,
        "hours": [
            "Monday: Closed",
            "Tuesday: Closed",
            "Wednesday: 3:00\u2009\u2013\u20098:00\u202fPM",
            "Thursday: Closed",
            "Friday: 3:00\u2009\u2013\u200911:00\u202fPM",
            "Saturday: Closed",
            "Sunday: Closed"
        ]
    },
    "services": [],
    "services_text": "The Lodge offers a full-service banquet hall that seats groups large and small, with in-house catering that reviewers consistently describe as solid and satisfying. From passed appetizers to plated dinners and dessert spreads, the kitchen delivers crowd-pleasing food without the chaos of coordinating outside vendors.\n\nEvent venue rentals are available for celebrations of life, retirement parties, wedding receptions, civic meetings, and corporate gatherings. The staff handles setup and staffing so hosts can focus on their guests. Drinks are poured well, the space is flexible, and the team\u2026",
    "areas_served": [
        "Portland, ME"
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    "faqs": [
        {
            "question": "Can non-members rent the Lodge for private events?",
            "answer": "Yes. The Lodge welcomes non-member event rentals for occasions such as celebrations of life, retirement parties, receptions, and civic gatherings. Contact the Lodge through portlandelks188.org to discuss availability and pricing."
        },
        {
            "question": "Does the Lodge provide catering, or do we bring outside food?",
            "answer": "Lodge #188 has an in-house kitchen and bar team that handles catering for events held on the premises. This covers food, desserts, and drinks, so you typically won't need to coordinate outside vendors."
        },
        {
            "question": "How do I become a member of Portland Elks Lodge #188?",
            "answer": "Membership in the Elks is open to U.S. citizens who believe in God. You can start the process by visiting portlandelks188.org or attending an event at the Lodge to connect with current members who can sponsor your application."
        },
        {
            "question": "Where exactly is the Lodge located?",
            "answer": "The Lodge is at 1945 Congress Street in Portland, Maine 04102. Congress Street is one of Portland's main corridors, making the Lodge accessible from most parts of the city."
        },
        {
            "question": "Is the Lodge suitable for sensitive events like a celebration of life?",
            "answer": "Absolutely. Reviewers have specifically highlighted the Lodge's respectful, dignified staff and quality food when sharing their experience hosting a celebration of life here. The team is experienced with events that carry emotional weight."
        },
        {
            "question": "What is the Lodge's role in the community beyond hosting events?",
            "answer": "As a chapter of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Lodge #188 supports veterans' programs, awards youth scholarships, and participates in charitable initiatives across Greater Portland. Event and membership revenue helps fund these efforts."
        },
        {
            "question": "How far in advance should I book the venue?",
            "answer": "The Lodge is a popular venue for community and private events, so booking several weeks to a few months in advance is advisable, especially for weekend dates. Reach out through portlandelks188.org to check availability."
        }
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        "website": "https://portland-me-188.elks.club",
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