Rice, who was most recently on staff with the American Journal, covering the city of Westbrook for Current Publishing, is a graduate of the University of Southern Maine. He holds a bachelor’s degree in media studies, with a concentration in journalism.

Prior to his work with the American Journal, he was a staff reporter with the Weekly Observer, covering Sanford.

While at the American Journal, Rice covered Westbrook taxpayers’ passionate call for a construction moratorium designed to slow development of a proposed 303-unit market rate apartment project and another 96-condo unit development until town officials could reconsider the municipal comprehensive plan. Many residents, along with public officials, felt development was moving faster than planners could sort out traffic, infrastructure and school expansion projects to accommodate the rapid growth.

He also covered the criminal case of Westbrook’s former tax collector who was convicted of embezzling $118,000 in cash deposits from taxpayers, along with issues of public housing, economic development, spending, politics and breaking news.

Sun Journal Executive Editor Judith Meyer said, “Andrew brings a strong background of covering municipal government to Lewiston and Auburn. He’s well-versed with social media and ready to deliver relevant, local news to our growing mobile audience.”

Rice writes a regular column for Maine Women Magazine, bringing his perspective as a new father to issues posed to him by women in “Ask Andrew.” He is also a regular contributor to other Sun Media publications, including My Generation and 95 North.

He lives in Portland with his wife and daughter.