Julia Gagnon, a senior at the University of Southern Maine, wanted to be on the internationally televised talent show as a way of sharing something with her birth mother in Guatemala. She’ll make her first appearance Sunday.
Ray Routhier
Staff Writer
Ray Routhier has written about pop culture, movies, TV, music and lifestyle trends for the Portland Press Herald since 1993. He is continually fascinated with stories that show the unique character of Maine’s people and places. He’s written about why so many businesses use the made-up word “Mainely” in their names, how you can trace Portland’s history through its various smells and why Mainers lament the loss of Portland-made B&M baked beans. He’s interviewed a wide variety of filmmakers, actors, musicians and authors, including Patrick Dempsey, Tony Shalhoub, Richard Russo, Tess Gerritsen, Tony Bennett, Anna Kendrick, and Stephen King. His passions, besides writing, include baseball history, old movies and “Jeopardy!” A native of Manchester, New Hampshire, he graduated with a degree in political science from the University of New Hampshire. He lives in South Portland with his wife and two children.
Posted inFood, Things to Do
Go on a search for syrup (and find a lot more) over Maine Maple Sunday Weekend
More than 100 sugarhouses and farms all over the state are participating in the 41st annual event, offering syrupy treats and barnyard fun Saturday and Sunday.
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Posted inFood, Things to Do
What does a Maine maple farmer put his syrup on? His answer’s short and sweet
Lyle Merrifield, the president of the Maine Maple Producers Association, answers five questions in advance of the annual Maine Maple Sunday weekend.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
In the bleachers, in a tub or in the woods, here’s where Mainers read
The new book ‘Where Maine Reads’ features photos of 50 Mainers in their favorite reading spots, along with essays on what reading means to them.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Maine-based podcast ‘Dark Downeast’ is helping keep cold cases alive
Kylie Low, a former morning host on Portland radio station WJBQ, has been writing and hosting the podcast since 2020, with a focus on helping families of victims.
Posted inFood, Things to Do
For Maine Restaurant Week, pick a dining or driving destination and go out
There are more than 70 restaurants statewide offering deals during the event, which starts Friday and runs through March 12.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Business, Maine
Bridge over bottled water? Hannaford shoppers sing praises for new in-store music
An employee survey led the Hannaford supermarket chain to revamp its music selection.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Portland Camera Club still clicking after 125 years
An exhibit of members’ photos over the years will be on view March 1-31 at the Portland Public Library.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Maine
Actor Gabriel Byrne, living in Midcoast, lends voice to domestic abuse awareness fundraiser
Byrne will appear March 9 at a fundraiser for Finding Our Voices at the Camden Opera House, which includes a screening of ‘The Usual Suspects.’
Posted inMaine, Maine Crime
Police search for at least 4 suspects who fled after Saco shooting and crash
Area schools were locked down in the afternoon, and a shelter-in-place order remained in effect until early Friday night.