Kirshbaum wanted to continue working at home because of health concerns related to COVID-19. She says she was fired by Portland Radio Group, but the company calls it a layoff and says she might be brought back.
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.
Portland cancels annual Fourth of July celebration
City officials cited continued COVID-19 rules against large gatherings and budget issues.
With movie theaters closed, a spot at the drive-in is a hot ticket
Outdoor movies will start showing at 4 Maine drive-ins this week and some are already sold out, with people eager for their first out-of-the-house entertainment in 2 months.
Some Maine summer camps won’t open this season, while others wait for guidance
The coronavirus pandemic has already caused overnight, day and rec camps around Maine to cancel summer sessions, while others hope they can open.
There’s a lot on TV that’s totally free, if you know where to look
Short on cash but long on time? Now’s a good time to discover what’s free on TV, from streaming services to more than two dozen over-the-air channels.
With help from his home state, Maine native brings icy thriller to the big stream
Shot last winter around the Bethel and Rumford areas, ‘Blood and Money,’ starring Tom Berenger, will be on cable and streaming services Friday.
Uncle Andy’s Diner to close after 66 years in South Portland
Owner Dennis Fogg says takeout business hasn’t been enough to keep the diner afloat, and he’ll close it for good at the end of May.
WGAN weekend host John McDonald fired after 25 years
McDonald, 75, is the second longtime host the AM station has released in the past month.
New TV show on Maine Public aims to help remote learners
‘The Learning Space,’ featuring lessons from Maine teachers, is airing weekdays at 12:30 p.m.
Lack of clarity about mask-wearing causing a face-off
People’s decisions to wear or not wear a face covering during the COVID-19 pandemic has created anger and defiance in some, but a feeling of solidarity in others.