Maine’s beloved fall fairs have been canceled, so here are some ideas on how to replicate the experience at home.
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.
New movies, and safety protocols, are coming to a Maine theater near you
Several more Maine movie theaters, including Cinemagic and Regal locations and the Nickelodeon in Portland, plan to reopen Friday.
Keep your distance at these alternative tourist attractions
Skip the super busy spots and hit the landmarks less traveled.
Going home to a papermaking past, Maine native embarks on a deeply personal journey
Kerri Arsenault, who grew up in Rumford-Mexico, draws attention to a Faustian bargain with her investigative memoir.
License plates, pet names and maybe babies will be lasting reminders of pandemic
Some people are naming pets to recall the joy they’ve brought during a dark time, others have vanity plates that show frustration, and we all might be seeing babies with names like Hope and Patience soon.
Run & Eat: Prepare yourself, or let Solo Cucina Market do it for you
The new South Portland market offers a creative selection of panini sandwiches or the ingredients to make your own.
Farms bring the fun, from just far enough away
Maine farms use their outdoor spaces to offer socially distanced activities.
Maine native a handy man to have around Hollywood
Buxton native Jeff Davis has been living his dream in Hollywood for nearly 30 years, playing character roles in a wide variety of TV shows and films while also working as a home repairman to the stars.
New York to investigate concert featuring Maine musician for social-distancing violations
The charity show on Saturday featured Freeport native Drew Taggart, half of the pop duo The Chainsmokers.
Find bliss at a Maine swimming hole
Go a little off the beaten path to take a dip in one of Maine’s lesser-known swimming spots in area rivers, streams and lakes.