After thousands of interviews, Sarah Sherman McGrail self-publishes a two-volume set honoring those who served in Korea and Vietnam. And this Memorial Day weekend, she’ll welcome them home with a USO-style party.
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.
MPBN adds Portland station to its new classical music network
The new station will be heard on 104.1 FM and should be operating by Wednesday.
MPBN to launch separate classical music radio service in May
The new Maine Public Classical service is aimed at satisfying both niche listeners and those who want more news and information on Maine Public Radio.
Meteorologist Joe Cupo retiring from WCSH after 37 years
Cupo, who came to Channel 6 in 1979, is one of Maine’s best-known TV weathercasters.
Student in pro-Trump hat sets off taunting, dialogue at South Portland High
Sophomore Connor Mullen expected classmates to hassle him, but when staff members joined in he decided to defend his free-speech rights.
Maine College of Art, Salt Institute may announce merger next week
After more than eight months of discussions, the plan may become a reality Tuesday with the announcement of a union of ‘two of Maine’s landmark educational institutions.’
New Sharon native Devin Ferreira encourages Boston Marathon runners with original song, ‘Unstoppable’
Boston TV station WBZ is using the song to promote its coverage of the race.
Rick Pinette of Maine-based rock band Oak dies at 63
The band’s biggest hit, ‘King of the Hill,, reached 36 on the Billboard singles chart in 1980.
Actress Anna Kendrick to fund 31 classroom projects in Maine
The donation by the Portland native is announced by online education charity DonorsChoose.org.
Filming underway in Maine for Tess Gerritsen’s horror movie ‘Island Zero’
The film is directed by the author’s son, Josh Gerritsen, and features veteran actress Laila Robins of the Showtime TV series ‘Homeland.’