Air conditioning has long been considered unnecessary – even luxurious – for many Mainers. But as summers get hotter, the need for cool, dry homes is creating converts.
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 inArts & Entertainment, Business, Maine, News
Maine actors say strike is about getting streaming services to play fair
Most union actors rely on residual pay from past work, but streaming services use a different payment model than the one broadcast networks have long used.
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Posted inBusiness, Maine
Union workers at Westbrook paper mill get raises, bonus
Union leaders at the Sappi mill say the new contract includes 3% raises and a $3,800 bonus, plus other changes.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Books
Third ‘Fool’ novel helps author Richard Russo hold on to his father
‘Somebody’s Fool’ is part of a series that began some 30 years ago and focused on a character based on the Portland author’s father. It goes on sale Tuesday.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Maine
The master of mastering albums, Portland’s Bob Ludwig is retiring after 50 years and 13 Grammys
A mastering engineer, he has worked with hundreds of stars, including Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, Mumford & Sons and Mariah Carey.
Posted inDo This
How to make every minute count at the Yarmouth Clam Festival
One of Maine’s signature summer events opens Friday, and you’ll have no trouble finding lots to see and do the whole time you’re there, no matter how short or long your stay.
Posted inDo This, Food
Eat & Run: Gai on Fried serves up Sunday chicken dinner
Gai on Fried is the Sunday-only menu at Ruby Thailand on Cottage Road in South Portland, with a focus on Thai fried chicken.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Maine
Maine author plays key role in new Rock Hudson documentary
The HBO film ‘Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed’ relies heavily on research by Mark Griffin of Lewiston.
Posted inCops & Courts, Maine
Fight with stranger led to teen’s shooting in Naples on July Fourth, mother says
Shauna Palanza says her son Tyler Fusco came to a friend’s aid moments before the attack. She believes that the suspect should be charged with attempted murder.
Posted inDo This
Maine’s fair season is just heating up. Here’s where to go
Plus, tons of other organized family fun, including food-centric festivals and community celebrations.