Meet a Peaks Island artist and his ‘Wicked’ work
Douglas Smith illustrated the original ‘Wicked’ novel in 1995 and has done new art for a special edition timed to the release of the movie ‘Wicked: For Good.’
RELATED COVERAGE
Artist’s chisel transforms stump outside Peaks Island cafe into an octopus
A strong storm that hit the island nearly 3 years ago blew many trees to the ground. Doug Smith saw one stump that was left behind as an opportunity.
Will new health fund help Maine’s rural hospitals stay open? Experts say it’s unclear
Upcoming Medicaid cuts from the Republican budget bill passed over the summer threaten the financial health of rural hospitals.
Angus King gets heat from Democrats for role in ending the federal shutdown
Maine’s junior senator and former two-term governor, who often polls as the state’s most popular politician, is in an unfamiliar spot.
Federal CDL change leaves Maine’s immigrant drivers — and employers — in limbo
New restrictions have led to a scramble at Greater Portland Metro, which halted a training program coordinated by Portland Adult Education and said more than 10% of its drivers are at risk of losing their commercial licenses.
How Bowdoin College came to mirror the country’s national free speech debate
Student protests, threats and intense federal scrutiny are changing how college students and professors in Maine and across the country talk about politics.
Which other Democrats might get in Maine’s 2nd District race?
One new candidate, Jordan Wood, has already announced a 2nd District run since U.S. Rep. Jared Golden dropped out of the race last week. State Sen. Joe Baldacci of Bangor confirmed he’s considering a run, too.
Portland moves toward new life for vacant Bayside lots
The city is seeking a broker to help sell about 3.25 acres of land it repurchased after a failed housing development.
LESLIE BRIDGERS
If society collapses, Maine isn’t a bad place to be | Column
Our resourceful, community-minded and highly skilled residents step up in times of need, whether there are zombies or not.
THE LATEST
LIFE & CULTURE
Where to buy Maine-made sweet treats for the holidays
Let Maine’s best bakers and confectioners take some stress out of the season for you.
Is Maine an at-will employment state? | Fact brief
Employers in most U.S. states are allowed to fire workers for any reason that’s not specifically prohibited by law or a contract.
Historical photos show Maine’s love for soccer
The sport has been popular in Maine for decades.
OPINION
The Portland Dirt is a zine you might keep seeing around | Column
The year-old publication, styled after newspapers, has been amassing a following through copies placed in businesses throughout the city.
Let’s get Maine to work on the common ground | Angus King III
Although Mainers may disagree on roughly 90% of things, we can find important consensus on the small remainder.
LOCAL & STATE
Meet a Peaks Island artist and his ‘Wicked’ work Copy
Douglas Smith illustrated the original ‘Wicked’ novel in 1995 and has done new art for a special edition timed to the release of the movie ‘Wicked: For Good.’
Taj in South Portland sets up refrigerator for free meals
The Indian restaurant has been a hospitality industry restaurant leader in the fight against food insecurity.
Asian House Kitchen & Bar opening in South Portland
The same owners operate Asian House in Old Orchard Beach.
New polls paint conflicting pictures of Maine’s U.S. Senate race
One survey shows political newcomer Graham Platner leading both Gov. Janet Mills and Sen. Susan Collins, while another projects that Collins would easily beat Platner in the 2026 general election.
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OUR EDITORS’ PICKS
Bill to end shutdown would sweep popular THC drinks from Maine shelves
Federal lawmakers are attempting to close the so-called ‘hemp loophole’ that allows some THC-infused products to be sold at convenience stores and restaurants.
Angus King’s son won’t join chorus of Democratic candidates criticizing shutdown compromise
While many Maine Democrats have been forceful in opposing the plan the independent senator helped negotiate, his son, Angus King III, a 2026 candidate for governor, issued a milder statement saying he has ‘had enough’ of the shutdown.
Maine Sens. Angus King, Susan Collins played key roles in crafting a deal to break the impasse
The Senate passed the legislation late Monday night, likely leading to the end of the longest shutdown in U.S. history with a few days.
Golden’s decision to not seek reelection complicates Democrats’ 2026 plans
The announcement by Maine’s 2nd District congressman that he won’t seek a fifth term is likely to give a boost to Republican Paul LePage, although 2026 is also expected to be a good year for Democrats.
More Maine school districts align with Trump’s transgender policy, defying state law
Even as state law and updated federal guidance from the Trump administration over transgender students are in conflict, a conservative group is helping districts change their policies.
TODAY’S LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Support Graham Platner as a next-generation leader for Maine | Letter
I believe Graham Platner. I believe that he got that tattoo on a drunken Marine spree 20 years ago, not knowing its Nazi implications. Should this forever brand him as a Nazi sympathizer? His story of moving from a bad place to a much better place is important for many disaffected, unmoored young adults, particularly young men. I believe…
Janet Mills is the best choice for Senate | Letter
Our goal this next year is to replace Susan Collins with a capable person who can make a difference ASAP. Looking for a principled, well-qualified, experienced candidate with good name recognition, Sen. Schumer contacted Gov. Mills. Of course. Disparaging her candidacy based on her age is not fair. Age is an aspect of life we/she…
Sen. King has sold us out again | Letter
Sen. Angus King has sold us out — again. He doesn’t learn from experience. In March, King voted with Republicans to keep the government open, touting it would stop Trump administration abuses. We know how that worked out: in the tearing down of the White House, the building up of foreign dictators and in Americans…
business
Bill to end shutdown would sweep popular THC drinks from Maine shelves
Federal lawmakers are attempting to close the so-called ‘hemp loophole’ that allows some THC-infused products to be sold at convenience stores and restaurants.
Maine will resettle only 50 refugees this year, all white South Africans
Reductions by the Trump administration continue after Maine was allowed to resettle about half of the 950 refugees allocated last year.
Roughly 150 workers laid off as Woodland Pulp faces temporary shutdown
The downsizing reflects a global drop in demand for hardwood pulp.
Maine travelers anxious over nationwide flight cancellations
At Portland International Jetport, at least 96% of flights are connected to 15 major airports directly impacted by FAA-required cancellations.
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Things to Do
13 Maine sports bars where you can catch the big game
Find places to watch with friends and have a beer and a bite in Portland, Falmouth, Brunswick, Lewiston-Auburn, Waterville and Winslow.
7 Maine events this week include a Taylor Swift tribute and a craft fair for geeks
Also, see the Soweto Gospel Choir in Portland.
Historical photos show Maine’s Thanksgiving generosity
Mainers have been helping each other with food donations in tough times for decades.
6 Maine events this week include holiday cheer – and vampires
Catch ‘Twilight’ in Concert at Merrill Auditorium.
Maine musicians contribute to Palestinian relief album
The album ‘Songs of Hope for Gaza’ is available on Bandcamp.
our Events
Watch: Maine Voices Live with Ana Inciardi
Meet the artist behind the $1 mini print vending machines popping up across the nation. Join us Tuesday, October 21 at 7 p.m. as reporter Megan Gray…
Maine Voices Live with Rebecca Corbett
Rebecca Corbett, Senior Editor at The New York Times, has guided Pulitzer Prize–winning investigations that exposed workplace harassment, sparking national conversations and the #MeToo movement. She will discuss her career in journalism on Tuesday, November 4, at 7 p.m. at One Longfellow Square.
2025 Kennebec Journal Readers’ Choice Awards Ceremony
Celebrate the best of Kennebec County at the 2025 Kennebec Journal Readers’ Choice Awards on Wednesday, November 12 at the Augusta Elks Lodge. From favorite dining spots to top shops and entertainment, discover the winners chosen by our community.
Maine Voices Live with Dr. Tim Pieh
When every second counts, who answers the call? Dr. Tim Pieh takes state of the art medical care to country roads, redefining what emergency medicine looks like. Join us on December 16 for an inside look at Maine’s MD3 program and the future of frontline medicine.
2025 Greater Franklin County Readers’ Choice Ceremony
On October 2, we celebrated the 2025 Greater Franklin County Readers’ Choice winners, recognizing the best in dining, shopping, and more across Franklin County, Livermore Falls, and Livermore.
Varsity Maine
Five Maine high school football storylines to follow in Week 11
Two Gold Balls will be awarded in the eight-man ranks, while 11-man teams battle for berths in state title game.
No. 1 Westbrook football looking to reach school’s first title game
The Blue Blazes will have to beat B South blueblood Kennebunk, which is gunning for its third straight championship game appearance.
For Spruce Mountain football, old rivalries take back seat to team building
The Phoenix prepare for their first football championship game since Jay and Livermore Falls merged in 2011.
Final Varsity Maine field hockey poll of 2025 has first unanimous No. 1
Cheverus finally convinces all of the voters of its bona fides.
more Sports
Rob Gronkowski says signing 1-day deal to retire as a Patriot was a ‘no-brainer’
Rob Gronkowski retires as a member of the team he won three Super Bowls with during his 11-year NFL career..
Kayakers steal away to Thief Island near Bristol
Muscongus Bay in the Midcoast area offers some of the most challenging and intriguing sea kayaking on the Maine coast. A significant attraction is a myriad of islands that populate the bay. Located in the west central sector of the bay, remote Thief Island is one of the most interesting and scenic. I stopped at…
Maine women’s basketball falls to NC State
Adrianna Smith has a double-double but the Black Bears fall to 0-2 with a loss to the Wolfpack.
Familiar No. 1 in final Varsity Maine boys soccer poll of 2025
Scarborough ends season as the unanimous No. 1 team.
Food
Everything but the bird for your Thanksgiving feast
The holiday menu is probably the most traditional on the American calendar. In that spirit, we reprise some favorite recipes.
A copycat Dole Whip recipe brings the Disney magic home
All you need is a blender and a few ingredients to re-create Dole Whip, a Disney theme parks favorite, in your own kitchen.
Mexican mole is a meal all on its own
An easy and essential recipe from Rick Martínez’s cookbook ‘Salsa Daddy.’
East Bayside’s Orange Bike Brewing holding food drives
The collections are part of a three-day anniversary event.
At ZA pizzeria in Portland, fusion is fun but basics are better
The Preble Street restaurant establishes itself among the city’s tastiest pizzas.
Politics
Recount confirms Ramona Thieme as Brunswick Council winner
The newcomer won the District 6 Town Council race over incumbent Nathaniel Shed by 2 votes, according to results of a hand count on Wednesday.
Kennebunk senator will not seek reelection in 2026
Joe Rafferty endorses Rep. Daniel Sayre, who announces he will run for the District 34 seat.
Maine Senate candidate Jordan Wood dropping out to run for 2nd District seat
Wood said he made the decision after learning Rep. Jared Golden won’t seek reelection, and said he believes the resources of his campaign would be better spent in the 2nd District.
Angus King’s son won’t join chorus of Democratic candidates criticizing shutdown compromise
While many Maine Democrats have been forceful in opposing the plan the independent senator helped negotiate, his son, Angus King III, a 2026 candidate for governor, issued a milder statement saying he has ‘had enough’ of the shutdown.
What Democratic wins last week tell us about Maine’s U.S. Senate race
Progressives and moderates both have cases to make as they battle for the party’s identity.
opinion
Don’t let the door hit you on the way out, Jared Golden | Douglas Rooks
Our 2nd District congressman has made himself a man without a party. There could have been a different path.
Peer support transforms recovery for Mainers | Opinion
When it comes to restoring mental health and coming back from substance use, there’s no denying the power of lived experience. A new center in Brunswick further brings that to life.
America needs to re-learn the blessings of liberty — and the workings behind them | Opinion
A people that no longer understands how its government is meant to operate cannot tell when it has been hijacked.
Fisheries leaders should be looking out for Maine’s little guys | Opinion
We create thousands more jobs and billions more in economic benefits than one single foreign-controlled fish meal company ever will.
Latest Midcoast Area News
‘Re|Sounding’ exhibition in Bath highlights Indigenous, Black histories
Maine Maritime Museum is giving voice to the Indigenous and Black communities in an upcoming living exhibition connecting history with the present.
Midcoast emergency agency adds crisis canine, thermal drone
The Sagadahoc County Emergency Management Agency says the drone and dog will help it respond to emergencies in the region.
Renovate or close? SAD 75 seeks feedback on long-term options for Harpswell’s only public school.
The third and final public forum to gather residents’ feedback is scheduled for 6 p.m. Nov. 17 at Mt. Ararat High School.
City of Portland News
Westbrook breaks ground on workforce housing project
Gov. Janet Mills was on hand for the ceremony Wednesday, Nov. 12.
Southern Maine’s first snowfall of the season arrives — barely
A light sprinkling arrived in Greater Portland on Veterans Day, though it didn’t stick, while a stronger snow shower near Lewiston briefly prompted a reduced speed limit on the Maine Turnpike.
Peer into the creative process with a tour of Falmouth artists’ studios
The Falmouth Open Studio Tour will run on Nov. 15 and feature 8 local artists in their home studios.
Biddeford, Saco, OOB News
Newly elected Saco councilor hopes to address economic development, housing
Jeffrey Onnen was elected in Ward 4 last week.
Saco author hopes to inspire readers to turn compassion into action
Born in Kenya to Maine parents, Sarah Petrin has spent her life giving back. Now, she hopes to inspire others to do the same.
Lisbon appoints retired local town manager as it searches for permanent candidate
James ‘Jim’ Bennett is from Lisbon and recently returned there after retiring earlier this year.
Cumberland, Falmouth & Yarmouth
Falmouth undertakes bank stabilization project on Old Mill Road
The town is funding the design of the project because the road is used to access a pump station.
Climate change theater inspires audience in Freeport
Six plays performed outside spoke of oysters, orcas and opportunities to combat climate change.
Maine doctor heals military special forces members with spine surgeries
Dr. Lynn McGrath of Mercy Hospital volunteers with Return to Duty, which helps active duty or retired special forces members access less-invasive spine surgeries.
Lakes Region News
Town plans to move Public Works into South Casco fire station
The move will provide the growing department more space and is expected to be completed by the end of November.
Casco Open Space Commission invites ideas
The commission held an open house to gather feedback from residents about improving and expanding the town’s open spaces like parks and trails, hoping to present its plan next year.
Elderly couple in Gray recovers $19,500 from online fraud
Scammers convinced the couple they needed to return money that was supposedly deposited into their account by accident, police said.
Scarborough, South Portland, & Cape Elizabeth News
South Portland’s crosstown connector effectively killed
The proposed new roadway would cost at least $26.45 million.
Portland joins lawsuit over PFAS-laden firefighting foam at jetport
The City Council voted unanimously Monday night to pursue legal action against developers of so-called forever chemicals amid concern that federally mandated fire-suppressing foam may have contaminated soil and groundwater around the airport.
Scarborough on track to become a ‘Tree City’
The Town Council approved a tree care ordinance, one of the criteria for Tree City USA.