Police were unjustified in issuing a cease harassment notice over critical social media posts at the request of a city councilor’s spouse, an investigator found.
Kelley Bouchard
Staff Writer
Kelley writes about some of the most critical aspects of Maine’s economy and future growth, including transportation, immigration, retail and small business, commercial development and tourism, with emphasis on consumer issues, sustainability and minority ownership. Her wider experience includes municipal and state government, education, history, human rights, health and elder care, the environment and the housing crisis. A Maine native and University of Maine graduate, she was a college intern for two summers at the former Lewiston Evening Journal. She previously worked at the Ipswich Chronicle, Beverly Times and Salem Evening News in Massachusetts. Favorite pastimes include gardening, cooking for family and friends, streaming foreign TV series and kayaking at camp.
Mainers respond to Westbrook woman’s grief over headstone kept from husband’s grave
A fund has been set up to accept donations to help the widow of a former Afghan general who died of COVID-19.
Portland-area family’s mourning put on hold over General Assistance rules
More than a year after COVID-19 claimed the life of Mohammad Safai and he was laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery, installation of a headstone funded by community members is being blocked until burial costs are repaid.
Maine Council of Churches urges virtual-only worship services to slow surge of COVID-19
While some churches will consider the council’s plea to reduce virus transmission, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland will continue to offer in-person services, saying its protocols have proven effective.
After a second year of the pandemic, Mainers look forward to 2022 with hope
About 2,000 people gathered for a bonfire and fireworks at Old Orchard Beach on New Year’s Eve to ring out a year fraught with uncertainty.
Cape Elizabeth plans to improve views, safety along Cliff Walk at Fort Williams Park
The town is seeking contractors to extend a walkway and railing at one of the site’s rocky overlooks.
Room at the inn: A South Portland hotel goes all out to help asylum seekers
General Manager Michelle Sandman has transformed the Quality Inn & Suites into a village atmosphere for asylum seekers who have overflowed Portland’s family shelter.
Scarborough’s newly named fire chief has stepped up during pandemic
Deputy Chief Rich Kindelan, who will replace Chief Michael Thurlow in January, has kept town employees informed, ordered personal protective equipment, managed contact tracing and ensured reimbursement for pandemic-related costs.
New police chief in Scarborough is retired Maine state trooper
Mark Holmquist has already completed 25-year careers with the Maine State Police and the U.S. military.
Deputy police chief selected in South Portland
Kevin Gerrish joined the department 20 years ago and has commanded the Southern Maine Regional Crisis Negotiator Team.