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.

Life & Culture, Local & State, News

WMTW to add hour-long 5 p.m. newscast

by Ray Routhier August 14, 2013

The newscast will feature anchor Tracy Sabol and meteorologist Roger Griswold. The station hopes to announce a male anchor soon.

Business, News

Meet the members of the Pete Kilpatrick Band

by Ray Routhier August 11, 2013

The five members of Maine’s Pete Kilpatrick Band represent the changing face of the music business at a very local level. Unlike the stereotypical band of fresh-faced kids hoping to make it big, the members of this band are in their early 30s, with day jobs, homes, children and responsibilities. But they share a dream […]

Life & Culture, Schools and Education

What’s cool – and not – for back to school

by Ray Routhier August 11, 2013

New fashions, accessories and electronic gadgets help take the pain out of returning to the classroom.

Arts & Entertainment, Books

Books Q&A: Tamra Wight and her scrappy campers

by Ray Routhier August 11, 2013

In Wight’s new book, outdoorsy duo Cooper and Packrat team up to solve a mystery against the backdrop of a lakeside campground.

Business, Life & Culture, News

The Pete Kilpatrick Band: A sound business plan

by Ray Routhier August 11, 2013

Thanks to advances in technology, making it in the music business nowadays is easier for everyone – and, just maybe, harder than ever.

News

Where are they now? Mainers in the music biz

by Ray Routhier August 11, 2013

Some Mainers who have had success in the music business, and where it has led them: JULIANA HATFIELD — Born in Wiscasset, the singer-songwriter first experienced musical success in the Boston scene in the 1980s as part of The Blake Babies. Her independent solo album “Become What You Are” gained her biggest hit, “My Sister,” […]