Monday, April 22, 2024

“At least we finished. That means we win, I think. All we lost was a shoe and one of our paddles.”

— University of Maine student David Jakacky said after completing this year’s Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race.

Today’s Top Maine Stories

Downtown Bangor will soon have a police officer patrolling the streets on foot. Business owners say that police presence would deter crime.

Mainers in homeownership programs can’t find housing to use their vouchers on. It’s a stark reminder of how impossible homeownership has become for low- to middle-income earners.

Aspiring homeowners aren’t the only ones struggling in this real estate market. A lack of industrial, office and retail space may be hindering Bangor’s economic growth.

Meanwhile, opportunities are opening up in Aroostook County for entrepreneurs. These five businesses are for sale from Fort Kent to Hodgdon.

Many proposals for land-based fish farms have encountered strong resistance in recent years. But even though Bucksport welcomed Whole Oceans with open arms, the company has yet to begin construction five years later.

Maine in Pictures

Inside the Newsroom

To say there have been changes in journalism over the last three decades is an understatement. I have certainly seen more than my fair share in my career. My 38-year career is coming to an end when I officially retire from the Bangor Daily News on May 1. It’s been one hell of a ride that’s spanned the earliest days of the internet, predates Google and outlived film photography, fax machines and landlines.

What has not changed is the thrill of finding and telling a good story here in Maine. I’ve had the honor and privilege of telling thousands of your stories over the years, and all I can say is thank you for trusting me with your words. Technology comes and goes. Sources and readers are eternal. I’ve forgotten a lot of that tech. But I will never forget you.

— Julia Bayly

More News from Around the State

• The lesser-known bills Maine lawmakers did and did not pass this year

• Jared Golden and Chellie Pingree split on Israel aid plan that passes the House

• Marijuana grow busted in Maine as feds investigate trend in 20 states

• Maine home sales increase for 2nd time after 31-month slide

• Low water and high turnout marked the 57th Kenduskeag Canoe Race

• Kitchen fire damages Brewer house

• Fire destroys apartment and garage in Dedham

• New owner of popular Aroostook radio station will keep local vibe

• Loring plans to demolish condemned buildings at housing complex

• A proposed ice cream stand is roiling a Rockland neighborhood

• Hearing to review new evidence in Dennis Dechaine’s murder conviction has concluded

• Fatal overdose investigation leads to 3 arrests in Warren

• Oxford man who was shot by police gets 20 months on gun charge

• Police: Suspect in custody related to 3 armed robberies in church parking lots

• Navy pays belated tribute to Maine ship sunk by German sub

• Maine man gets year in prison for antisemitic threats

From the Opinion Pages

Life in Maine

Mainer Julia Gagnon is competing for the top prize on "American Idol." Her performances last night and tonight may decide if she cracks the top 10.

There is nothing like a coyote howl to raise the hairs on your neck. But it is an effective way for them to communicate.

Will an early spring mean an early migration? It’s a mystery that may already have a partial answer.

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