Podcasts about mainers

On our latest podcast episode, Esther and Cate look at what has been happening with ICE in Maine and how Mainers have been responding. Beth Weisberger, the owner of Gneiss Spice in Bethel, joins to share why she decided to close her business at the end of January for an anti-ICE strike. They also discuss… The post Why business is political and what to look out for in Maine's budget hearings first appeared on Maine Beacon.

This Day in Maine for Monday, February 9, 2026.

MAINERS IN THE OLYMPICS! by 101.9POR

Part 1:We talk with the Reverend Richard Stower, an activist in Maine.We discuss the upcoming election for US Senator from Maine. Susan Collins, a long-time Republican senator, is being challenged by two Democrats. For many Mainers, it is a battle between mind and heart.Part 2:We talk with Bob Lord, the Patriotic Millionaires' Advisor on Tax Policy.We discuss the recently proposed tax on Billionaires in California. It is a one-time tax, comprising 5% of their total wealth. The collected funds would affect about 200 individuals in California, and raise about $100 B. 90% of those funds would go to health care in California, and the remaining 10% would be allocated to food support.  WNHNFM.ORG  productionMusic: John Pine, "That's how every empire falls", 2015

Host/Producer: Amy Browne Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey has announced that his office now has an email address dedicated specifically to reports of federal government actions in Maine, along with the following statement: AUGUSTA – “Across our nation, we are seeing numerous reports of apparent civil rights violations and improper use of force by federal agents who have been sent into areas targeted for immigration enforcement by the federal government. With the federal government now surging federal agents into Maine under the banner of immigration enforcement, evidence of constitutionally-deficient, excessive, and intimidating enforcement tactics is quickly emerging in our own state. In order to better assess the impacts of these questionable immigration enforcement activities on Mainers, as well as evaluate what action this office may take in response, the Office of the Maine Attorney General has established a dedicated email address for Mainers to share such information with the office for potential investigation. The email address will be monitored for documentation of potential violations of the Maine and federal Constitutions, as well as Maine laws such as the Maine Civil Rights Act. We invite the public to submit any descriptions of observed intimidating or excessive behavior used by federal agents. Information that would be helpful to provide includes: date, location of incident, names of any individuals involved as actors or witnesses, if known, and contact information. We will not be accepting photographs and videos through this email address. However, please let us know if photographs or videos are available and provide contact information so the office can arrange to obtain copies if deemed necessary. Emailers should be advised that any content sent may be subject to public dissemination under Maine's Freedom of Access Laws. Finally, please also be advised that this email address is not for seeking legal advice, legal representation, or for requesting feedback.” The email address is CitizenReporting.OAG@maine.gov Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows issued the following statement in response to US Attorney General Pam Bondi’s offer to withdraw federal immigration officials from Minnesota if the state gave in to demands including handing over their voter records to the federal government. Maine is one of the other states refusing to give the administration that information (see USA vs Shenna Bellows) “Attorney General Bondi's letter to Minnesota made explicit what has long been clear: ICE is invading our states and inflicting violence in order to create chaos and control our states and elections. These sinister actions are Donald Trump's attempt to assume absolute power. Let me say this clearly for President Trump: Maine will never turn over our voter rolls as a ransom payment to get ICE to end its unconstitutional assault on our state. Our founders designed a system where states and local governments, not the federal government, oversee elections to safeguard us from exactly this — a tyrannical, power-hungry president trampling on our constitutional rights. As Maine's top election official, I stand with Minnesota Secretary of State Simon as we fight back against this dangerous assault together.” Maine Immigrant Rights Hotline 207-544-9989 Maine Immigrant Rights Resource Hub Immigration Legal Advocacy Project Maine Indivisible Bangor and others hold a weekly vigil every Tuesday at 11 in front of the federal building on Harlow St, near the Bangor Public Library. About the host: Amy Browne started out at WERU as a volunteer news & public affairs producer in 2000, co-hosting/co-producing RadioActive with Meredith DeFrancesco. She joined the team of Voices producers a few years later, and has been WERU's News & Public Affairs Manager since January, 2006. In addition to RadioActive, Voices, Maine Currents and Maine: The Way Life Could Be, Amy also produced and hosted the WERU News Report for several years. She has produced segments for national programs including Free Speech Radio News, This Way Out, Making Contact, Workers Independent News, Pacifica PeaceWatch, and Live Wire News, and has contributed to Democracy Now and the WBAI News Report. She is the recipient of the 2014 Excellence in Environmental Journalism Award from the Sierra Club of Maine, and Maine Association of Broadcasters awards for her work in 2017 and 2021. Theme music: BreakBeat Chemists I, 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International License The post Around Town 1/27/26: Local News, Culture and Events first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

For the first podcast of the new year, Esther is joined by former podcast host Sen. Mike Tipping to preview the legislative session and talk about some priorities, including health care access, taxing the richest Mainers more fairly, and combating ICE’s terrifying tactics closer to home. They also talk about what’s been happening in Minnesota… The post ICE's unpopularity, taxing the rich and MLK with Sen. Mike Tipping first appeared on Maine Beacon.

This Day in Maine for Thursday, January 15th, 2025.

Analysis of the political races and candidates in the news, and what political issues will affect Mainers in the year ahead

Our Maine Public reporters highlight the top stories of the year, and what impacts they had on Mainers

Host/Producer: Amy Browne Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), the top Democrat on the Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the Kennedy Center and more than 70 of her colleagues in Congress have called on President Trump to reverse what they say is an illegal renaming effort The Department of Health and Human Services' (DHHS') Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) urges Mainers to take steps to protect their health as influenza (flu) activity begins to rise across Maine. Maine’s weekly influenza surveillance report for week 51, which ended December 20th shows: Number of hospitalizations: 69 Number of outbreaks: 12 The Challenger Learning Center of Maine in Bangor is offering Girls Who Code: A Free Intro to Coding for All Students “A free introductory club for all students in grades 3-5, no experience required! This beginner-friendly program welcomes all young coders, including those trying programming for the very first time” FMI and to register Activate Maine’s new “Selective Spending Directory” The state of Maine is now accepting entries for the 2026 Maine Constitution Poster and Essay Contests. The deadline is March 13, 2026. About the host: Amy Browne started out at WERU as a volunteer news & public affairs producer in 2000, co-hosting/co-producing RadioActive with Meredith DeFrancesco. She joined the team of Voices producers a few years later, and has been WERU's News & Public Affairs Manager since January, 2006. In addition to RadioActive, Voices, Maine Currents and Maine: The Way Life Could Be, Amy also produced and hosted the WERU News Report for several years. She has produced segments for national programs including Free Speech Radio News, This Way Out, Making Contact, Workers Independent News, Pacifica PeaceWatch, and Live Wire News, and has contributed to Democracy Now and the WBAI News Report. She is the recipient of the 2014 Excellence in Environmental Journalism Award from the Sierra Club of Maine, and Maine Association of Broadcasters awards for her work in 2017 and 2021. Theme music: BreakBeat Chemists I, 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International License The post Around Town 12/29/25: Local News, Culture and Events first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

As everyone is seeing their electricity bills rise, the opportunity to speak with Our Power Maine came up. I'm speaking with the Executive Director Seth Berry, and Policy and Communications Fellow Isabelle Winstead - just days after  they succeeded in pausing what seemed to many as a huge increase in Maine's CMP (Central Maine Power) rates. It's historic to halt the monopoly of a utility like this, and they are very happy to share why they are so passionate about helping Mainers to have other options. And don't feel left out if you're not in Maine - Our Power is in several states, and even if not, you can reach out to Our Power Maine and they'll get you in touch with someone to help.Seth and Our Power Maine are focused on transparency and energy democracy, and with good reason. He brought up the Halloween storm of 2017, and I said I started saving all the electric bills I received after that storm, because CMP sent me 3 bills in 1 month. We talked about Maine Community Power Cooperative (MCPC), and breaking the monopoly that CMP has with Maine's energy. MCPC offers up to 20% savings for CMP customers. This conversation was enlightening and encouraging, and I hope you'll reach out to them, to learn more about how we can take our own power backOur Power site: https://ourpowermaine.org (remember, you don't need to be a Maine resident to ask questions!)They're on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/ourpowerme/On Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/ourpowermaine/And Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/our-power-maine/Another resource is https://www.efficiencymaine.com/Send me a message!Support the showLike this episode? Send me a message! Please follow the podcast on Instagram here YouTube channel Email me at amysgardenjam@gmail.com Amy's Garden Jam site (podcast has its own tab on this site!) Amy's email newsletter: How Do I Get There From Here by Jane Bolduc - hear more at https://www.janebolduc.com/Podcast cover by Becca Kofron- follow here on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/skate_cute_but_loud/ and check out her awesome art projects. Grounded in Maine Podcast is hosted by Buzzsprout, the easiest podcast hosting platform with the BEST customer service! Learn more at https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1851361 You can support this podcast one time (or many) with the Buy me a coffee/Hot Chocolate link here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/groundedinmaine Grounded in Maine Podcast is sponsored by ESG Review. Learn more about the good they're doing at https://...

Producer/host: Adina Salmansohn Other credits: Theme music written and performed by Ariel Chapman. A monthly show exploring Maine‘s culture, art and crafts that enrich our lives and bring us joy. Listeners will learn about Mainers who use their crafting skills to do good in their communities. Guest/s: Rosa Moore, Executive Director and Jackie Perkins, Arts and Activities Director, HOME Inc. homeemmaususa.org Heidi O’Donnell, Art Teacher at Belfast Area High School, rsu71 hodonnell@rsu71.org Sara Brand-New sbrandnew@gmail.com Jillian Liversidge jillianliver@gmail.com About the Host: Adina Salmansohn started learning to play the trombone at the age of 8.  Her undergraduate years were at the Cleveland Institute of Music, where she studied with Robert F. Boyd of the Cleveland Orchestra.  After returning to her native New York, she played freelance in the NY Metro area, including multiple orchestras, big bands, and a 17 year stint with The Soundview Brass Quintet, which she founded in 1980. In addition, she had a busy career as an arts administrator, directing and teaching in Community Arts schools, light opera companies, and season programming for other non-profit organizations. Adina founded the Hudson School of Creative Arts in inner-city Yonkers, NY. After her second child was born, she returned to school, and earned a degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America. Her family then moved to the Chicagoland area, where she became Principal Trombone of the Skokie Valley Symphony Orchestra, and also served as a board member and Personnel Manager for many years.  In that time, she also taught Culinary Arts in high school.  She earned a Graduate Certificate in Museum Studies from Northern Illinois University in 2018. Upon retirement, she and her husband moved to Orland, Maine; she came out of retirement to teach in the JMG program. She performs with the Bangor Band, where she has been a Board Member at Large for four years, and is a member of a trombone quartet based at The University of Maine, The Bear Bones. The post Creative Maine 12/18/25: Crafting for Good first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Trump chief of staff Susie Wiles says the president 'has an alcoholic's personality' and much more in candid interviews; Mainers brace for health-care premium spike as GOP dismantles system; Candlelight vigil to memorialize Denver homeless deaths in 2025; Chilling effect of immigration enforcement on Arizona child care.

Trump chief of staff Susie Wiles says the president 'has an alcoholic's personality' and much more in candid interviews; Mainers brace for health-care premium spike as GOP dismantles system; Candlelight vigil to memorialize Denver homeless deaths in 2025; Chilling effect of immigration enforcement on Arizona child care.

Host: Erin Rhoda, Interim Deputy Editor at The Maine Monitor. The Maine Monitor Radio Hour is a collaboration between WERU-FM and the Maine Monitor, the nonpartisan, independent publication of the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting. This month: Maine Monitor reporter Rose Lundy speaks about her recent reporting on how more older Mainers appear to be using harder drugs, how groups across Maine are trying to combat men's loneliness, and other health care challenges older adults are facing. Guests: Rose Lundy, rose@themainemonitor.org FMI: themainemonitor.org/more-of-maines-oldest-struggle-drugs/ themainemonitor.org/fighting-mens-loneliness/ The post The Maine Monitor Radio Hour 12/4/25 first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Maine Family Planning clinics treat STDs, bronchitis and tick bites. Because they also provide abortions, they've been hit by a new federal law that cuts them out of Medicaid. Now, they're cutting back on services to try to survive.For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Email us at considerthis@npr.org.This episode was produced by Connor Donevan and Ava Berger, with audio engineering by Jimmy Keeley. It was edited by Diane Webber and Courtney Dorning. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This Day in Maine for Friday, November 14th, 2025.

*Senate Committee on Appropriations News Release: November 9, 2025* Washington, D.C. – Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered remarks from the Senator floor ahead of the Senate's 60 to 40 procedural vote to advance legislation she unveiled today containing a clean continuing resolution to reopen government & three full-year Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills. The continuing resolution will reopen government immediately, extend funding through January 30th, & provide back pay to all federal workers. It does not include any poison pills. The measure includes the final FY 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, & Related Agencies; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food & Drug Administration, & Related Agencies; & Legislative Branch appropriations bills. This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support, would make full-year appropriations available for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC), & the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “Mr. President, today the Senate Appropriations Committee advanced legislation to reopen government immediately, funding vital programs, & resuming pay for federal workers, who for the last 40 days have had to live with the stress of missed paychecks & not knowing when they would be paid. “Under our legislation, all federal employees, including members of our military & Coast Guard, Capitol Police officers, Border Patrol agents, TSA screeners, air traffic controllers – all will receive their back wages. “It is significant that this measure also includes three full-year Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills, including the annual Agriculture, FDA bill, the Military Construction & Veterans Affairs legislation – very timely given that Veterans Day will soon be upon us – & the Legislative Branch funding bill. “This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support – 87 votes in two cases & 81 in another – will support our veterans, troops, farmers, & rural communities. Of note, this package will provide full-year funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, & the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children, known as WIC. One of the most unfortunate & shameful consequences of this shutdown has been that these vital nutrition programs were in jeopardy for our most vulnerable families, including 170,000 Mainers who rely on the SNAP program. “Other programs will be funded through January 30th while the Senate & House continue work on the remainder of the year-long appropriations bills. For example, funding for important programs like Head Start & low-income heating assistance will now be restored. “I look forward to voting for this legislation & ending the unnecessary harm to the security of our families & our nation. “We must begin to act tonight. We must not delay any longer. “Finally, Mr. President, I want to thank the many members on both sides of the aisle of the Appropriations Committee & the Senate Leadership who have worked especially hard to bring this package together. & I would be remiss if I did not also thank our staff. My staff missed an entire night's sleep to get this package together & get the job done. “Thank you, Mr. President. Again, I want to particularly thank the members of the Appropriations Committee, including those who serve as the Subcommittee Chairs: Senator Boozman, Senator Hoeven, & Senator Mullin. I want to thank Senator Britt who did an extraordinary amount of work. Lisa Murkowski, Mike Rounds, Jerry Moran, Shelley Moore Capito, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Deb Fischer – there's so many who worked so hard on this package. I want to thank each & every one of them. “Let's get the job done & let's do it fast.”

This Day in Maine for Thursday, November 6th, 2025.

On Tuesday, voters cast ballots in the first election cycle since the start of President Donald Trump's second term. Democrats won the most closely watched races decisively, including Virginia's and New Jersey's gubernatorial elections, Pennsylvania's Supreme Court retention vote, and the New York City mayoral election. Furthermore, several ballot measures passed decisively. Californians passed Proposition 50 to approve mid-decade redistricting, Mainers voted down a voter ID ballot measure and approved the creation of a “red flag” law, and Texans amended their state constitution to ban noncitizen voting and codify parental rights.Ad-free podcasts are here!To listen to this podcast ad-free, and to enjoy our subscriber only premium content, go to ReadTangle.com to sign up!You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today's “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Take the survey: What do you think this year's election results portend for next year's elections? Let us know.Disagree? That's okay. My opinion is just one of many. Write in and let us know why, and we'll consider publishing your feedback.Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was written by: Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Lindsey Knuth, Kendall White, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bump and Stacy are joined by CW College Football Analyst George Wrighster to get his thoughts on UW’s game against Wisconsin and their newest AP poll ranking, they answer your questions about NFL Quarterbacks and the Seahawks trade deadline moves in Four Down Territory, they look at some of the latest college football coaching changes in The Timeline, and they hear why one national voice thinks the Mainers might be interested in acquiring Tarik Skubal. 

This Day in Maine for Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

Election Day is just around the corner, and Esther and Ben are back to remind Mainers to protect absentee voting by casting a “no” vote on Question 1. On the other statewide referendum, Question 2, they are voting “yes” to make it easier for law enforcement to remove firearms from people who pose a danger… The post Podcast: Absentee voting, gun safety and why mutual aid isn't enough first appeared on Maine Beacon.

Today we're welcoming Spencer Wood, known as the Real Estate Cowboy, who's calling in from inside his geodesic dome in Kingfield, Maine. Spencer has been living in a camper on his 10-acre property for nearly four years while building this unique structure—and he's still mid-build, which makes this conversation particularly valuable. While most guests come on after their projects are complete with polished success stories, Spencer shares the raw reality of being in the thick of it, wrestling with the tension between wanting to launch and make money versus honoring the vision that's been a decade in the making.What makes Spencer's story compelling is how it challenges conventional real estate wisdom. He didn't research the rental market or create a business plan—he simply wanted to build something different in a place he loves. After playing football at the University of Maine, he fell in love with the state and built an unconventional real estate career with 80,000 YouTube subscribers, selling 90% of his listings through video alone. Now he applies that same alternative thinking to his own build, choosing a 24-foot geodesic dome with marine vinyl exterior and a 14-foot window overlooking the Carrabassett River. We explore why tiny and alternative builds aren't always cheaper than traditional construction, the basics of land buying that nobody teaches you (like perc tests and road maintenance), and Spencer's side business Acres of Maine, where he buys land directly from owners and offers financing to keep property accessible for Mainers. He also shares his philosophy on living small—from his years on a boat in Portland to his current camper setup—and why he believes Maine is "the Alaska of the East Coast" for people seeking opportunity and freedom. Whether you're mid-build yourself and need to hear from someone in the trenches, considering alternative housing options, or dreaming about finding your own piece of Maine, this conversation offers honest perspective on choosing passion over perfection and building something truly unique.Instagram: @spencerwwoodBooking  Site:  https://www.lifestylepropertiesofmaine.com/realestate/agent/spencer-wood/ Instagram: @cozyrockcabin Cozy Rock Cabin: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311027Cozy Camp Sebec: https://staycozycabin.holidayfuture.com/listings/311051 Cozy Rock Website: http://www.staycozycabin.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_FgMwAgvORd1IwlH1nlC9g

Producer/Host: Steve Kahl Power for the People: Energy education and solutions for Mainers and Maine communities This month: 1) The future of the solar industry after federal tax credits expire. 2) Solar PV options in 2026 when the commercial tax credit remains in effect. 3) Why a return of 8 to 9% with NO risk and with NO income tax is a great investment. Guest/s: Aaron Cartterfield, Director of Business Development, Maine Solar Solutions. FMI: aaron@mainecolarsolutions.com mainesolarsolutions.com About the host: Steve Kahl developed and has hosted Power for the People since 2015. He retired after 9 years as Professor of Environmental Science at Thomas College in 2024, where he taught environmental and energy courses and advised the student sustainability club. He is a member of the Friends of Quarry Road Trails board of directors in Waterville where he is the main advocate for a net-zero energy welcome center. Steve advised the board of WERU-FM on making the station studios 100% solar powered and worked with Sundog Solar in Searsport to make it happen back in 2020. Steve is a career lake researcher in addition to roles in energy and sustainability, and was a founding member of the Lake Stewards of Maine in the 1990s and is currently back on their board. He is past board President of Maine Lakes, the NH Lake Association, and the Lake Winnipesaukee Association. Prior to moving home to Maine in 2004, he was a member of the Energy Commission in Plymouth NH where he obtained Dept of Energy funding for the renovation of a town office building to net-zero energy as well as the installation of 160 KW of solar PV panels on town properties, including a major PV array at the sewage treatment plant that offsets 40% of its electrical costs. Steve's past positions include Sustainability Director at Unity College where he developed a plan for the college to become 100% solar powered and earned the college the prestigious STARS Gold sustainability ranking with the American Association of Sustainability in Higher Education. Before that, he was Director of Environmental and Energy Strategies for the James Sewall Company of Old Town where he led a Maine Technology Institute research project that found that the Maine electric grid could be 100% solar powered if all suitably-oriented rooftops had solar PV panels. His lake research was done while serving as founding director of the Senator George Mitchell Center for Environmental Research at the University of Maine. His own 1940s-era home is 100% electric, where he has installed two air-source heat pumps to eliminate heating oil, a hybrid hot water heater to reduce his water heating costs by 70%, and insulated the basement and attic to reduce the ‘stack effect' of cold air coming in the basement and forcing heat out of the attic. He has solar panels on his summer place at the lake and hasn't paid for any electricity there since 2011. In 2025, he added 6 KW of solar PV on his main home, with the goal to be net zero energy on an annual basis. Steve has a Ph.D. in Earth Sciences from the University of Maine. The post Power for the People 10/24/25: Solar Panels Are One of Your Best Financial Investments first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Producer/Host: Amy Browne The relationships forged between local Mainers and folks in El Salvador have been strengthened over the decades, built on mutual respect and learning from each other. In addition to the PICA/Bangor Sister City relationship with the town of Carasque, WERU has a Sister Station, Radio Sumpul, and MOFGA has built connections with farming organizations there. Today both countries seem to be on the same path to authoritarianism, justified in both places as a crack down on crime. Long-time volunteers and staff from U.S./El Salvador Sister Cities weigh in on where we may be headed. Guests: Kelly Calles, Jon Falk, Olivia Petipas, Zulma Tobar, and Karen Volckhausen About the Host: Amy Browne started out at WERU as a volunteer news & public affairs producer in 2000, co-hosting/co-producing RadioActive with Meredith DeFrancesco. She joined the team of Voices producers a few years later, and has been WERU’s News & Public Affairs Manager since January, 2006. In addition to RadioActive, Voices and Maine Currents, she also produced and hosted the WERU News Report for several years. She has produced segments for national programs including Free Speech Radio News, This Way Out, Making Contact, Workers Independent News, Pacifica PeaceWatch, and Live Wire News, and has contributed to Democracy Now and the WBAI News Report. She is the recipient of the 2014 Excellence in Environmental Journalism Award from the Sierra Club of Maine, and the First Place 2017 Radio News Award from the Maine Association of Broadcasters. The post Maine Currents 10/23/25: U.S./El Salvador Sister Cities- Strong Connections & Shared Threats to Human Rights first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

This Day in Maine for Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

Happy Friday! This week on the podcast, we are breaking down the two statewide referendum questions on every Mainer's ballot. Our hosts, Esther and Ben, explain why voters should vote no on Question 1, as it would make it harder for Mainers to vote by adding numerous restrictions to absentee voting.   On the flip side,… The post Podcast: A voter guide to Maine's 2025 statewide referendums first appeared on Maine Beacon.

Host/Producer: Amy Browne Ann Luther from the League of Women Voters is here today with information about the ballot questions Mainers will be voting on in November Maine Citizen's Guide to the Referendum Election Democracy Forum archives About the host: Amy Browne started out at WERU as a volunteer news & public affairs producer in 2000, co-hosting/co-producing RadioActive with Meredith DeFrancesco. She joined the team of Voices producers a few years later, and has been WERU's News & Public Affairs Manager since January, 2006. In addition to RadioActive, Voices, Maine Currents and Maine: The Way Life Could Be, Amy also produced and hosted the WERU News Report for several years. She has produced segments for national programs including Free Speech Radio News, This Way Out, Making Contact, Workers Independent News, Pacifica PeaceWatch, and Live Wire News, and has contributed to Democracy Now and the WBAI News Report. She is the recipient of the 2014 Excellence in Environmental Journalism Award from the Sierra Club of Maine, and Maine Association of Broadcasters awards for her work in 2017 and 2021. Theme music: BreakBeat Chemists I, 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International License The post Around Town 10/9/25: Local News, Culture and Events first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

This Day in Maine for Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

Gubernatorial candidate Angus King III shares why he is pivoting from business to politics in our latest podcast episode. The founder and former president of Peaks Renewables chats with our host Cate Blackford on how he plans to solve some of the biggest problems Mainers are facing today, such as the cost of living, housing… The post Podcast: Angus King III brings a business mindset to the governor's race first appeared on Maine Beacon.

Host/Producer: Amy Browne State Senator Mike Tipping and Toby McGrath of Protect Our Care Maine Chapter, speaking last week about the impact Mainers will feel from the federal cuts to health care funding. Audio recorded by Protect Our Care About the host: Amy Browne started out at WERU as a volunteer news & public affairs producer in 2000, co-hosting/co-producing RadioActive with Meredith DeFrancesco. She joined the team of Voices producers a few years later, and has been WERU's News & Public Affairs Manager since January, 2006. In addition to RadioActive, Voices, Maine Currents and Maine: The Way Life Could Be, Amy also produced and hosted the WERU News Report for several years. She has produced segments for national programs including Free Speech Radio News, This Way Out, Making Contact, Workers Independent News, Pacifica PeaceWatch, and Live Wire News, and has contributed to Democracy Now and the WBAI News Report. She is the recipient of the 2014 Excellence in Environmental Journalism Award from the Sierra Club of Maine, and Maine Association of Broadcasters awards for her work in 2017 and 2021. Theme music: BreakBeat Chemists I, 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International License The post Around Town 9/29/25: Local News, Culture and Events first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

FEEL GOOD STORY - HELPING FEED MAINERS by 101.9POR

Today, guest host Ben Whedon welcomes Dave Bozell, president of the Media Research Center, to discuss the aftermath of the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk. We analyze the media's response, particularly focusing on MSNBC's controversial coverage and the implications of political bias in journalism. Bozell shares his insights on the current state of cable news, the challenges of reporting in a charged political environment, and the impact of media narratives on public perception. Later, Ben sits down with Congressman Nathaniel Moran from Texas to discuss the implications of Donald Trump's Liberation Day tariffs and the ongoing judicial battles surrounding them. Congressman Moran shares insights into the separation of powers, the role of federal judges, and the legislative efforts being made to address the national debt through the Trust Act. He also reflects on the dynamics of the House and Senate, the challenges of fiscal conservatism, and the importance of bipartisan cooperation in crafting effective policy. Finally, Ben engages in conversation with AMAC's Bobby Charles, the former Assistant Secretary of State and current frontrunner for the Republican nomination for the governorship of Maine. Bobby shares his insights on the political landscape of Maine, discussing the challenges the state faces, including high property taxes, drug trafficking, and the struggle of young people to find affordable housing. He emphasizes the need for a sea change in leadership and outlines his plans to restore hope and opportunity for all Mainers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Common Good Candidates, Robb Ryerse sits down with Jordan Wood, a Democrat running for the U.S. Senate in Maine. We talk about what it will take to rebuild trust in government and put people—not special interests—at the center of our politics. We dig into affordable housing and the broader kitchen-table economics affecting Mainers and families across the country: rising rents, wages, and jobs, small-business vitality, and common-sense steps to make life more affordable. Learn more about Jordan's campaign: https://electjordan.com/ Subscribe for more conversations with candidates working for the common good.  

The latest political news affecting Mainers, from candidates entering races to federal actions to referendum questions

This Day in Maine for Thursday, September 4th, 2025.

We re-air our earlier show about why first jobs are important, and what some well-known Mainers did for their first jobs

Maine is the only part of New England to give an electoral vote to Donald Trump. But otherwise, how are things going in the state? Charlie just spoke to an audience of Mainers and delivered a warning: If America doesn't act quickly, one of America's most beautiful states will be lost to a migrant tide. Charlie also answers questions on baby boomers, pornography, Gen Z's race to Christianity, and more. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maine is the only part of New England to give an electoral vote to Donald Trump. But otherwise, how are things going in the state? Charlie just spoke to an audience of Mainers and delivered a warning: If America doesn't act quickly, one of America's most beautiful states will be lost to a migrant tide. Charlie also answers questions on baby boomers, pornography, Gen Z's race to Christianity, and more. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Producer/Host: Steve Kahl Power for the People: Energy education and solutions for Mainers and Maine communities This month: Net zero construction, passive house construction, energy and cost savings Guest/s: Tim Lock (timlock@Opalarch.us) FMI: www.opalarch.us/ About the host: Steve Kahl developed and has hosted Power for the People since 2015. He retired after 9 years as Professor of Environmental Science at Thomas College in 2024, where he taught environmental and energy courses and advised the student sustainability club. He is a member of the Friends of Quarry Road Trails board of directors in Waterville where he is the main advocate for a net-zero energy welcome center. Steve advised the board of WERU-FM on making the station studios 100% solar powered and worked with Sundog Solar in Searsport to make it happen back in 2020. Steve is a career lake researcher in addition to roles in energy and sustainability, and was a founding member of the Lake Stewards of Maine in the 1990s and is currently back on their board. He is past board President of Maine Lakes, the NH Lake Association, and the Lake Winnipesaukee Association. Prior to moving home to Maine in 2004, he was a member of the Energy Commission in Plymouth NH where he obtained Dept of Energy funding for the renovation of a town office building to net-zero energy as well as the installation of 160 KW of solar PV panels on town properties, including a major PV array at the sewage treatment plant that offsets 40% of its electrical costs. Steve's past positions include Sustainability Director at Unity College where he developed a plan for the college to become 100% solar powered and earned the college the prestigious STARS Gold sustainability ranking with the American Association of Sustainability in Higher Education. Before that, he was Director of Environmental and Energy Strategies for the James Sewall Company of Old Town where he led a Maine Technology Institute research project that found that the Maine electric grid could be 100% solar powered if all suitably-oriented rooftops had solar PV panels. His lake research was done while serving as founding director of the Senator George Mitchell Center for Environmental Research at the University of Maine. His own 1940s-era home is 100% electric, where he has installed two air-source heat pumps to eliminate heating oil, a hybrid hot water heater to reduce his water heating costs by 70%, and insulated the basement and attic to reduce the ‘stack effect' of cold air coming in the basement and forcing heat out of the attic. He has solar panels on his summer place at the lake and hasn't paid for any electricity there since 2011. In 2025, he added 6 KW of solar PV on his main home, with the goal to be net zero energy on an annual basis. Steve has a Ph.D. in Earth Sciences from the University of Maine. The post Power for the People 8/22/25: Opal Architects – Passive House first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Congressman Rick Crawford, the House Intelligence Committee Chairman, reveals shocking insights from a newly declassified report. He discusses the implications of the findings, the role of political bias in intelligence, and the significance of accountability within the intelligence community. FBI whistleblower Steve Friend shares his insights on the current state of the FBI and its challenges. Steve discusses the agency's struggles with accountability, the implications of selective investigations, and the targeting of concerned parents at school board meetings. He reflects on his own journey of speaking out against wrongdoing and the personal costs associated with whistleblowing. Bobby Charles, a leading candidate for governor of Maine, shares his vision for the state and the challenges it faces. From rising drug trafficking to soaring property taxes, Bobby discusses the pressing issues that have Mainers concerned. With a strong endorsement from former Attorney General Ed Meese, Bobby outlines his plans to restore hope and leadership in Maine. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hunter Biden admits that Nancy Pelosi was the one who drove his dad out of the race as more clips are released of his unfiltered podcast interview. H1D Eric Swalwell says he is doing more Christian podcasts because Republicans are “weaponizing faith”. Hollywood demands an investigation into CBS over The ‘Late Show' cancellation amid bribery concerns. Hunter Biden appears to suggest President Joe Biden had been given Ambien before the debate last year and ended up looking like a deer in the headlights. Paramount has struck a 5-year deal worth $1.5B with 'South Park' creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Mainers kayaked to the island summer home of Chief Justice Roberts this morning to “protest the extremist agenda & demand resistance to tyranny”. Dana remembers the legacy and music of Ozzy Osbourne as news emerges of his death at 76.Thank you for supporting our sponsors that make The Dana Show possible…Relief Factorhttps://relieffactor.com OR CALL 1-800-4-RELIEFTurn the clock back on pain with Relief Factor. Get their 3-week Relief Factor Quick Start for only $19.95 today! Byrnahttps://byrna.com/danaGet your hands on the new compact Byrna CL. Visit Byrna.com/Dana to receive 10% off Patriot Mobilehttps://patriotmobile.com/DanaDana's personal cell phone provider is Patriot Mobile. Get a FREE MONTH of service code DANAHumanNhttps://humann.comSupport your cholesterol health with SuperBerine—on sale at Sam's Club from 7/23 to 8/17. Boost your metabolic health and save!Keltechttps://KelTecWeapons.comSee the third generation of the iconic SUB2000 and the NEW PS57 - Keltec Innovation & Performance at its bestAngel Studioshttps://Angel.com/danaSupport American values with stories that inspire faith, family, and freedom. Claim your member perks today.Allio CapitalDownload Allio from the App Store or Google Play, or text “DANA” to 511511 to get started today.All Family Pharmacyhttps://allfamilypharmacy.com/Dana Medical freedom is American freedom. Use code DANA10 to get 10% off your order.Ruff GreensCall 214-RUFF-DOG Get a FREE Jumpstart Bag AND Ruff Chews—just pay shipping! A $30 value. Phone offer only!!!

This week on the podcast, Cate chats with Garrett Martin of the Maine Center for Economic Policy. They do some unpacking on what the new federal tax bill really means for Maine families. Garrett breaks down how deep cuts to programs, like stricter work requirements for Medicaid and food assistance could leave many Mainers without… The post Podcast: The real cost of Trump's federal budget bill first appeared on Maine Beacon.

Alex and his wife, Kim, recently bought a house in Maine. Kim wants to install blinds in the windows. Alex is opposed. He loves waking up to the sunlight. Alex says blinds will cast a shadow on his sunny mornings. But Kim doesn't want nosy Mainers looking in her windows at night! Who's right? Who's wrong?Please consider donating to Al Otro Lado. Al Otro Lado provides legal assistance and humanitarian aid to refugees, deportees, and other migrants trapped at the US-MX border. Donate at alotrolado.org/letsdosomething.We are on TikTok and YouTube! Follow us on both @judgejohnhodgmanpod! Follow us on Instagram @judgejohnhodgman!Thanks to reddit user u/dinosaur1972 for naming this week's case! To suggest a title for a future episode, keep an eye on the Maximum Fun subreddit at reddit.com/r/maximumfun! Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Join at $5 a month at maximumfun.org/join!

This week on the podcast, Lisa Margulies from Planned Parenthood Maine Action Fund joins Cate to break down the serious threats in Pres. Donald Trump’s federal budget reconciliation bill. The proposal would block Planned Parenthood from participating in Medicaid (MaineCare), cutting off care for more than 1.1 million people. This could mean closing nearly 200… The post Podcast: How the federal budget threatens reproductive healthcare and Mainers first appeared on Maine Beacon.

This week on the podcast, Cate and Ben share with our listeners how everyday Mainers can take action to protect essential programs and urge lawmakers like Sen. Susan Collins to stand up against federal budget cuts that would slash health care and food assistance while handing a $1.5 trillion tax break to the rich. Plus,… The post Podcast: Trump's budget is a disaster. Here's what you can do about it. first appeared on Maine Beacon.

Kris Kobach, Kansas Attorney General, discusses his state's efforts to combat ideological investments, leading to Wells Fargo's exit from the Net Zero Banking Alliance. He highlights Kansas' laws restricting ESG targets in state funds and the push for a constitutional amendment to elect Supreme Court justices, aiming for judicial accountability. Kobach also details Kansas' collaboration with ICE to deputize state law enforcement for immigration enforcement, prioritizing removal of criminal aliens. Lastly, he mentioned a lawsuit challenging the definition of "persons" in the 14th Amendment's apportionment clause, aiming to exclude illegal aliens from census counts. Additionally, Bobby Charles announces his candidacy for Maine governor in 2026, highlighting the state's issues with drug overdoses, education ranking at 49th, and high taxes. He lays out his agenda, to eliminate the income tax, aiming to attract residents and businesses. Charles criticizes the current governor and legislature for doubling the budget and affecting seniors' housing. He emphasizes his experience in combating organized crime and his stance on transgender issues, asserting that 98% of Mainers oppose boys in girls' sports. Finally, Seamus Bruner, director of research at the Government Accountability Institute and investigative journalist, unpacks recent revelations regarding Joe Biden's dealings related to Russia and Ukraine. He discusses the implications of newly declassified documents, the ongoing narrative surrounding the Obama administration, and the transparency issues that continue to affect national security. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DOGE continues its cost-cutting mandate, Trump takes 'presidential action' against elite law firms, and Mainers resoundingly men staying out of women's sports. Get the facts first with Morning Wire.Beam: Head to https://shopbeam.com/WIRE and use code WIRE at checkout for up to 40% off.Good Ranchers: Visit https://go.goodranchers.com/4hPfmTE for free bacon, ground beef, bacon, seed oil free chicken nuggets, or salmon in every order for a year + $40 off with code WIRE.

Ukraine's President turns to Europe for aid, BlackRock says woke is now a “no-go,” and Mainers gather in the State Capitol calling on the governor to protect women's sports. Get the facts first with Morning Wire.Lumen: Head to http://lumen.me/WIRE for 20% off your purchase.Shopify: Go to https://Shopify.com/morningwire to sign up for your $1 per month trial period and upgrade your selling today.