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QUOTE OF THE DAY

“In the end, real estate transactions happen when a buyer and a seller can come to an agreed-upon price, and that’s what keeps things moving in this industry … It looks like the real estate market will be healthy in 2026 that will benefit both buyers and sellers.”

— Julie Williams, broker, owner & CEO of Bangor-based ERA Dawson-Bradford Co. Realtors, on the outlook for the state’s housing market in the coming year.

TODAY’S TOP STORIES

The hottest Maine real estate markets of 2026, according to experts. From baby boomers to young professionals, these are the Maine communities buyers are predicted to flock to in 2026.

Can attendance at Acadia National Park keep growing? The Trump administration has pushed to reduce staffing, which puts both visitation and Acadia’s impact on the local economy at risk.

Nearly half of Maine’s counties are behind on their audits. Years of poor bookkeeping led to a financial crisis in Washington County. It’s not the only county government that is delayed in analyzing its finances.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

MAINE IN PICTURES

The black-capped chickadee is Maine’s official state bird, known for its curiosity, social behavior and distinctive “dee-dee-dee” alarm calls, according to BDN columnist Bob Duchesne. He says the chickadee is a fitting — if somewhat fraught — choice as the state’s official bird. Credit: Courtesy of Bob Duchesne

FROM THE OPINION PAGES

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus wave to people from aboard the Sunbeam, the Maine Seacoast Mission’s service boat, in December 2024. Credit: Courtesy of Maine Seacoast Mission

“Written in 1897, the words of New York Sun editor Francis Church remain an enduring explanation of love, poetry, belief, romance and the Christmas spirit.”

Opinion: How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus

LIFE IN MAINE

Why the chickadee is fitting as Maine’s state bird. “The recognition is fitting. Chickadees are inherently cordial, industrious and useful. They watch out for their neighbors,” Bob Duchesne explains.

Tell us your Maine hunting hot takes. Is camo really necessary, or do deer not care what you’re wearing? Can they really smell a Swisher Sweet on your clothing?

Don’t put away your guns yet — Maine’s winter hunts are just getting started. “With deer hunting season in the rearview mirror for another year, hunting small game is the next best option.”

This ancient tool still guides fishing masters today. Jerry Kustich’s latest book, “Bamboo Days,” reflects on a life spent close to water, fighting for environmental causes and the healing powers of nature.