Email Newsletters

From April fooling to Papi Cannabis: 10 offbeat news stories in 2023

From April Fools’ gags to David (Big Papi) Ortiz’s ‘swing’ at Maine’s cannabis market, there was no shortage of unusual and offbeat news in 2023. Here are links to 10 headlines in 2023 to refresh your memory; some may even tickle your funny bone. 

Mainers get creative with social media April Fools’ gags

From ox pulls to Lil’ Lumberjacks: Maine agricultural fairs are going strong this year 

Man playing guitar and singing
Dennis Doiron, known as the Saltwater Hillbilly, performs at the bandstand at the Union Fair. FILE PHOTO / JIM NEUGER

‘What’s next, TexlaX’? Mainers give mixed reviews to Elon Musk’s Twitter rebranding

Starry night, indeed: A stunning new piece of public art adorns Madawaska land port

ADVERTISEMENT

Aroostook County’s astronomical attraction may get an out-of-this-world upgrade 

Big Papi takes a swing at Maine cannabis market

David Ortiz in a marijuana growing facility
Papi Cannabis, a cannabis line developed by Massachusetts cannabis retailer and wholesaler Rev Brands and former Boston Red Sox player David "Big Papi" Ortiz, made its Maine market debut earlier this year. FILE PHOTO / COURTESY PAPI CANNABIS

Game on for Portland Monopoly as local business take chance on sponsorships

Mr. Monopoly
Mr. Monopoly in Portland. FILE PHOTO / RENEE CORDES

Maine charity golf tourney tees up mascot for marketing

Chippy, the dimpled mascot of the Drive Fore Kids charity golf tournament. FILE IMAGE COURTESY / DRIVE FORE KIDS

ADVERTISEMENT

Portland startup Marin Skincare launches lobster-based lip treatment

Udder confusion? King, Collins bill would bar mislabeling of non-dairy milk alternatives 

Three cows in a stall.
The DAIRY Pride Act of 2023 was cosponsored by Maine's two senators. FILE PHOTO / JIM NEUGER
– Digital Partners -