Here’s a look and some updates on the Sun Journal’s most-read stories of 2025.
Maine
Local and state news from the Sun Journal.
Posted inMaine, News
Growing number of homeless Maine veterans move into stable housing
The Department of Veterans Affairs said nearly 52,000 veterans found permanent housing last year, including more than 200 in Maine.
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Posted inAdvertiser Democrat, Business, Community, Guides, Maine, News, Rumford Falls Times, The Bethel Citizen
Heading up to Maine’s western mountains? Fuel up at these on-the-way coffee shops
Hitting the trails or slopes in the Bethel area this winter? This guide will lead you to coffee, cappuccino, tea, hot cocoa and more along the way.
Posted inLivermore Falls Advertiser, Maine, News, Outdoors, The Franklin Journal, The Maine Forecast, The Rangeley Highlander
Walking into winter: Safety paramount to hiking around Franklin County’s frozen ponds
Winter recreating is Maine’s bread-and-butter. But knowing how to stay safe in icy conditions on trails or in unstable weather on lakes can make the difference between fun and disaster, outdoor experts say.
Posted inMaine, News
Homeland Security auditing Lewiston businesses
Federal agents visited at least two Lewiston addresses Tuesday as part of an audit effort.
Posted inMaine, News
After a difficult year, Mainers share their hopes for America in 2026
On a chilly New Year’s Eve walk through Freeport, a group of residents came together to reflect.
Posted inMaine, News
Investigation continues into death of Milford toddler
The medical examiner’s office is waiting for test results to determine the cause of death of Eleanora McLaughlin.
Posted inMaine, Maine Crime, News
‘Naked and Afraid’ contestant sues Kennebec County, alleging privacy breach, stalking
The Falmouth woman, a former county employee, claims the county’s former EMA director downloaded uncensored nude images of her taken during the show and that fellow employees retaliated against her for blowing the whistle.
Posted inHealth, Maine, New England, News
Loon rescued on Smithfield pond dies a week later
The loon rescued Dec. 7 was emaciated, had a lung infection and the start of frostbite, according to Avian Haven’s executive director, who offers tips for how to help keep wild animals safe.
Posted inMaine, News
Lewiston voices share hopes for 2026
A mix of residents and visitors share what they’re looking forward to in the coming year, from compassion to recovery to careers.