Frequently asked questions
A few helpful answers.
Learn about our newsletters, sharing local news, sponsorships, and the stories across our Maine network.
Reading & subscribing
What is Maine Valley Voices Media?
Maine Valley Voices Media publishes regional newsletters that help Maine neighbors discover local events, businesses, organizations, and community stories.
It is a media division of Smith Digital Solutions, LLC, founded and published by Sandy Smith in Bangor, Maine.
Are the newsletters free?
Yes. Our regional newsletters are free to subscribe to. Visit our Newsletters page and choose your region.
Which regions do you cover?
- Penobscot Valley Voice: Greater Bangor and surrounding Penobscot Valley communities.
- Kennebec Valley Voice: Augusta, Waterville, and surrounding Kennebec Valley communities.
- Casco Bay Voice: Greater Portland and Casco Bay communities.
- Androscoggin Valley Voice: Lewiston, Auburn, and surrounding Androscoggin Valley communities.
Additional regional editions are in development. We’ll add them to our Newsletters page as they become available.
What will I find in an edition?
Local events, community stories, business news, dining, arts, and useful information from your region. You may also find nonprofit updates, volunteer opportunities, adoptable animals, local sports, and interviews.
Sections vary by publication and edition.
How often are newsletters published?
Our main regional newsletters follow a weekly schedule. Penobscot Valley Voice also has a Friday Weekend edition to help readers make local plans.
Can I subscribe to more than one region?
Yes. Choose any publications you would like to follow and subscribe through each publication’s signup page.
How do I unsubscribe or get subscription help?
Use the unsubscribe link in your newsletter. For help, email [email protected] with the publication name and the email address you used to subscribe.
Sharing news & events
Who can submit news?
Businesses, nonprofits, community groups, event organizers, and neighbors are welcome to share local updates. Use our Submit News page to send the details.
What kinds of announcements can I send?
Community events, fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, nonprofit programs, local stories, and confirmed business developments.
Business Pulse coverage follows openings, closures, relocations, expansions, and changes in ownership.
What information should I include?
Include the town, a clear description, and a contact or public source we can use to verify the details.
For events, include the date, start and end times, venue name and address, admission cost, registration link, and any deadline. Send time-sensitive information as early as possible.
Does submitting news guarantee publication?
No. We review submissions for accuracy, local relevance, timing, and available space. We may contact you for more information or edit material for clarity and length.
Can I send a photograph?
Yes, if you own the image or have permission to share it. Include the photographer’s credit and identify people shown when appropriate.
How do I report an error or update an event?
Email Sandy with the publication name, issue date, and information we should review. For event changes, include the event name and the corrected details.
Businesses & sponsorships
Can my business sponsor a newsletter?
Yes. Contact Sandy to discuss newsletter and section sponsorship opportunities, current availability, placement details, and pricing.
Start on our For Businesses page .
How are sponsorships identified?
Sponsored placements are identified. News submissions are considered separately from sponsorship inquiries.
Can you help with my business’s online visibility?
Smith Digital Solutions offers local visibility consulting, Google Business Profile support, review strategies, website alignment, and related services.
Visit Smith Digital Solutions to learn more.
Interviews & our network
Where can I find Maine Thrive Voices interviews?
Visit Maine Thrive Voices Episodes to browse conversations with Maine business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community members.
What is Maine Thrive Insights?
Maine Thrive Insights features written stories and takeaways about Maine people, businesses, and community organizations, including companion articles for podcast conversations.
Explore Maine Thrive Insights or visit our Interviews & Insights page .
Can I suggest a podcast guest?
Yes. Tell us the person’s name, Maine community, business or organization, and what makes their story worth hearing.
Use our guest suggestion page . Suggestions are reviewed for fit and scheduling.
How does Maine Thrive fit into the network?
Maine Thrive’s Community Networks help people discover local businesses and services. Maine Valley Voices Media publishes regional newsletters, while Maine Thrive Voices features local conversations. These connected efforts are part of Smith Digital Solutions.
Visit Maine Thrive to explore the Community Networks.
Still have a question?
Tell Sandy which publication or community you’re asking about, and we’ll help you find what you need.