A proposal from Dr. Opperman to close one of the PPS middle schools leaves Lincoln on the hot seat. 

Eli gives Tim an economics lesson in the effect of a $19/hr minimum wage.   Election results and thoughts. 

Dr. Scallon gives us a rundown of the '25-'26 start-up successes, school consolidation update, budget and Yonder pouches.

Great conversation with Sam Aborne as we run up to the November 4th vote for At-Large City Council position.

Eli and Tim honor Ryan Jordan, longtime Portlander.  Talk of the holidays.   Vacancy tax, referendums and the race for city council.   Jam packed with Tim getting smarter thru Eli.  

Eli talks about a new Portland business vacancy tax.   Tim tries to keep up with Eli and continues to fail.    Also, Yonder pouches for students.   Is it the right direction for preparing kids for the future?

Lots to talk about today.   Soft parents are creating soft kids.   An OOB cop is detained by ICE.   Portland Music Festival in Payson Park - could be good?   

Beloved high school sports writer, Michael Hoffer, has launched his website www.hoffershighschoolsports.com.   He comes to the Smarter and Harder studio to discuss the next phase of his unique and masterful coverage of Maine high school sports.