Good morning, Bangor.

Business groups and officials oppose the planned sale and removal of four Kennebec River dams - warning that Sappi North America's Skowhegan mill, which employs 700 people, would shut down.

FERC is urged to reject the license transfer until a safe water supply solution is reached.

Retired history teacher and clammer Peter Hope has released his book Stuck in the Mud, which traces Maine clamming’s long tradition — noting a steady decline linked to invasive green crabs and fewer licensed harvesters.

Josiah Dyer, a 20-year-old singer from Charleston, is preparing to audition for American Idol (with celebrity judges) after winning state and national competitions.

His music draws on a rich family legacy in country music.

A new report by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) shows 33% of Maine’s small business owners have unfilled job openings, above the historical average of 24%.

The report, released today statewide, links the job shortage to tax and regulatory challenges.

Gas and diesel prices dropped this week in Bangor, with gas averaging $2.91 per gallon—a 2-cent decline from last week and a nickel lower than a month ago—while diesel fell to $3.96 yet remains above last year's rate and the national average.

Three Maine public universities received failing grades in 2023 from the National Council on Teacher Quality for their teacher prep programs in reading instruction.

School representatives dispute the report (saying the review did not capture actual classroom practices) and stress that their programs adequately prepare future educators.

After 700 days of negotiations, the University of Maine System reached a tentative contract with its graduate student workers union that will see 900 grad workers receive stipend increases and enhanced health insurance benefits starting July 1 — pending final Board approval on Jan. 26.

Maine-based watchdog Defend our Health found that retailers Walmart, Target and Wayfair are selling nonstick pans with banned forever chemicals, violating the state’s PFAS law extended Jan.

1 — the group alerted the Maine DEP to prompt compliance.

State Rep. Kathy Javner, who represented Chester and parts of Penobscot County and served four terms on the Health and Human Services Committee, died Monday after battling breast cancer; she is survived by her husband and three children.

UMaine hockey was swept at Providence College over the weekend (6-1 and 3-0), ending its at-large NCAA hopes.

The Black Bears can still secure a berth by winning a second consecutive Hockey East title and must tighten play before their trip to UMass Lowell.

Tinker Bell: The Untold Story

7:00-8:15 p.m. — Cyrus Pavilion Theatre — Ticket info available — Discover the enchanting tale from Tinker Bell's perspective as the fairies of Neverland face a dire crisis.

Orono Arcade and Pat's Pizza Gathering

4-7 p.m. — Orono Arcade LLC — Limited attendance — Enjoy a cozy afternoon of gaming and pizza with fellow enthusiasts.

Adoption Event & Donation Drive

10 AM – 3 PM — Sandollar Spa & Pool — Adoption fees may be sponsored — Explore adorable dogs and support rescue efforts while enjoying a bake sale and merchandise.

Harlem Globetrotters Game

7-9 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of basketball entertainment with the legendary Harlem Globetrotters.