Good morning, Bangor.

The Brady Nickerson Foundation is hosting its seventh annual ice fishing derby (a family event) on Saturday at Mattanawcook Pond in Lincoln to raise funds for pediatric cancer efforts and youth sports programs.

Major General Diane Dunn was promoted from brigadier general to major general Tuesday in Augusta, becoming the first woman to hold that rank in the Maine National Guard.

She has served in top leadership roles since 1988 and now oversees the state's defense departments.

State lawmakers are examining a proposal to invest $5M each year to turn empty schools into affordable housing across Maine.

Rep. Traci Gere said a successful project in Kennebunk may serve as a model for other communities.

Health officials reported two new HIV cases this week in Penobscot County, raising the outbreak total to 38.

They warned that the true count may be higher as nearly all cases involve recent drug use or homelessness and testing is expanding.

Paramedics at Northern Light Medical Transport now provide in-home hospice support, offering 24/7 care for patients nearing the end of life (a community paramedicine approach that builds on Maine’s programs since 2012).

This initiative fills critical gaps in health care and supports families in need.

Maine lawmakers consider two bills to boost vaccine access amid recent measles cases.

One bill would let pharmacists vaccinate more people & require insurers to cover shots while protecting pharmacy liability as federal recommendations change.

Hospital officials from Maine’s largest systems warned that Gov. Mills’ supplemental budget proposal may cut payments by nearly $11 million this fiscal year and more later—risking a wipeout of $21 million in revenue.

Lawmakers will review the plan in public hearings this week and next.

Foxcroft Academy sophomore Nola Mason overcame foul trouble—scoring 16 points and grabbing 11 rebounds—to lead her team to a 46-35 win at the Cross Insurance Center.

The Ponies will face the winner of Saturday’s final at 7 p.m.

The Bangor boys basketball season ended Wednesday night with a loss, but head coach Jay Kemble praised the team’s turnaround from one win in past seasons to 11 this year.

He urged them not to hang their heads, setting strong foundation for future success with seven returners and Nate Grunkemeyer.

University of Maine basketball senior Adrianna Smith is a semifinalist for the Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year Award and leads America East in scoring, rebounds, and assists.

The five finalists will be announced in early March, with the winner named around (April 3-5).

Central Maine high school teams are in Bangor for the Class B North regional tournament.

The top-seeded Gardiner girls play at 5 p.m. today at the Cross Insurance Center and the Gardiner boys play at 6:45 p.m. — finalists from Lawrence and Cony also vie for the title.

BHP In-Person Live Day Training

8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Brewer Community Center — Pre-registration required — Complete your certification with expert training on essential skills.

Cat In The Hat Live Show

6-9 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a delightful live performance of the beloved children's classic.

Deep Dish Pizza Cooking Class

12-2:30 p.m. — UNO Pizzeria & Grill — Ticket includes pizza demonstration and lunch — Master the art of Chicago-style deep dish pizza in a fun, interactive cooking class.

Silent Book Club

5:30-7 p.m. — The Stage Door — Free entry — Enjoy a cozy evening of quiet reading among fellow book lovers with snacks and drinks.

Veterans Jobs and Career Fair

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor — Free entry — Explore career opportunities tailored for veterans and network with potential employers.