Good morning, Bangor.

Bangor Savings Bank’s Community Matters More program will donate part of $155,000 to nonprofits by awarding $5,000 grants to top vote-getters (write-ins can receive $2,500).

Voting is online from April 1 to 30 with groups like Maine Needs featured.

Bangor Area Homeless Shelter will hold its 31st annual Hike for the Homeless on Saturday, April 4 at Sea Dog on Front Street.

The two-mile walk starts at 10 a.m. with check-in at 9 a.m.—and includes live music, raffle prizes, pizza, and a selfie station to support its programs.

Emma Tiedemann of the Portland Sea Dogs and Kelly Towle of Coast 93.1 received Gracie Awards for their media contributions, marking a milestone for local women in broadcasting — their honors inspire future leaders and showcase Maine's role in national media.

Lawmakers approved funding of $350,000 to support Governor Mills's plan for a statewide cell phone ban in schools, expanding restrictions already in place at schools like Cony High School in Augusta (with exceptions for educational and medical needs).

The proposal needs full legislative approval for rollout before next school year.

Veazie Community School was named the best elementary & middle school in the country by Education Insider Magazine today as Principal Timothy Tweedie credited rising enrollment and improved state assessments, innovative programs, and strong attendance.

This honor follows years of notable progress since near closure, Tweedie said.

UMaine (in Orono) launched the Black Bear Student-Athlete Experience Fund to pay for scholarships, travel, nutrition, and direct payments for student athletes; head coach Amy Vachon and athletic director Jude Killy said the fund is designed to help teams stay competitive.

Maine’s real estate transfer tax is expected to generate nearly $57.4 million this year to support affordable housing and first-time buyer programs, while lawmakers debate directing two percent from the Housing Production Fund to help underfunded homeless shelters.

Northern Light Health is hosting a community blood drive today at its Bangor facility + it invites residents to donate and support local healthcare while promoting healthy living.

Pixie, a 2½-year-old dog from the Virgin Islands (rescued by Grammy Rose Dog Sanctuary and Rescue and adopted by Lisa Allen) is competing in the Pet Lovers' Choice Awards; votes close April 5 and the winner will receive $10,000 and attend the event in Los Angeles in June.

Ballroom Dancing with Robert Causey

8-9 p.m. — The Wilson Center — Free entry — Learn various styles of Ballroom Dance in a fun and relaxed atmosphere with no partner required.

S-T-R-E-T-C-H Your Teaching Workshop 2026

8:30 AM – 2:30 PM — United Technologies Center-Region 4 — Free entry — Enhance teaching skills and bring fresh energy to the classroom with engaging breakout sessions.

Riff Johnson Live

6-10 p.m. — Bogeys — Tickets available — Experience Riff Johnson's nostalgic tunes as he performs live in his home state of Maine.

E-Waste Fundraising Event

8-11 a.m. — Challenger Learning Center of Maine — Suggested donation $10+ — Recycle old electronics and support STEM programs for students across Maine.

ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification

9 AM – 5 PM — University of Maine Cooperative Extension — $150 for course and exam — Gain nationally-recognized certification essential for food industry professionals.

The Nite Show Live Honoring George Hale

6-8 p.m. — Gracie Theatre — Ticket proceeds support Brewer Community School music & theatre — A lively tribute to broadcasting icon George Hale.

The Garbologists

Apr 23 – May 10 — Penobscot Theatre Company — Ticket info TBA — Explore the hidden stories behind our discarded items through the eyes of a city sanitation worker.