Good morning, Bangor.

Next Tuesday from 9 a.m. to noon, Eastern Maine Community College on Hogan Road in Bangor will host a free event where college students from criminal justice and automotive technology programs etch vehicle identification numbers on catalytic converters to deter theft that could cost up to $2,500. You may register by email for a preferred time slot — otherwise the service is offered on a first come first served basis.

At the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor, the space became a Hollywood set on Thursday for the 2025 Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Awards event where almost 700 people gathered to honor local businesses and community service leaders.

The ceremony recognized The Henry’s Bridal Boutique as small business, Frank’s Bake Shop as large business, and Community Health and Counseling along with Dan Tremble for community service — honoring seven awards in total.

At the Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Bangor Thursday, Mills said the DOJ lawsuit alleging Maine violated Title IX—by allowing sex-based discrimination at federally funded schools—is a diversionary tactic that shifts focus from other legal challenges affecting families.

His remarks came as critics pointed to similar legal issues in other courts.

Former Bruins coach Jim Montgomery—a University of Maine Sports Hall of Famer—was fired in November and quickly joined the Blues to lead them to a playoff berth with a franchise-record winning streak.

He credited advice from late UMaine coach Shawn Walsh for his turnaround and said the Blues will face Winnipeg in the first round of a best-of-seven series this weekend.

Former UMaine winger Bradly Nadeau earned his first NHL point for the Carolina Hurricanes on Wednesday night in a 4-2 loss to Montreal by assisting Tyson Jost's goal.

The 19-year-old joined the AHL’s 30-goal club — only the sixth player since 1940 to do so before turning 20 — and was expected to play in the season-ending game at Ottawa on Thursday night.

One Night of Queen

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling tribute to the legendary music and theatrics of Queen.

Anah Shrine Circus

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Family-friendly fun — Experience world-class circus performances and thrilling acts at this beloved annual event.

Joey Avery and Mark Gagnon Live Comedy Show

8-11 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of laughs with rising star Joey Avery and comedian Mark Gagnon.

Open House at a Charming Victorian Home in Bangor

5-7 p.m. — 261 Ohio Street — Free entry — Explore this Victorian home filled with character and unique features perfect for year-round adventure.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Family-friendly event — Experience a lively musical adventure with Blippi and Meekah in Bangor.

Walk In Ceramics Open Studio

11-5 p.m. — Generations Boutique & Art Studio — Average ceramic prices start at $10 — Paint your own ceramics in a fun and relaxing environment with family-friendly options.

Skillful Strides 2025

10 a.m. — United Technologies Center-Region 4 — Fundraising event — Celebrate fitness and fun while supporting a good cause.

Mean Girls Musical

7-8:30 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious hit musical direct from Broadway featuring the witty writing of Tina Fey.

Melodies For The Mind

6-9 p.m. — Husson University — Fundraiser for Unlimited Solutions Clubhouse — Experience an enchanting evening of music for a great cause.

New Renaissance Spring Concert

7-9 p.m. — UUSB — Free entry — Experience an evening of uplifting music with the New Renaissance Singers as they present 'Hope Lingers Here'.