Good morning, Bangor.

This weekend donations poured in at Damon’s Beverage in Bangor during a bottle drive that supported Design Wall Housing’s project to convert old buildings into housing for homeless individuals.

The gathering featured a 50/50 raffle + ticketed prizes and raised over $800 for renovations.

Volunteers from East Orrington Congregational Church cleaned Orrington streets Sunday as part of its fifth annual roadside trash clean up around Earth Day, collecting bottles that benefit a local food pantry + the youth group will launch a community outreach mission in June with project applications accepted until May 1.

The Maine Forest Service said that much of the state remains under moderate fire danger due to dry 1-hour fuels (dead grass, leaf litter, and pine needles) despite recent rainfall and severe drought in the south.

Residents are advised to check daily fire ratings and obtain permits before burning debris.

A new state law going into effect in July lets Mainers install low-cost plug-in solar devices that use outdoor outlets and may cut electric bills by up to 20%.

Safety codes must be updated and licensed electricians must install dedicated breakers, so compliant systems are expected by fall.

Gov. Janet Mills signed a law that extends the Maine Affordable Housing Tax Credit for the next decade, giving developers a predictable funding tool to build over 800 income-restricted homes and preserve more than 100 existing units statewide (including a Washburn project that ensures price stability for 45 years).

A local hunter explains that broadheads with a larger cutting size improve chances when bowhunting spring turkeys today.

He recommends mechanical models + checking gear details to ensure shots quickly hit vital areas.

Developer Michael Cole plans to transform Bangor Mall into a mixed-use community hub with 200 condos, green space, cafes and an assisted living facility when his purchase finalizes in mid-June; local officials and businesses remain cautiously optimistic as planning could take 1 year to 18 months.

Anglers can opt for black salmon fishing as an affordable alternative to costly Atlantic salmon pools near Maine, with Canadian rivers offering active fly fishing from mid-April through May & guides ready to assist both beginners and experts.

The Orono High football team & middle school players are helping build new dugouts for the softball team after fall work paused in winter.

The structures will be finished by the home opener as part of a local volunteer effort.

Racers and fans gathered Sunday to kick off Bangor Raceway’s 143rd harness racing season.

The season features 40 race meets on Sundays and additional races starting in May with track improvements enhancing the experience.

Great Home Expo by Hammond Lumber

12-3 a.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Various entry fees — Explore local businesses showcasing home improvement products and services.

Soul Friends Pet Expo

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — The Furniture Gallery — Free entry — Celebrate local rescues and connect with potential soul friends for your future family.