Good morning, Bangor.

Hundreds of mourners gathered Friday afternoon at Veracity Chapel in Morrill for the funeral of volunteer firefighter Andrew Cross, who died in last week's Robbins Lumber mill fire in Searsmont; flags were ordered half-staff statewide to honor his service.

Friday, May 22, Bangor International Airport hosted a memorial brick dedication honoring late Maine Troop Greeters as community members joined to see bricks inscribed with each fallen greeter’s name.

Board member William Dean said the tribute marks a longstanding tradition of welcoming home troops.

The University of Maine’s annual clean sweep returns tomorrow at Alfond Arena on the Orono campus after a two-year break.

Students donate unwanted items and proceeds, including leftover donations sent to local charities, will support the Bodwell Center for Service and Volunteerism running the on-campus food pantry + clothing exchange.

Five Below opened today in Bangor at the former Party City location in the Bangor Parkade and provided early shoppers a free drawstring bag plus a range of tech, home decor and toy items for all ages.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Downtown Bangor businesses (Oh Grow Up, Not So Empty Nest, Paloma’s Gifts, Antique Marketplace, The Downtown Spot, Dream Charm Bar, and Red Rabbit Bazaar) will receive up to $2,500 each via the new glow up grants replacing last year's city-run program to update signs, paint and awnings.

Maine’s unemployment rate held at 3.1 percent in April — nonfarm wages and salaries increased as part of a record 52-month streak below 4 percent.

Maine drivers face gas prices at $4.51 per gallon as a record number are set to travel this Memorial Day weekend in New England, including 1.8 million here; AAA advises planning trips early or late to boost fuel efficiency on the Maine Turnpike.

At John Bapst's Crusader Day fundraiser on Friday, Athletic Director Dan O’Connell spent time on the roof to raise funds for school programs in athletics and the arts.

He set a $33,000 goal and raised over $40,000 before noon - alumni competed for the next milestone.

Magan Mishio, a Lagrange fungi farmer, discovered wild black morel mushrooms last week amid an improving spring season; foragers expect wetter weather to boost growth in local forests after a dry 2025.

Melodies for the Mind 2026

6-9 PM — Husson University — Fundraising event — Enjoy an evening of comedy and R&B music while supporting mental health recovery programs.

I Love The 90's Tour

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Cross Insurance Center — Tickets available — Enjoy the beats of the 90s with Young MC and nostalgic hits.

Riff Johnson Live at Blue Sky Lounge

7-11 p.m. — Blue Sky Lounge — Cost Info not provided — Experience the energetic sounds of Riff Johnson, a one-man band with a nostalgic flair.

Ballroom Dancing with Robert Causey

8-9 p.m. — The Wilson Center — Free — Learn various styles of ballroom dance in a friendly and inviting environment with no experience or partner required.

Ethan Burdick on The Little Ass Shed Tour

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Maine Savings Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating melodies of rising star Ethan Burdick in a night of music.