Good morning, Bangor.

Sebec, Dexter, and Greenville will host a range of Fourth of July events starting Friday, July 3, with food festivals and fireworks, while Sebec also features a breakfast, a road race, and a parade on Saturday, July 4 (including a canoe race and chicken BBQ) in celebration of Independence Day.

Amy Collinsworth, the new economic development director, plans to boost business by beautifying Old Town and expanding market spaces.

She said vacant storefronts and owners who are difficult to contact are stalling progress while plans for the Energy and Enterprise Park and Main Street Market Village grow.

Rail companies have invested millions in our rail system by upgrading tracks and expanding connections to support local industries as container traffic grows from nearby Canadian ports — improvements expected to lower shipping costs and boost the economy.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency warns residents that hazardous heat and severe storms are moving in today – peak heat is expected Thursday as temperatures rise and an Extreme Heat Watch is in effect; citizens are advised to stay cool, drink water, and avoid strenuous activities.

Penobscot Eye Care in Brewer will join the mid-August Champion the Cure Challenge fundraiser hosted by Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, where Kim Stetson said the team will award a pie to the face to the top fundraiser while celebrating a coworker in remission who will participate this year.

Moore Manor in Newport is in full bloom with lavender available for cut-your-own bouquets as families enjoy the scenic fields and creative products derived from the harvest.

The farm is open Monday through Saturday (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an early 9 a.m. special).

Bangor Housing completed Sunridge Senior Housing, a $16 million facility with 50 affordable units on Sunset Avenue, with tours starting Thursday by appointment and residents set to move in the middle of July.

The facility features accessible design and community amenities while the wait list remains open for seniors 55+ who meet income criteria.

Riff Johnson Live at Hollywood Casino

Venue Name — 4-7 p.m. — Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor — Admission TBA — Catch a talented one-man band with a nostalgic voice in his home state.

Broadway Karaoke Night

9:00 – 10:30 PM — The Stage Door — Cost not specified — Step into the spotlight and sing your favorite Broadway hits with a live audience cheering you on.

Paul Doiron Book Launch Event

6:00 – 7:30 PM — Bangor Public Library — Free entry — Celebrate the release of 'Storm Tide' with author Paul Doiron and enjoy a Q&A session.

Wheels for Warriors Car Show

10 AM – 3 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Free entry — Celebrate automotive passion at Maine's premier car show featuring a variety of vehicles.