Good morning, Bangor.

Bangor region YMCA and Bangor Savings Bank will host a sunset cruise along the Penobscot River aboard the Friendship V—passing under the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and near historic Fort Knox—to raise funds for programs that serve residents of all ages while guests enjoy craft cocktails, appetizers, desserts and live music.

Together Place, a Bangor recovery group, lost a $300,000 state grant earlier this year, which reduced its budget by over 40% and led to staff layoffs including the program director.

Interim executive director Joseph Hartel said the nonprofit planned to seek opioid settlement funds and diversify funding streams while continuing services at its center on 2 Second St.—staff and volunteers faced a challenging transition amid the funding gap.

A Boston federal appeals court will soon issue its decision on Maine’s 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases, a law passed nearly six months after the Lewiston mass shooting and later paused by a Bangor judge.

Gun safety advocates say the waiting period gives buyers a needed cooling-off period — while gun rights supporters argue it is arbitrary.

Bruce Van Note will retire on August 15 after a 30-year career at MaineDOT that delivered billions in capital projects and improved rural transportation—Deputy Commissioner Dale Doughty will serve as acting commissioner pending legislative confirmation.

Guy Hudson has been named the new president and CEO of Northern Light Health and will start his role in mid-October as the system faces tough talks with insurer Anthem and financial struggles.

He replaces retiring Tim Dentry, who will remain until Hudson arrives—Hudson has led efforts at Swedish Health Services.

A Bangor nonprofit closed its new syringe service program on Ohio street just days after opening on July 3 because city zoning laws do not allow its use—officials say the city is helping the group find a proper site while it offers testing and peer support services on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Design Fest 2025 Kickoff

9-11 a.m. — Rize - CoWorking & Collaboration Space — Free entry — Enjoy coffee and creative networking in a relaxed coworking atmosphere.

Maine Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 2025

10 AM - 2 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Refund policy available — Celebrate the contributions to Maine Basketball at the annual induction ceremony with brunch and festivities.

Goldenrod Walk

4:30-6 p.m. — Fields Pond Audubon Center — Free entry — Explore the diverse goldenrod species and their botanical features on a leisurely walk this summer.

Maine Veterans Project Resource Giveaway

10 AM – 2 PM — Jeff's Catering & Event Center — Free entry — Connect with local organizations for vital resources and non-perishable food assistance.

Brit Floyd Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Maine Savings Amphitheater — Ticket information available — Experience the iconic music of Pink Floyd performed live by Brit Floyd.

Matt Schuster Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Maine Savings Amphitheater — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy an evening of heartfelt music with Matt Schuster as he performs his popular track 'Who Are You Kidding?'.

Annual Butterfly Festival

10 a.m.–2 p.m. — Fields Pond Audubon Center — Free entry — Celebrate butterflies with crafts, tagging, and a colorful parade.

Billy Idol Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Maine Savings Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary sounds of Billy Idol and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts during their summer tour.