Good morning, Bangor.

Volunteer Maine secured a three-year federal grant of nearly $900,000 to boost volunteer management statewide, which will provide about $300,000 a year, announced yesterday at the Maine Volunteer Leadership Conference in Augusta.

Penquis and Heart of Maine United Way held a fill the bus backpack drive outside Walmart in Bangor on Tuesday, collecting donations for school supplies to support 1,200 students.

The drive will accept donations until Aug. 13 (drop-offs available at any Penquis location or online).

Taste of Maine Potato Chip Company opened its $75M factory in Limestone on the former Loring Air Force Base and produced kettle chips from local potatoes last week; it plans to expand production, add jobs, and begin a co-packing deal in September + support local farmers.

Humpback whales have been seen swimming unusually close to shore in Penobscot Bay, drawing crowds at a Northport lobster bake on Sunday – boaters are urged to slow to 10 knots to protect both whales and people.

Experts say the behavior links to feeding habits.

The Maine Supreme Court allowed the state’s $750M non-emergency transportation contract for Colorado+based ModivCare to proceed after local service providers’ appeals were denied.

ModivCare will continue serving MaineCare members despite filing for bankruptcy last summer.

Senator Angus King introduced a bill (the SMASH Act) to reauthorize funding for mosquito control and public health efforts that help protect residents from mosquito-borne diseases.

His work comes as outdoor living remains a top priority in Maine.

Hannah McFarland Concert

3:00 – 8:30 PM — Maine Savings Amphitheater — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening with local talent in an outdoor setting.