Good morning, Bangor.

Students in Bangor are adjusting to a new statewide cell phone policy as they return to class this week; pre-K to eighth graders must store their phones in lockers while high school students turn theirs in at the start of the day.

The policy, approved as part of Gov. Mills' supplemental budget, aims to reduce classroom distractions and support learning.

Penquis will continue providing MaineCare non-emergency rides for Penobscot and Piscataquis counties through June 30, 2027 - state officials plan a gradual switch to ModivCare with region four transitioning on February 1.

Together Place Peer Run Recovery Center has raised $205K of its $220K goal following a $50K donation from the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation.

The center (closed in July) at 2 Second St. will resume services once the remaining funds are secured.

Today through Sept. 20, the American Red Cross teams with Hello Kitty & Friends to boost lifesaving blood donations by offering an exclusive plush clip and sticker pack when supplies last.

Donors can make appointments online or via the donor app to help maintain the blood supply.

Advocates used International Overdose Awareness Day on Monday to warn that overdose deaths rose in Penobscot County while numbers declined statewide.

They stressed that resources like the Safe Spot hotline (supporting at-risk users, especially older men in their 40s-60s who use alone) remain crucial.

Former UMaine quarterback Joe Fagnano earned a spot on the Baltimore Ravens' 53-man roster after a strong preseason that led the NFL in passing yards (509 yards) in three games.

He signed a three-year deal and will serve as the team's third-string quarterback behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.

91-year-old Dale Sanders, known as Grey Beard, completed the 2,193-mile Appalachian Trail Monday atop Maine's highest peak after 71 falls—including one that sent him briefly to the hospital.

His determined journey, supported by months of training and trail angel help, inspires fellow hikers across the trail.

The John Bapst field hockey team in Bangor and the St. John Valley eight-player football team are suspending play this fall due to low numbers + the hockey team will join a cooperative program with Bangor High and Bucksport while the Mustangs play only in the Maine Independent Football League.