Good morning, Bangor.

Maine Children’s Home is asking for donations to supply winter clothes and hygienic products to children in need as part of its Christmas Winter Essentials program—last year more than 1,400 kids were helped.

The program hopes to serve over 1,500 kids this season—donations will let teen applications reopen.

Since his arrest on domestic violence and felony victim tampering charges, Houlton town manager Cameron Clark remains on the job as a special Town Council meeting held Thursday ended with no public action (a written update is expected Friday) amid growing local concerns.

Pianist Jonathan Biss delivered a passionate performance of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra at the Collins Center for the Arts, earning a standing ovation and a Mendelssohn encore as part of the season opener.

He has a strong connection to Bangor’s music scene—his dynamic rendition recalled past appearances and promises more inspiring concerts this season.

Maine’s lawsuit against Chevron and Exxon-Mobil stayed in state court after Judge Nancy Torresen rejected their bid to move the case to federal court — she ordered the companies to pay state costs.

Attorney General Aaron Frey said Mainers will hold the oil companies responsible for hiding the climate damage of their products.

A prolonged drought is affecting Maine as less rain has dried up wells and reduced groundwater for many residents — over 75% of the state has experienced drought conditions for the past month.

The National Weather Service forecasts a chance of light rainfall next week that will not be enough to stabilize the water table.

Penobscot County faces a $3.5 million jail budget gap that may force municipalities to raise taxes by 14%—officials warn that without more state funding, local services could suffer as communities struggle with rising costs.

Federal services continue during the government shutdown as the U.S. Postal Service, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, WIC, SNAP and Acadia National Park remain open, even though functions like Medicare telehealth and Social Security record updates are paused—federal workers are furloughed and in-person services run at a reduced level.

Northern Light Health and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield extended their contract for one month to keep 30,000 patients in network, with employer-sponsored and individual plans securing provider access until Oct.

31 and inpatient and Medicare Advantage care extending until Dec. 31—while the organizations work on a long-term deal.

Fall Arts & Crafts Supply Swap

10 AM – 3 PM — Bangor Public Library — Free entry — Bring your extra stash of art supplies to give or trade and leave with new-to-you crafting treasures.

2025 MMA Convention Guest Registration

8 AM – 5 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Registration fees apply — Join fellow MMA fans for a weekend of exciting events and guest appearances.

Pound The Pavement 5K Color Fun Run/Walk

9 AM – 1 PM — Sea Dog Brewing Co — Registration fee applies — Join a colorful 5K fun run to support cancer survivors and enjoy a post-race celebration.

Maine Humane Conference

8:30 AM – 4:30 PM — Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor — Free entry — A day of insightful sessions on animal welfare and networking in the Maine Humane community.

Cirque du Soirée Masquerade Ball

6-11:30 p.m. — Bangor Grande Hotel & Conference Center — Benefits The Bangor Humane Society — Dance the night away in elegance while supporting our furry friends.

Maine Witch Walk and Goblin Market 2025

1-4 p.m. — Bangor Waterfront Park — Donations accepted — A whimsical one-mile walk featuring costumed participants, a witch dance, and a lively Halloween Goblin Market with vendors.

5K for Heating Oil Benefiting Maine Veterans

10:00-11:30 a.m. — Washington Street School Building — Entry fee supports heating oil for veterans — Participate in a fun 5K to help our heroes stay warm.

Ghostly Bangor Walking Tour

7-8:30 p.m. — Bangor Historical Society — $12 — Discover tales of unsolved mysteries and lingering spirits in Bangor's haunted history.

TINA - The Tina Turner Musical

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Cost info not provided — Experience the inspiring journey of the Queen of Rock n’ Roll in this uplifting musical.

Trick-or-Treat Halloween Party

4-7 p.m. — Cole Land Transportation Museum — Free entry — Enjoy a spooky indoor trick-or-treating adventure at the 3rd Annual Halloween Party.