Good morning, Bangor.

Versant Power reported that as of noon on Monday — more than 1,300 customers lost power in the Stillwater Avenue area and local businesses like Chick-Fil-A and Oriental Jade were affected.

Early voting for November elections began Monday in Maine as voters now face two referendum questions that could change voting procedures and gun rules.

Voters will decide whether to restrict absentee voting or let courts allow families to ask for temporary removal of dangerous weapons—moves that have drawn support and criticism from different groups.

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said her office is investigating a Newburgh resident's claim that an Amazon package held hundreds of blank absentee ballots and noted that Ellsworth officials reported missing ballot packets—law enforcement and state, federal, and local partners are now working to find the answers.

The Department of Justice dropped its plan to require states to assist with immigration enforcement for nearly $1.4 billion in crime victim grants — a move that followed a lawsuit by Maine and 19 other states.

State officials said that immigration enforcement is a federal duty — not a condition to link state funds.

The Maine Department of Energy Resources released its new Winter Heating Guide today that offers residents advice to reduce energy bills and stay warm during winter—tips include weatherizing homes, using high-efficiency heat pumps, and contacting local energy programs.

The guide comes as households using heating oil face higher costs and provides updated fuel prices and program links.

Penquis said the Home Energy Assistance Program is still on track despite the government shutdown and will begin giving benefits by the end of October or early November to help households with winter heating costs.

The agency is booking appointments for priority households and offers a one-time emergency fuel delivery of up to $500—support that raises average benefits for those in need.

Voters in Maine can now vote in person for the November 4 election by visiting their town clerk between October 6 and October 30 — or request a ballot by mail — as over 22,000 Mainers have already done so.

Two University of Maine alumni, Boston Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman and Winnipeg Jets winger Gustav Nyquist, are set to bounce back as the NHL season begins tonight.

Swayman, who led Team USA to gold, aims to rebound after a tough year while Nyquist, on a $3.25 million one-year deal, looks to improve his record — UMaine.

Cooper Flagg, an 18-year-old from Newport, Maine, made his NBA preseason debut with the Dallas Mavericks last night against the Oklahoma City Thunder and tallied 10 points, six rebounds, one block + three assists in a 106-89 win.

Coach Jamie Dixon said his all-around play underscored his potential as he began his career with an established team.

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.

3rd Annual Costume Gala

6-10 p.m. — Penobscot Theatre Company — Ticketed event — Embrace the spooky glamor with a costume contest, hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and an onstage dance party.