Good morning, Bangor.

Crews worked on a water main break on Market Street Thursday, Oct.

8 and officials advised drivers to avoid the area until repairs were complete.

Maine astronaut Jessica Meir returned to Earth after an eight-month mission, splashing down at 11:30 a.m. Thursday off the California coast — marking 400 days in space and her seventh spacewalk.

Heating oil prices in Maine have risen to an average of $5.97 per gallon—nearly double last year's rate, which means filling a 275-gallon tank costs about ($725 extra).

Governor Mills has urged Congress to approve additional low-income fuel assistance.

A new analysis from Maine’s Office of Public Advocate shows that rising natural gas prices & increasing grid repair costs have pushed typical electric bills up 72% over six years.

The agency plans to explore several policy options to help lower future costs.

A national report outlines how UMaine Cooperative Extension is advancing noncredit programs to build local workforce skills that may earn academic credit — a practical pathway for community members to improve their careers.

The report shows a new focus on micro-credentials and stackable learning experiences designed for Maine’s workforce needs.

Dirigo Reads is adding 27 schools statewide to its literacy program so every first grader gets a book monthly.

The program now covers all 16 counties (with schools hosting 7 to over 200 first graders) and received a boost from the TD Beach to Beacon 10K race.

A damaged span of the replacement bridge in Old Town will be demolished starting Tuesday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to remove it from the Stillwater River — motorists should follow detour signs at Bennoch Road, North Main Street, and College Avenue to help manage traffic delays.

MaineHousing announced that nearly $4 million in early heating assistance is helping about 4,400 vulnerable households start winter with fuel, prioritizing those with older adults, young children, and people with disabilities — officials said the funds carry over from last season before the federal LIHEAP grant arrives.

Penobscot Community Health Care received $2.8 million from the state last Thursday to stave off bankruptcy (ending its plans to file for Chapter 11) as Rural Health Transformation Program funds support its new electronic records system and alternative payment models for 50,000 patients.

A new HIV case in Penobscot County brings the outbreak total to 49, Maine CDC said this week.

Local groups are boosting testing and prevention for those affected by drug use and homelessness (the county usually sees only two cases a year).

Yesterday, Bangor cut the ribbon for the new Sunridge affordable senior housing on Sunset Avenue; the 50 apartments for seniors 55 and older feature community gardens (onsite laundry, local transportation and utilities included) and were created by Bangor Development Corporation in partnership with several organizations.