Good morning, Bangor.

Bangor Region YMCA broke ground on a new three-story, 82,000-square-foot facility on Main Street in a ceremony attended by nearly 200 people Friday — the $58 million project will double early childhood, before- and after-school, and child care programs.

The building, named for longtime member Cathy Gero and set to open in 2027, will include two pools, a full-court gym, indoor track, community kitchen and food pantry — expanding services for local families.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Bangor handed keys to its 30th home to a local family on Thirteenth Street Friday—built by Eastern Maine Community College students, over 40 volunteers, and professional contractors—marking a milestone since 1988 amid Maine’s affordable housing challenge.

The U.S. Drought Monitor reported that extreme drought conditions have spread further into Maine, with Franklin, Washington, Kennebec, and Waldo counties now in severe to extreme drought and over 70% of the state affected.

Maine officials noted that hundreds of wells have run dry and stream levels have hit historic lows, and they are urging water conservation—state agencies have even approved grants for water infrastructure projects to help farmers and communities.

The Maine Department of Transportation will close Broadway in Bangor each night from October 19 through October 23 between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. to demolish the I-95 southbound bridge—flaggers will assist pedestrians and motorists must follow posted detour signs.

At least 36,000 Mainers will lose their Medicare Advantage plans in January as insurers cut some offerings, the state insurance bureau said—Aetna, Anthem, and Martin’s Point are making changes that may force affected residents to switch to other Advantage or Medicare Supplement plans.

The Maine CDC said tickborne disease cases are rising statewide with over 3,500 recorded Lyme and 1,200 anaplasmosis cases as of October 15.

The agency warned deer ticks spread germs and remain active through late November — they may even emerge during warm winter days.

New Hermon Mountain said its season passes were sold with a note that the ski area will close after this season if no buyer is found—if that happens, the owners will consider turning the 67.5-acre property into house lots.

The property has been on sale since 2022 and is listed for $2.1 million.

Gloria Vasquez (74) is set to run her 96th marathon in Bar Harbor on Sunday at the Mount Desert Island Marathon as she works toward her goal of 100 marathons before turning 100.

She will complete her remaining races gradually and plans to tackle the Appalachian Trail in pieces after reaching that milestone.

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.

FUSION 20 Anniversary Awards

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Bangor — Not specified — Celebrate two decades of community connection and honor standout individuals.

Golden Age of Hollywood Murder Mystery Dinner

6-9 p.m. — Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor — Tickets required — Immerse yourself in a thrilling evening of intrigue with gourmet dining and interactive murder mystery fun.

Meet Dog Man at BAM! Bangor

11 AM – 2 PM — Books-A-Million — Free entry — Celebrate the release of Dog Man: Big Jim Believes with games, activities, and a photo op with Dog Man himself.