Good morning, Bangor.

Brewer Federal Credit Union donated a $1,000 check to the Brewer Area Food Pantry today as SNAP cuts leave many worried about food support—bank officials added that drop boxes for non-perishable items will be available at two locations until November 14 and members can access low-cost loans and flexible payment options.

The Cole Land Transportation Museum is hosting its 3rd Annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat Party today from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.—kids enter free and adults pay $5—while candy and bags are ready inside with ample parking available.

Provender Kitchen and Bar in Ellsworth will offer free prepared meals during November for families with EBT benefits while Blaze in Bangor will give 50% off its entire food menu for valid cardholders—actions taken to aid those affected by the government shutdown.

Marin Skincare introduced Blueberry French Toast as UMaine's official lip treatment, with part of its sales funding a scholarship to help Engineering students pay for their first Innovation Engineering course—an effort led by UMaine graduates giving back to the school—.

The Red Cross of Northern New England advised families to prepare for Halloween by cleaning driveways and using bright costumes—steps that help keep trick-or-treaters safe.

The group also recommended drivers slow down and plan routes to avoid accidents.

The University of Maine System will change from Cigna to Anthem health insurance on Jan.

1 to lower employee costs despite a contract feud with Northern Light—15% of employees use Northern Light for some services. Unions are very concerned and may begin talks on benefits if Anthem and Northern Light do not reach an agreement soon.

Bangor officials confirmed that the Maine CDC verified a dead crow in Queen City had West Nile virus, marking the 25th bird case this year—residents are advised to use insect repellent and cover up as mosquitoes remain active.

Fewer Mainers are living together than 50 years ago, with homes now averaging 1.8 occupants compared to 2.5 in 1970—adding pressure to the housing crunch.

Experts say changing demographics and a mismatch between new construction and local needs have driven the trend while a state pilot program will soon work to better use available rooms.

At Maine Traditional Karate on the River Road in Orrington, students celebrated Oktoberfest Saturday by wearing traditional gi and completing 100 repetitions of a chosen kata in the 100 Kata Challenge.

Sensei Steve Apsega said the event is open to all ages—helping them build discipline and boost confidence.

On Friday, Hermon High School lost to Leavitt when a disputed call led to a 12-7 win and coach Kyle Gallant said the incident taught his players to overcome setbacks—prompting them to focus on the upcoming playoff quarterfinal at home.

The Hawks finished the regular season 7-1 and now prepare to host Nokomis in the playoffs.

Fifteen-year-old Bentley Lane from Hartland used his grandfather’s rifle to harvest a 233-pound buck on his family’s property Saturday morning—he fired two shots from his tree stand and his family confirmed the weight at Newport Trading Post.

He later joined his football team on the front line in a win over Medomak Valley.

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.

BLANK SPACE: The Ultimate Taylor Swift Tribute

4-5:30 p.m. — Husson University — Check local listings for prices — Experience the magic of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour with an amazing tribute band performing stunning costumes and flawless choreography.