Good morning, Bangor.

Today the Bangor Mall Craft Fair returns with more than 350 vendors from around New England offering handmade crafts and gifts in a free event.

It will run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. today and from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday—Santa Claus will take free pictures with kids from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Families and caregivers are invited to attend the Penobscot Parenting Expo on Friday, November 14, from 12 to 4 p.m. at Eastport Hall on Texas Avenue in Bangor — the free event will feature family resources, a community baby sprinkle with special prizes for the first 30 families, raffles at 3:30 p.m., snacks and activities for children.

Katahdin Trust promoted Clarissa Cumming to commercial services associate, officer and team leader — she will guide her team in delivering accurate and compliant loan documentation while building on her years of experience with the bank.

Bangor High School JROTC honored Sandra Harvey—the nation’s first female Battalion Commander—during its fourth annual Distinguished Veteran’s Honor Roll ceremony on Friday.

Harvey, who began high school in 1975 when girls were first allowed in JROTC, later pursued education and inspired future cadets in the community.

Downeast Family YMCA announced that the Bar Harbor child care center at Jackson Laboratory will close on Dec.

31 due to declining enrollment and staffing issues — the center, built for $4.5 million and opened in January 2024, enrolled 13 children at the time of the notice. Both organizations are working with local partners to ensure families find alternative care.

Bangor is funding two new overnight warming centers at the Brick Church and Together Place to bring the total to three shelters after earlier funding cuts—City Council will vote Monday on increasing each center's funds to $60,000 as the city prepares for winter.

Governor Mills announced today that Maine DHHS will issue full SNAP benefits from November 10 to 14 following federal court orders and USDA guidance—ensuring support for roughly 170,000 residents who rely on the program.

This move comes after criticism that previous funding delays adversely affected over 12% of Maine's population.

Maine residents buying health insurance through the marketplace will face steep premium hikes next year when enhanced tax credits expire next month unless Congress extends them—average costs could rise by 77% and some families already face nearly nine times higher premiums.

Eastern Area Agency on Aging is expanding its emergency meals program to provide frozen meals for SNAP recipients aged 60 and older and for adults with disabilities in Washington, Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Hancock Counties amid the federal shutdown.

Grab-and-Go meal pick-ups will occur on November 10 in Millinocket, November 12 in Calais and Brewer, and November 13 in Milo and Sullivan—additional Community Café sites and home-delivered meals will support those in need.

Bangor-area high school soccer teams will vie for state titles in all five classes today as the season wraps up.

The matchups include the Bangor Rams defending their Class A title at 11 a.m. in Oakland, Hermon Hawks chasing a Class B championship at 11 a.m. in Auburn, Orono boys facing Hall-Dale at 1:30 p.m. in Augusta, Penobscot Valley Howlers seeking a third title at 11 a.m. in Hermon and Bangor Christian girls meeting Wisdom at 11 a.m. in Brewer — showcasing local soccer strength.

Justin Poirier started his freshman season strong by scoring nine goals in nine games, helping UMaine beat UMass 6—2 on Thursday night while leading the team in points, goals and power play goals.

The 19 year old, who led a Quebec junior league with 51 goals last season, earned praise from his coach for his work ethic and coachability.

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.

Mainebiz 60 Ideas in 60 Minutes Forum

7:30-10:30 a.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Bangor — Tickets required — Gain insight from Maine CEOs sharing success stories and actionable business ideas.

Holiday Party – North

12-3:30 p.m. — Seasons — $10 for non-members — Celebrate the holiday season with lunch, crafts, and a visit from Santa Claus.