Good morning, Bangor.

Manna at 95 Center Street in Bangor collects holiday gift donations for families in need — the drive helps supply coats, shoes and boots, with executive director Bill Rae urging residents to pick a tag or drop off contributions at the building or via mail.

Two Maine desserts were named among the 14 best by The New York Times after food writers traveled across the country.

The list features a unique dulce de leche flan at a Portland wine bar and a blueberry bread pudding from a South Thomaston shack.

Maine Audubon released the 42nd annual loon count, showing 3,174 adults and 568 chicks on lakes south of the 45th parallel.

Wildlife ecologist Tracy Hart said rising numbers point to robust lake ecosystems — a sign of clear water and healthy fish.

HUD withdrew a funding application that would have reduced money for permanent supportive housing just before a Dec.

19 court hearing, leaving Bangor’s rental assistance program for 170 residents in limbo as officials await revised federal guidelines.

A study from New Hampshire shows that pregnant women using private wells near PFAS contaminated sites face a higher risk of infant mortality and extreme preterm births, a concern for rural Maine communities, and researchers suggest using basic water filters to lower exposure.

Eight high school basketball games drew local fans in the Bangor area, with Tuesday's contest when the Rams hosted Messalonskee at 6:30 p.m. already played and more matchups planned Wednesday and Saturday at Camden Hills, Old Town High School and Lawrence High.

Bangor-area high school soccer players earned state Player of the Year honors at the Maine Soccer Coaches Association banquet over the weekend — with Clara Oldenburg of Bangor High and Mary Allen of Bangor Christian helping lead their teams to state titles.

Snowmobile enthusiasts will soon hit the trails as the Maine Snowmobile Association announced the statewide system opens Dec.

15, with private property riders starting earlier. Volunteers maintain the network, and riders can access updated trail info via the mobile app + website while following safety guidelines.

Hadestown Performance

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Cross Insurance Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the acclaimed musical 'Hadestown' live in Bangor, ME.

New Year's Eve Celebration

5-11:30 p.m. — Blue Sky Lounge — $199 per couple — Ring in 2026 with dinner, dancing, and a cozy hotel stay.