Good morning, Bangor.

Scott Sepper, a Verona Island resident who has long played sweepstakes, was surprised with a $10,000 prize from Publishers Clearing House Tuesday when Prize Patrol visited his workplace with his wife.

Singer Kashus Culpepper is set to tour internationally in the coming months, hitting stops in Maine, Idaho, Manhattan, Key West, Australia (7 shows), Nashville, Massachusetts and Calgary.

The rising artist left the Navy in 2022 after his bonfire performance spurred his music career as he now holds a record deal.

Penquis Valley Middle/High School released its 1st quarter honor roll for Grades 5-12, listing students who earned high honors and honors distinctions.

The announcement recognizes many academic achievements + celebrates excellence in learning.

Today, SKILLS, Inc. in St. Albans received an impact grant from the Heart of Maine United Way to fund its Opportunities Driving School.

The program offers one-on-one driver lessons with a modern simulator to help adults build road confidence.

UMaine Graduate Workers Union reached a tentative agreement with UMS on Sunday in Orono after 761 days of talks.

The union will vote to ratify the deal on Friday, marking its first contract since forming in 2023.

City officials say the Railroad will end a homeless encampment behind Penobscot Plaza on Dec.

19 and a cleaning crew will clear the area on Dec. 22 (12 tents were noted) while councilors plan to offer storage and coordinate shelter options for displaced residents.

The Maine Public Utilities Commission approved a major expansion and redesign of its statewide low-income assistance program that increases funding nearly 50 percent with a $33 million budget + implements automatic enrollment for eligible Central Maine Power and Versant customers to address affordability challenges.

Flu cases are rising in Maine as a new variant, subclade k, circulates while the vaccine still offers protection against severe illness.

Sara Lane of Hannaford advises getting a flu shot and practicing good hygiene to help prevent the spread of the virus.

New buyers with strong local ties are under contract to purchase Hermon Mountain Ski Area on Newburgh Road in Hermon.

They plan to maintain the area as a ski hub and expand year-round events while upholding its role in the community since 1960.

UMaine hockey is chasing a third NCAA Tournament berth and will play six road games in January before hosting Providence on Jan.

31. Coach Ben Barr remains optimistic about a strong second half, pointing to a three-game win streak that featured a 5-0 win over Lindenwood despite early season struggles.

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.