What winter essential did Bangor inventor Don A. Sargent patent in 1923 at Union Iron Works, revolutionizing road clearing by mounting it on truck axles?

Dreamer Food Opens!

Video courtesy of WABI-TV, Bangor

There’s something about late February in Maine.

It’s not quite winter’s peak…
Not quite spring’s promise…

Just that in-between stretch where the days are getting longer, but the snow still reminds you who’s in charge.

This week’s trivia about how a Bangor’s innovation stuck with me.

Think about that for a minute.

Instead of complaining about winter, someone here looked at it and said, “There has to be a better way.”

And they built one.

That feels like a pretty good metaphor for the Penobscot Valley.

We’re not flashy.
We’re not dramatic.
But when something needs fixing — we figure it out.

Whether it’s clearing roads in 1923…
Running a small business in 2026…
Or just making it through a long stretch of cold weather…

We adjust.
We build.
We keep moving.

I see it every week in the businesses we feature, the volunteers stepping up, the families adopting pets, and the quiet ways neighbors show up for each other. Winter doesn’t last forever.

But character does.

And this valley has plenty of it.

Thank you for reading.
Thank you for sharing.
And if this newsletter means something to you, send it to someone who might need a reminder that we live in a pretty remarkable place.

— Sandy

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In Bangor, Maine, brisk mornings and fresh snowfall call for something warm and comforting at the breakfast table.

This blueberry baked French toast, made with Maine blueberries and a rich, custard base, is designed for cozy winter weekends.

Simply assemble the night before, and wake up to the inviting scent of baking berries and cinnamon filling your kitchen.

Enjoy it straight from the oven with warm maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and perhaps some crispy bacon or sausage on the side.

For those preferring to let someone else do the baking, local Bangor cafés and nearby spots in Winterport serve homemade breakfasts featuring locally sourced blueberries in a welcoming atmosphere.

During Maine Restaurant Week, regional eateries celebrate these flavors, offering special blueberry-inspired menu items—making for a delicious start to any day.

Tessa, a lively two-year-old mixed breed, is hoping for a forever family at the Bangor Humane Society. Weighing 41 pounds, she’s the perfect medium-sized companion for those seeking an affectionate and energetic friend.

Found as a stray with an unknown past, Tessa’s playful personality and eagerness to bond shine through. Prospective adopters are encouraged to carefully introduce her to other pets for a smooth transition.

The Bangor Humane Society also has other wonderful dogs, like Sierra, a spirited seven-year-old terrier mix, and Moose, an adventurous three-year-old seeking an active home.

Adoption for dogs ages 1–5 is $175 and includes comprehensive vet care and microchipping. The shelter is open Monday through Saturday, 1 to 6 p.m., at 693 Mt. Hope Avenue.

Open your heart and discover the joy of adopting a new best friend today.

Proudly Sponsored By Woof, LLC

Woof LLC is dedicated to helping pets live healthier, happier lives right here in Maine.

Whether you’re welcoming a newly adopted companion or caring for a lifelong best friend, Woof LLC believes every dog deserves quality care, thoughtful products, and a supportive local community.

They understand that pets aren’t just animals — they’re family.

By sponsoring the Furry Friends Rescue section each week, Woof LLC is helping shine a light on adoptable pets in the Penobscot Valley and encouraging responsible, loving homes.

Because when one dog finds a home… the whole community benefits.

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Community Events & Arts

Things Happening Around the Penobscot Valley

Live Performance at the Bangor Opera House

Penobscot Theatre Company

Downtown Bangor’s historic Opera House continues to host live productions, bringing professional theater to the heart of the city.

Whether it’s drama, comedy, or classic storytelling, Penobscot Theatre Company offers:

• Intimate live performances

• Local and regional talent

• A warm escape from cold evenings

If you haven’t stepped inside the Opera House lately, winter is actually one of the best seasons to go — fewer crowds, cozy atmosphere, and a chance to support local arts during the quieter months.

Check their current show schedule before heading out.

Gracie Theatre at Husson University

Gracie Theatre

Gracie Theatre continues to bring:

• Concert performances

• Guest speakers

• Cultural presentations

• Community arts programming

It’s one of the Valley’s best venues for music and performance, offering professional-level acoustics in an intimate setting.

Winter programming often includes touring musicians and community showcases — a perfect night out without leaving town.

Small-Town Gatherings Still Matter

Don’t overlook:

• Library programs

• Coffee shop open mics

• Church suppers

• Community fundraisers

Some of the most meaningful events in the Valley aren’t ticketed — they’re hosted in town halls, fellowship rooms, and small gathering spaces where neighbors still show up.

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Because when local businesses thrive, the whole Valley benefits.

Bogeys – Eat, Drink, Play (471 Stillwater Ave, Bangor)

A fresh concept has officially opened in the heart of Bangor’s entertainment corridor!

Bogeys – Eat, Drink, Play has taken over the former Smoke & Steel BBQ space at 471 Stillwater Avenue, bringing a new flavor to casual dining and fun in the Valley. Locals can now enjoy:

• A full food menu featuring BBQ classics, comfort favorites, and seasonal specials

• Ice-cold drinks and a lively social atmosphere

• Games, entertainment, and space for gatherings

This weekend’s soft opening drew a crowd, and the management team says they’re committed to being a spot where families, friends, and visitors can unwind — rain, shine, or snow.

Dreamer Food — New Brick & Mortar in Fairmount

What started as a beloved food truck is hitting a milestone:

Dreamer Food, known across the region for its creative menus and community presence, has announced its brick-and-mortar opening this week in the Fairmount area of Bangor.

Expect:

• Real-deal comfort food with a creative twist

• Locally inspired specials

• A welcoming neighborhood vibe

Dreamer’s truck was a fixture at events and gatherings throughout the Penobscot Valley, and this new chapter gives fans a regular place to gather for great food and conversation.

When winter hits hard, the Penobscot Valley shows up.

Storms like the one we’re seeing this week remind us that some neighbors may need a little extra help — whether that’s a warm place to stay, a stocked pantry, or simply someone checking in.

Here are a few ways you can support our community right now:

As winter deepens in the Penobscot Valley, neighbors face harsh weather and heightened needs.

Your support can make all the difference this season.

Blood donations are in urgent demand at the Bangor Red Cross, with appointments recommended.

The Bangor Area Homeless Shelter seeks new men's clothing and warm gear, while the Bangor Humane Society welcomes pet food, cat litter, and volunteers.

Food pantries across Bangor, Brewer, Orono, Old Town, Hampden, Hermon, Holden, Veazie, Milford, and Eddington are requesting essentials like canned goods, peanut butter, hygiene items, and winter clothing.

Community contributions help ensure everyone has food, warmth, and care through Maine's coldest months.

Contact your local organization to lend a hand and brighten this winter for those in need.

Madden Home Inspectionproudly supports safe, strong homes throughout Maine.

From detailed home inspections to helping families understand their property inside and out, Madden believes that stable housing is foundational to strong communities.

Because a secure home — especially during a Maine winter — matters.

If you’re buying, selling, or simply want peace of mind, Madden Home Inspection is ready to help.

If you’re reading this while the wind is howling outside, you’re not alone.

The Northeasthas taken a hit this week, and the Penobscot Valley is doing what it always does — digging out, helping neighbors, and carrying on.

There’s something about winter in Maine that reveals character.

It tests patience.
It slows schedules.
It reminds us we are not in control of everything.

But it also reminds us of something else.

We live in a place where people still shovel each other’s driveways.
Where someone checks on the elderly neighbor.
Where businesses open even when it would be easier not to.
Where families gather around hot food while the storm moves through.

That’s not everywhere.

That’s here.

And even as snow piles up, so does momentum in the Valley. New businesses are opening. Local entrepreneurs are investing. Community events continue. The arts are alive. Volunteers are showing up.

Winter doesn’t stop us — it refines us.

As we move toward March (slowly, I know), remember that every storm passes. The days are getting longer. The sun is returning a little earlier each evening.

And the Valley keeps moving forward.

Stay safe. Check on someone. Support a local business this week if you can.

And thank you for being part of this growing community.

— Sandy

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We’re building something special here — a truly local newsletter that highlights:

• Local businesses
• Community events
• Volunteer opportunities
• Small-town stories
• Maine weather & seasonal living
• Local pets looking for homes 🐾

The bigger our subscriber family grows, the more we can support local businesses, nonprofits, and community causes across the Valley.

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It’s free. It’s local. It’s ours.

Thank you for being part of it.

An early automotive snowplow.

Sargent’s innovative design helped position Bangor as a leader in snow removal technology. His adjustable wooden design became widely adopted, and Sargent plows went on to dominate the market.