Before the arrival of paper mills, what was the primary industry in Bucksport that led to its reputation as a major shipping and trade center in the 19th century?

Answer Options:

1. Sardine Canning

2. Granite Quarrying

3. Shipbuilding and Maritime Trade

4. Lumber and Logging

Hello, neighbors, and welcome to the latest edition of the Penobscot Valley Voice!

We’ve officially crossed that beautiful threshold where the vibrant colors of fall yield to the crisp air of early winter. That unmistakable chill is in the air, reminding us to grab our coziest flannels and start thinking about woodstoves and warm drinks—November has arrived!

This week is one of reflection and gratitude — a time when the Penobscot Valley comes together to honor service, celebrate connection, and prepare for the holidays ahead.

Our communities are buzzing with activity: from Veterans Day tributes to chamber events and early signs of the holiday season. Whether you’re catching up with friends at a Business After Hours or simply taking in the first snowflakes of the season, there’s plenty to enjoy right here at home.

From there, the holidays will be on us in a blink! We’re already seeing signs of preparation, and we’ll be featuring all the local events, craft fairs, and winter happenings in our next few issues.

As the days get shorter, let’s make a point to check in on our neighbors and enjoy the quiet, deep beauty of our region.

Settle in with a hot cup of coffee, and let’s take a look at what’s happening across the Valley this week.

Warmly,

Sandy

Bangor High School, home of the nation’s oldest Army JROTC program, recently celebrated a newly discovered piece of its history.

Sandra Harvey, a 1975 graduate, was officially recognized as the country's first-ever female JROTC Battalion Commander.

Her landmark achievement was brought to light during a chance conversation with current program leadership.

During the school's fourth annual Distinguished Veteran’s Honor Roll ceremony, Harvey was formally inducted.

The year she began high school was the first year women were permitted to join JROTC, a pivotal moment for the school and the nation.

Harvey, who went on to a career in education, said the leadership skills she learned were foundational to her success in life.

Her legacy was honored alongside the current female Rams Battalion Commander, connecting generations of local leaders.

Penobscot Valley Weather Forecast

Tuesday, Nov 11 — 🌧❄️ Rain and Snow
High 40°F / Low 30°F — Chance of rain during the day and snow at night.

Wednesday, Nov 12 — 🌦 Light Rain
High 40°F / Low 32°F — Low chance of lingering precipitation.

Thursday, Nov 13 — 🌦 Light Rain
High 44°F / Low 31°F — Warmest day of the week.

Friday, Nov 14 — ☁️ Mostly Cloudy
High 40°F / Low 27°F — Colder overnight temperatures.

Saturday, Nov 15 — 🌤 Partly Sunny
High 40°F / Low 28°F — Clearer skies, brisk air.

Sunday, Nov 16 — 🌧❄️ Rain and Snow
High 43°F / Low 31°F — Mix of rain and snow throughout the day and night.

Monday, Nov 17 — 🌦 Light Rain
High 43°F / Low 34°F — On-and-off showers, possible snow mix.

For homebuyers in Central and Northern Maine, navigating the market’s unique challenges is key.

Our region's historic homes and harsh seasons make a professional home inspection absolutely essential.

In the Penobscot Valley, this step protects a massive investment.

One local firm, Madden Home Inspections, brings crucial expertise to the process.

Based in Hampden, lead inspector Timothy Madden is a Certified Master Inspector®, a top credential in the industry.

Their team identifies Maine-specific issues like seasonal foundation shifts and hidden risks such as radon.

Understanding a home’s true condition is vital before closing.

The firm delivers clear, mobile-friendly reports within 24 hours to clients from Bangor to Millinocket, offering a critical advantage in our fast-paced market.

This Veteran's Day, the Penobscot Valley will come together to honor the service of local military members through several community events.

The annual Bangor-Brewer Veterans Day Parade is the centerpiece of the tributes, kicking off at 10:15 AM on Tuesday, November 11th.

The procession starts on Vista Way in Brewer, crosses the Joshua Chamberlain Bridge, and proceeds through downtown Bangor before ending on Exchange Street.

In Orono, the University of Maine will hold a public flag-raising ceremony on the Mall on Monday, November 10th.

For those seeking quiet reflection, St. John's Episcopal Church in Bangor is hosting a “Program of Remembrance and Reflection” at 3:00 PM on Veteran's Day.

These local ceremonies provide a powerful opportunity to connect, remember, and offer a heartfelt thank you to our community’s heroes.

Veteran's Day Parades by Community

These local ceremonies provide a powerful opportunity to connect, remember, and offer a heartfelt thank you to our community’s heroes.

Penobscot Valley Veterans Day Events (2025)
(Locals know the routes — times listed below.)

Bangor / Brewer
🕒 Tuesday, Nov 11 – 10:15 AM
Veterans Day Parade — Starts in Brewer (Vista Way), crosses the Chamberlain Bridge, ends on Exchange St, Bangor.

Dover-Foxcroft
🕥 Monday, Nov 10 – 10:30 AM
Veterans Day Celebration — Ceremony at Foxcroft Academy with music, readings, and student speakers. Veterans arrive by 10:15 AM. Reception follows in the gym lobby.

Monson
🕚 Tuesday, Nov 11 – 11:00 AM
American Legion Post Ceremony — Public welcome. Outdoor volley salute followed by a small luncheon at the Post Hall.

Sangerville
🕥 Tuesday, Nov 11 – 10:30 AM
Veterans Memorial Ceremony — Conducted at the town’s Veterans Memorial with local participants and community guests.

Bucksport
ℹ️ No confirmed details. Check American Legion Post 93 (58 Elm St) for updates.

Newport
ℹ️ No confirmed details. Contact American Legion Post 105 (82 North St • 207-368-2235).

Bangor
🕒 Tuesday, Nov 11 – 3:00 PM
Program of Remembrance & Reflection — St. John’s Episcopal Church, 225 French St. Marks 50 years since the Vietnam War.

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Tuesday, November 11
Ladies Night at Barliman’s – Bangor
4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Enjoy a relaxing evening with friends and 25% off margaritas and martinis.

Songwriters’ Open Mic at 2 Feet Brewing – Bangor
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Local songwriters and musicians take the stage for an evening of original performances and community creativity.

Game Night at Penobscot Pour House – Bangor
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
A fun night of casual games, trivia, and friendly competition. Bring a team or join one when you arrive.

Wednesday, November 12
Bangor Public Library Community Resource Fair – Morning
Local organizations share helpful information about housing, wellness, education, and community resources.

Tiny Tots Storytime (Ages 2–4) – Bangor Public Library
A lively story hour designed for toddlers and preschoolers with songs and movement.

Brewer Public Library Basic Internet Safety Class – 2:00 PM
Learn safe browsing habits, how to spot scams, and protect your privacy online.

Dog Ears Reading Therapy – 3:30 PM, Brewer Public Library
Children can read aloud to certified therapy dogs in a calm, encouraging environment.

“Salt-Oke” at Salt North Tap Room – Evening
Join the fun for live music and karaoke in a friendly, relaxed setting.

Tech Tutoring at Bangor Public Library – 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Free one-on-one help for community members who want to learn computer or smartphone basics.

Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club – Bangor Public Library – 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Middle and high school students are invited to join this ongoing tabletop adventure campaign. Beginners welcome.

Thursday, November 13
Penobscot Nation Indoor Yard Sale – 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Penobscot Nation grounds
A big community sale with clothing, crafts, and unique finds hosted by the Penobscot Nation.

Bangor Symphony Orchestra Free Chamber Performance – Noon, Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness Center, 16 Central St., Bangor
Enjoy a free midday concert featuring local professional musicians performing chamber pieces.

Queer Youth Fridays – Bangor Region YMCA Teen Center – 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
An inclusive and supportive space for LGBTQ+ teens to connect, relax, and share creative activities.

Next Chapter Book Club – Bangor Public Library – 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
An inclusive reading group for teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Friday – Sunday, November 14 – 16
Facial Friday Fundraiser – Express Glow, Bangor – Friday 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Treat yourself to an “Express Glow” facial and support a local family in need.

Queen City Expo – Cross Insurance Center, Bangor
Friday 3:00 PM • Saturday 10:00 AM • Sunday 10:00 AM
Three days of exhibits, entertainment, and local vendors celebrating creativity and small business in the region.

Ol’ Country Store Craft Fair – East Orrington Congregational Church
Friday 3:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Saturday 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
A two-day craft fair featuring handmade gifts, local artists, and a Friday night turkey-pie supper.

All Souls Annual Bazaar – All Souls Congregational Church, Bangor – Saturday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
A Bangor tradition returns with crafts, baked goods, and vintage treasures.

Friends of Lower Kenduskeag Stream Trail Day – Saturday 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Meet behind Penquis on Harlow Street, Bangor, to help maintain and clean this scenic trail.

Sunday Community Jam – 2 Feet Brewing, Bangor – Sunday 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Bring an instrument or just stop in to enjoy live music as local musicians play together in an open jam.

Ongoing
Old Town Curbside Leaf Pickup – November 10 – 19
Leaves must be bagged and placed curbside for pickup. Compostable bags preferred.

Bangor Region Highlights

Maine Harvest Festival & Craft Show
📅 Saturday–Sunday, Nov 23–24
📍 Cross Insurance Center, Bangor
Over 200 Maine farmers, food producers, and craft vendors — a Maine-made holiday kickoff!

Bangor Mall Craft Fair
📅 Multiple weekends in November
📍 Bangor Mall
A large indoor fair featuring dozens of local artisans and seasonal vendors.

Anah Shriners Feztival of Trees
📅 Nov 20 – Nov 30, 2025
📍 Anah Shrine Hall, 1404 Broadway, Bangor
A magical family event featuring beautifully decorated trees, raffles, and holiday spirit — a Bangor tradition.

❤️ American Red Cross — Bangor Blood Donation Center

Location: 900 B Hammond Street, Bangor • 📞 1-800-RED-CROSS
Hours: Tue–Thu 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Sat 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

As our community moves into the busy holiday season, the American Red Cross in Bangor is calling for more blood donors to help meet rising demand across Maine hospitals.
Blood donations often drop in late fall — yet patient needs never do.

Every pint collected helps local hospitals treat accident victims, cancer patients, and those undergoing surgeries. Donating is quick, easy, and deeply meaningful — most visits take less than an hour.

💡 How to Help:

• Schedule an appointment at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS

• Bring a photo ID and stay hydrated

• Encourage a friend or coworker to give alongside you

Your donation this week could save a life before Thanksgiving.

Cause of the Month: Give Back, Warm Up, and Feed Our Neighbors

As the days grow shorter and Thanksgiving approaches, the Penobscot Valley comes alive with opportunities to give back. Whether you can offer time, a warm coat, or a pint of blood — your kindness makes our community stronger.

🥫 Feed Local Families

The shelves at area food pantries are working overtime this month.
Organizations like OHI’s Brewer Food Pantry and Good Shepherd Food Bank partners are asking for non-perishable foods, canned goods, and grocery gift cards to help fill Thanksgiving tables.
🕒 Donations accepted weekdays — call ahead for drop-off times.

🧥 Share the Warmth

Winter weather arrives early in Maine, and hundreds of families need help staying warm.
Programs like Coats for Kids and local clothing drives are collecting coats, hats, mittens, and scarves for children and adults.
Drop boxes are available at Hannaford, Shaw’s, and local schools throughout November.

🩸 Give Blood. Give Thanks.

The American Red Cross Blood Center in Bangor continues to face critical shortages heading into the holidays.
Every donation saves lives — and every donor helps keep our hospitals stocked during the busiest time of year.
📍 900 B Hammond Street, Bangor | 📞 1-800-RED-CROSS

However you give — thank you for being part of a community that shows up for one another when it matters most.

New Openings, Under New Ownership, Closures & Relocations around the Penobscot Valley

New Business Openings

New Restaurant Alert: Mainely Tacos Dos (64 Main St., Bangor)
Popular Hampden food truck Mainely Tacos is stepping into its first brick‐and‐mortar home, bringing authentic Mexican street food to downtown Bangor. Expect tacos, burritos, ceviche, guacamole and more, plus local craft beer and margaritas.

Roca Azul Mexican Restaurant — Now open in downtown Bangor. A fresh addition to the local dining scene, serving authentic Mexican dishes with a modern twist.

Salt North TapRoom — Recently opened at 16 Union Street, Bangor. Offers Caribbean-fusion cuisine, craft cocktails, and live local music.

Sunbury’s Wine, Fine Food & Cookware — New retail shop at 86 Hammond Street, Bangor. Features fine foods, wines, and upscale kitchenware.

Under New Ownership

Smoke & Steel BBQ – Bangor
Now owned and operated by David and Cassandra Matson, the same team behind Twin City Tire & Service. The Matsons have been actively posting updates and events on social media as they refresh the menu, live-music lineup, and community partnerships.

Pepino’s Mexican Restaurant – Bangor
Purchased by Liz Sites-Grant and Mike Grant, who plan to expand hours and introduce a late-night bar menu. The new owners are focused on keeping Pepino’s longtime local charm alive while modernizing its offerings.

Penobscot Valley Country Club – Orono
Sold for just under $3 million to the owners of Lucerne Country Club. The new ownership group plans to revitalize the 101-year-old course and enhance clubhouse amenities for the 2026 season.

Relocations & Expansions

Sandollar Spa & Pool — Moved from Brewer to Broad Street, Bangor, after more than three decades in business. The new location offers expanded showroom space and service facilities.

Burlington Coat Factory — Relocating within Bangor to a new storefront at Bangor Mall Boulevard near Bob’s Discount Furniture.

Closures

Evenrood’s — Long-time downtown Bangor restaurant expected to close at year’s end.

MeMe G’s — Family restaurant in Old Town has closed permanently.

My Buddy’s Place — Bucksport eatery has shut its doors following the owner’s retirement.

Hammond Street Convenience Store — A Bangor neighborhood fixture, recently closed with a sign announcing permanent closure.

Bangor Region Chamber Events — Week of November 11–17, 2025

Tuesday, November 11
Healthy Eating for the Holidays – Weston A. Price Foundation
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
277 State St., Suite 1A, Bangor
We’ll share a featured holiday recipe, highlight local food sources, and open the floor for community discussion and connection.
More info: https://bangorregionchamber.chambermaster.com/events/details/healthy-eating-for-the-holidays-with-the-weston-a-price-foundation-15610

Wednesday, November 12
Early Bird Breakfast – Meet Northern Light Health President & CEO R. Guy Hudson, MD
Time TBD • See Bangor Region Chamber site
A conversation with Dr. R. Guy Hudson about leadership, innovation, and the vision for Maine’s statewide healthcare system.
More info: https://www.bangorregion.com/events/

Thursday, November 13
Business After Hours – United Insurance
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
329 Wilson St., Brewer, ME 04412
Monthly networking reception hosted by United Insurance. Donations accepted through December 5 to help feed neighbors.
More info: https://bangorregionchamber.chambermaster.com/events/details/business-after-hours-november-2025-united-insurance-15568

BNI Chapter Meetings

• BNI Bangor Breakfast
  Fridays, 7:00 AM
  Elks Lodge, 108 Odlin Rd, Bangor
•  
• BNI Queen City
  Thursdays, 8:30 AM
  The Sports Arena, 1640 Hammond St, Hermon
•  
• BNI Black Bear (Hybrid)
  Thursdays, 8:30 AM
  Week 1: In person — Eastern Area Agency on Aging, 240 State St, Brewer
  Weeks 2–5: Online
•  
• BNI Paul Bunyan (Virtual)
  Tuesdays, 7:00 AM
  Online via Zoom – “Paul Bunyan BNI” chapter

Maple Pumpkin Bread

A sweet, spiced loaf that tastes like Maine in October.
Perfect with coffee or an afternoon cup of tea.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
2. Whisk dry ingredients together in one bowl, wet ingredients in another.
3. Combine and stir until just blended.
4. Pour into pan and bake 50–55 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool before slicing — the maple flavor deepens overnight!

🥔 2. Harvest Chowder with Corn & Potatoes

A hearty, one-pot favorite that makes the house smell amazing.

Ingredients:

• 3 strips bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 can creamed corn
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk or half-and-half
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste

Directions:

1. In a large pot, cook bacon until crisp. Remove and reserve.
2. Add onion and carrots; sauté 3–4 minutes.
3. Add potatoes and broth, simmer 10–12 minutes.
4. Stir in corn, milk, butter, and seasonings.
5. Simmer another 5 minutes, top with bacon, and serve with crusty bread.

Local Businesses Supporting Local Food Drives

Our local businesses are doing more than selling — they’re serving. From food drives to community partnerships, the Penobscot Valley’s business owners are stepping up to make sure every family has a little more comfort — and a lot more hope — this holiday season.

Bangor Federal Credit Union — Collecting nonperishable food items through November 15 to benefit area food pantries.

First National Bank — Hosting a county-wide food drive; branches in Penobscot County are accepting pantry staples all month.

Marden’s Surplus & Salvage — Accepting canned goods and shelf-stable foods to support the Good Shepherd Food Bank network.

Shaw’s Supermarket — “Bag Hunger” program continues through mid-November; customers can donate pre-bagged groceries at checkout.

The Furniture Gallery — Collecting food donations for the Brewer Food Pantry at both Bangor-area locations.

Bangor Savings Bank — Hosting its annual “Food for Good” collection, supporting local pantries across Penobscot County.

Hannaford Supermarket (Bangor Mall & Hammond Street Locations) — “Hannaford Helps” reusable donation boxes available near registers.

Hollywood Casino Bangor — Food and essentials drive for local veterans and families in partnership with Eastern Maine Community College.

Cross Insurance Center — Drop-off location for canned-food donations during upcoming community events and the Queen City Expo weekend.

Eastern Maine Community College Student Life Office — Coordinating a campus-wide collection of pantry items and toiletries for students in need.

Penobscot Pioneers Girls Hockey

• Nov 23 — vs Biddeford, 4:30 PM.

• Nov 30 — at Yarmouth, 3:10 PM (bus 12:00 PM). 

• Dec 4 — vs Central Maine Black Raiders, 8:00 PM. 

• Dec 14 — vs St. Dominic’s Saints, 8:30 PM.

• Dec 26 — vs (BHS only) 3:40 PM (bus 11:30 AM).

Are you looking to add a new member to your family?

Our local animal shelters have an urgent need for loving homes, and right now, a special dog named Moose is waiting to meet you.

Moose is an energetic and social boy who loves people and would be a perfect adventure buddy or a friendly companion for neighborhood walks.

Adopting a pet like Moose is more than just getting a new animal; it's about saving a life and gaining a loyal friend.

Community members consistently share wonderful stories about their experiences with local rescue organizations.

Many describe the staff at places like the Humane Society as friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring.

They often highlight how clean the facilities are and how well the animals are treated while they await their forever homes.

The adoption process itself is frequently praised as easy, fast, and efficient.

Locals who have brought home rescue pets say it's one of the most rewarding decisions they've ever made.

It's a powerful feeling to know you've given a deserving animal a second chance at happiness.

From playful kittens to gentle senior dogs, these shelters are full of amazing animals who just need someone to love them.

Choosing to adopt a pet not only enriches your life but also supports the incredible work these local organizations do every single day.

So, why not consider opening your heart and home?

Come meet the amazing Moose and see if he's the perfect furry addition to your family.

Love What You’re Reading?”

Enjoying this week’s stories, events, and community highlights?
Make sure you never miss an issue — subscribe free today and get the Penobscot Valley Voice delivered to your inbox every Tuesday morning.
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As another week comes to a close, I’m reminded of what makes our region so special — the people, the stories, and the way we show up for one another. From our veterans to our volunteers, every act of kindness helps keep the Penobscot Valley strong and connected.

Take a few moments this weekend to reach out, lend a hand, or simply share a smile. The weeks ahead will be busy, but there’s joy to be found in every small gesture and every local gathering.

Thank you for reading, for supporting local businesses, and for being part of the community heartbeat that keeps the Voice alive each week.

See you next Tuesday,
Sandy

The Answer is: 3. Shipbuilding and Maritime Trade. During the 1800s, Bucksport was a major port where numerous ships were built and sailed all over the world, bringing the town significant wealth before the textile and paper industries dominated the region.