The Bangor Marathon course runs from the corner of Main Street and Dutton Street all the way to a turnaround point in which Maine town before returning to the Bangor Waterfront?

I ran cross country in high school. My coach had a simple training philosophy — he'd drop us off at Sugarloaf and tell us to run back to Waterville. No drama. Just run.

I don't run anymore. But I never forgot what it feels like to toe a starting line, and I've never stopped respecting the people who do.

That's why I'm proud to have Maine Endurance Sports Alliance as the sponsor of this week's Penobscot Valley Voice. MESA is a Maine nonprofit, and this Sunday, June 7, they're bringing the Bangor Marathon — Full, Half, 10K, and 5K — to the Bangor Waterfront. Start time is 7 AM at the corner of Main and Dutton Street.

I'll confess — a friend put a finisher's medal around my neck in a photo this week. I didn't earn it. But I'll be cheering for every single person who does on Sunday.

See you at the starting line or, in Kenduskeag at the turn-around.

— Sandy

This edition of the Penobscot Valley Voice is proudly sponsored by Maine Endurance Sports Alliance. See you at the Starting Line — Sunday, June 7 at 7 AM. mesa-maine.org

The Bangor Marathon Is Back — and This Sunday, It's Your Turn

Over 300 runners are heading to the Bangor Waterfront this Sunday morning for the return of a full marathon to the Queen City — and the whole region is invited to watch.

The Bangor Marathon — presented by Maine Endurance Sports Alliance — runs Sunday, June 7, 2026, with four distances for runners of every ability: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K. The horn goes off at 7:00 AM at the corner of Main Street and Dutton Street in downtown Bangor. The finish line is at Bangor Waterfront Park, just south of Geaghan's, where a vendor area and beverage garden will be waiting for finishers and their families.

The full marathon course takes runners out Valley Avenue to Broadway, with a turnaround in the town of Kenduskeag before heading back to the waterfront — roads that run through the heart of this region.

The half marathon follows the same course with a turnaround on outer Broadway past Pushaw Road. Total elevation difference on the full course is just 170 feet, making this one of the more runnable marathon profiles in New England.

Every distance is USATF sanctioned. The full marathon and half marathon are both Boston certified — qualifying times count. There is no time limit. MESA wants every runner to cross that finish line.

Packet pickup is Saturday, June 6 from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at The Maine Experience on the Bangor Waterfront — the day before the race, right in the heart of downtown.

MESA is a Maine 501(c)3 nonprofit, and this race is part of a bigger vision for endurance sports in the state. Finishers who also complete the Lincoln Marathon earn a special "Run the Highlands" medal. Those who complete three of MESA's four 2026 races earn the Vacationland Triple Crown.

Whether you're running Sunday, cheering from the course, or heading down to the waterfront to see what a marathon start looks like — this is worth your morning. Registration and full course details at mesa-maine.org.

Penobscot Valley Forecast — Week of June 2 Courtesy of the National Weather Service, Caribou, Maine

Tuesday, June 2 — Partly sunny with a chance of showers after 2 PM. High near 68. Chance of precipitation 30%.

Wednesday, June 3 — Mostly sunny. High near 73. Light westerly breeze in the afternoon. A beautiful mid-week day.

Thursday, June 4 — Sunny and warm. High near 83. The warmest day of the week.

Friday, June 5 — Mostly sunny. High near 82. Great evening for an outdoor concert at the waterfront.

Saturday, June 6 — A chance of showers. Partly sunny. High near 79. Chance of precipitation 30%. Grab your marathon packet early and enjoy the waterfront.

Sunday, June 7 — RACE DAY — Mostly sunny with a slight chance of showers. High near 77. Marathon runners, conditions look favorable — cool enough to run, warm enough to celebrate at the finish line.

Monday, June 8 — Mostly sunny. High near 77. A beautiful start to the post-race week.

As always — if you don't like the weather in Maine, wait five minutes.

Race week is here — and how you spend the next few days matters as much as the miles you already put in. Lifestyle Sports Global shares five tapering tips to help every runner get to Sunday's starting line feeling their best.

🎥 5 Tips for Tapering — Lifestyle Sports Global

BANGOR MARATHON 2026 WHAT: The Bangor Marathon — Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K running festival presented by Maine Endurance Sports Alliance. WHERE: Start: Corner of Main Street and Dutton Street, Bangor. Finish: Bangor Waterfront Park, just south of Geaghan's. WHEN: Sunday, June 7, 2026. Horn goes off at 7:00 AM. COST: Registration at mesa-maine.org. Packet pickup Saturday, June 6, 3:00–6:00 PM at The Maine Experience on the Bangor Waterfront. FAMILY: Yes — vendor area and Geaghan's beverage garden at the finish line. Great spot to cheer and celebrate. WALK-IN: Yes for spectators. Runners must be pre-registered. WHY: This is the biggest endurance event to hit the Bangor Waterfront in years. Whether you're running it or cheering from the course, Sunday morning on the waterfront is worth your time.

MGK: LOST AMERICANA TOUR WHAT: mgk (Machine Gun Kelly) brings the Lost Americana Tour to Bangor with special guests Wiz Khalifa and De'Wayne. WHERE: Maine Savings Amphitheater, Bangor Waterfront. WHEN: Friday, June 5, 2026. 7:00 PM. COST: Tickets at Ticketmaster.com. General parking at Pickering Square Garage, 100 Broad Street — $3. FAMILY: Kids under 3 free. Strollers permitted. 21+ beer tent available. WALK-IN: No — tickets required. Rain or shine. WHY: The Bangor Waterfront concert season is officially open. MGK's Lost Americana is one of the most talked-about tours of 2026 and Bangor is one of only a handful of Northeast stops.

FUSION:FIRST WITH PRIDE AT PADDY MURPHY'S WHAT: FUSION:Bangor's monthly networking event, this month partnering with Bangor Pride for a special Pride Month edition on Paddy Murphy's outdoor patio. WHERE: Paddy Murphy's, Downtown Bangor. WHEN: Thursday, June 4, 2026. 5:30–7:30 PM. COST: Free. Registration encouraged. FAMILY: All welcome. WALK-IN: Yes. WHY: A great chance to connect with rising professionals in the Bangor region, celebrate community, and kick off Pride Month downtown. This one has energy.

Best of Bangor Community Walk Tuesday, June 2 · 6:00–7:30 PM · Downtown Bangor A guided walking tour through Bangor's rich history — lumber barons, shipping magnates, and the stories behind the city's rise. Free and open to all. A great Tuesday evening outing.

Bangor Harness Racing — Race 12 Wednesday, June 3 · 3:00 PM post time · Hollywood Casino Raceway at Bass Park, Bangor The 2026 harness racing season rolls on at Bass Park. Get there early, pick your favorites, and enjoy an afternoon at the rail.

Spring Golf Scramble — Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce Friday, June 5 · Hermon Meadow Golf Club, Hermon The Chamber kicks off golf season with its annual Spring Golf Scramble at Hermon Meadow. A great way to network and get on the course. Details and registration at bangorregion.com.

Bangor Harness Racing — Race 13 Friday, June 5 · 12:10 PM post time · Hollywood Casino Raceway at Bass Park, Bangor A midday Friday at the track. Wagers on races 3–10 earn points toward the Crown of the Queen. Get there early.

Bangor Marathon Packet Pickup Saturday, June 6 · 3:00–6:00 PM · The Maine Experience, Bangor Waterfront Running Sunday? Get your bib Saturday afternoon right on the waterfront. A great excuse to walk the finish line before race day.

Bad Daddy — Live at Penobscot Pour House Saturday, June 6 · Penobscot Pour House, Downtown Bangor Live music Saturday night in downtown Bangor. Bad Daddy takes the stage at the Pour House.

Brewer School Committee Meeting Tuesday, June 2 · 7:00 PM · Brewer School Department, 261 Center St, Brewer The Brewer School Committee meets Tuesday evening. Public meetings are open to all community members. FMI call 207-989-3160.

Bangor Public Library Community Flag Unveiling Wednesday, June 3 · 6:00 PM · Bangor Public Library, 145 Harlow St, Bangor The community flag gets its public debut Wednesday evening at the library — with cake, art exhibits, music, and activities. Free and open to everyone. A genuine community moment worth showing up for.

Free Knee Pain Workshop 

Premier Rehab and Training, Bangor Jen Goddard and Dr. Cameron Puls lead a free workshop on what's really behind persistent knee pain and the role of rehabilitation. Timely for anyone heading into marathon week — or anyone who's been putting off that nagging ache.

Dover-Foxcroft Town Referendum Tuesday, June 9 · Polls open standard hours · Dover-Foxcroft Voters in Dover-Foxcroft head to the polls June 9 on municipal warrant items including a $10.3 million operations budget and several local ordinance questions. Full details at the Town of Dover-Foxcroft official website.

Keeping Your Pet Safe When Maine Summer Heats Up

The forecast this week has highs pushing into the low 80s by Thursday — and while that feels great after a long Maine winter, it's worth a reminder that our pets feel that heat differently than we do.

Dogs cool themselves by panting, not sweating. When temperatures climb, they can overheat faster than you'd expect — especially flat-faced breeds like bulldogs and pugs, elderly dogs, overweight dogs, and puppies. Here's what to keep in mind this week and all summer long.

Never leave a pet in a parked car. Even with windows cracked, a car interior can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes on a warm day. If it's 80 degrees outside, the inside of your car can hit 100 degrees in under 20 minutes. It's not worth the risk — ever.

Walk early or walk late. Pavement holds heat long after the sun goes down. On an 80-degree day, asphalt can reach 140 degrees or more — hot enough to burn paw pads in seconds. Test it yourself: hold the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If you can't hold it there, your dog shouldn't walk on it.

Always carry water. A collapsible bowl and a cold bottle of water should be standard kit on any summer walk. Dogs need frequent small drinks when they're active in the heat, not one big drink at the end.

Know the signs of heat stroke. Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, glazed eyes, vomiting, or loss of coordination are all warning signs. If you see them, move your pet to a cool area immediately, offer small amounts of cool (not ice cold) water, and call your vet.

When in doubt, leave them home. A shaded yard, a cool floor, and a full water bowl beats a hot adventure every time.

WOOF LLC in Glenburn offers daycare and boarding in a climate-controlled facility — a safe option on the hottest days of summer. woofllc.com · 207-331-9663

Paul Bunyan BNI — Weekly Meeting Tuesday, June 2 · 7:00 AM · Virtual (Zoom) Paul Bunyan BNI meets every Tuesday morning online. Visitors welcome. Contact the chapter

FUSION:First with Pride at Paddy Murphy's Thursday, June 4 · 5:30–7:30 PM · Paddy Murphy's, Downtown Bangor (See Featured Events for full details.)

Queen City BNI — Weekly Meeting Thursday, June 5 · 8:30 AM · The Sports Arena, 1640 Hammond St, Hermon Queen City BNI meets every Thursday morning in person in Hermon. 30 members strong. Visitors welcome — one seat per profession.

Black Bear BNI — Weekly Meeting Thursday, June 5 · 8:30 AM · Eastern Area Agency on Aging, 240 State St, Brewer Black Bear BNI meets every Thursday. Week 1 of June meets in person in Brewer. 16 members. Visitors welcome — one seat per profession.

Spring Golf Scramble — Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce Friday, June 5 · Hermon Meadow Golf Club, Hermon (See Additional Events for full details.)

Bangor Breakfast BNI — Weekly Meeting Friday, June 6 · 7:00 AM · Elks Lodge, 108 Odlin Rd, Bangor Maine's largest BNI chapter — 52 members — meets every Friday morning in person at the Elks Lodge. Visitors welcome. One seat per profession.

Connect. Collaborate. Grow.

Bangor Sandwich Co. made a move this week that's been a long time coming. Joe and Jen Ramos opened the doors at their new location — 1 Central Street in downtown Bangor — on June 1, stepping into a space nearly double the size of their original Hammond Street spot. The bigger kitchen means a bigger menu: nine new items are now available, including sandwiches on homemade focaccia, wraps, and new salads. The Ramos family bought the business in 2022 and also owns Orrington Pizza. They've built their team around high school and college students and young people from the Calvary Chapel recovery program — training staff to lead, not just work. This is exactly the kind of independent, community-rooted business that strengthens downtown foot traffic and gives Bangor's center city a reason to keep growing.

Dollar General — 1171 Broadway, Bangor is now open for business at 1171 Broadway, located next to Tractor Supply Co. The new store is the second Dollar General in Bangor and the sixth dollar store in the city. For Broadway & Judson Heights area residents and families, that's another convenient option for everyday essentials without a long drive.

MJ's Catering and Event Center is opening in a former Bangor bar space, featuring buffet offerings and menu items carried over from Carolina's kitchen. With the waterfront concert season now open and a busy summer ahead, a new catering and event venue coming online right now is well-timed for a city that's about to see a lot of people looking for a place to gather.

Dream in Gold Jewelry & Dream Charm Bar opened its new location at 98 Central Street in downtown Bangor this month, and it's unlike anything else on that block. Owner Jazmin Horne makes her own jewelry and runs a charm bar where customers pick charms and build their own pieces — including parties and events by appointment. She started the business in California in 2020, moved to Bangor in 2021, and has been building toward a permanent downtown home ever since. The new space at 98 Central is twice the size of her previous location. Downtown Bangor needs exactly this kind of destination retail — the kind of place people seek out, tell their friends about, and come back to. dreamingoldjewelry.com · Open Wednesday through Sunday.

The Bangor Waterfront Concert Season Is Open

Friday night the Maine Savings Amphitheater fires up for the first time in 2026 — and it's opening with MGK's Lost Americana Tour at 7 PM, with Wiz Khalifa and De'Wayne along for the ride. That's a statement opener for any summer.

Here are four shows worth putting on your calendar right now:

June 5 — MGK: Lost Americana Tour with Wiz Khalifa and De'Wayne · 7 PM

June 6 — Kid Cudi: The Rebel Ragers Tour 2026 with Big Boi · 6:30 PM

June 16 — Mumford & Sons: Prizefighter Tour with Dylan Gossett · 6 PM

June 20 — Jelly Roll: The Little Ass Shed Tour · 7 PM

The full summer lineup runs through September 6 with ZZ Top closing out the season. Tickets and the complete schedule at waterfrontconcerts.com.

Rico isn't the type to sit back and wait for attention.

As soon as you step into 693 Mt. Hope Avenue, he’s sure you’re there just for him—he might actually be right.

With his affectionate nature, bubbling energy, and fast loyalty, Rico wins hearts within moments.

This dog charms people of every age and fills the room with his presence.

He’s ready for a family that matches his enthusiasm and warmth.

Visit the Bangor Humane Society Monday through Saturday, 1:00–6:00 PM.

Just ask for Rico—you’ll know why he stands out within thirty seconds.

693 Mt. Hope Avenue, Bangor · 207-942-8902

Duck is a lively, affectionate puppy bursting with curiosity and enthusiasm for life.

Social and quick to learn, he thrives with guidance and rewards patience with deep loyalty.

If you’re prepared for the joys and challenges of true puppyhood—from playful antics to training sessions—Duck could be the perfect addition to your family.

The Animal Orphanage at 71 Airport Road in Old Town welcomes visitors for adoptions Monday through Wednesday, Friday afternoons, and Saturday mornings.

Puppy training classes are also available, emphasizing bonding, socialization, and basic obedience to support both new owners and their four-legged friends.

Adopting a puppy like Duck not only enriches your life but supports a local mission dedicated to caring for animals in need.

Open your heart to a new companion and experience the rewards of giving an animal a second chance.

Your Penobscot Valley Farmers Market Guide — June 2026

Bangor Farmers' Market Sundays · 11:00 AM–1:30 PM · Abbott Square, 140 Harlow St, Bangor (across from Bangor Public Library) Season runs June through November. Fresh produce, bread, meat, goat cheese, berries, and more. This Sunday, June 7 marks the first FarmShare sign-up day — stop by the info booth if you're interested in the Senior FarmShare Program.

Brewer Farmers' Market Saturdays · 8:30 AM–1:00 PM · Brewer Parks & Recreation, 318 Wilson Street, Brewer Season runs June through October. Tuesday and Thursday markets (8:30 AM–1:00 PM) added in July and August. Full line of fresh fruits, berries, herbs, and vegetables in season. First FarmShare sign-up day is Saturday, June 6.

Hampden Farmers' Market Fridays · 2:00–5:30 PM · St. Matthew's Church, 70 Western Avenue, Hampden Season runs June through November. Fresh and cured meats, cheeses, fruit, vegetables, baked goods, specialty oils and vinegars, prepared foods, flowers, and plants. First FarmShare sign-up day is Friday, June 5.

Orono Farmers' Market Saturdays · 8:00 AM–12:00 PM · UMaine Steam Plant, College Avenue, Orono Season runs May through November. Located outdoors at the UMaine Steam Plant parking lot through early fall.

June in Maine brings grilling weather, backyard gatherings, and the promise of great food.

Grilled corn with herb butter is a local favorite.

Simply soak ears of corn with husks on, grill until charred, and finish with butter mixed with chives, parsley, thyme, and a hint of Maine honey.

Slice it cold for the perfect melt on hot corn.

Smash burgers are a must this season.

Shape 80/20 ground beef into loose balls, smash them thin on a blazing hot griddle, and let the crust shine.

Top with American cheese and keep it simple—serve on soft buns with pickles, onions or mustard.

Saturday night baked beans remain a true Maine tradition, slow-cooked with yellow-eye beans, salt pork, molasses, and brown sugar for classic flavor and comfort.

These three dishes will turn any Penobscot Valley backyard into a summertime feast.

The Penobscot Valley Voice is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors. Thank you for investing in your community.

Newsletter Sponsor Maine Endurance Sports Alliance See you at the Starting Line — Sunday, June 7 at 7 AM mesa-maine.org

Section Sponsors

Furry Friends — Sponsored by WOOF LLC Doggy Daycare, Boarding & Grooming in Glenburn, Maine. woofllc.com · 207-331-9663 · 2957 Broadway, Glenburn

Recipe of the Week — Sponsored by Penobscot Valley Voice Your community newsletter — every Tuesday and Friday.

Business Pulse — Sponsored by Maine Thrive — Penobscot Valley Connecting local businesses with the community they serve.

Community Support — Sponsored by North Star Property Solutions Your local handyman — home repairs, maintenance, and more.

Farmers Markets — Sponsored by Smith Digital Solutions, LLC Maine's AI Visibility Consultant. smithdigitalsolutions.com

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I want to say something before I let you go this week.

I was out around Bangor this week — just moving through the community the way I do — and something stopped me. The number of people living without shelter in this city is growing, and I can't walk past it without saying so. It breaks my heart. These are people. They deserve better than what they've got right now.

I also noticed something that needs to be said directly: improper needle disposal is showing up in places it shouldn't be. That's a public safety issue for all of us — families, kids, anyone using our parks and sidewalks. I'm not going to turn this into a political conversation. But I am going to say this is urgent and it's real and it's happening right here in our community.

The good news — and there is good news — is that I also saw people doing something about it. Caring individuals quietly and carefully cleaning up what others left behind. That matters. That's the Penobscot Valley I know.

We need solutions. People need places to live. We need resources, we need leadership, and we need this community to stay engaged with the problem until it's solved. I don't have all the answers. But I know that looking away isn't one of them.

See you Friday.

— Sandy

Kenduskeag