Sandy Smith
Aug 11, 2026
| Tuesday, Aug 11|Issue #46|Penobscot Valley |
Wednesday afternoon, it’ll be worth stepping outside for a few minutes and looking up. A partial solar eclipse will cross Maine on August 12, giving us a chance to see something we don’t get very often here in the Penobscot Valley. In the Greater Bangor area, the eclipse begins at about 12:54 p.m., reaches maximum coverage at 1:53 p.m., and ends around 2:49 p.m. At its peak, about 23.6% of the sun will be covered.
That’s nothing like the total eclipse northern Maine experienced in 2024, but it’s still one of those moments that can make an ordinary Wednesday afternoon a little less ordinary. The University of Maine’s Versant Power Astronomy Center is making it easy to watch safely. They’ll hold a free public viewing from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Historic Clark Telescope Observatory in Orono.
The Astronomy Center expects to have about 100 pairs of eclipse glasses available for $3 each. And if you saved your glasses from the 2024 eclipse, UMaine says they can be used again as long as they’re in good condition with no scratches or holes.
If you’re watching from home, work, or somewhere else around the Valley, remember that regular sunglasses aren’t enough. You need proper eclipse glasses or another safe solar-viewing method. And never look at the sun through binoculars, a telescope, or a camera without the proper solar filter. I like events like this because nobody has to buy a ticket, drive halfway across the state, or make a whole day of it. For a couple of hours Wednesday afternoon, something unusual will be happening right above Bangor, Brewer, Orono, Hermon, Old Town and the rest of the Valley.
All we have to do is remember to notice it. And this one is worth noticing. According to UMaine, Maine won’t see another solar eclipse until 2045. |
How Well Do You Know the Penobscot Valley?In what year was the University of Maine’s original planetarium built? A) 1933
The Answer is at the end of the Newsletter |
One of the things I like about putting this newsletter together is finding the things that might otherwise slip right past us. Wednesday’s partial solar eclipse is a good example. Most of us will be doing exactly what we normally do on a Wednesday afternoon — working, running errands, mowing a lawn, driving somewhere — while something pretty unusual is happening overhead.
That’s part of what I want Penobscot Valley Voice to do each week. Not make everything sound important. Just help us notice the things that really are worth knowing about.
We’ve got a good edition for you this week, with plenty happening well beyond Bangor. Hermon has its Summer Sizzler coming Saturday, Brewer hosts Champion the Cure Challenge events this weekend, and we’ve got community news, local businesses, farmers markets and plenty more from around the Valley.
And a thank-you this week to North Star Property Solutions, our Edition #46 Newsletter Sponsor. Tony LaPrino and his crew help property owners get homes and properties ready for what comes next — whether that means seasonal preparation, a sale, a rental turnover or just getting a long list of jobs taken care of.
I appreciate North Star supporting a publication built around the communities we both serve. Now, let’s see what’s happening around the Penobscot Valley this week. |
WEATHER — AUGUST 11–17We start warm, then temperatures settle back into the 70s later in the week. Thursday looks like the day most likely to bring wet weather, while Friday and Saturday are shaping up nicely.
Tuesday, Aug. 11 — Clouds and sunshine with a shower possible.
Wednesday, Aug. 12 — Bright intervals with a possible afternoon shower.
For Wednesday’s eclipse: This forecast is encouraging. We’re looking at intervals of sunshine rather than an all-day overcast, so there should be a reasonable opportunity to see the eclipse if the clouds cooperate.
Thursday, Aug. 13 — Mostly cloudy with an afternoon thunderstorm possible.
Friday, Aug. 14 — Mostly sunny, pleasant and breezy early.
Saturday, Aug. 15 — Sunny to partly cloudy and beautiful.
Sunday, Aug. 16 — A nice mix of clouds and sunshine.
Monday, Aug. 17 — Cloudy early, then sunshine returning. Source: Current Bangor forecast — updated Monday afternoon, Aug. 10. |
Hermon’s Daijha Grant Brings Home Three Podium Finishes
Here’s a good Penobscot Valley story. Hermon’s Daijha Grant recently returned from the Coast 2 Coast International Athletics competition in Queensland, Australia, where she represented Team USA against athletes from around the world. The rising Hermon senior came home with three podium finishes — first place in the triple jump and the 4x100-meter relay, plus second place in the long jump. She also finished fifth in the high jump. Grant told WABI that representing her country, state and community gave her an extra push when she competed. That’s quite a trip from Hermon, Maine, to an international podium in Australia — and a local young athlete worth recognizing this week. |
August is when these markets really earn their keep. Tomatoes, squash, berries, greens, baked goods, meats and plenty more are coming in now, with markets running somewhere in the Valley nearly every day this week. Tuesday, August 11 Brewer Farmers’ Market — 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Orono Farmers’ Market — 2:00–5:30 p.m.
Dover Cove Farmers’ Market — 2:00–6:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 13 Brewer Farmers’ Market — 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Bucksport Bay Farmers’ Market — Noon–4:00 p.m.
Friday, August 14 Hampden Farmers’ Market — 2:00–5:30 p.m.
Lincoln Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market — 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Newport Community Market — 4:00–7:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 15 Orono Farmers’ Market — 8:00 a.m.–Noon
Bangor’s European Market — 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Brewer Farmers’ Market — 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Dover Cove Farmers’ Market — 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Sunday, August 16
Bangor Farmers’ Market — 11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. And if you’re wondering what to do with all that zucchini and summer squash, we’ve got an answer coming later in this edition. |
Get Boarding Plans in Place Before You Need Them
If you expect to travel later this summer or this fall, don’t wait until the last minute to think about your dog’s boarding arrangements. Start by making sure vaccinations are current, emergency contact information is up to date, medications are clearly labeled, and your boarding facility has everything it needs before drop-off day. If your dog hasn’t boarded before, ask whether a short daycare visit or trial stay makes sense first. A little preparation now can make the experience easier on both you and your dog — and it’s a lot better than trying to sort everything out the night before you leave. |
Protect Your Eyes — Every Sunny Day
When you’re buying sunglasses, look for lenses that block 99–100% of both UVA and UVB radiation; the CDC recommends that level of protection for everyday sun exposure. And with Wednesday’s eclipse coming, remember that ordinary sunglasses — even very dark ones — are not safe for looking directly at the sun; use proper eclipse viewers instead. |
Help Fill Backpacks Before School Starts
The Courageous Steps Project is collecting back-to-school supplies for area students through Friday, August 21. Bangor Federal Credit Union locations in Bangor and Brewer are serving as local drop-off points, with donated supplies going to schools in the communities Courageous Steps serves. Monetary donations are also being accepted to purchase additional supplies locally.
School Supply Drive — Sunday, August 16 207 Wellness and Penquis CAP are teaming up for a School Supply Drive at The Furniture Gallery from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It’s a chance to help local students head back to school with the supplies they need and give families a little extra help as the new school year approaches.
It’s a simple way to help a student start the school year with what they need.
SUN Bucks Deadline Is Saturday
A reminder for families who may qualify for Maine’s SUN Bucks summer grocery benefit but weren’t automatically enrolled: manual applications must be received by Saturday, August 15. Eligible children receive a one-time $120 grocery benefit. Most qualifying families are enrolled automatically, so the application is primarily for families who believe a child qualifies but haven’t received an eligibility notice or benefits. Applications can be submitted through My Maine Connection. |
This week's adoptable Pets from The Bangor Humane Society and from the Animal Orphanage in Old Town. |
Marley has become a standout presence at the Bangor Humane Society, his unique Merle coat and boundless energy catching the eyes of visitors and staff alike.
Estimated at about four years old, Marley is larger than most and displays a distinct working-dog drive, despite his breed remaining uncertain.
Staff have noticed Marley's enthusiasm for exercise, hinting at his need for meaningful daily activity and a routine.
Described as loyal and sweet, he wins hearts quickly but thrives best with firm boundaries and patient guidance.
Because his history is unknown and his compatibility with other pets and children untested, the Bangor team encourages families with older children to meet him first.
Community support is growing for Marley, celebrating his resilience, goofy charm, and eagerness to learn.
With structure and attention, Marley promises to be a devoted companion in Bangor and beyond. Read More... |
Bangor Region residents have a special chance to welcome Hamel, a resilient three-legged pup, into their lives.
The Animal Orphanage is actively searching for a caring family ready to adopt this inspiring four-year-old, who became a local fixture after surviving alone for weeks.
Hamel lost his left hind leg due to an injury suffered during his time on the run, but he embraces each day with fresh enthusiasm and a gentle heart.
Since his surgery, Hamel has adjusted beautifully, proving that dogs with unique challenges can still enjoy active, joyous lives.
While he may appear shy at first, Hamel’s affectionate personality shines once he feels secure with new friends.
He’s completed all necessary treatments and is ready for a loving home—offering Bangor Region families a devoted, courageous companion.
Hamel is waiting for someone to believe in second chances alongside him. Read More... |
Garden Skillet SizzleIf you’ve been coming home from the farmers’ market with zucchini, summer squash and peppers, here’s an easy way to put a good pile of them to work. UMaine Cooperative Extension’s Garden Skillet Sizzle was our selected recipe for this edition specifically because it matches what’s showing up at local markets right now.
You’ll need: 1 zucchini, coarsely chopped
Here’s all you do: Wash and chop your vegetables. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the zucchini, squash, peppers and tomatoes. Sauté everything for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Move them to a large serving bowl, add the Italian dressing and Parmesan, and toss until everything is evenly coated. That’s dinner-side-dish simple. The recipe makes 8 half-cup servings, and it’s a pretty good answer to the August question: What am I going to do with all this zucchini? |
HAVE SOMETHING WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT?Penobscot Valley Voice is built from what’s happening in the communities we serve — and some of the best leads come directly from readers. If your town, school, nonprofit, business or community group has an upcoming event, local announcement, milestone or story you think your neighbors should know about, reply to this email and send it my way. Please include the basic details — what’s happening, where, when and who is organizing it — along with a website or other source where I can verify the information. I can’t promise every submission will make the newsletter, but I do read them, and they help us keep Penobscot Valley Voice genuinely local. |
North Star Property Solutions A thank-you to North Star Property Solutions for supporting this week’s Penobscot Valley Voice. Tony LaPrino and his crew help property owners prepare homes and properties for what comes next — including seasonal preparation, rental turnovers, listing preparation and the long list of jobs that need to get done before Maine weather changes the schedule. |
Treworgy Family Orchards — Levant
Some local businesses become part of the way families mark the seasons. Treworgy Family Orchards in Levant is one of them. The Treworgy family began the farm in 1983, when Gary and Patty Treworgy set out to build a place centered around family. Pick-your-own has been part of that idea from the beginning. More than four decades later, the farm remains family-owned and continues to bring people together around Maine-grown food and experiences. Today, Treworgy offers seasonal berry and apple picking along with its farm café, ice cream, petting zoo, playground and other family activities. Its corn maze, which began in 2001, has grown into one of the farm’s best-known traditions. What I especially like about Treworgy is that it isn’t simply somewhere you stop to buy something. It’s somewhere families go to do something together — pick berries, wander the farm, get an ice cream, visit the animals and come back again when the next Maine season arrives. That kind of business becomes part of a community. And that makes Treworgy Family Orchards of Levant this week’s Best of the Penobscot Valley. |
We get up, go to work, run errands, mow the lawn, take the dog out or figure out what’s for supper. Then Wednesday becomes Thursday and we’re on to the next thing.
But this Wednesday, for a couple of hours, something unusual will be happening right over our heads.
That’s one reason I like putting Penobscot Valley Voice together. It reminds me how much is happening close to home that we might miss if nobody points it out.
An eclipse. A young athlete from Hermon coming home from international competition. A Bucksport business celebrating 50 years. A family orchard in Levant that has been part of Maine summers for generations. People collecting school supplies for kids they may never meet.
None of those stories is the same, but they all belong here.
So sometime this week, notice one thing you normally would have passed right by. It doesn’t have to be an eclipse.
Sometimes paying a little more attention is all it takes to remember why this is a pretty good place to call home.
Scout & I will be back in your mailbox on Friday with the weekend edition! — Sandy |
B) 1954. UMaine says the original planetarium was built in Wingate Hall in 1954 under astronomy professor Maynard F. Jordan. |