Reader April W. sent us the information about Friday’s Newport Community Market, and I’m glad she did. With 30 vendors, food trucks, music, children’s activities, and free admission, it’s exactly the kind of local gathering we want readers to know about. You’ll find the full details below, along with several other good reasons to get out around the Penobscot Valley this weekend. Thanks for spending part of your Friday morning with us.

Friday: Sunny and breezy, with a high near 77. The Newport Community Market should have good weather, though northwest gusts could reach the low-to-upper 20s.

Saturday: Partly sunny with highs around 78–79. A few showers may develop late in the afternoon, followed by a greater chance of rain and thunderstorms Saturday night.

Sunday: Showers are most likely during the morning, followed by brighter skies later in the day. Highs should again reach the upper 70s.

Forecast Source: National Weather Service, Caribou.

Pitch in on the Kenduskeag Stream Trail: FOLKS Trail Days meets Saturday from 8:00–9:30 AM behind Penquis on Harlow Street in Bangor. It’s a practical way to help care for a trail many people use.

Browse Bangor’s European Market: Stop by Saturday from 8:30 AM–12:30 PM for produce, baked goods, meats, seafood, and gifts.

See what’s new at Zillman: The Zillman Art Museum is open Saturday from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, with five summer exhibitions on display

Make a Sunday market stop: The Bangor Farmers Market runs Sunday from 11:00 AM–1:30 PM at Franklin and Harlow streets, across from Bangor Public Library.

The Day Tony LaPrino Said Yes

Tony LaPrino was standing in a half-finished new build, picking up a check from his builder, when he said the five words that changed everything: “I’d love to learn how to do this.” The room went quiet, but Tony was serious. One year later, North Star Property Solutions is booked solid across the Greater Bangor area.

In the newest episode of Maine Thrive Voices, Tony talks about the college summer job that started it all, why the “handyman” label no longer fit his work, and how he found his niche as a Property Preparation Specialist—taking on the projects homeowners struggle to get contractors to call back about.

Listen to Tony LaPrino on Spotify

Before calling someone about a home project, take a few clear photos and write down exactly what you want finished. A good description helps the professional understand the job, price it more accurately, and arrive prepared.

Bright summer sun can be hard on your eyes, even through haze and clouds. Choose sunglasses labeled to block 99–100% of UVA and UVB rays; wraparound frames provide added protection from the sides.

Woof LLC

This Weekend Edition is sponsored by Woof LLC of Glenburn, offering dog daycare, boarding, and grooming with a team focused on keeping every dog safe, comfortable, and well cared for.

Thank you to Peter Richmond and the Woof team for supporting Penobscot Valley Voice and the communities we serve.

A reader submission helped put Newport’s Friday market in front of the whole Valley this week. That’s exactly how this newsletter should work—neighbors helping neighbors discover what’s happening close to home.

Enjoy your weekend, support a local business when you can, and Scout & I will be back Tuesday morning with the full Penobscot Valley Voice.