What body of water flows through downtown Bangor and meets the Penobscot River just south of the city?

A) Kennebec River
B) Kenduskeag Stream
C) Piscataquis River
D) Union River

There’s something about this time of year in the Penobscot Valley—you can feel the shift happening all around us.

This past week gave us a reminder of just how big the world is. Four astronauts traveled to the Moon and back—something we haven’t seen in a very long time. It’s incredible to think about how far we can go.

And at the same time… here at home, the changes are a little more familiar—and just as meaningful.

The weather is slowly improving (even if we all know Maine likes to keep us guessing… yes, snow is still on the table). The days are getting longer, the sun is sticking around a little later, and you can hear it in the neighborhoods—kids are back outside playing, riding bikes, and making the most of every extra minute of daylight.

If you’ve been out on the roads, you’ve probably noticed it too—motorcycles are back. That first wave always feels like a signal that spring is really starting to take hold. And with it comes more traffic, more visitors, and the early signs that tourism season isn’t far behind.

It’s a busy, exciting time across the Valley—and this week’s issue reflects that.

From one of Bangor’s most iconic spring events to local happenings, community efforts, and a few stories that make this region what it is… there’s a lot to take in.

As always, we’re glad you’re here.

— Sandy

Computer Doctor of Maine

From computer repairs to Apple & Android mobile device support, Computer Doctor of Maine helps individuals and businesses across the Bangor region stay connected and running smoothly.

Sponsored by Gavin’s Lawn Care

As the weather shifts and the growing season begins, Gavin’s Lawn Care is ready to help homeowners across the region get their yards back in shape—from spring cleanups to full-season lawn maintenance.

Get a preview of one of Bangor’s most exciting spring traditions—the Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race.

This 2025 coverage from WABI-TV shows the energy, the rapids, and the crowds that make this event a must-see every year in the Penobscot Valley.

👉 Watch the action and see why paddlers and spectators come from all over New England to be part of it.

The 2025 Kenduskeag Stream Race

Courtesy of WABI-TV, Channel 5, Bangor

Sponsored by North Star Property Solutions

North Star Property Solutions helps keep homes and properties across the region well-maintained and ready for every season—supporting the places where life and community happen.

Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race

Location: Kenduskeag Stream → Bangor Waterfront
🕒 Date: Saturday, April 19
Description: One of Maine’s most iconic spring traditions, this fast-paced canoe race draws paddlers and spectators from across New England.
👉 Learn more: kenduskeagstreamcanoerace.com

Penobscot Theatre Company

Location: Bangor Opera House
🕒 Dates: Multiple showtimes this week
Description: Enjoy live professional theater in downtown Bangor with engaging performances at one of the region’s premier venues.
👉 Learn more: penobscottheatre.org

Bangor Mall Spring Vendor Market

Location: Bangor Mall
🕒 Date: Saturday & Sunday (April 19–20)
Description: Browse local vendors, handmade goods, and small businesses during this weekend indoor market event.
👉Check local listings or Bangor Mall social pages for details

Community & Family Events

• Bangor Farmers Market — Saturday — 9 AM
• Orono Public Library Story Time — Thursday — 10 AM
• Brewer Public Library Craft Day — Saturday — 11 AM
• Family Skate — Hermon — Sunday — 2 PM
• Bangor Parks & Rec Open Gym — Friday — 5 PM
• Hampden Youth Sports Signups — Wednesday — 6 PM
• Old Town River Walk — Saturday — Morning

💼 Business & Networking

• Bangor Chamber After Hours — Wednesday — 5 PM
• Downtown Bangor Meetup — Thursday — 8 AM
• Marketing Workshop — Friday — 10 AM

Looking for more Things To Do Click Here

Sponsored by Maine Thrive

Maine Thrive is dedicated to helping local businesses get discovered, stay visible, and grow—making it easier for communities to connect with the businesses that keep the Valley moving.

Openings & Re-Openings

• Rasa Indian Cuisine Opens in Downtown Bangor
  A new addition to the local dining scene, Rasa Indian Cuisine has opened its doors in Downtown Bangor, bringing authentic Indian flavors and expanding the variety of international cuisine available in the area.
• Food Trucks Return to the Bangor Waterfront
  As the weather improves, food trucks are beginning to reappear along the Bangor Waterfront, bringing back a seasonal favorite for locals and visitors alike.
• Shakes & Bakes Reopens on Broadway
  A popular local takeout spot, Shakes & Bakes has officially reopened, just in time for the spring season.

👉 Have a business update to share? Opening, reopening, or expanding? Let us know—we may feature it here.

Furry Friends

Sponsored by Woof LLC

Woof LLC is proud to support pets and their people across the Penobscot Valley, providing trusted daycare, grooming, and care services to help keep your furry friends happy and healthy.

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Meet Rico, a lively mixed breed dog in Bangor, Maine, who’s eager to find his forever family.

This 2-year-old, 42-pound pup balances playfulness with a heart full of affection.

His high energy makes him perfect for active households ready to share adventures and daily fun.

Rico loves routine and benefits from regular visits to help build a trusting bond.

He may enjoy a canine companion, but careful introductions are best for everyone’s comfort.

Choosing Rico means gaining a loyal friend who will fill your days with happiness and warm companionship.

Reach out to the Bangor adoption center for details on how to meet Rico and discuss the adoption process.

Your future with this special dog could begin today—Rico is waiting to bring joy to your home.

71 Airport Road 

Old Town, ME 04468

207) 827 - 8777

Stella is a 4-year-old dog known for her big heart and unwavering loyalty.

Once she welcomes you into her circle, her bond is lasting and deep.

After experiencing an uncertain past, Stella is making significant progress in her training with Christine to boost her confidence and trust in people.

She’s quickly picked up new skills, from better leash manners to reliably responding when called, showing a growing sense of safety and affection.

Stella immediately connected with Christine, reflecting her playful spirit and capacity for deep love.

She feels most at ease with women and can be reactive around men, so a female-led home would best support her ongoing growth.

Multiple meetings help Stella build essential trust with her future family.

With patience and consistency, she’ll flourish—and return your love many times over.

If you’re searching for a devoted, affectionate companion, Stella could be the perfect fit.

Sponsored by Smith Digital Solutions

Smith Digital Solutions supports local businesses and organizations by helping them get found online, connect with their communities, and grow their impact across the region.

Local food pantries across the Penobscot Valley continue to support families, seniors, and neighbors in need. This time of year, the most requested donations often include canned proteins, pasta, soup, cereal, toiletries, paper products, and cleaning supplies.

Penobscot Valley local food pantries

Bangor

Samaritan Inc- 499 Broadway We support eight food pantries offering a Fresh pantry with food supplied by Hannaford, Sam's Club and BJ's.

• Bangor Area Homeless Shelter Food Pantry — 263 Main St, Bangor. The shelter also maintains a food pantry and publishes a pantry wish list.
• Salvation Army Food Pantry — 65 Park St, Bangor. Listed by Hampden community resources.
• First United Methodist Church Community Meal — 703 Essex St, Bangor. 

Brewer

• Brewer Area Food Pantry (OHI) — 222 North Main St, Brewer. Official pantry page confirms the location and mission.

Old Town / Indian Island area

• St. Ann’s / Penobscot Food Pantry — 16 Wabanaki Way, Indian Island. Open Fridays and on an emergency basis.
• Resurrection of the Lord Food Pantry — Old Town. Pantry hours and donation info are posted on the parish site.

Regional / nearby pantry references 

• Family Food Pantry of Carmel 
• Bread of Life Pantry (Orrington) 

Most common pantry needs this time of year

These tend to be the most needed items in spring, and they also align with the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter’s published pantry wish list and common food-bank needs:

Sponsored by MESA Maine

MESA Maine promotes active lifestyles and community wellness through events and outdoor activities across the state—because good food and healthy living go hand in hand.

Classic Maine Blueberry Crisp

Savor a true taste of Maine with this blueberry crisp, made with wild berries and topped with a golden, crumbly oat layer.

Toss fresh or frozen blueberries with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch, then pour it into a greased dish.

Mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for a hearty topping.

Sprinkle it over the berries and bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned.

Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream for a cozy, authentic Maine treat.

Penobscot Valley residents can source berries locally from Blue Hill Berry Company in Penobscot, renowned for organic produce.

Don’t miss the annual Wild Blueberry Weekend each August, celebrating the harvest with farm tours and fresh local flavor.

This dessert brings Maine tradition right to your table.

Thanks for spending part of your week with Penobscot Valley Voice.

This time of year always feels like a turning point. The days are getting longer, the air feels a little different, and across the Valley you can see people getting back outside—reconnecting with neighbors, supporting local businesses, and taking in everything this region has to offer.

This week’s issue is a great example of that—from the excitement of the Kenduskeag Canoe Race to the everyday moments happening in our communities, there’s a lot to be proud of here.

If something in this issue made you pause, smile, or plan your next outing, we’ve done our job.

And if you know someone who would enjoy staying connected to what’s happening across the Penobscot Valley, feel free to share this with them. That’s how this continues to grow—one neighbor at a time.

Not subscribed yet? Join us and never miss what’s happening in the Valley. Click here to subscribe

Have something to share—an event, business, or story? We’d love to hear from you. Tell us about it here

We’ll see you next Tuesday morning.

— Sandy

⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ This Week’s Partners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A sincere thank you to the local businesses and community partners who support Penobscot Valley Voice and help keep our region connected.

Computer Doctor of Maine

Gavin's Lawn Care

Woof, LLC

Maine Thrive

Smith Digital Solutions

Mesa-Maine

Kenduskeag Stream

👉 It’s the same waterway featured in the Kenduskeag Canoe Race, one of Bangor’s most iconic spring traditions.