Question: Located on the western bank of the Penobscot River in Prospect, Maine, what state historic landmark is the best-preserved early-American granite fortification on the New England coast, even though it never saw combat?

From Sandy...

 – Early November in the Penobscot Valley

Hello, friends and neighbors,

November has arrived in true Maine fashion — a mix of crisp sunshine, early sunsets, and that unmistakable chill that tells us winter isn’t far away. The leaves continue to drop and blow, but there’s still plenty happening across the Penobscot Valley as our communities gear up for the season ahead.

This week brings Election Day, and with it, two important statewide ballot questions plus local town and school board races that shape life right here at home. Your vote really does make a difference — whether it’s deciding how our schools are funded or what direction our communities take next year.

Of course, November also marks the start of Maine’s deer hunting season — a time-honored tradition that brings family and friends together across the state. Whether you’re heading to camp, enjoying a quiet morning in the woods, or just keeping an eye out for orange, it’s one of those moments that truly feels like “Maine.”

In this issue, we’re covering big headlines in healthcare, including the ongoing contract dispute between Northern Light Health and Anthem, which could affect thousands of Mainers. You’ll also meet local business owners who are keeping our homes and pets comfortable through the cold — like Tony LaPrino of North Star Property Solutions and the team at Woof, LLC in Bangor, who just completed a major renovation to keep tails wagging all winter long.

And since the days are getting shorter, we’ve included a few hearty Maine recipes to help you stay warm, happy, and connected — even as the weather starts to turn.

So grab a cup of coffee (or a mug of hot cider), settle in, and catch up on what’s happening around our corner of Maine.

Stay warm, stay safe, and good luck to those heading into the woods!
– Sandy Smith
Publisher, Penobscot Valley Voice

Today is Election Day across the Penobscot Valley, and your vote will directly shape the future of our communities.

Polls are now open from Bangor to Hampden.

Voters are deciding on two major statewide questions.

Question 1 proposes significant changes to Maine’s election laws, including new photo ID requirements.

Question 2 introduces a controversial "red flag" law, which would allow courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger.

Locally, the stakes are just as high.

In Bangor, nine candidates are competing for three open city council seats, with housing and public safety at the forefront.

Surrounding towns are also electing crucial school board and municipal officials who will manage budgets and local services.

Be sure to make your voice heard, as most polls close at 8 p.m. tonight.

As winter arrives in the Penobscot Valley, a local business is making sure pets stay warm and active.

Woof, LLC, a beloved pet care facility in Glenburn, recently completed a major renovation of its indoor spaces for doggy day care, grooming, and boarding.

The centerpiece of the upgrade is a new, fully climate-controlled interior.

Newly installed heat pumps guarantee a consistently comfortable and draft-free environment where dogs can play and socialize, regardless of the harsh Maine weather.

This offers incredible peace of mind for pet owners in the Bangor area.

Even on the most frigid or snowy days, local dogs now have a safe, fun, and energetic outlet.

The team at Woof says the project is a deepened commitment to providing a space where every dog feels safe, loved, and completely at home while their owners are away.

Video Courtesy of WABI-TV, Bangor 

An unsettling new healthcare reality has begun for thousands of Maine families this weekend.

Contract negotiations between Northern Light Health and insurance giant Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield failed to produce an agreement by the October 31 deadline.

This impasse immediately affects an estimated 30,000 Maine residents.

As of November 1, all non-hospital facilities owned by Northern Light Health, such as doctors' offices, are now out-of-network for many Anthem members.

The change could lead to significantly higher out-of-pocket costs for essential care, especially for patients in the Penobscot Valley.

Anthem claims Northern Light demanded unsustainable price increases, while the healthcare system accuses the insurer of releasing false information.

While Northern Light hospitals remain in-network for now, patients are caught in the middle as negotiations continue without a clear timeline for resolution.

Local Food Banks Continue to Need Non Perishable Food Donations

A chilling reality is settling in across our community as local food banks face a staggering surge in demand.

Families who once managed are now finding their budgets crushed by relentless inflation and rising food costs.

Compounding the crisis, recent changes to government assistance programs like SNAP benefits are pushing thousands more of our neighbors toward the brink of hunger.

This has created an urgent shortfall at a critical time.

Local food pantries are reporting dwindling supplies of essential non-perishables and are struggling to keep up with the new wave of need hitting their doors.

Community support has never been more vital as the holiday season approaches.

A simple donation of canned protein, pasta, or cereal can make a significant difference for a struggling household.

Please consider organizing a community food drive or adding a few extra items to your grocery cart for donation.

It’s a full week of activity across Bangor, Brewer, Orono, Old Town, Bucksport, and our neighboring towns — from ribbon cuttings and markets to winter fun and community breakfasts.

• Old Town Library Family Story Time — Saturday, Nov 8, 10:30 – 11:30 AM, Old Town Memorial Library.
  Free family fun with stories, crafts, and hot cocoa for all ages.

• Orono Farmers Market – Late Season Edition — Sunday, Nov 9, 9 AM – 1 PM, Mill Street Plaza.
  Shop local produce, artisan goods, and enjoy live acoustic music by the river.

• Bucksport Ribbon Cutting – Sweet Cheeks Diner — Monday, Nov 10, 4 PM, 214 US Route 1, Bucksport.
  Celebrate the grand opening of Bucksport’s new 50s-style diner — public welcome!

• Hampden Farmers Market — Friday, Nov 7, 2 – 5:30 PM, St. Matthews Church Parking Lot, 70 Western Ave.
  Pick up fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from more than 20 local vendors.

Coming Soon...

• Feztival of Trees– Anah Shriners — Thursday, Nov 20, 4:00 Pm to 8:00 PM. 1404 Broadway, Bangor

❤️ 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.

As colder air settles into the Penobscot Valley, homeowners are in the annual race to prepare for winter.

In communities like Bangor, Brewer, and Hampden, the goal is to prevent costly cold-weather damage before it starts.

Many are turning to local expert Tony LaPrino, owner of North Star Property Solutions, for help.

His team is tackling critical tasks from sealing drafty windows to ensuring homes are properly insulated.

LaPrino emphasizes that proactive maintenance is a smart investment.

A small air leak now can easily become a major heating problem in the middle of a January blizzard.

By addressing minor issues today, residents can ensure their homes are safe, warm, and ready for whatever the unpredictable Maine weather brings, saving them from major headaches and expenses down the road.

What’s New Around the Valley

From Bangor to Bucksport, new signs are going up, others are coming down, and a few longtime favorites are changing hands. Here’s the latest on what’s happening across our region:

A well-loved Bangor restaurant has changed ownership this month. The new owners, David and Cassandra Matson, are also known for operating Twin City Tire & Service in Brewer. They plan to continue the restaurant’s strong local traditions while introducing a few fresh updates and a name change in the coming weeks.

• WKIT 100.3 FM Sold Again: The Bangor rock station once owned by Stephen King has been acquired by Mix Maine Media from Rock Lobster Radio LLC. Operations shift to the new owners Nov 1, 2025.

• Downtown Bangor Growth: Retail spaces are filling fast, with new jewelers, dessert shops, and home-goods stores bringing fresh energy to Main Street.

• Brewer Bites Back: A new Tex-Mex style restaurant is opening this fall along Route 1, joining a growing stretch of local dining.

• Orono Update: The former Margarita’s building (15 Mill Street) is sale pending, hinting at a new restaurant or retail concept for the university district.

• Old Town Turnover: A popular downtown donut shop has closed and is listed for sale — another reminder of how fast the local scene evolves.

• Sweet Cheeks Diner (Bucksport): Opens October 7 with a 50s theme and jukebox vibes at 214 US Route 1. Expect burgers, fries and plenty of nostalgia.

• Stowaway’s Town Tavern (Bucksport): Set to take over the former MacLeod’s space on Main Street this fall, bringing pub-style fare and live music.

• Hermon Highlights: The Bark House Pet Resort & Spa celebrated its grand opening Sept 27, offering daycare, boarding, and grooming for four-legged friends.

• Hermon Expansion: United Construction & Forestry opened a new 40,000-sq-ft branch on Colebrook Road to serve contractors across Eastern Maine.

• Hampden Farewell: Anglers Seafood Restaurant closed its Hampden location after decades of serving locals — a bittersweet goodbye for seafood fans. But, a new business park is under development.

• Early Bird Breakfast – Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce — Tuesday, Nov 12, 7:30 – 9 AM, Bangor Waterfront Pavilion.
  This month’s topic: “Meet the new President & CEO of Northern Light Health – Dr. R. Guy Hudson.”

BNI – Penobscot Valley Chapters

• 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

Maine Harvest Recipe Trio

Celebrate local flavor this November with fresh, seasonal produce from right here in the Penobscot Valley.

🥗 Roasted Butternut Squash & Beet Salad with Maine Apples

A warm, colorful salad that captures the heart of fall — roasted squash and beets tossed with crisp local apples, greens, and a maple-cider vinaigrette.
Ingredients: Butternut squash, beets, Maine apples, arugula, goat cheese, maple syrup, apple-cider vinegar.
Quick Tip: Roast veggies at 400°F for 35–40 minutes; toss with vinaigrette and serve warm.

Inspired by FruitsAndVeggies.org and the University of Maine Cooperative Extension’s Seasonal Produce Guide (2025). All ingredients available from local farms and Bangor-area markets.

🥘 Garden Skillet Sizzle – A Mainely Dish Favorite

A quick, one-pan medley that brings the farmers’ market to your table. Perfect for using up extra produce — from kale and carrots to onions, squash, or potatoes.
Ingredients: Chopped seasonal vegetables, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, lemon juice.
Quick Tip: Sauté until tender and lightly browned; finish with a squeeze of lemon and serve with bread or rice.

Adapted from “Mainely Dish: Garden Skillet Sizzle,” University of Maine Cooperative Extension (2022). Features late-fall produce from the Bangor and Hampden Farmers’ Markets.

🍎 Hearty Apple–Cranberry Compote

Sweet, tart, and packed with Maine flavor — this compote is perfect over oatmeal, pancakes, or pork chops.
Ingredients: Fresh Maine apples, cranberries, maple syrup, cinnamon, water.
Quick Tip: Simmer over low heat until fruit softens and mixture thickens; serve warm or chilled.

Inspired by RealMaine.com – Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry (2025). Made with fruit grown in Washington County and the Penobscot Valley.

Dreamer Food - Food Truck & Soon Restaurant

If you’ve spent any time downtown lately, you’ve probably heard about Dreamer Food — the Bangor-based food truck that’s become a local sensation for its bold, fresh, and generously portioned Lebanese-style food.

Founded by Anita Derphilibossian and Kara Colar, Dreamer Food began as a small dream on wheels, serving up flavor-packed shawarma bowls and sandwiches that quickly earned a loyal following. Now, after two successful seasons on the road, they’re turning that dream into something bigger — a brick-and-mortar restaurant opening in Bangor this winter.

“We’ve had such amazing community support,” says Anita. “Now we want to create a space where people can sit down, relax, and still enjoy that same creative flavor and energy that started in the truck.”

Customers can’t say enough about the food: the Beef and Shrimp Shawarma Bowls and the Twisted Shawarma Sandwich are fan favorites, often described as the best shawarma in Maine. Diners rave about the warm, friendly atmosphere Anita and Kara bring to every order — whether from the window of the truck or behind the new counter.

📍 Coming soon to Bangor — follow @DreamerFoodMaine on Facebook and Instagram for updates and opening details.

Say hello to Winifred, a three-month-old Siberian Husky with a curious spirit and a heart full of play. This bright-eyed pup is already turning heads at the Bangor Humane Society, where staff describe her as “smart, sweet, and always ready for an adventure.”

Winifred loves to explore, chase her favorite squeaky toys, and curl up in a cozy blanket afterward. She’s still a puppy, so she’ll thrive with patient training, plenty of walks, and a family who enjoys Maine’s great outdoors as much as she does.

These 3-month-old husky mix puppies are bundles of energy, curiosity, and personality! True to their breed, they're lively, vocal, and always ready for adventure. These pups will do best in active homes that can keep up with their enthusiasm and provide plenty of exercise, structure, and positive training as they grow. With the right guidance, they'll blossom into loyal and fun-loving lifelong buddies. All members in the home (including canine companions) will need to meet these pups at the shelter before adoption.

If you’ve been dreaming of a loyal companion to keep you smiling through the winter months, Winifred might just be the perfect fit.

📍 Bangor Humane Society, 693 Mount Hope Ave, Bangor
📞 207-942-8902 | 🌐 bangorhumane.org

Furry Friend's Rescue is proudly sponsored by Woof, LLC

Cleaning Up The Week...

As another week settles into memory, it’s hard not to notice the rhythm of November all around us — a little quieter, a little cooler, and somehow a little more meaningful. The hum of leaf blowers, the crackle of woodstoves, and the early glow of porch lights remind us that Maine is easing into its long, cozy season.

This week we’ve talked about things that matter close to home — from voting and community decisions to healthcare changes and small businesses preparing for winter. Through it all, one thing stands out: the people who make the Penobscot Valley such a special place. Whether it’s a business owner helping neighbors, a hunter preparing for the season, or a volunteer rolling up a sleeve to donate blood, it’s that quiet, steady care for one another that keeps our communities strong.

So as the last of the leaves tumble and we head into a new week, take a moment to appreciate the warmth of home, the strength of community, and the beauty of Maine in November.

Wishing you a peaceful weekend and a fresh start ahead —
– Sandy Smith
Publisher, Penobscot Valley Voice

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Fort Knox

Fort Knox: Not the Gold, But the Granite

• Named After a Founding Father: The fort is named after Major General Henry Knox, the first U.S. Secretary of War and the Commander of Artillery during the American Revolutionary War. He lived nearby in Thomaston, Maine, at the end of his life.  

   

• Built for Defense: Construction began in 1844 and continued for 25 years. It was part of the "Third System" of coastal fortifications meant to protect the Penobscot River Valley and the booming lumber industry from a possible future attack, especially after the humiliation of the British invasions in 1779 and 1814.