As the holiday season approaches in the Penobscot Valley, community organizations are calling for urgent support to meet a profound local need.

Local food pantries, including the Brewer Food Pantry, are working tirelessly to stock their shelves for families in Brewer and Eddington, seeking non-perishable donations.

With winter’s chill setting in, the annual 'Coats and Toys for Kids' drive is collecting warm coats at drop-off spots like Renys in Bangor.

While the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter is focusing on expanding shelter beds instead of a warming center, the City of Bangor is funding groups like The Brick Church to provide warm spaces for those in need.

Additionally, the American Red Cross on Hammond Street faces a critical blood shortage and is urging eligible residents to consider donating, a gift that can save multiple lives.

As the cold settles into the Penobscot Valley, nothing beats a simple, comforting meal.

This week’s recipe for a Maine-style Creamy Chicken & Biscuit Bake is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight, delivering a dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.

It’s a true hug in a dish.

The process is incredibly straightforward.

Simply combine a can of cream of chicken soup with milk, cheese, frozen peas and carrots, and about two cups of cooked chicken.

Pour the creamy mixture into a baking dish and top with quartered pieces of refrigerated biscuit dough—a real game-changer.

Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the biscuits are a perfect golden brown.

This one-pan meal is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or turkey and captures the essence of Maine comfort food.

A local dog named Freya is hoping her next chapter begins with a family in the Penobscot Valley.

Currently in the care of the Bangor Humane Society, this two-year-old female is described as a wonderfully sweet and energetic companion.

Her personality is the perfect blend of playful and affectionate.

As a medium-sized dog, Freya has enough energy for adventures in local spots like the Bangor City Forest Loop or a walk along the Penobscot River, yet she's just as happy to cuddle on the couch.

This marks a critical opportunity for a local family to gain a loyal friend.

The staff at the humane society on Mt. Hope Avenue are eager to introduce her to potential adopters, believing she'll bring immense joy to the right household.

Freya is ready and waiting to offer unconditional love to a family that will cherish her.

A powerful partnership is taking center ice in the greater Bangor area, proving that hockey is for everyone.

The Maine Jr. Black Bears are teaming up with the Maine Highlanders for a special charity game aimed at one vital goal: growing the sport for players of all abilities.

This event is designed to raise crucial funds for the Highlanders, an inspiring organization dedicated to athletes with developmental, intellectual, and physical challenges.

Proceeds will go directly toward purchasing specialized adaptive hockey equipment, covering expensive ice time costs, and funding scholarship opportunities.

The collaboration is a testament to the community spirit that defines youth hockey here in Penobscot County.

It’s an opportunity for residents to support two fantastic local organizations and celebrate the inclusive spirit of Maine hockey.

For Maine’s home-service businesses, from plumbers in Bangor to electricians in Augusta, traditional marketing is losing its edge in a competitive digital landscape.

A powerful alternative is emerging locally, with many turning to artificial intelligence to find new customers.

Smith Digital Solutions LLC, a Bangor-based agency, is leading this high-tech charge for local entrepreneurs.

The firm specializes in helping companies overcome their biggest hurdle: visibility on Google.

If your business doesn't appear in top search results on Google Maps, you're practically invisible to potential clients.

By using AI-powered content and targeted optimization, they help local businesses capture ready-to-buy leads and dominate their service area online.

This modern approach marks a crucial shift from passive advertising to proactive engagement for any Maine business feeling left behind.

The Penobscot Valley’s most anticipated holiday event is making its grand return this weekend.

Bangor’s beloved Festival of Lights Parade is set to illuminate downtown streets this Saturday, December 6, with festivities kicking off at 4:30 PM.

This year’s theme is “Unite for Good,” a celebration of community spirit and togetherness.

Organized by the Rotary Club of Bangor, the parade is a cornerstone of the local holiday season, drawing thousands of spectators.

Expect a dazzling display of festive floats, spirited marching bands, and local dance troupes making their way through the city.

The procession will begin at State and Exchange Streets before continuing down Main Street toward the waterfront.

This cherished tradition turns Downtown Bangor into a true winter wonderland, creating perfect moments for families and friends.

Attendees are encouraged to support local businesses by shopping or grabbing a warm meal before or after the event.

The American Red Cross is offering a nostalgic incentive to encourage blood donations in Bangor as the holiday season approaches.

In a creative new campaign, they have partnered with the legendary video game PAC-MAN to celebrate its 45th anniversary.

This push aims to address the annual drop in donations caused by busy schedules, winter weather, and seasonal illnesses.

The need for blood, however, remains constant.

From now until December 7th, anyone who donates blood or platelets in the area will receive a free, exclusive pair of PAC-MAN themed socks.

A collectible toy is also available while supplies last.

Local officials are urging all eligible residents, particularly those with type O blood, to participate.

Appointments can be scheduled at the Bangor ME Blood Donation Center on Hammond Street or other local drives.

A new era for Penobscot Pioneers Hockey began with a decisive 4-2 victory over the visiting Lewiston Blue Devils on Saturday night.

The game at the Penobscot Ice Arena in Brewer marked the first career win for new Head Coach Meghan MacDonald.

The offensive star of the night was junior Ella Davis, who powered the team by scoring an incredible season-opening hat trick.

Her dominant performance set a powerful tone from the very start.

Late in the game, Izzy Brideau secured the win with an empty-net goal.

Goaltender Abbie Derosier was also a crucial part of the victory, making an impressive 25 saves against the Blue Devils.

This opening night win sets a strong precedent for the Pioneers' season ahead under their new leadership.

A social and hopeful dog named Cash is waiting for his forever home at the Penobscot Valley Humane Society.

His tail is always wagging, and his bright eyes show a deep desire to connect with people.

Cash is an active and intelligent companion who would be a perfect fit for a family in Lincoln or anywhere in Penobscot County.

He thrives on being part of a daily routine and offers endless affection in return for love and attention.

This is a chance to give a truly deserving animal a fresh start.

Cash is looking for a home that can offer both love and structure, helping him become the incredible friend he was meant to be.

If you're ready for a devoted best friend, please contact the Penobscot Valley Humane Society to schedule a visit to meet him.

For homeowners in the greater Bangor area, maintaining a beautiful and safe property throughout Maine’s demanding seasons is a year-round challenge.

Local business Gavin's Lawn Care, led by owner Gavin Carr, is providing a comprehensive solution.

Serving communities from Brewer to Old Town, the company offers a full suite of landscaping services, including expert garden design, lawn maintenance, and durable hardscaping like patios and walkways.

Their philosophy is to treat every yard with meticulous care and precision.

When winter arrives, the team transitions seamlessly to provide 24/7 snow removal services, ensuring driveways and walkways remain clear and accessible.

This all-in-one approach gives Penobscot Valley residents peace of mind, knowing their property is managed by a reliable, fully insured team no matter the season.

A cherished Bangor tradition is set to kick off the holiday season as the Anah Shriners Feztival of Trees returns.

The beloved event will transform the Anah Shrine Center into a winter wonderland for two festive weekends: November 20-23 and again from November 28-30.

Guests can marvel at more than 60 uniquely decorated trees sponsored by area businesses.

Each tree is a grand prize in a raffle, and winners take home the tree with all the gifts and gift cards included.

Admission is only $2 for adults, while children under 12 get in free, making it an affordable family outing.

Refreshments will be available at the Gingerbread Cafe.

All net proceeds from this magical event support the vital community work of the Anah Shriners.

As winter and the holiday season approach in the Penobscot Valley, local organizations are making an urgent appeal for community support to help our neighbors in need.

The need for generosity is more critical than ever.

Local food pantries like the Brewer Food Pantry are working to stock their shelves for Thanksgiving meals and are seeking non-perishable donations.

Meanwhile, the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter is requesting new or gently used adult winter coats, boots, and hoodies to provide essential warmth during Maine’s harsh weather.

The holiday season also brings a critical shortage of blood donations.

The American Red Cross Blood Center in Bangor is facing a significant shortfall and encourages eligible residents to donate, as one pint can help save up to three lives.