Speaking as a young professional who works and lives in the Bangor Region, an active community that engages with and provides substance for its young residents is important. More often than not there is a presumption that to find quality shopping, arts, restaurants, bars and everything else young people yearn for, you must travel away from Bangor to Portland, Boston or New York. That’s fortunately not the case - downtown Bangor businesses are doing a fantastic job of keeping things lively.

I was one of many who came to downtown Bangor on May 16 for Fusion’s first Downtown Proud Open House, an event that helped demonstrate the livelihood of our city by showcasing 22 downtown businesses and all they have to offer. Although one could take advantage of great discounts, prizes and free food and drinks, it was more about the downtown experience – going to a downtown business for the first time and thinking, “Wow, this is in Bangor?” I had that exact thought when visiting The Rock and Art Shop for the first time. Their merchandise was vast and unique, and I was having a fantastic time simply browsing it all. Eventually, I settled on some purchases and made a mental note to return soon (which I most definitely will).

Downtown Proud kickoff 

BANGOR – Fusion Bangor is having a “give back” event by inviting community members to participate in a downtown stream cleanup on April 27 at 5 p.m. Those who wish to participate should meet in Norumbega Park in front of the Victory Memorial Statue. They plan on working their way along the streams, cleaning as they go. After all the hard work, they plan on convening at Paddy Murphys for drinks and snacks.

“We'll provide gloves and trash bags,” said Annie Collins, the marketing co-chair and member of the steering committee of Fusion. “We want people to come and give back to their community.”