Published by Maine Valley Voices Media

There’s something about May in the Kennebec Valley that feels like the whole region is waking back up together.

You can see it in the early morning traffic heading into downtown Waterville. You can feel it when people linger a little longer outside local coffee shops in Augusta, or when families start filling the parks again after a long Maine winter. The trees are finally turning green, the farmers markets are getting ready to open for the season, and community calendars across the Valley are suddenly packed with concerts, fundraisers, races, library programs, and town events.

This week especially feels like one of those turning-point weeks.

Across the Valley, volunteers are gearing up for spring cleanup projects, local businesses are preparing for a busy summer season, and organizations are working hard behind the scenes to bring people together. There’s an energy right now that’s hard to describe unless you live here. It’s not flashy. It’s not loud. It’s just that unmistakable feeling that our communities are moving again after months of cold weather and long dark evenings.

One of the things I love most about this time of year is how quickly the Valley reconnects with itself. Neighbors start seeing neighbors again. Outdoor events return. Local nonprofits begin their big seasonal pushes. Even a simple walk through downtown Hallowell or along the Kennebec Rail Trail feels different this time of year. People smile more. Conversations happen more easily. The whole region feels a little lighter.

And really, that’s part of why this newsletter exists.

The Kennebec Valley Voice isn’t just about listing events or sharing announcements. It’s about helping all of us stay connected to the people, organizations, businesses, and stories that make this region feel like home. Every week, there’s more happening here than many people realize — and this edition is packed with some of the very best of it.

So grab a cup of coffee, settle in for a few minutes, and let’s take a look at what’s happening across the Kennebec Valley this week.

What famous Maine-made treat was first created in Waterville in the early 1900s and is still beloved across New England today?

A) Needhams
B) Whoopie Pies
C) Moxie Ice Cream
D) Humpty Dumpty Potato Chips

Local Video Highlight

One of the sure signs that spring has fully arrived in the Kennebec Valley? The return of the food trucks to Kennedy Memorial Drive in Waterville.

Check out this great WABI-TV segment on the Waterville Food Truck Park kicking off its second season strong. It’s wonderful to see so many returning favorites alongside new vendors creating a true community gathering spot right in the heart of the Valley.

Watch here: “Waterville Food Truck Park – Second Season”

Video Courtesy of WABI-TV, Channel 5, Bangor

Hey neighbors,

The weather sure has been all over the place lately, hasn’t it? One day feels like spring has finally settled in, and the next we’re digging sweatshirts back out again. But I think we can all feel it now — warmer and brighter days are finally starting to win out across the Kennebec Valley.

And honestly? I am READY. Ready for backyard BBQs, ice cream stands opening back up, evening walks along the river, kids playing outside again, and all the outdoor sporting events, festivals, and community gatherings that make this time of year feel so special here in Maine. After a long winter, it feels good to see our towns and neighborhoods coming back to life again.

This week’s newsletter is proudly supported by our friends at the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce and the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce — organizations doing important work to support local businesses, strengthen community connections, and help our Valley continue to grow and thrive. We’re grateful for their support.

So grab a coffee, settle in for a few minutes, and let’s take a look at what’s happening around the Kennebec Valley this week.

— Sandy

Spring Gardening Across the Valley 

Lawn & Landscaping Tip

With the warmer weather finally starting to settle in across the Valley, this is a great time to give your lawn a little attention before the summer heat arrives. Mid-May is ideal for overseeding thin areas, adding fresh mulch around flower beds, and getting ahead of weeds before they really take off.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that a little work now can save a lot of frustration later in the summer. And honestly, there’s something satisfying about pulling into your driveway and seeing the yard looking fresh and cared for again after a long Maine winter.

Even small improvements — trimming bushes, planting flowers, or freshening up garden edges — can completely change the feel of your home heading into summer.

Studio One for Dancers: Spellbound

May 16–17
Waterville Opera House

93 Main Street, Waterville

A wonderful chance to enjoy local performing arts and support talented young dancers in one of the Valley’s most beautiful historic venues.

Karaoke & Live Music Nights 

Looking for something a little more laid back and fun this week? A few local spots around the Kennebec Valley continue to host karaoke, open mic, and live entertainment nights that are perfect for getting out with friends, grabbing a bite to eat, and enjoying some local talent.

Silver Street Tavern — A downtown Waterville favorite known for live entertainment, karaoke nights, and a lively weekend atmosphere.

Mainely Brews Restaurant & Brewhouse — A longtime Valley gathering spot featuring regular live music, open mic nights, and community events throughout the week.

The Liberal Cup — One of Hallowell’s classic music and nightlife destinations, often featuring live local performers and a great pub atmosphere.

Easy Street Lounge — A popular stop for live music, karaoke, and weekend entertainment right in the heart of downtown Hallowell.

Whipper's Pizza — A familiar local gathering place that frequently hosts karaoke and casual entertainment nights.

State Lunch — Known for live music performances and a fun downtown Augusta atmosphere.

Check each venue’s Facebook page or website for this week’s exact schedules, performers, and entertainment lineup. There’s something special about seeing neighbors and local musicians come together this time of year around the Valley.

A busy week for local government and community planning across the Kennebec Valley. Here are a few meetings and civic discussions happening around the region this week that may impact local residents, businesses, and future projects across our communities.

Augusta City Council Meeting

Thursday, May 14 | 7:00 p.m.
Augusta City Center
16 Cony Street, Augusta

The Augusta City Council is expected to review several community and development-related agenda items, including seasonal infrastructure updates and ongoing downtown discussions. Public attendance and participation are welcome.

Waterville City Council Meeting

Tuesday, May 19 | 6:00 p.m.
The Center
93 Main Street, Waterville

Waterville officials are scheduled to discuss upcoming summer initiatives, municipal projects, and community planning matters affecting residents and local businesses throughout the city.

Oakland Select Board Meeting

Wednesday, May 13 | 6:00 p.m.
Oakland Town Office
14 Themo Street, Oakland

The Oakland Select Board will review routine town business along with seasonal public works and community updates as the town moves into the busy spring and summer months.

Winslow Town Council Meeting

Monday, May 18 | 6:00 p.m.
Winslow Town Office
114 Benton Avenue, Winslow

Council members are expected to discuss local municipal operations, upcoming summer recreation planning, and ongoing community improvement efforts.

Hallowell Planning Board Meeting

Tuesday, May 19 | 6:00 p.m.
Hallowell City Hall
1 Winthrop Street, Hallowell

Planning Board members will continue discussions involving development, land use, and community planning matters within the city.

There’s definitely a feeling across the Kennebec Valley that business activity is picking back up as we head toward summer. Restaurants are reopening outdoor spaces, seasonal attractions are gearing up, and community events are helping bring more people back into downtown districts across the region. After a long winter, that renewed energy matters not just for local businesses, but for the overall feeling of vibrancy throughout our communities.

Openings & Growth

The Waterville Food Truck Park has officially launched its second season on Kennedy Memorial Drive, bringing returning vendors and new local food options back to the area for spring and summer.

Several local farmers markets across the Valley are preparing for opening weeks later this month, with expanded vendor participation expected in Waterville, Augusta, and Skowhegan.

Outdoor dining areas are beginning to reopen throughout Hallowell and downtown Augusta as warmer weather finally settles into Central Maine.

Community & Development

Local chambers of commerce across the Valley continue preparing for a busy calendar of networking events, ribbon cuttings, and seasonal tourism initiatives aimed at supporting small business growth.

Spring and summer event season is expected to provide a welcome boost for local restaurants, shops, lodging businesses, and entertainment venues throughout the region.

This simple rhubarb crisp stirs memories of spring days spent gardening with Dad, harvesting fresh rhubarb for Mom’s favorite recipes.

In Maine, the arrival of rhubarb signals the start of spring, bringing a sense of warmth and comfort on cool evenings.

Made with tart rhubarb and a buttery oat topping, this dessert is delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

For the best flavor, pick up rhubarb from local farmers’ markets like Machias Valley Farmers’ Market or the River Valley Farmers’ Market Association in Mexico, Maine.

Both markets offer a wonderful variety of fresh produce, local goods, and a chance to support area growers.

Enjoying this classic dessert celebrates the bounty—and community spirit—of the Valley.

Milo is a lively 2-year-old Labrador-Akita mix waiting for adoption at the Humane Society Waterville Area.

With his glossy black coat and impressive size, Milo stands out.

He’s full of energy, perfect for active families or individuals seeking a playful companion.

Milo loves to run and play, so access to a yard or frequent park outings would help him thrive.

Friendly with cats and some dogs, he’s best suited for homes with children over 8 years old.

Though his house-training progress is unknown, his eager personality makes him adaptable with patient training.

Adopting Milo supports the Humane Society's dedication to animal welfare and high adoption rates.

Located at 100 Webb Road, Waterville, ME, the shelter welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday.

Change a life and experience rescue dog love by meeting Milo today.

Marley is a lively Labrador Retriever mix searching for his forever family at the Kennebec Valley Humane Society in Augusta, Maine.

At just over one year old, he sports a beautiful tan and white coat and a big, athletic frame.

Marley thrives outdoors and loves his toys, making him a fun companion for adventures.

He is polite on a leash and crate trained, suiting active families or individuals perfectly.

His energetic personality is best matched with those experienced with dogs or families with children over 10.

Marley would do best in a home without small animals.

Visit the humane society with your entire family to see if Marley is the right fit.

Bringing Marley home not only welcomes a devoted dog but also helps support local animal care.

THANK YOU TO THIS WEEK’S COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS

Kennebec Valley Voice is made possible through the support of local businesses, organizations, and community partners who care deeply about the people and communities of Central Maine.

This week’s edition is proudly co- sponsored by:

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce
Supporting local businesses and strengthening our regional economy.

 and

Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce

Connecting businesses, organizations, and communities across the Kennebec Valley.

Humane Society Waterville Area

Helping local animals find loving homes and supporting pet owners throughout our communities.

Kennebec Valley Humane Society
Serving pets and families across the Valley through adoption, education, and community support programs.

We encourage our readers to support the organizations and businesses that help make community-focused publications like Kennebec Valley Voice possible.

Business Spotlight — The Liberal Cup | Hallowell

One of the things I love most about Hallowell is how certain places just seem woven into the fabric of the community, and The Liberal Cup is definitely one of those places. Whether you stop in for dinner, live music, a local craft beer, or simply to catch up with friends, there’s always an energy there that feels welcoming and unmistakably local.

As warmer weather returns and people start spending more evenings downtown again, spots like this really help bring the Valley to life. It’s businesses like The Liberal Cup that remind us how important locally owned gathering places are to the personality and culture of our communities.

If you haven’t visited in a while, spring is a pretty wonderful time to rediscover downtown Hallowell again.

STAY CONNECTED WITH THE VALLEY

Know a local business doing great things? A community event coming up? A volunteer making a difference behind the scenes? We’d love to hear about it.

Kennebec Valley Voice is built around the people, organizations, businesses, and communities that make this region such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.

Please help us continue growing this community-focused publication by:

sharing the newsletter with friends and neighbors

supporting local businesses and organizations

sending us local events, announcements, and story ideas

encouraging others to subscribe and stay connected

The more we share the good happening around the Valley, the stronger our communities become together.

As we settle into the warmer days of May, I hope you’re able to take a little time this week to enjoy everything that makes living in the Kennebec Valley so special — whether that’s a walk along the river, a stop at a farmers market, a local performance, dinner with family, or simply catching up with neighbors after a long winter season.

Putting this newsletter together each week continues to remind me just how many good people, organizations, businesses, volunteers, and community groups quietly work every day to make our towns stronger and more connected. There’s a lot to be grateful for here in the Valley.

Thank you again for spending a few minutes with us this week. I truly appreciate your support, your encouragement, and all the local stories and ideas many of you continue sharing with us along the way.

Until next week, enjoy the sunshine when it shows up, support local when you can, and take good care of one another.

Moms, dads and grandparents, this is an excellent week to introduce a young person to gardening. It will be remembered.

— Sandy, Your KVV Editor

D) Humpty Dumpty Potato Chips.

Humpty Dumpty Potato Chips were founded in Waterville in 1947 and became one of the most recognizable snack brands in New England. For generations of Mainers, those bright bags and classic chips have been part of road trips, cookouts, and family gatherings across the state.