What famous author of Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little wrote the classic essay "Once More to the Lake" inspired by Maine's Belgrade Lakes region?

Amazon Approved. What Happens Next?

One of the biggest development conversations the Kennebec Valley has seen in years took another step forward this month.

The proposed Amazon distribution center near the Waterville-Sidney line has now received approvals from both communities, moving the project closer to reality. The facility would bring an estimated 150 to 200 jobs to the region and add a 159,000-square-foot distribution center near Interstate 95.

The project has also sparked plenty of discussion. Supporters point to new jobs, additional tax revenue, and the potential for continued economic growth in the area. Others have raised questions about traffic, future development, and how large projects fit into the long-term character of the surrounding communities.

Those conversations are not unusual. In fact, they're healthy. Communities work best when residents pay attention, ask questions, and participate in decisions that shape the places they call home.

Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: the Kennebec Valley continues to attract attention from employers and developers who see opportunity here. That says something important about the region itself. Businesses invest where they believe people want to live, work, and build a future.

The Amazon project is still moving through additional steps before construction begins, and the discussion surrounding it is likely to continue throughout the summer. We'll continue following the story as it develops.

For now, the approvals mark an important milestone in a project that has become one of the most talked-about topics in the valley this year.

And whether you're excited about the jobs, concerned about the impacts, or simply watching with interest, it's another reminder that local decisions still matter — and that what happens in our communities is worth paying attention to.

At the same time, summer has officially arrived in the valley. Between concerts, farmers markets, Brewfest, and preparations for the Augusta Marathon, there's plenty happening wherever you call home

A lot happened around the Kennebec Valley this past week.

The biggest conversation continues to be the proposed Amazon distribution center near the Waterville-Sidney line. Both communities have now approved key pieces of the project, but the discussion about growth, traffic, jobs, and what the future of the valley looks like is far from over. Whatever side of that conversation you find yourself on, it's a reminder that local decisions still matter and people here care deeply about their communities.

We're also getting closer to race day for the Augusta Marathon on July 12. Runners are entering the final stretch of training, volunteers are stepping up, and planning is moving into high gear. If you've never experienced race weekend in Augusta, this may be the year to see what it's all about.

A quick thank you to our newsletter sponsor, Maine Endurance Sports Alliance. MESA works year-round to create events that bring people together while showcasing some of the best communities Maine has to offer. Their motto says it well: We'll See You at the Starting Line.

As always, thanks for spending a few minutes of your week with us. Let's get into it.

— Sandy

Kennebec Valley Weather | June 24–30

Wednesday: Partly cloudy with a slight chance of an afternoon shower. High near 79. Low around 60.

Thursday: A mix of sun and clouds with a chance of scattered showers. High in the mid-70s.

Friday: Mostly sunny and pleasant. High in the upper 70s. A good day to be outside.

Saturday: Warm with a mix of sun and clouds. High near 80.

Sunday: Mostly sunny and seasonable. High in the upper 70s.

Monday: Partly sunny with a chance of scattered showers. High in the mid-70s.

Tuesday: A mix of clouds and sun with temperatures remaining near seasonal norms. High in the mid to upper 70s.

This looks like a fairly typical late-June stretch for central Maine. A few chances for scattered showers mixed with plenty of comfortable outdoor weather.

Forecast based on available forecast guidance for the Augusta-Waterville region as of publication. Source: WeatherBug.

The proposed Amazon distribution center near the Waterville-Sidney line continues to be one of the biggest stories in the Kennebec Valley. Supporters point to new jobs and economic growth. Others are asking questions about traffic, development, and what future growth could look like for the surrounding communities.

This week's video from Channel 13 takes a quick look at the proposed project and the discussion surrounding it. Whether you've been following the story closely or are just hearing about it, it's a useful overview of a project that could have a significant impact on the region.

Watch the video below for a closer look at one of the most talked-about development projects currently underway in the valley.

Augusta Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

Sunday, July 12 | Augusta

Race day is getting close. The Augusta Marathon weekend features a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K, giving runners of all experience levels a chance to participate. The course highlights some of Augusta's most scenic areas while bringing hundreds of runners, volunteers, spectators, and visitors into the Capital City. Registration remains open, and volunteers are still being welcomed.

Kennebec Brewfest

Saturday, June 27 | Augusta

Craft beer, local food, live entertainment, and a chance to spend a summer afternoon with friends make Kennebec Brewfest one of the region's signature summer events. Breweries from around Maine will be represented, and proceeds support local community initiatives. This event has grown into a popular gathering that attracts visitors from throughout central Maine.

Rock On the River

Tuesday, June 30 | Hallowell

Hallowell's summer concert series continues along the waterfront with another evening of live music, community gathering, and one of the best outdoor settings in the valley. Bring a lawn chair, enjoy the riverfront atmosphere, and spend an evening listening to local and regional performers while connecting with neighbors and friends.

The Wooten Brothers

Thursday, June 26 | Waterville Opera House | Waterville

Five-time Grammy-winning musicians The Wooten Brothers bring their unique blend of jazz, funk, soul, R&B, and bluegrass influences to Waterville this week. Known for their incredible musicianship and energetic live performances, the group has built a national following and is considered one of the premier live acts touring today. This is one of the biggest live music events coming to Waterville this summer and a rare opportunity to see world-class performers right here in the Kennebec Valley.

The Wooten Brothers

Thursday | Waterville Opera House | Waterville

Five-time Grammy-winning musicians The Wooten Brothers bring their unique blend of jazz, funk, soul, R&B, and bluegrass influences to Waterville this week. Known for their incredible musicianship and energetic live performances, the group has built a national following and is considered one of the premier live acts touring today.

Oakland Summer Concert Series

Oakland Waterfront Park | Oakland

Summer concerts are returning to the Oakland waterfront, offering an easy excuse to spend an evening outdoors. Bring a chair, enjoy the lake views, and spend a few hours listening to live music while catching up with friends and neighbors.

Fort Halifax Park

Winslow

If you've lived in the valley for years, you've probably driven by it dozens of times. Fort Halifax remains one of the area's most interesting historic sites and a great place for a walk along the Kennebec River. Summer is a good time to rediscover some of the local places that often get overlooked.

Gardiner Waterfront District

Gardiner

Downtown Gardiner continues to be one of the most walkable small downtowns in Maine. Local shops, restaurants, coffee stops, and riverfront views make it an easy destination for an afternoon visit. If you haven't been recently, summer is a good time to take another look.

Quarry Road Trails

Waterville

The trail system at Quarry Road offers miles of walking and running opportunities along with some of the best outdoor recreation access in the region. Whether you're training for a race or simply looking for a place to stretch your legs, it's one of the Kennebec Valley's best outdoor assets.

Waterville and Sidney Continue Amazon Discussion

The proposed Amazon distribution center near the Waterville-Sidney line remains one of the most significant development projects currently under discussion in the region. While approvals have moved the project forward, residents, elected officials, and planning boards continue to discuss how growth, infrastructure, traffic, and future development will shape the surrounding communities.

Augusta Marathon Volunteer Opportunities

The Augusta Marathon is now less than three weeks away, and organizers continue recruiting volunteers to assist with registration, course support, aid stations, and finish-line operations. Large community events depend heavily on local volunteers, and race weekend provides plenty of opportunities for residents to get involved.

Summer Boards and Committee Season

Across the Kennebec Valley, planning boards, city councils, and town committees continue their regular summer meeting schedules. These meetings may not generate headlines every week, but they remain one of the best ways for residents to stay informed about local decisions affecting roads, development, recreation, public safety, and community investments.

Community Service Opportunities

Summer is one of the busiest seasons for food banks, shelters, community meal programs, and nonprofit organizations. Whether through volunteering, food donations, or financial support, local organizations continue to rely on community participation to meet growing needs throughout the valley.

Kennebec Valley Chamber Business After Hours

Wednesday, June 24 | 5:00–7:00 PM | Augusta Civic Center

The Kennebec Valley Chamber's June Business After Hours takes place at the Augusta Civic Center this week. These monthly gatherings are built for conversation, introductions, and staying connected with the wider business community. If you do business in the Augusta area, this is one of the better rooms to be in this week.

BWS Auto Sales Ribbon Cutting

Wednesday, June 24 | 3:00 PM | Fairfield

The Mid-Maine Chamber hosts a ribbon cutting for BWS Auto Sales in Fairfield this week. Ribbon cuttings are small moments, but they matter. They mark investment, ownership, and another local business putting down roots in the valley.

Cocktails & Connect

Thursday, June 25 | 5:00 PM | Waterville

KV Connect and Cynergy are hosting Cocktails & Connect in Waterville this week. These after-work networking events give young professionals, business owners, and community-minded people a chance to meet without making it feel like a board meeting.

West & Bloom Ribbon Cutting

Friday, June 26 | 3:00 PM | Waterville

West & Bloom gets its official ribbon cutting from the Mid-Maine Chamber on Friday afternoon. It is another good sign of activity in Waterville and another reason to keep an eye on what is happening in the city's small business community.

Kennebec Networkers BNI

Wednesday | Hallowell

Kennebec Networkers continues its weekly Wednesday morning meeting in Hallowell. For business owners who rely on referrals, consistency matters. Showing up, learning what others do, and making good introductions is still one of the most practical ways to grow locally.

Elm City Referral Source BNI

Thursday | Waterville

Elm City Referral Source meets weekly in Waterville and gives business owners and professionals another regular place to build referral relationships. Good networking is not about collecting business cards. It is about knowing who you would trust enough to recommend.

Amazon Distribution Center Continues Moving Forward

One of the biggest business stories in the Kennebec Valley this year continues to be the proposed Amazon distribution center near the Waterville-Sidney line. The project has now received key approvals from both communities and could bring an estimated 150 to 200 jobs to the region if completed. Supporters point to employment opportunities and economic growth. Others have raised concerns about traffic and future development. Regardless of where the discussion ultimately lands, the project has become a significant conversation about the future of growth in central Maine.

BWS Auto Sales Celebrates Grand Opening

BWS Auto Sales marks its official ribbon cutting this week in Fairfield. New business openings are always worth noting because they represent investment in the local economy and confidence in the community. Every new business creates opportunities for employees, suppliers, and neighboring businesses.

West & Bloom Opens in Waterville

West & Bloom receives its official ribbon cutting this week in Waterville. The addition of another locally owned business adds to the continued momentum many residents have noticed in the downtown area over the past several years.

Summer Tourism Season Benefits Local Businesses

Restaurants, retail shops, lodging providers, attractions, and service businesses throughout the Kennebec Valley are entering one of their busiest periods of the year. Summer visitors bring new customers into communities across the region, creating opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

Community Events Continue Supporting Local Commerce

Events such as Kennebec Brewfest, the Augusta Marathon, summer concert series, and community festivals do more than entertain. They bring people into local communities, create economic activity, and provide exposure for the businesses that support and sponsor them.

Fresh strawberries, early vegetables, baked goods, flowers, local meats, maple products, and handmade items are starting to fill market tables across the Kennebec Valley. If you're looking to support local farmers and producers, this is one of the best weeks of the year to do it.

Waterville Farmers' Market

Thursday | Head of Falls | Waterville

One of the region's most established markets, featuring local produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, artisan products, and seasonal offerings from central Maine growers and makers.

Augusta Farmers' Market

Tuesday and Saturday | Mill Park | Augusta

A popular stop for residents looking for fresh local food, handmade products, and direct connections with area farmers and producers.

Skowhegan Farmers' Market

Saturday | Skowhegan

Local farms and food producers gather each week offering fresh vegetables, meats, baked goods, honey, maple products, and seasonal specialties.

Gardiner Farmers' Market

Wednesday | Gardiner Waterfront

A midweek opportunity to stock up on locally grown produce and support small farms from throughout the Kennebec Valley region.

Fairfield Farmers' Market

Seasonal Market | Fairfield

A growing community market featuring local vendors, fresh foods, crafts, and products from area farmers and small businesses.

I vividly remember working at a family farm on the Rices-Rips road in Oakland all summer with my cousins Rick, Laurie, Dan, Lee (and me). 

This week I am reminded about the times we spent harvesting for the family farm.  It reminds me how important it is to support local people and buying food from the people who actually grow it. The produce is fresher, the dollars stay local, and you'll usually leave with a few good recipe ideas you weren't planning on when you arrived.

This Week's Tip: Don't Forget the Outside of the House

Summer is the season when most people notice property condition issues. According to Tony LaPrino of North Star Property Solutions, small exterior maintenance projects often prevent much larger and more expensive problems later. Walk around your property and look for loose trim, damaged siding, clogged gutters, peeling paint, trip hazards, or areas where water is collecting near the foundation. A few hours of attention now can save a lot of time and money down the road.

Take Ten Minutes Outside

Summer can get busy in a hurry. If you're feeling stressed, distracted, or overwhelmed, take ten minutes to step outside without your phone. A short walk, a few minutes in the garden, or simply sitting outdoors can help clear your head and improve your mood. Sometimes the best reset is also the simplest one.

Kennebec Valley Food Bank Needs Continue Through Summer

While summer brings festivals, vacations, and outdoor activities, it also remains a busy season for food assistance organizations throughout the region. Food banks and community meal programs continue serving individuals, seniors, and families facing food insecurity. Non-perishable food donations and financial contributions remain among the most helpful ways to support these efforts.

Volunteer Opportunities Available Across the Valley

Local nonprofits are always looking for volunteers willing to donate a few hours of their time. Whether it's helping at a food pantry, supporting a community event, assisting with fundraising activities, or working with local service organizations, there are opportunities available for nearly every interest and schedule.

Animal Shelters Need Community Support

Animal welfare organizations throughout the Kennebec Valley

 rely heavily on volunteers, donations, foster homes, and adoption efforts. Summer often brings an increase in animals needing care, making community support especially important during this time of year.

Small Acts Make a Big Difference

Community support doesn't always require a major commitment. Donating a few items to a food pantry, volunteering at a local event, checking on a neighbor, or supporting a local fundraiser all contribute to making the Kennebec Valley a stronger place to live. Sometimes the smallest actions have the biggest impact.

Kennedy is a charming 10-month-old Labrador Retriever mix with eye-catching black and white fur, now ready for adoption in Maine.

After his recent arrival from Texas, Kennedy settled in at the Humane Society Waterville Area, where he’s searching for a loving family.

This playful pup is brimming with energy and affection—he loves making friends with both kids and other animals.

Young and eager to learn, Kennedy will thrive with basic obedience training as he adjusts to his new home.

The shelter, located at 100 Webb Road in Waterville, has been dedicated to animal care and high adoption rates since 1970.

To meet Kennedy or explore adoption, visit Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m.

Consider welcoming this lovable Lab mix into your family—making a difference for both Kennedy and the community.

Meet Terry, a spirited terrier pit bull mix looking for his forever family at the Kennebec Valley Humane Society in Augusta, Maine.

At just over two and a half years old, this large, white-and-brindle pup is bursting with playful energy.

Terry adores butt scratches, grass rolls, and the occasional enthusiastic leash tug with his handler.

He’s well-versed in basic tricks like “sit,” “come,” and “shake”—especially if treats are involved.

While friendly with most pets, Terry is sometimes choosy with male dogs.

Families should be ready for his high-energy play, as he might accidentally knock over little ones.

Terry thrives in homes where people are around, since he feels stress when left alone too long.

Meet Terry at 168 Leighton Road and see if he’s the perfect fit for your crew.

MAINE THRIVE VOICES PODCAST SPOTLIGHT

Some of the most interesting people in Maine never make the news.

They own businesses, solve problems, volunteer in their communities, build organizations, and quietly make life better for the people around them. That's exactly why Maine Thrive Voices was created.

The podcast gives Maine business owners, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and interesting people a chance to tell their story in their own words. No sound bites. No headlines. Just real conversations about the people helping shape our communities.

Coming Next Week

Chris Mendoza of Appliance Doctor of Maine joins Maine Thrive Voices to share his journey building one of Maine's most trusted appliance repair companies. Along the way, he discusses entrepreneurship, customer service, and what it takes to build a business one satisfied customer at a time.

If you enjoy local stories and the people behind them, you'll enjoy Maine Thrive Voices. Subscribe Here

Fresh strawberries and rhubarb are a seasonal highlight across Maine, sparking fond memories of summer berry picking and time spent on local farms.

This Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp recipe embraces those flavors with a simple blend of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, finished with a crunchy oat topping.

Best served warm—ideally with a scoop of ice cream—it's an ideal treat for family gatherings or quiet evenings on the porch.

For the freshest taste, visit area farmers’ markets or go straight to the source at local pick-your-own farms.

In Brooksville, stop by the weekly Farmers’ Market on Wednesday mornings, or find vibrant produce at the Belgrade Lakes Market each Sunday through summer.

For hands-on picking, explore Fairwinds Farm in Topsham or Pineland Farms in New Gloucester, where berry season runs from June into August.

Enjoy the sweetness of Maine’s summer in every bite.

Maine Endurance Sports Alliance

We'll See You at the Starting Line

Communities are stronger when people come together.

That's the idea behind the Maine Endurance Sports Alliance. Through events like the Bangor Marathon, Augusta Marathon, Lincoln Marathon, and Waterville Marathon, MESA brings together runners, walkers, volunteers, sponsors, and community supporters from across Maine.

These events are about much more than finish times and race medals. They showcase local communities, support area businesses, encourage healthy lifestyles, and create opportunities for people to challenge themselves while connecting with others.

The next event on the calendar is the Augusta Marathon on July 12, featuring a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K. Whether you're running, volunteering, cheering from the sidelines, or simply supporting the participants, race weekend is a reminder of what communities can accomplish when people work together.

We'll see you at the starting line!

The Kennebec Valley has changed a lot since I was a kid.

The house where my family lived on Grove Street is now Uncle Dean's Natural Market. Rummel's Ice Cream is gone. The Silent Woman Restaurant, where I worked as the Popover Boy years ago, is gone too. Some of the places that helped shape my memories exist now only in photographs, stories, and conversations.

That's the thing about communities. They never stand still.

Buildings change. Businesses come and go. New generations arrive. Old landmarks disappear. Sometimes we celebrate those changes. Sometimes we miss what was there before.

But I've come to realize that what makes a place home isn't necessarily the buildings. It's the people, the memories, and the connections we make along the way.

Every week while putting together this newsletter, I'm reminded that the Kennebec Valley is still writing its story. New businesses are opening. Community events are bringing people together. Families are building lives here. People are volunteering, coaching, serving, creating, and investing in the future of this region.

The valley looks different than it did when I was growing up, and that's okay. Because despite all the changes, it still feels like home.

And I suspect it always will.

— Sandy

E.B. White. While he was born in New York, White spent time in Maine as a child and later made Maine his home. His essay Once More to the Lake was inspired by visits to the Belgrade Lakes region, making it one of the most famous pieces of writing ever connected to the Kennebec Valley.