Published by Maine Valley Voices Media.

Stretching between Waterville and Winslow, this historic structure is the oldest surviving bridge of its type in the United States. It was originally built to allow workers to cross the river to reach the Ticonic Water Power and Manufacturing Company. What is the name of this famous footbridge?

Good morning and welcome to Edition #3 of the Kennebec Valley Voice.

As we move into the final days of April and the start of May, the Kennebec Valley is beginning to show clear signs of spring. While the weather may be a bit unsettled this week, the activity across the region continues to build.

From live performances in Waterville to community gatherings, art events, and opportunities to get involved locally, there is no shortage of ways to stay connected.

Whether you are planning your week, your weekend, or simply want to keep a pulse on what is happening across Waterville, Augusta, Winslow, and surrounding communities, this issue brings it all together in one place.

A major milestone for downtown Waterville was recently celebrated with the ribbon cutting at the historic Lockwood Mill.

This project brings 65 new apartments to the heart of the city, representing a significant investment in both housing and the continued revitalization of the Kennebec River waterfront. The redevelopment preserves the character of one of Waterville’s most recognizable historic buildings while creating new opportunities for residents to live, work, and connect in the downtown area.

This video captures highlights from the ribbon cutting event, including community leaders, project partners, and a closer look at the transformation of the Lockwood Mill into modern residential space.

Take a look at how this historic property is being brought back to life.

Video Courtesy of WABI-TV, Channel 5

WEATHER THIS WEEK — KENNEBEC VALLEY

Cool and unsettled conditions will dominate the Kennebec Valley this week, with multiple days of rain or drizzle and only limited breaks of sunshine.

Wednesday (Apr 29)
Cloudy and cool with a chance of a passing shower. Highs in the low 50s.

Thursday (Apr 30)
Chilly with periods of steady rain. Likely the wettest day of the week.

Friday (May 1)
Rain continues with breezy conditions early. Highs in the mid-50s.

Saturday (May 2)
Cloudy with occasional drizzle. Damp conditions persist.

Sunday (May 3)
Mostly cloudy with scattered showers. Slight improvement but still unsettled.

Monday (May 4)
Morning showers possible, then mostly cloudy. Gradual improvement begins.

Tuesday (May 5)
Another chance of rain with slightly warmer temperatures.

Summary 

Cool, damp, and unsettled weather defines the week across the Kennebec Valley, with only brief breaks between periods of rain.

MJFF: The Stamp Thief

Maine Film Center / Waterville Creates
April 29 at 7:00 PM

A Maine Jewish Film Festival screening offering a thoughtful story rooted in history, memory, and culture.

Once Upon a Mattress

Waterville Opera House
May 1–3

A lively musical comedy based on The Princess and the Pea, with evening performances Friday and Saturday and a Sunday matinee.

The Great State of Maine Homeschool Conference

Dates: Friday, May 1 – Saturday, May 2, 2026 Time: Friday 8:45 AM start; full days both dates (ends ~6 PM Saturday)

 Location: Augusta Civic Center, 76 Community Drive, Augusta, ME

Details: Maine’s largest homeschooling event with workshops, exhibits, vendors, networking, and family activities. Presented by Maine Home Education Association. Link: augustaciviccenter.org or mainehea.org/conference-2026

May First Friday

Downtown Waterville
May 1

Arts, live music, food, shopping, and community activity throughout downtown Waterville.

Painted Fiction Opening Reception

Ticonic Gallery + Studios
May 1

A curated visual arts exhibition by Barbara Sullivan, running April 15 through June 15.

Maine Pottery Tour 2026

Kennebec Valley / Statewide
May 2

A statewide celebration of Maine pottery artists, studios, and handmade craftsmanship.

Bridge Club (Recurring Senior/Community Social)

Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 (and additional sessions in the window, e.g., Monday, May 4) Time: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM Location: Augusta Recreation Department facilities (check augustame.myrec.com for exact venue)

Details: Weekly card game gathering open to the community, focused on bridge. A relaxed, social opportunity for seniors and card enthusiasts in Augusta. Other similar recurring games (Texas Hold'em, Cribbage) also run throughout the week. Link: https://augustame.myrec.com (search Bridge Club or view community calendar)

More Events Link

Recent Openings / Ribbon Cuttings:

Bao & Beyond (Asian-inspired cuisine: steamed buns, fried chicken, rice bowls, etc.)

Location: 1 Hichborn Street, Augusta, ME

Details: Permanent brick-and-mortar location (moved from food truck). Ribbon cutting with Kennebec Valley Chamber on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 3:00 PM. Open Tuesday–Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Lockwood Mill – Phase 1 Apartments (Housing development/expansion)

Location: Historic Lockwood Mill, Waterville (along the Kennebec River, walking distance to downtown)

Details: Ribbon cutting held April 22, 2026. Nearly 200-year-old mill now has 65 new apartment units occupied in Phase 1. Phase 2 (another ~65 units) in planning. Positive impact on housing, downtown businesses, tax base, and workforce attraction. 

Make Their Day Physical Therapy & Wellness Location: Inside Champions, 30 Elm Plaza, Waterville, ME Details: Grand opening and ribbon cutting celebration (4:00 PM ribbon cutting, open house 4–6 PM). New physical therapy and wellness practice. 

Additional Nearby:

• BWS Auto Sales
• Location: 23 Main Street, Fairfield, ME (Kennebec Valley / greater region) Details: Grand opening / ribbon cutting for new Chamber member auto sales business. 

HELPING HANDS ACROSS THE VALLEY

Supporting neighbors, families, and local organizations across the Kennebec Valley.

Volunteer Opportunities

Local organizations continue to seek volunteers for a variety of efforts, from community events to food distribution and support services.

United Way of Kennebec Valley / VolunteerME 121 Commercial Street, Augusta, ME 04330 Phone: (207) 626-3400 Website: https://uwkv.org/ Volunteer portal: https://uwkv.galaxydigital.com/

Current needs include: • Day of Caring support (meal preparation and service for student projects — e.g., upcoming sessions at local schools) • Gleaning volunteers to assist with fresh produce collection and distribution

Food Banks and Community Support

Greater Waterville Area Food Bank 61 Pleasant Street, Waterville, ME 04901 (at Pleasant Street United Methodist Church) Phone: (207) 616-0363 Email: [email protected] Website: https://watervillefoodbank.org/

Augusta Food Bank 161 Mount Vernon Avenue, Augusta, ME 04330 Appointment line: (207) 622-5225 (Mon–Wed 8:30 AM–11:30 AM) Website: https://www.augustafoodbank.org/

Both organizations welcome donations and volunteers to help stock, organize, and distribute food to those in need across the region.

Senior Support Services Spectrum Generations continues to provide essential services for older adults, including:

Meals on Wheels (substitute drivers needed — Wednesdays and Fridays)

Community meal programs

Ongoing support services for seniors

Main Contact: One Weston Court, Augusta, ME 04330 Toll-free: 1-800-639-1553 Waterville Office: 38 Gold Street, Waterville, ME 04901 | (207) 873-4745 Website: https://www.spectrumgenerations.org/

Small acts of support make a big difference. Whether you have time to volunteer, resources to share, or simply want to stay informed, there are many ways to help strengthen the Kennebec Valley community

Have a Need or Organization to Share?

If your organization has an upcoming need — whether it’s volunteers, donations, or community support — we encourage you to reach out.

Kennebec Valley Voice is committed to helping local organizations connect with the community. Submissions may be included in future editions to help amplify your message and support your efforts.

Reach out to us

Meet Cash

Cash is an adorable Labrador Retriever mix puppy waiting to find his perfect match at the Humane Society Waterville Area.

Just under four months old, Cash’s tan and white coat and small frame make him irresistible to anyone who meets him.

This playful pup is full of energy and a thirst for adventure, ready to bond with a loving family.

While Cash’s housetraining isn’t complete yet, patience and consistent care will help him flourish into a loyal companion.

He’s looking for a pet-free home so he can truly shine as the center of attention.

Visit Cash at 100 Webb Road in Waterville or call 207-873-2430 to learn more about welcoming him into your life.

Choosing to adopt means giving a deserving puppy like Cash the loving home he needs — and bringing new happiness to yours.

Meet Ginger

Ginger is an adorable Labrador retriever mix puppy hoping to find a loving home in Augusta, Maine.

With a soft tan and white coat and petite size, Ginger would make a wonderful companion for any household.

At just under four months old, he’s at the perfect age for fun training sessions and forming close bonds.

His house-training is still in progress, giving new owners the chance to shape his habits from the start.

The Kennebec Valley Humane Society ensures every adoptable animal, including Ginger, receives essential medical care and is spayed or neutered before going home.

Potential adopters can meet Ginger in person at the shelter and chat with adoption counselors to find their best match.

Contacting the shelter is the first step to bringing this sweet puppy into your life.

Downtown Waterville Farmers' Market

Summer (May – mid-November): Thursdays 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Head of Falls Park, 60 Front Street, Waterville

Year-round market serving the area since 2006. Fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and more.

Website

Augusta Farmers' Market at Mill Park

Summer (May – October): Tuesdays 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Mill Park, 1 Water Street, Augusta

Local farms, produce, meats, baked goods, honey, flowers, and more in the heart of Augusta.

Website

 Fairfield Farmers' Market 

Wednesdays: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (mid-May through October) at 81 Main Street (Church of the Nazarene parking lot), Fairfield

• Saturdays: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM (May – October)
• Vegetables, herbs, seedlings, eggs, baked goods, and more.
• Facebook: Fairfield Farmers Market Maine

Spring Rhubarb Sauce

Celebrate the arrival of spring in Maine with a sauce that highlights tart, vibrant rhubarb.

Combine 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb, 1 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup water in a saucepan.

Bring to a gentle boil, then let it simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes as the rhubarb softens into a luscious sauce.

For a special touch, add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or a splash of vanilla just before removing from the heat.

Let the sauce cool.

Enjoy this seasonal treat over yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.

Try it with pork, chicken, or simply spread on warm toast or biscuits for a classic Maine experience.

THANK YOU TO OUR NEWSLETTER SPONSORS

We’re proud to partner with local businesses and organizations that help keep this newsletter free, informative, and focused on our community.

Our sponsors are more than advertisers — they are active contributors to the strength and growth of the Kennebec Valley and surrounding regions.

We encourage you to support the businesses that support this publication.

Sponsors

Thank you to the local businesses and organizations who support this newsletter and help keep our communities informed and connected.

Smith Digital Solutions, LLC
Helping local businesses get found, get calls, and get paid.
Details: https://smithdigitalsolutions.com

Maine Thrive
Connecting residents with trusted local businesses, services, and opportunities across the Penobscot Valley.
Details: https://mainethrive.org

Gavin’s Lawn Care
Reliable lawn care and seasonal property services for homes across the Penobscot Valley.

Details: https://gavinslawncare.net

North Star Property Solutions, Inc.
Helping homeowners and property owners maintain safe, functional, and well-cared-for spaces.

Details: https://NSPS.Services

Woof LLC
Daycare, boarding, and grooming for dogs in a safe, supervised environment.

Details: https://woofllc.com

MESA–Maine
Supporting active lifestyles and community wellness through endurance events across Maine.

Details:https://mesa-maine.org

The Two Cent Bridge.

Built in 1903, it earned its name from the two-cent toll workers and residents originally had to pay to cross. While the toll was eventually discontinued in 1960, it remains a beloved local icon and a unique piece of Maine's industrial history.