AUGUSTA – Governor Janet Mills will join the Maine Bicentennial Commission in launching the commemoration of the State of Maine bicentennial, at events across the state on Wednesday, July 30, 2019.

Bicentennial Kickoff Day coincides with the 200th anniversary of the affirmative vote to separate the District of Maine from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in July of 1819.

Gov. Mills will visit four communities – Presque Isle, Bangor, Portland and Augusta – to raise the bicentennial flag, dedicate commemorative pine groves, and announce programs and events for Maine’s 200th anniversary of Statehood.

“Maine has a proud and storied history, and our bicentennial offers us the opportunity not only to honor it, but to recommit ourselves to the values that shaped us as a state and as a people,” said Governor Mills. “I am honored to join the Bicentennial Commission in launching these commemorative events, and I look forward to visiting with communities across the state in recognition of this important milestone and in looking forward to another 200 years.”

The schedule is as follows:

• 8 a.m.: Sargent Family Community Center, 22-30 Chapman Road, Presque Isle
• 11 a.m., Broadway Park, 250 Broadway, Bangor
• 2 p.m., Deering Oaks Park, Portland
• 5 p.m., Mill Park, Canal Street, Augusta

Bicentennial Commission Chairman Sen. Bill Diamond will join Gov. Mills for the festivities at each stop, along with representatives of the State and local governments.

“Many dedicated people have been working diligently behind the scenes during the past year and a half to make this 200th anniversary celebration spectacular and fun for all,” said Sen. Diamond. “We are excited to share those plans with the public and inspire Mainers statewide to embrace the 200th anniversary as an opportunity to get involved in their communities.”

For those who want to show their support for the bicentennial commemoration, the Maine200 webstore is now live, featuring general merchandise and a section specifically for MaineMade products. Visit www.Maine200.org and click on “shop” for more information.