RUMFORD, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) met with business and community leaders in Farmington and Rumford to discuss their efforts to invest in their local communities. Senator King toured Origin Maine’s manufacturing facility in Farmington, met with new leadership at the former Catalyst Paper Mill in Rumford, and made several stops along Congress Street, where he viewed progress of a new federally funded infrastructure project to replace water and sewer lines.

“When companies build in rural Maine, they’re not just investing in the region’s history of invention and innovation – they’re investing in our people,” said Senator King. “Rural Maine people are hardworking, innovative, and dedicated – they’ll make any investment worthwhile, and create a superior product in the process. Companies like Origin Maine and infrastructure projects like the one in progress at Congress Street in Rumford will allow rural Maine communities to grow, thrive and pursue new opportunities for economic growth.”

Senator King began his day at Origin Maine, a martial arts and athletics-wear manufacturer in Farmington. The company, which produces American-made apparel for Jiu-Jitsu and other performance activities, was founded in 2011 and has recently made plans to double its workforce in Maine. Last year, Origin opened a 20,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Farmington and has since made significant investments in safe, innovative manufacturing equipment. Senator King then met with leaders of Nine Dragons Paper LLC at the company’s Rumford mill, which was recently purchased from Catalyst Paper. Following this visit, Senator King toured Congress Street in Rumford to view a large-scale infrastructure project underway to replace water and sewer lines. He was accompanied on this tour by Linda Jean Briggs, the Rumford Town Manager.

Senator King will finish his day at the Roberts Farm Preserve, a land trust with trails fit for skiing, running or hiking. The Preserve also runs a local food program and weekly summer events that bring surrounding communities together.