WATERVILLE — Two events this week will ring in a new mayor.

First, Karen Heck will be sworn at 6 p.m. today at the Waterville High School Auditorium during an hour-long ceremony that features poetry, music, an address by Heck and more. Then, on Saturday, the new mayor will host the Mayoral Inaugural Ball, which doubles as a fundraiser, at 8 p.m. at Champions.

Both events are open to the public.

Heck said she’s been hands on in the planning of both events.

“I think it’s an opportunity to thank people for their support, and to give them an idea of what I hope to be and do as mayor. I had so much support during this campaign and I wanted to make these events festive and fun.”

At the inauguration tonight, the Waterville High School Jazz Band Ensemble will perform a processional, Vocal Traction will perform the National Anthem and Marie Jacqueline Gershman-Mannocchi will perform “A Beatiful Day.” Waterville High School student Bethany Brown will recite a poem by Elizabeth Alexander.

Heck said her choices highlight local talent.

“It’s about engaging the community and young people in moving the city forward,” Heck said of the events’ performers. “There are so many young people in this town who have talent, ideas and enthusiasm, and I really wanted to highlight that.”

Heck said her address aims to foster a spirit of cooperation in Waterville.

“I’m hoping to get people excited about the prospects for the city and the city’s future,” she said. “I’m excited to be mayor, but I want people to know I can’t do it alone. I want to challenge people to think about how they can be engaged and the types of things they want to be involved in.”

The Mayoral Inaugural Ball on Saturday will benefit two local non-profits, the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter and Hardy Girls, Healthy Women. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased Hardy Girls, Healthy Women; Joseph’s Fireside Steakhouse or through Heck’s website, www.karenformayor.com.

The event will feature music by Eric Thomas, professor of jazz at Colby; appetizers donated by area restaurants; a silent auction and more.

Proper attire for the ball is wide-ranging, Heck said.

“It’s anything from flannel to fancy,” she said. “It’s truly a Maine event.”

Ben McCanna — 861-9239

bmccanna@centralmaine.com