Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Hancock
Awarding Entity:
Lamoine Select Board
Winner’s Name:
Amy Lynne Duym
Achievements:
Mrs. Duym has been a school teacher at the Lamoine Consolidated School for the past 36 years and will retire at the end of this school year. Amy has been an integral part of the school’s success as one of the highest scoring schools in Hancock County for literacy and math; is a school staff leader; is a cornerstone of the Lamoine School Theatre productions and is willing to do whatever needs to be done. She continues to advocate on behalf of the town’s youngest residents.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
Town Council
Winner’s Name:
Eriks & Nancy Petersons
Achievements:
Longtime Community Service through several committees
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Hartford Maine
Winner’s Name:
Lorraine Parsons
Achievements:
Volunteering in several areas – Cemeteries, Veterans Monuments and Celebrations, Town History Research and compilation, and much more
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Cumberland
Awarding Entity:
Town of Baldwin
Winner’s Name:
Norma Haines
Achievements:
Long-time active member of Historical Society and Library. Serving as Secretary, board member and Librarian. Organized and conducted fundraising events. Donated Chadborne House to Historical Society, providing a place for education and research in genealogy. Member of the East Baldwin Congregational Church , serving as Treasurer and organized church suppers. Active representative in local, State and National Grange, promoting Plant and Animal Husbandry, Citizen Safety and Awareness.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Woodstock
Winner’s Name:
Woodstock Conservation Commission
Achievements:
Acknowledging that the Woodstock Conservation Commission steadfastly continues to look for ways to preserve the natural beauty of Woodstock’s mountains, forests, lakes and streams and for these reasons the Woodstock Conservation Commission lead the way to achieve the goal of finding a way for the Town of Woodstock to purchase the 641 acre Buck’s Ledge property so that its trails, scenic views, special areas and serene atmosphere will forever be available for all people to enjoy, it is with pleasure the Woodstock Board of Selectmen award the 2023 Spirit of America Award to the Woodstock Conservation Commission.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
City of Gardiner
Winner’s Name:
Gardiner’s Gardeners
Achievements:
Gardiner’s Gardeners is a volunteer group of persons that live in and around Gardiner that spend their summer tending City gardens for the purpose of beautification of the city. They work countless hours on flowers, flower bed maintenance, mowing, etc all because they love the city.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Fryeburg
Winner’s Name:
Theresa Shaw
Achievements:
Theresa Shaw was born in Hartford, Connecticut in St. Francis Hospital in 1941. She was the oldest of four kids and as such was very responsible with the rare exception of when the police officer had to escort her home that one time….Her mom wasn’t very pleased! After high school she went to work for the State of Connecticut in the Hartford Welfare Office around 1959-1960. She also worked for the Registry in the Court System where she REALLY learned a lot about the world! She then moved to the Governor’s office, Budgeting Division and Manchester Training School Purchasing Officer. She developed good organizational and interpersonal skills working this job. When the toilet paper runs out people are NOT happy. In 1972 she moved to Fryeburg, Maine with Willis Shaw. She commuted for a time between Connecticut and Fryeburg and had that drive down to about 3 hours 30 minutes (it is supposed to take 4 hours). She co-operated and co-owned a gas station in town with Willy before moving from part time to full time at the Fryeburg Town Office in 1978. She started in the old Town Office on main street and moved into the new Town Office all those many years ago. She participated in elections in the old Grange Hall out in North Fryeburg heated with wood and a wooden bench with a hole opening to the ground for a toilet. Good times. Theresa has worked through labor pains, fresh from surgeries, through sickness, and COVID with unwavering steadfastness and a cool, calm demeanor. Theresa is a staple of the Fryeburg Town Office. She knows the history of the town and the changes that have happened over the last forty-four years. She is a treasure for the town and beloved by her husband, daughter and two grand-daughters who aspire to her work ethic and eternally optimistic outlook.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Aroostook
Awarding Entity:
Towns of Mapleton, Castle Hill, and Chapman
Winner’s Name:
David Dunlavey
Achievements:
Whereas, DAVID DUNLAVEY was an active member of our communities, supporting local donations to the animal shelters and our local food pantries that are designed to help feed the neediest in our communities. Whereas, DAVID A. DUNLAVEY served as a Select Board member for the Town of Mapleton since 2011, and continued this service even in his last days. Whereas, DAVID A. DUNLAVEY acting as the Town Attorney was strategically involved in developing and forming the Corporation that legally joined the ownership of the Towns of Mapleton, Castle Hill, and Chapman. This Corporation would be the foundation to the Interlocal Agreement formed in 1992 that documented the shared resources, benefits, and assets of our communities. Whereas, DAVID A. DUNLAVEY was the shining example of what it means to be a civil servant. Throughout his lifetime serving on countless boards and organizations which included Presque Isle Rotary, Visiting Nurses of Aroostook, The American Bar Association, The Maine Bar Association, Maine Trial Lawyers Association, and was an appointed member of the State Board of Governors.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Town of Corinna
Winner’s Name:
Ronald Richards
Achievements:
Ron served in the US Army after graduating from Dexter High School. When his service ended, he attended the University of Maine at Orono and worked for Dexter Shoe. He then took a position with Hyde Athletics, Spot-Bilt, Bangor, as comptroller, for several years. He graduated from Husson University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, by taking night and summer classes. He worked for many shoe manufacturing businesses during his career: as comptroller at Hyde Spot-Bilt, Bangor, as Plant Manager at Converse Rubber in Presque Isle, and as an engineer for Dexter Shoe. He traveled for the respective businesses to England, France, Italy, Germany, and to Southeast Asia to purchase machinery, materials and keeping in step with best practices in the field. Ron commuted to South Portland to be an engineer for G. H. Bass. Later, he accepted a position at Clark’s Companies, NA, Newton, Ma, as an engineer for Bostonian Men’s Line and Clark’s Originals, retiring in 2014. While working in the Corinna area, he volunteered his time at length to coaching several teams and being Corinna Recreation Department Director. Ron has served the Town on the School Board and the Board of Appeals. He is also a member of American Legion Post #73. Ron is a long-time member of Morse’s Corner Baptist Church, serving as President, Deacon, and Sunday School teacher. Most recently, he has been actively working on the Brad Davis Playground Fundraiser and the Perfect Fit Community Center Committee. He recently agreed to serve on the Safety Committee. I (Lois Jones) have enjoyed working with Ron on the Community Center Committee. He has well-defined thoughts and ideas and encourages the group to research possible projects that are beneficial to the whole community – like a pollinators garden. He willingly steps up when called upon to fill a need – preparing lists, chairing a meeting, or collecting admissions fees.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Mexico
Winner’s Name:
Roland Bousquet
Achievements:
The Town of Mexico chose Roland Bousquet as it 2023 Spirit of America award winner for for his commendable community service. With all of his efforts to support local veterans for years, he has provided free meals for veterans at his business, collected new socks for older veterans and even drives veterans to Drs appointments along with lunch if they’d like. Rolie also helps transport the needy to various locations when called upon. That’s a huge heart
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Wales
Winner’s Name:
Timothy Leighton
Achievements:
Involvement with soccer programs, creating & funding additional soccer opportunities on personal time
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Town of Lincoln
Winner’s Name:
Brian Hamor
Achievements:
The mission of the “Our Heros Military Museum” is to provide for the betterment of all people in understanding U.S. Military History and what it means to America. To provide military historical information, education to the public and to other institutions, and for all people served in the community.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Moscow
Winner’s Name:
Darryl Fortin
Achievements:
Darryl Fortin has been a long time member of the Moscow Planning Board and town meeting Moderator. He is currently Commander of American Legion Post 99.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Fairfield
Winner’s Name:
Nancy Marcoux
Achievements:
BE IT RESOLVED by the Town Council of the Town of Fairfield as follows: WHEREAS, For decades, Nancy Marcoux has diligently served Fairfield residents with steadfast volunteerism; coordinating: operations, marketing, volunteer manpower, orders, deliveries, distribution, building management, MSAD 49 School Backpack partnership, all for the Fairfield Interfaith Food & Essentials Pantry in her various roles, currently Co-Director, and notably since inception in 1993, the Fairfield Interfaith Food & Essentials Pantry has served more than 36,000 needy families and 100,000 needy individuals throughout the community. The need for food relief has never been greater, a challenge well met and coordinated for decades by Nancy Marcoux, and WHEREAS, Notwithstanding these many accomplishments and inspiration to engage with and give back to their greater community; and WHEREAS, the Town of Fairfield and its citizens cherish the ongoing efforts, generosity, effectiveness, and achievements of Nancy Marcoux; now therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Town Council of the Town of Fairfield, do hereby recognize Nancy Marcoux for these outstanding accomplishments and congratulate her on this day of dedication to acknowledge and reward her dedication to this community with the 2023 Spirit of America Foundation Tribute;
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Hiram
Winner’s Name:
Lura Sawyer
Achievements:
Be it Resolved by the Municipal Officers of the Town of Hiram as follows: Whereas, Lura is very active in the Community for several years. Whereas, Lura was a selectboard member for a short period of time. Whereas, Lura, in her high school days, worked side-by-side with Beverly Nason keeping the old median flowerpot at the intersection of Rt. 160 and South Hiram Rd beautiful Whereas, Lura continues the tradition after the flowerpot was removed and rebuilt at the Sawmill Park Whereas, Lura still is taking care of the Sawmill Park grounds and fencing with beautiful flowers and keeping weeds at bay by getting her son and husband to use some heavy equipment to assist in removing the weeds. Whereas, Lura also assist in taking care of the Peleg Wadsworth Memorial Park by replacing some of the fencing Whereas, Lura was active on the Hiram Bicentennial Committee and helped with many of the celebrations Whereas, Lura is a member of the Hiram Conservation Committee Whereas, Lura is a very active member of the outlying cemetery committee and works very hard in keeping the outlying cemeteries looking respectable. Whereas, Lura is also an active member on the Stanley Burial Ground committee and has assisted in verifying burial sites and layouts throughout the cemetery. Whereas, Lura was always willing to help her husband plow whenever he had the plow contract. Whereas, Lura is continuing to be active and supportive of several organizations in our community as well as surrounding communities. Be it Resolved by the Municipal Officers of the Town of Hiram that Lura Sawyer is hereby recognized for her great achievements and honors that she has brought upon this community with the 2023 Hiram Spirit of America Foundation Tribute;
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Hancock
Awarding Entity:
Franklin
Winner’s Name:
Francis Gordon
Achievements:
Francis Gordon coached Franklin youth basketball and baseball teams from the 1960’s through the 1980’s.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Washington
Awarding Entity:
Town of Steuben
Winner’s Name:
Amy Hall
Achievements:
We nominate Amy Hall for her dedication to the youth of Steuben through her volunteering as the Town Recreation Director, her work at the Henry D More Library and Community Center and her work with fundraising for the Ella Lewis School in Steuben.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Belgrade
Winner’s Name:
Catherine Damren
Achievements:
Catherine Damren has been invaluable as a ballot clerk, served 3 terms as a State Legislator, and has provided volunteer assistance to Maine Agricultural Fairs.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Belgrade
Winner’s Name:
Bruce Galouch
Achievements:
Bruce Galouch has given decades of dedicated service to Fire and Rescue Department; has served on the Budget, Cemetery and Transfer & Recycling Committees.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Belgrade
Winner’s Name:
Michial Heino
Achievements:
Michial Heino has provided many years of dedicated service to Belgrade as Town Sexton.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Belgrade
Winner’s Name:
Maureen Milliken
Achievements:
Maureen Milliken serves on her town’s Communications Committee, edits Belgrade Bulletin, and chairs Library Board of Trustees.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Aroostook
Awarding Entity:
Easton
Winner’s Name:
Cheryl Clark
Achievements:
Cheryl Clark has dedicated 30 years (and still going) as Easton’s Town Clerk and also has served on many municipal and civic boards.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Oakland
Winner’s Name:
Trenton Clark
Achievements:
Trenton Clark is a youth who has been helping the Oakland Flower Committee for the past 5+ years.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Washington
Awarding Entity:
Jonesboro
Winner’s Name:
Jonesboro Grange #357
Achievements:
Jonesboro Grange #357 has organized Blueberry Festival & Crafts Fair, Crush Cancer 5K, Dance Fitness, Easter Eggs Project, and more.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
Winterport Woman’s Club GFWC
Winner’s Name:
Stephanie Clisham
Achievements:
RSU22 Student School Board Representative her junior and senior years of high school; this winter spearheaded Hampden Academy Senior to Senior Project, helping to deliver de-icing salt to senior citizens in the four-town school district. She is a Big Brothers/Big Sisters volunteer and spends some time each Tuesday afternoon mentoring a Smith School student in Winterport. A student council member and senior class secretary at Hampden Academy.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
York
Awarding Entity:
Town of Shapleigh
Winner’s Name:
Shapleigh Election Workers
Achievements:
Exemplary Citizenship and outstanding dedication to the election process
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Town of Solon
Winner’s Name:
Mary Lou Ridley
Achievements:
WHEREAS, Mary Lou Ridley served as a Coolidge Library Trustee from 1979 to 1982 and again starting in 2019. Since 2019 she has served on the Library Building Committee. She is also one of the founders of the Friends of the Coolidge Library; WHEREAS, in December 1998 Mary Lou was elected as selectman and served Vice Chairman until March 2018; WHEREAS, as a selectman she also organized the Solon Giving Tree for many years. She would coordinate the gift recipients and the gift donations, would purchase and wrap presents with the cash donations, and would distribute the presents; WHEREAS, Mary Lou became a Roads Scholar by attending Maine Local Roads training sessions to improve her knowledge of road repair and maintenance; WHEREAS, Mary Lou has served on the Old Canada Scenic Byway Committee since 2002. She also served on the First Park Committee and Kennebec Valley Council of Government; and she was secretary and treasurer of the Somerset County Municipal Association for many years; WHEREAS, Mary Lou has served on our Board of Appeals since 2018;
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Lincoln
Awarding Entity:
Jefferson
Winner’s Name:
Judi Olson
Achievements:
Judi Olson, heads up the Jefferson Blessings in a Backpack chapter. She started the weekend meals project at Jefferson Village School since 2011, and has managed the program for the past 12 years. Over the years her family members have helped with the program. When she first started the program she had lots of volunteers, but now is pretty much a one woman show. She fundraises, purchases food, bags it up and delivers it to the school. The school annonously puts the bags of food in children’s backpacks in their lockers. This school year, she delivers 37 bags of food a week to the school. Last school year was her biggest with 47 children being served. Her food bags contain two breakfast items (cereal or bars), two entrees such as soup, canned spaghetti, mac and cheese, canned chicken, tuna or ham, peanut butter or vienna sausage. She also includes a couple of snacks like fresh or canned fruit, appleause, goldfish crackers, crackers and cheese, crackers and peanut butter, and snack bars. She keeps her inventory in a room in her basement. She has accounts at Walmart and Sam’s Club, where all the money she raises goes into accounts for the Jefferson Village School Blessings in a Backpack account. “It is quite convenient.” She raises $3,500 per year for the Blessings in a Backpack program at JVS. The Blessings in a Backpack program feeds children all over the United States. The program started in 2005 and now serves 88,900 students in over 1,000 program locations spread throughout the United States. Since 2009, Blessings in a Backpack has grown from feeding 9,022 to 89,579 kids a year. The school distributes sign up sheets to all students. When the sheets come back, they are annonomously to Olson. “I have no idea who they go to.”
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
Freedom
Winner’s Name:
Wilson Hess
Achievements:
It is with great respect and admiration that the Town of Freedom presents this year’s Spirit of America Award to Mr Wilson G. Hess. For over forty years he and his wife Ellie have called Freedom home where he has always been a good neighbor and friend. It is our understanding when Wilson retired from the academic world he did not slow down. His volunteer work for Freedom spans many years and has included public education and more recently the Broadband effort. In the 2004 town report, it was shared that Wilson, as a Town Selectman, worked on the Sandy Pond Dam, the Comprehensive Plan and a lot more. Wilson did a lot of work on the tax assessment that year and as a result the Tax bills came out a little late. The good news is his work did bring the Town of Freedom a little more up to date as to how things should get done. (I don’t remember the bills being that late again.) He supported and spoke about the Skidgel lot when we needed to hear and understand what needed to be done, and did his part to help get that site cleaned up. Being on the State Board of Education, he is our voice in Augusta. We don’t hear much about this work because it is going well without a lot of dysfunction. That is what Wilson brings to everything he puts his mind to. The Southwestern Waldo County Broadband Collation is where Wilson got to show just how brilliant he is. The guidance he provided to their board of directors was invaluable. Most of the folks did not have the experience needed to make this work and he walked them through a lot of the steps to bring us to the Waldo Broadband Corporation. (My personal Thank You for all that help and keeping me from running to far ahead of everyone else.) Wilson’s interest in the history of Freedom is well, historical. The time and effort he has put into the Historical Society is more than any of us could of ask for. By digitizing the old town records and getting a grant to pay a couple of young people to do the data entry is priceless.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Town of China, Maine
Winner’s Name:
Trishea Story
Achievements:
Trishea has served many years as an election clerk and on the town’s budget committee.
Year:
2023
State:
County:
Awarding Entity:
Town of China, Maine
Winner’s Name:
Achievements:
Trishea has served many years as an election clerk and on the town’s budget committee.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Town of China, Maine
Winner’s Name:
Frederick Fischer
Achievements:
Mr. Fischer has supported the local American Legion for 25+ years. Additionally, he has helped maintain the local Veterans’ Monument.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Town of China
Winner’s Name:
Ronald Breton
Achievements:
Mr. Breton has participated in local government at many levels. His support of the community is immeasurable.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Poland
Winner’s Name:
PFRBA
Achievements:
Raising funds to benefit Poland Fire Rescue
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Phillips
Winner’s Name:
Dorrie White
Achievements:
Years devoted to the Phillips Area Food Pantry, selfless contributions to those in need around her.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Lincoln
Awarding Entity:
Town of Somerville
Winner’s Name:
Somerville Womens Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary
Achievements:
has given many years of dedicated service to Town of Somerville as its Fire Department
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Cumberland
Awarding Entity:
Cape Elizabeth
Winner’s Name:
Kenneth S. “Scott” Berry
Achievements:
Scott Berry, a descendant of the early settlers of Cape Elizabeth, embodies the spirit of volunteerism. Giving back to the community is evidenced by his decades of service to others. For 20 years, Scott has been a mainstay for the Elections Team. He has assisted thousands of voters at Town Hall during absentee balloting prior to elections and at the first incoming line on Election Day. Scott holds his calendar and often changes plans to accommodate the elections schedule. Long days and weeks of hard work do not deter him from coming back year after year. With his attention to detail, professional manner and quiet demeanor he is a pleasure to work with. Scott cares about people and is always available to lend a hand. His service has included the Cape Elizabeth Home, Cape Elizabeth Historical Preservation Society, and Seaside Cemetery Corporation. His fellowship extends to the First Congregational Church of South Portland serving as an Elder, Head Usher, Co-chair of the Spiritual Life and Worship Team, member of the Investment Oversight Team and Budget Committee, Community Crisis Ministries Committee and Fellowship Club to name a few. A proud Army veteran, and member of the Retired Army Officers Club sums up Scott’s commitment to service.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Town of Carmel
Winner’s Name:
Julia Pike
Achievements:
The 2023 Carmel Maine Spirit of America Foundation Tribute honors Julia Pike for commendable community service. A Resolution Providing for: Recognition of Julia Pike. Be it Resolved by the Selectmen of the Town of Carmel as follows: Whereas, Julia Pike has made significant contributions to the Town of Carmel through decades of community service. Whereas, Julia Pike served in the United States Navy. Whereas, Julia Pike served as Deputy Clerk for the Town of Carmel for over 20 years and continues to serve the Town of Carmel as Town Meeting Moderator, Sexton and Warden of Elections. Whereas, Julia Pike has served as a member of and has been the leader of multiple local civic organizations including Order of the Eastern Star, Daughters of the American Revolution, American Legion, Hermon Alumni Association and is an original member of the Carmel Historical Society. Be it Resolved by the Selectmen of the Town of Carmel that Julia Pike is hereby recognized for her exemplary citizenship, great achievements and honors that she has brought upon this community with the 2023 Carmel Spirit of America Foundation Tribute; and Be it Further Resolved that a copy of this resolution be appropriately framed and presented to Julia Pike for appropriate display; and Be it Further Resolved that the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Carmel formally dedicate the 2022 Annual Report for the Town of Carmel to Julia Pike. Selectmen: Suzan Rudnicki, Jared Fitts, Isaac Raymond, Daniel Frye, Timothy Richardson Jr. Town Manager: Kevin Howell
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Town of Chelsea
Winner’s Name:
Scott and Dorothy Grady
Achievements:
As Chelsea residents for 36+ years, these two involve themselves in numerous boards and committees and never hesitate to step up to help others. Business owners in the town of Chelsea for 23 years, they graciously sponsored numerous school sports teams, donated bicycles, provided free pizzas to the school classes, and stepped up to run the snack shack at many events.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
Mechanic Falls
Winner’s Name:
Eriks and Nancy Petersons
Achievements:
“Both Eriks and Nancy are known to be very active in the community and certainly deserve the award for their many hours each year spent in the service of others. Nancy and Eriks recognize the importance of historical preservation in a community. They have worked incredibly hard to promote and preserve our town€™s heritage. They give from the heart, and our whole community benefits. They both were part of the committee years ago to build a new high school. Eriks has served as long-time President of the Mechanic Falls Historical Society, has coached baseball, and currently serves on the town€™s appeal board. Nancy, also currently serves on the Historical Society, library board of trustees, as well as head librarian for the town. Nancy is very instrumental in town elections, and serves on several committees including the newly revived Community Day committee. In addition to all of their community service efforts, Eriks for many years has contributed much to the town, writing articles for the Sun Journal, and Nancy has served on many school committees over the years. The Petersons are long-time residents of the town of Mechanic Falls. Congratulations to Eriks and Nancy Petersons, this year€™s Spirit of America Award Winners.”
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Minot
Winner’s Name:
Daniel Callahan Jr.
Achievements:
“Daniel served as a Selectmen from 2006-2021, a total of 16 years. During his time as a Selectmen he made sure the decisions the Town made were fiscally responsible but also what was best for the Town. Served on the Planning Board from 1976-1990, a total of 15 years. Served as a Assessor from 2016-2021, a total of 6 years. Served on the Budget Committee from 1995-1998 and in 2022, a total of 5 years. He served on the Board of Appeals from 2003- 2005, a total of 3 years. And he also had a role in creating the Minot Recreational Trails.”
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Knox
Awarding Entity:
Town Of Thomaston
Winner’s Name:
Peter Lammert
Achievements:
Peter Lammert has been on the Select Board dating back from 1986 to 2000 and from 2001 to the present day. Pete is also the Cemetery Sexton, and Tree Warden as well as a beekeeper, he is the Captain Ameritas for the Fire Department, and a local election worker, just to name a few of the roles he has in town. Pete is best known for educating voters on how to place their ballot in the DS200 machine. Pete is well known for putting up signs around town to help navigate folks to where they want to go and how to get there safely. During the holiday season, Pete fills the town office with poinsettias for the desks. Pete is one of those individuals that could be out shopping and receives a call from a local resident needing assistance with a tree, beehive, cemetery, or nearly anything and he will stop what he is doing and respond to that person. We all know that because most of us have been on that other end of the phone needing Pete for something. Pete’s love for the Town of Thomaston is immeasurable and is always looking to make something uncomplicated for the next person. Pete is the first one to recognize someone for a job well done! The knowledge he has and shares of this town is unparalleled and often is the go-to person to ask; Do you remember when?”
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Town of Norridgewock
Winner’s Name:
Sherri Lewis & Abagail Clair
Achievements:
Abby and Sherri are being recognized for their amazing volunteerism in our community, especially the work that they do on behalf of the Norridgewock Parks Committee. These ladies work tirelessly to organize and run community events all year round. They spearhead Norridgewock€™s Oosoola Days, which will celebrate its 50th year in 2023. Abby and Sherri were also instrumental in helping to create a holiday stroll and tree lighting. Outside of the Parks Committee, they are involved in the Girl Scouts, the Somerset Humane Society, among other organizations. Abby is also active in her school at Skowhegan Area Middle School. She is on the Civil Rights Committee, maintains Honor Roll, and was recognized at Student of the Month in December 2022. Beyond their public volunteer work, Sherri and Abby work diligently behind the scenes to make sure that gaps in the community are covered. They are always the first to reach out and ask if anyone needs anything or if there€™s anything that can be done. Sherri has been dedicated to raising Abby with a strong understanding of the benefit of giving back to your community and Abby exemplifies that daily. We are truly fortunate to have such an amazing mother/daughter team here in Norridgewock.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Knox
Awarding Entity:
Town Of Thomaston
Winner’s Name:
Joanne Richards
Achievements:
Joanne Richards is the chair of the Planning Board and a member of the Thomaston Village Trustees; she is the Maine State Organization Daughters of the American Revolution Parliamentarian and belongs to the Lady’s Knox Chapter for which she has held many roles. Joanne has been a dedicated election volunteer for years and is nominated/appointed year after year as Deputy Warden and Deputy Moderator. Joanne is instrumental in training election workers aiding in the smooth flow of the voting day. Joanne has been part of many local and state organizations, Joanne is an individual whose style is to take something on; be a representative for the community, identify concerns, communicate with local government officials, and advocate to ensure goals are met. It is understood that being a volunteer is not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles can be managing conflicts and disputes, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues within the community. It can also be difficult to balance commitments and responsibilities. Joanne seems to take this role on with ease with all that she does and has become a person who is admired and looked up to, knowing she will get the job done. Of course, it helps that she is a die-hard Red Sox fan too.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Roxbury
Winner’s Name:
Silver Lake Camp Owners Association, Courtesy Boat Inspection Program
Achievements:
In 2009 after applying for and being awarded a matching grant from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and with training from the Lakes Environmental Association in Bridgton the Silver Lake Camp Owners Association launched the Courtesy Boat Inspection Program at the Roxbury/Ellis Pond Boat Ramp. The program is designed to raise awareness of Invasive Species, and to demonstrate to and encourage boaters to do a self-inspection of their boats, trailers and gear. All inspections are voluntary. The program is the first line of defense in stopping the spread of Invasives, which have run rampant in the New England states and are found in 34 bodies of water in Maine. The program was tailored to continue the values and the mission of the SLCOA “To protect the integrity of Silver Lake, Roxbury Pond, or Big Ellis Pond and the surrounding environment through good stewardship for generations to come.” The first year there were four Volunteer inspectors, Reggie Arsenault, Tony Desalle, Mike Ronan and Matt Towle, also the coordinator. There were three paid students who earned every bit of the grant money. Today, the CBI program runs from the middle of June through Labor Day, Friday through Monday as well as the entire week of the Fourth of July from 8 AM to 6 PM. The boat ramp is staffed in the morning by Volunteers working two different shifts from 8:00 am to 10:30 am and 10:30 am to 1:00 pm. From 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm the ramp is tended by students from the local area. There is still the same coordinator as well as a data entry administrator. Our program is rather unique compared to other Courtesy Boat Inspection Programs. Every penny of the grant money goes towards the salaries of our high school students. No adults are compensated in any fashion for the work they do and all expenses are covered by donations. This gives the students a great opportunity to earn while they learn interpersonal skills as well as the need to protect our environment from Invasives. Since the inception of the program, in the last 14 seasons, we have reapplied and earned a grant every year, and have employed 25 different students. Where the program is a matching grant, a requirement of receiving is that funding or volunteerism is to at least equal the value of the grant. We have been awarded grants of $21,380. At the same time our Volunteers have delivered programs back to the community and the State of Maine in the value of $124,957 all while performing approximately 7,000 inspections. Our Volunteers not only monitor the boat ramp but we have Volunteers that use their own equipment to install, remove and repair the Town Dock annually.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
Town of Unity
Winner’s Name:
Unity Public Library
Achievements:
Has 35 volunteers organized a story walk for local children, aided in general library organizing, free classes such as computer literacy, aids business development …
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Knox
Awarding Entity:
Town of Washington
Winner’s Name:
Mildred Melgard
Achievements:
Mildred Melgard is often found chatting with people about one upcoming fundraiser or another, seeking out volunteers to be by her side for fire department and grange dinners or soliciting financial or physical donation for a variety of causes. Known for her can-do attitude, this year’s recipient isn’t afraid to take on multiple volunteer projects throughout the year, often juggling several at once. If she sees a need in the community, she will find a way to address it whether it be through a fundraiser dinner, collecting monetary donations, or simply offering help. And she will good-naturedly cajole as many others as she can to make sure that need is met. In addition, during election time, you’ll find her staffing the polls – as she’s done for years – and even then she’s recruiting and reminding of upcoming events. This individual also serves on the Washington Community Scholarship Committee and puts together a community calendar of events for all of the groups in town each year. She is a familiar face at the annual Strawberry Festival, serving up desserts with a smile every time. Musically inclined, she shares her talents through Washington Village Church and the grange. When recently honored by Evening Star Grange, she was described as one who “”works on solutions to obstacles instead of seeing roadblocks.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Knox
Awarding Entity:
Town of Washington
Winner’s Name:
Mildred Melgard
Achievements:
Mildred is often found chatting with people about one upcoming fundraiser or another, seeking out volunteers to be by her side for fire department and grange dinners or soliciting financial or physical donations for a variety of caused. Known for her can-do attitude, she isn’t afraid to take on multiple volunteer projects throughout the year, often juggling several at once. If she sees a need in the community, she will find a way to address it whether it be through a fundraiser dinner, collecting monetary donations, or simply offering help. And she will good-naturedly cajole as many others as she can to make sure that need is met. In addition, during election time, you’ll find her staffing the polls – as she’s done for years – and even then she’s recruiting and reminding of upcoming events. This individual also serves on the Washington Community Scholarship Committee and puts together a community calendar of events for all of the groups in town each year. She is a familiar face at the annual Strawberry Festival, serving up desserts with a smile every time. Musically inclined, she shares her talents through Washington Village Church and the grange. When recently honored by Evening Star Grange, she was described as one who “works on solutions to obstacles instead of seeing roadblocks.”
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Knox
Awarding Entity:
Town of Washington
Winner’s Name:
Mildred Melgard
Achievements:
Mildred is often found chatting with people about one upcoming fundraiser or another, seeking out volunteers to be by her side for fire department and grange dinners or soliciting financial or physical donations for a variety of caused. Known for her can-do attitude, she isn’t afraid to take on multiple volunteer projects throughout the year, often juggling several at once. If she sees a need in the community, she will find a way to address it whether it be through a fundraiser dinner, collecting monetary donations, or simply offering help. And she will good-naturedly cajole as many others as she can to make sure that need is met. In addition, during election time, you’ll find her staffing the polls – as she’s done for years – and even then she’s recruiting and reminding of upcoming events. This individual also serves on the Washington Community Scholarship Committee and puts together a community calendar of events for all of the groups in town each year. She is a familiar face at the annual Strawberry Festival, serving up desserts with a smile every time. Musically inclined, she shares her talents through Washington Village Church and the grange. When recently honored by Evening Star Grange, she was described as one who “works on solutions to obstacles instead of seeing roadblocks.”
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Sagadahoc
Awarding Entity:
Town of Georgetown
Winner’s Name:
Georgetown Broadband, LLC
Achievements:
Georgetown Broadband, LLC has worked diligently to research, fund and construct a high-speed fiber network, capable of reaching every home and business in Georgetown.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Sagadahoc
Awarding Entity:
Town of Bowdoinham
Winner’s Name:
Julie Booty and Brigid Palmer
Achievements:
For their years of service and dedication organizing and running the Bowdoinham Community School Rummage Sale. They have continued to run the sale for many years after their own children had been gone from BCS.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Knox
Awarding Entity:
The Select Board of the Town of St. George
Winner’s Name:
Staff, Board and Volunteers of the Community Development Corporation in St. George
Achievements:
The CDC continues to help build a stronger and more compassionate St. George where nobody is left out, and where anybody who needs help can find it.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Sagadahoc
Awarding Entity:
Town of Richmond
Winner’s Name:
Marilynn Grizkewitsch
Achievements:
Volunteerism to community, senior center, Richmond Rides program, town events, Richmond Days, town office work.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Cumberland
Awarding Entity:
City of Westbrook
Winner’s Name:
Clifford & Vicki McKinley
Achievements:
WHEREAS, the Spirit of America Foundation was established to encourage and recognize volunteerism and is presented in the name of any Maine municipality; and WHEREAS, the Westbrook Spirit of America Award is presented to an individual or group who has provided outstanding service to our community, to honor them for their contributions to the people of Westbrook, and to recognize their exemplary citizenship; and WHEREAS, Clifford and Vicki McKinley are hereby recognized as the 2023 Westbrook Spirit of America Award recipient for their 15 years of community service for the Open Door Kitchen at First Baptist Church; and WHEREAS, On average, the Open Door Kitchen has served 150 people per month, with over 25,000 meals passed out under the McKinley’s leadership ranging from seasonal meals to special holiday meals giving members of the Westbrook community a place to gather and dine; and WHEREAS, In 2020, when the pandemic hit, the McKinley’s were able to swiftly transition from a dine-in style meal, to a safe to-go system, allowing the Open Door Kitchen to be able to continue serving the community using a drive-up lane, and allowing those without vehicles to be able to walk-up to request meals, and then thankfully in 2022, the dine-in service was offered once again; and WHEREAS, Clifford and Vicki McKinley served their last meal as leadership for the Open Door Kitchen on March 18th, paving the way for new leadership to continue on the work they began years ago. The City of Westbrook wishes to honor the work of the McKinley’s and their leadership by awarding them the Westbrook Spirit of America Award. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael T. Foley, Mayor of the City of Westbrook, do hereby recognize Clifford and Vicki McKinley as the 2023 Westbrook Spirit of America Award recipient, and extend to them our deepest appreciation for their dedicated work and volunteerism.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Hancock
Awarding Entity:
Brooksville
Winner’s Name:
Audrey Peasley
Achievements:
Audrey Peasley, born and raised in Brooksville, has been the leader of so many of the historical events in the lives of the people of Brooksville. She and her husband worked on establishing snowmobile trails, and she has been instrumental in most of the celebrations of the town, whether annual or centennial. She organized the restoration and truly the saving of an historic Church in Town. It is beautiful. She helped organize the Girl Scout program in Brooksville. Oversees a number scholarship programs helping our children as the step from High School into College, and believe it or not, she aways has homemade donuts and hot coffee on her counter.. waiting for anyone who happens to just stop by! Image and that was… how should I say… just what she accomplished before lunch! Her most recent and possibly most widely recognized undertaking was her efforts in the Brooksville Meals program. Audrey was one of a very dedicated group who brought the Meals for Me program to Brooksville. Through the years she has been the one constant who has seen the program continue, grow, and succeed well past..I may be biased, but I don’t think so…almost any other meals program, anywhere. Audrey makes the weekly meals an event, tables set with real glass plates and silverware, each week is themed, snack cups are placed at each setting to be enjoyed while you wait for your lunch…because people come early to Audrey’s Lunch…and stories are encouraged to be shared with everyone before the meal is served. The Meals for Me lunch, is served all at once by trained hostesses, everyone eats together! Each of the tables always has rolls, butter and pickles to go with whatever the main dish happens to be. Lunch concludes with a dessert, games, and heartfelt goodbyes and always the promise to see you next week. I honestly do not know if people come for the meal….I believe most are there for the warm and welcoming family and fellowship atmosphere Audrey creates for them each week. In concluding, these are just a few of the many things this incredible woman has done for her community, her home. We believe Audrey Peasley should receive this recognition and so much more for the time she has gladly given on behalf of others and to her community. Thank you for your consideration.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
York
Awarding Entity:
Lyman
Winner’s Name:
Lyman Cemetery Committee
Achievements:
The Lyman Cemetery Committee was formed in 1879 when the Ricker family purchased what is now the Hamilton/Carll cemetery on Hamilton Road. For the purpose of preservation the first order of business was the removal of threatening trees from the plot, and a request was made to the town to provide $10 for the project. With the passing of the Rickers and other early members (many of whom are now buried in that same cemetery) Lyman’s ancient family cemeteries fell into disrepair. Large trees toppled into the plots destroying headstones, walls and gates. Even though the remnants of those trees have since been absorbed into the soil the damage they caused still remains. LCC members now spend considerable time digging up, restoring, re-setting and cleaning those long-lost stones. Lyman has a total of 115 ancient cemeteries some of which date back to the 1700’s. Residing in these cemeteries there are over 500 veteran grave sites including 20 Revolutionary War Veterans. During the 1940s the American Legion assisted the LCC in finding the graves of the town’s veterans so that flags could be placed on them each Memorial Day, a ritual that continues to this day. Following the Great Fire of ’47 our cemeteries suffered neglect as families moved away, properties were sold and trees began to grow back, effectively hiding most of our ancient plots, in some cases for decades. Modern-day LCC members such as Priscilla Miles, Frank Hammond, Rodney Normand, Mike Viger and others made great strides in finding and recovering our cemeteries. In 2013 Jim Hathorne, Katrina Randall, Larry and Barbara Barnes asked the town to fund the current committee. Sworn members now include Bob and Katrina Randall, Dan and Sheila McNeil, Priscilla Miles, Jim Hathorne, and Steve Carpenteri. Since 2015 the committee has been hard at work finding, cataloguing, recovering, repairing and assessing the town’s ancient cemeteries. Many hours, days and weeks have been spent cutting and hauling brush, repairing headstones, walls, pipes and gates; installing signs and chains and mowing each plot three times per year (Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day) as required by state law. The preservation of these ancient cemeteries has proven to be a monumental project. In 2022 the Lyman Select Board and town voters approved $60,000 for a massive project to remove all of the remaining threatening trees from our cemeteries. Work began on the removal process in early 2023 with a projected date of completion of June 30. Meanwhile, the committee is working on a plan to have all of Lyman’s ancient cemeteries recovered, listed, catalogued and detailed by the Centennial (2025) so that anyone visiting the town’s Web site can find a cemetery (using names, road directions and GPS coordinates) and everyone buried within it, particularly nearly 500 veterans dating back to the Revolutionary War. Also, LCC has initiated a plan for the routine maintenance of these plots (mowing and annual assessing) using the bid process to keep every plot mowed and maintained in perpetuity. When completed LCC will have spent the better part of 10 years finding, listing, recovering and repairing nearly 100 known ancient cemeteries within the town’s borders. LCC members are unpaid volunteers who share a love of Lyman, its original inhabitants, its history and its veterans. A number of plots have been maintained through the generosity of landowners who do most of the work in preserving these plots. Thanks are especially due to the many Lyman property owners who understood our mission, provided access to their plots and cooperated with our efforts. To find out more about the Lyman Cemetery Committee, its mission and goals, log onto the Lyman town Web site at www.lyman-me.gov.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Town of Hampden
Winner’s Name:
Sue Anne Hahn
Achievements:
Sue Anne Hahn has been a gift to our Hampden community for many years. Her work with the Hampden Neighborhood Food Cupboard has led us in ways we could never imagine, 30 years ago, when we first sat down to discuss the needs of our neighbors. While not only leading the Food Cupboard during times of increasing need Sue has heightened awareness for the board and community that filling bellies is not enough. HNFC now provides food that is nutritious and fresh whenever possible. This includes a variety of foods that are low salt, low processed sugar and even gluten free for individuals with those needs. As the Food Cupboard has partnered with local farms the variety of healthy and sometimes novel food items has increased and recipes are often provided to encourage those foods in family’s diets. Along with better nutrition and connection with local farmers, Sue Anne’s long roots in the community have also led to new and/or more meaningful partnerships including Good Shepherd Food Bank, Hannaford, Eastern Maine Agency on Aging, Key Club, Honor Society, Kiwanis and both Scout organizations. Needs in the Hampden community have increased and been recognized where they were not when the Food Cupboard began. Days and hours of operation have expanded. A significant portion of our guests are our seniors. To meet that unique need HNFC is a site for the distribution of Senior Nutrition Boxes and home delivery of weekly bags, to those without other options, has been established. Our service area has expanded to include all of RSU 22, when local communities cannot meet needs. A significant addition to the reach of the Food Cupboard is the providing of weekend and holiday food bags for school students. These bags are planned and packed with the needs of student, young and older in mind, respecting their need for privacy and dignity. Sue Anne Hahn has both great vision and a willingness to learn and partner. This has allowed us to serve more of those in need in our community and to provide higher quality food items, meeting some of our neighbors’ most basic needs with care, respect, without judgement and unnecessary barriers. We are blessed to have Sue Anne Hahn leading our community in the important ministry and service of the Hampden Neighborhood Food Cupboard. Municipal Resolution April 18, 2023 The 2023 Hampden, Maine, Spirit of America Foundation Tribute honors Sue Anne Hahn for outstanding community service and volunteerism. A Resolution by the Hampden Town Councilors follows: Whereas, the needs of the community in the area of food security have increased since the founding of the Hampden Neighborhood Food Cupboard thirty years ago. Whereas, under the tutelage of Sue Anne Hahn the Hampden Neighborhood Food Cupboard has expanded hours, increased the residents served, designed services for specific needs including Senior Nutrition Boxes, weekend and holiday food bags for RSU 22 students and aided individuals with dietary restrictions. Whereas, Sue Anne Hahn’s long roots in Hampden has led to an increased awareness for food insecurity by building coalitions with multiple organizations to ensure the basic needs of our neighbors are meet including Good Shepherd Food Bank, Hannaford, Eastern Maine Agency on Aging, Key Club, Honor Society, Kiwanis and both Girl Scouts and Scouts. Whereas, Sue Anne Hahn, with vision and a willingness to learn and partner, has built an organization that continues to meet the most basic needs of our neighbors with care, respect, and without judgement or unnecessary barriers. Therefore, Be it Resolved by the Hampden Town Councilors of Hampden, ME, in sincere gratitude and appreciation, that Sue Anne Hahn is hereby recognized for exemplary citizenship, volunteerism and outstanding achievements brought to this community, with the 2023 Hampden, Maine Spirit of America Foundation Tribute. _________________________ _______________________ Ivan McPike, Chair Paula Scott, Town Manager Town Councilors: Mark Cormier; Christine Cubberley; Peter Erickson: Allen Esposito; Eric Jarvi; David Ryder
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Sagadahoc
Awarding Entity:
Bath
Winner’s Name:
Judith Barrington
Achievements:
Judith Barrington has supported the Bath community in many ways for many years. She was a founding member of Sagadahoc Preservation, Inc. (SPI), and has volunteered with them for more than 46 years. She has spent many years volunteering with organizations such as Main Street Bath and the Bath Garden Club and supporting the Maine Maritime Museum and Patten Free Library. Her knowledge of Bath’s history benefits our entire City; she shares her experience, willingly and graciously. Protecting Bath’s history and culture is an investment that enhances our quality of life and provides an authentic sense of place.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
East Machias
Winner’s Name:
Juanita Davis
Achievements:
The late Juanita Davis spent 25 years as a Foster Grandparent at Elm Street School, was a Cub Scout Leader for 22 years, lived her life in service to others.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Greenwood
Winner’s Name:
Bob Coolidge
Achievements:
Decades of dedication and assistance to the Town of Greenwood
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Jay
Winner’s Name:
Paper Mill Workers
Achievements:
Dedication, hard work, sacrifices and commitment to our community working at the paper mills in Jay.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Peru
Winner’s Name:
Gammon Family Farm
Achievements:
sponsors bottle drives by placing its large farm-animal trailer at the Peru Town Office for the purpose of collecting and redeeming returnable bottles, in support of residents facing large medical expenses, long-term sickness, auto accident injuries, and/or other life difficulties; and has respected Peru veterans in recent years by placing flowers on their graves
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Town of Skowhegan
Winner’s Name:
MacKenzie Janna Cayford
Achievements:
Is part of many community committees, volunteers and helps out with many local events…RiverFest, BrewFest, Skow Whoville, etc.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Sagadahoc
Awarding Entity:
Town of Woolwich
Winner’s Name:
Dale Reno
Achievements:
Dale donated his time and supplies for repairs to the Town, including the Old Town House, The North Fire Station and the Town Office.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Cambridge
Winner’s Name:
Arthur Packard
Achievements:
Arthur Packard has served Cambridge as Selectman, Planning Board and Appeals Board member and a Cemetery Committee member. Arthur is always willing to do whatever work needs to be done. He is a30+ year member of the Volunteer Fire Department, this year as First Lieutenant. He also served as training officer. His mechanical skills contribute greatly to the department. He is a life long member of the Cambridge Baptist Church and a former Deacon. He does not wait to be asked to help, he is just there when you need him.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Lincoln
Awarding Entity:
Town of Nobleboro
Winner’s Name:
Steve Plumb
Achievements:
Outstanding Service to the Town of Nobleboro
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
City of Belfast
Winner’s Name:
Keith Pooler
Achievements:
11 years of service to the City of Belfast Public Works Department, with 4 years as the Superintendent. 32 years of service to the Belfast Water District, in this role he replaced over 2,000 old water meters, acquired over 110 acres of land, and updated old-style chart telemetry equipment, during which time he has supported enhancing public health, safety and welfare by advocating safe drinking water. He served on the Belfast Fire Department since 1984 to present where he currently holds title of Assistant Fire Chief. He has been a member of the Anah Shrine Club since 2015, and is a member of the Maine Water Utilities Association.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Town of Sidney
Winner’s Name:
Sidney Community Food Pantry
Achievements:
Second Baptist Church of Sidney Community Food Pantry The Second Baptist Church of Sidney Food Cupboard (now known as the Sidney Community Food Pantry) was born when Pastor Conrad Edwards (pastor from 1987-1994) challenged the congregation to develop a community outreach program. Under his leadership, the Church was already sponsoring the Scouting programs in Sidney. Member of the Church and Deacon Dale Blethen suggested a food cupboard. Several members, under the leadership of Marjorie Dyer took up the challenge and began collecting nonperishable food items and storing them in the Church basement for distribution to those in need in Sidney. Although there were food cupboards available in larger towns and cities nearby, the Church made it their mission to serve the citizens of Sidney directly. The Food Cupboard became an immediate success with many members contributing food and volunteering time to organize the food and set up appointments for Sidney residents in need to receive the food. As it began to grow, a storage area was set up in the basement of the Parsonage and members built shelves to hold the donations. Sandra Marden Tibbetts was the director of the Church Food Cupboard for many years. Under her leadership, the Cupboard became a 501c3 charity, added freezers for meat and other frozen foods, set up a voucher program with Marcoux’s meats (a Sidney business), wrote several grants for funding, and moved the Cupboard into the first floor of the parsonage where it currently resides. One report by Sandra states that the Cupboard was serving 19 families regularly along with occasional clients. When Sandra Tibbetts retired, Linda Bragg was appointed director in 2015. Linda has recruited an excellent team of volunteers to assist with the operation of the Pantry. Together they have written and received several local grants, set up regular hours of operation as well as appointments for those unable to come in during those hours, and developed a connection with the Good Shepherd food bank from which they now receive most of their food. It has become a full-time job for Linda and her team to regularly serve 30 Sidney families along with other occasional clients. Special mention for their donations of food and money goes to Rural Lodge 53 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Sidney, the James Bean School of Sidney, Middle Road General Store in Sidney, Mid State Machine, the Post Office, local Credit Unions, and Ruth Cunningham who collects recyclable bottles and cans and donates the deposit money to the Pantry. So many local residents and businesses make generous donations that it is impossible to list them all. If they have not been listed, they should know that they are still greatly appreciated. What began as a simple challenge for the Second Baptist Church of Sidney to find a way to serve the citizens of Sidney has developed into over 30 years of feeding those in need in our town. Sincere thanks go to everyone who has donated food, money, or time, no matter how large or small. Watching a young Bean School student proudly bring in a can of soup and learn what it means to serve the community means as much as the large donations of food and cash that have been received. In 2022 – The Sidney Community Food Pantry had 12 volunteers that dedicated 890 hours to helping out their community. 40 families received meals; 128 individuals were served.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Municipality
Winner’s Name:
Betty Moffett
Achievements:
Dedication to the Etna Community Food Pantry
Year:
2022
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
Town of Morrill
Winner’s Name:
Gary Sheldon
Achievements:
We would like to dedicate the 2022 Annual Town Report in the memory of Gary Sheldon. Gary served in many capacities around town over the years, from head of the water district, to fire fighter, to deacon and elder at Morrill Baptist; however, for the last few years of his life, our town was fortunate to have him as one of our selectmen and road commissioners. Gary was such an incredible man, faithful in everything, and you could always depend on his dry sense of humor to make its appearance during all that he did. He was always quick to volunteer his time to work on the town trucks, plow, and mow the roadsides, and work on any building issues that would arise. During Covid, the town, with limited resources and money, needed to come up with creative ideas to accomplish all the protocols required. Gary would, in his quiet manner, come up with solutions to our issues and would have already built whatever was needed while most of us were still trying to figure out how to solve the problem. He was a quiet man who would not want anyone “making a fuss over him,” but he was a man of true integrity and strength and he served this town faithfully and we would be remiss if we did not share our thankfulness and admiration for him. He is, and will continue to be, so greatly missed!
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Lincoln
Awarding Entity:
Town of Westport Island
Winner’s Name:
Dennis Dunbar
Achievements:
Dennis Dunbar has been instrumental in securing multiple parcels of land in Westport Island for preservation and recreation for our residents.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Cumberland
Awarding Entity:
Town of North Yarmouth
Winner’s Name:
Waste Reduction Committee
Achievements:
The 2023 North Yarmouth, Maine Spirit of America Foundation Tribute honors the North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee for commendable community service. BE IT RESOLVED by the Select Board of the Town of North Yarmouth as follows: WHEREAS, the North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee advises and assists the town of North Yarmouth transitioning toward a zero-waste community, examining and highlighting opportunities to minimize waste in the community. WHEREAS, The North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee is committed to promoting best practices for how our community consumes and disposes of goods and services. Their “Plastic-Free October” initiative offered strategies to reduce reliance on single-use plastics that was shared widely throughout the community. WHEREAS, The North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee collaborates with other groups, companies, and services to expand public access to waste reduction options such as recycling, composting, and donation. The partnership with Garbage to Garden has diverted substantial amounts of food waste from the waste stream, saving the town thousands of dollars. While the new partnership with Apparel Impact provides textile recycling for the community, offering an option for recycling worn and torn clothes, sheets, and blankets that did not exist previously. WHEREAS, The North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee volunteers contribute many hours to host engaging events that help make reducing, reusing, and recycling accessible and fun. The Junk in the Trunk and Community Swap Shop events provided creative opportunities to share unwanted items, keeping them from the landfill. The new speakers series will bring environmentalists from across the state to our town to educate and inform community members about waste alternatives. WHEREAS, The North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee serves the town in many and varied ways, acting as a shining example of how neighbors can work together to protect the environment. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Select Board of the Town of North Yarmouth, that the North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee and its volunteers are hereby recognized for their great achievements and the honors that they have brought upon this community with the 2023 North Yarmouth Spirit of America Foundation Tribute; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be framed and presented to the North Yarmouth Waste Reduction Committee for appropriate display.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Weld
Winner’s Name:
David and Jeanette Hutchinson
Achievements:
David and Jeanette Hutchinson. David joined Weld’s Mystic Tie Lodge and is a Past Master of that lodge. Both were members of the Mt. Blue Grange. David was the 1st president of the Winter Wildcats Snowmobile Club, a member of the Weld Volunteer Fire Dept., belonged to the Sportsman’s Club, and both are members of the Weld Historical Society and can be seen selling their donuts at Heritage Days. Jeanette has dedicated her life to her family and friends in this town. She plants seedlings every spring and has sold and donated her flowers and their vegetables to Weld functions and residents over the years, being a past member of the Weld Extension. David and Jeanette have taught teamwork and good work ethics over decades. Many have seen them in parades with David’s horses, him marching as a proud veteran, or both riding in their Model A 1931 Coupe.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Holden
Winner’s Name:
Chris Greeley
Achievements:
Chris Greeley was Cosmopolitan magazine’s Bachelor-of-the-Month in June 1993, and as a result appeared (twice) on the John & Leeza Show, Sally Jesse Raphael Show, The Fox TV pilot for Carnie! and the movies Vacationland and A Sudden Loss of Gravity. He served many years as a Maine State Legislator. Chris also proudly served Penobscot County as a Law Enforcement Officer in Veazie, Brewer, and Holden, where he was the Chief of Police from 2015 until his death in 2023. Greeley was known as an example of true community policing. He believed that creating trust between law enforcement and the public was crucial in building community. While serving as the Chief of Police, he founded the 25 Days of Kindness, which became a hallmark fundraiser, raising more than $25,000 last year. That money annually is used to pay for fuel, food, rent, and other resources for those in need.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Lincoln
Awarding Entity:
Town of Wiscasset
Winner’s Name:
Katharine Martin-Savage
Achievements:
Extraordinary contributions to our community and her country. Kathy started her service for the Central Intelligence Agency, living in various places in the US, as well as Germany and South Korea. Upon settling in Maine her public service included working for the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office in various capacities as well as terms on the Wiscasset Select Board, Budget Committee, Wiscasset Community Center Cooper/Diperri Scholarship Committee, and the Town’s 250th Celebration Committee. She was also a member of the Wiscasset Charitable Society (an organization that serves the needs of women in the community) Friends of Wiscasset Public Library (and hosted the Bands for Books event at her Seafield farm) She was a great supporter of local business and was a member of the Wiscasset Chamber of Commerce and was awarded their Barnes and Smith Lifetime Achievement Award for her commitment to the community.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Aroostook
Awarding Entity:
Town of Weston
Winner’s Name:
Dennis P Clark & John H Ribe
Achievements:
Multiple years of service to the town through service on both elected and volunteer boards for the leadership and betterment of the community.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Town of Detroit
Winner’s Name:
Todd S. Burrell
Achievements:
For Todds hard work maintaining and making repairs to the Town Park to ensure the safety of our residents and their children to enjoy
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Bethel Select Board
Winner’s Name:
Frances Mills Head
Achievements:
Be it Resolved by the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Bethel, Maine as follows: Whereas, Frances Head, has called Bethel her home for 39 years; and Whereas, Frances Head, graduated from Woodstock High School in 1965; and Whereas, Frances Head, served on the Bethel Board of Appeals; and Whereas, Frances Head, serves on the Bethel Budget Committee: and Whereas, Frances Head, served on the Bethel Comprehensive Planning Committee; and Whereas, Frances Head, served as President of the Bethel Seniors Group; and Whereas, Frances Head, served as Director on the Oxford County Soil and Water District; and Whereas, Frances Head, is the Founder of the Crescent Park Reading Program; and Whereas, Frances Head, served on the Seniors Plus Advisory Board; and Whereas, Frances Head, served on the Oxford County Budget Committee; and Whereas, Frances Head, served as a Director on the MSAD 44 School Board; and Whereas, Frances Head, served as a State Representative from 2014-2022; and successfully championed legislation pertaining to first responders, domestic violence, childhood trauma and cancer research. She served on the Health and Human Services Committee in the 127th and 128th Legislature, and the Joint Standing Committee on State and Local Government. Be it Resolved by the Bethel Board of Selectmen, that Frances Mills Head is hereby recognized for her outstanding dedication, achievements, and honors she has brought to this community with the 2023 Bethel Spirit of America Foundation Tribute.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
Town of Northport
Winner’s Name:
Peter B. Simpson
Achievements:
Whereas, Peter B. Simpson has served the Town of Northport with tireless dedication for nearly 50 years, Whereas, Peter B. Simpson joined the Northport Volunteer Fire Department shortly after mankind tamed fire, and has served as Fire Warden, Assistant Chief, and Fire Chief, and is routinely the first firefighter to arrive at any incident, and Whereas, Peter B. Simpson also currently serves as Emergency Management Director and Health Officer for the Town, and Whereas, Peter B. Simpson has also served the Town on the Select Board, as Building Inspector, and on the Building Code Commission, and Whereas, Peter B. Simpson has for many years maintained the buildings and grounds at the Northport Community Church, and Whereas, Peter B. Simpson will always drop what he is doing to help a neighbor in need.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Rumford
Winner’s Name:
Ladies of the Lake Quilting Group
Achievements:
SPIRIT OF AMERICAN NOMINATION Did you know that there is a little-know group of women who work behind the scenes to share their creative talents in River Valley, who have actively searched and solved problems for those in need for many decades. They make quilts for veterans, dresses for girls in Africa, quilts and supplies to support Newborns in Need in their mission to build gift bags. Ladies of the Lakes members hold a baby shower once a year to help satisfy an immediate need of a newborns trip home. These generous gifts are made from donated fabric and from their own pockets! In the past they have donated many quilts to children fire victims immediately so they have something that is their own for comfort. The group of around 15 women meet twice a month at the Rumford United Methodist Church for social gathering, learning new quilting skills, exploring and investigative work to find other needs in the surrounding communities. They work together to prepare fabric, cut and sew relentlessly to provide quilts and other needs of those who are less fortunate. Their tireless search results in providing for those with less and create beautiful quilts that veterans, infants and children can call their own and have for years. Sally Carey nominates Ladies of the Lake Quilting Group Mary Pulsifer, President.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Clinton
Winner’s Name:
Randall & Jodi Liberty
Achievements:
Randall & Jodi Liberty established Clinton Hometown Heroes Program in 2022. They did research and printed/placed 68 2 X 3 Foot in size, Vinal Banners on telephone poles throughout the town of Clinton. The Veterans Wartime Photographs, Branch and War are on each banner. The banners show Veterans from WW II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan & honor them throughout Clinton. The Clintons Veterans are remembered!
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Kennebec
Awarding Entity:
Clinton
Winner’s Name:
Blair Frost
Achievements:
Blair Frost is a historian who assisted the Clinton Hometown Heroes Program by identifying the names of Clinton Veterans who served in the United States armed forces.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Town of Hartland Maine
Winner’s Name:
Hadley Buker and Elmer Littlefield
Achievements:
Street Flag Management for the Town of Hartland
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Town of Hartland Maine
Winner’s Name:
Hadley Buker and Elmer Littlefield
Achievements:
Street Flag Management for the Town of Hartland
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Piscataquis
Awarding Entity:
Town of Brownville
Winner’s Name:
Brownville Fire/EMS Department
Achievements:
In 2021 the Fire Department had only 17 active members. By the following year, that number almost doubled to thirty-two members, ten of them became certified as Emergency Medical Responders. In 2022 alone, the volunteer firefighters and first responders contributed 2105 hours of uncompensated time for non-mandatory training (i.e., Forest Fire Training etc.) and numerous community service events (i.e., Haunted Fire Station, Brownville Days, Holiday Train, Touch a Truck, Public Education, Open House etc.) That equates to nearly $27,000 if those hours were paid at minimum wage. Regardless what the statistical numbers show us, their commitment to help our community members remains invaluable. The comfort and compassion offered to patients and family members continues to receive overwhelming praise from many, even some who may not have originally supported the department’s expansion. Last fall, the Town Manager presented a wooden thin red line flag with the Brownville FD/EMS logo engraved on it to the members, with a sentiment that is worth repeating: Saying “Thank You” Is Not Enough Saying “thank you” is not enough when you have worked a full-time job all day and come to the station for training, a fire meeting or get toned out to respond at all hours of the night. Saying “thank you” is not enough when you and your family have sacrificed time that could have been spent together. Saying “thank you” is not enough when you have risked your lives to protect the property and lives of our neighbors, families and friends. Saying “thank you” is not enough when the physical and emotional demands of your volunteer service take such a toll on your health and wellbeing. Saying “thank you” is not enough when your community is held together by the selfless acts you perform every day. Saying “thank you” is not enough, but I’ll say it anyway. Thank you for being: STRONG enough to help the weak, DEDICATED when others falter, CARING while others are callous or indifferent, SUPPORTIVE when others are falling apart, DETERMINED when others have given up, KNOWLEDGEABLE in the face of uncivilization, DEVOTED to helping your community, FEARLESS when others are apprehensive, and GENEROUS with your free time, weekends & holidays. Thank you for being such an amazing group of volunteers. I am proud to have you all in this department and this community. Thank you –
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Greene
Winner’s Name:
Suzanne Rousseau
Achievements:
Suzanne and her husband joined the Allen Pond Improvement Association about 36 years ago and have been active with the organization and serving in multiple capacities. Suzanne retired from her role as president in February 2023 but still remains a member. Some of Suzanne’s APIA volunteer highlights include, championing the need for top water quality in Allen Pond. In spite of the considerable expense, she always found a way to make sure regular environmental testing was conducted at appropriate intervals. Suzanne has provided seamless leadership in making certain that the APIA Dam responsibilities were always met. At a time when most volunteer organizations struggle to find people willing to take on major roles and responsibilities, Sue was able to ensure the necessary succession planning needed to keep APIA operating and strong. She recruited member, built a dedicated and competent organizational leadership team and made sure that the first priority of APIA was the protection of the “Gem” known as Allen Pond. Suzanne is also known far and wide for her integrity and occasional fiery temperament when it was required to benefit the pond community and citizens of Greene. She is an excellent choice to be this year’s “Spirit of America” award recipient.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
Town of Searsport
Winner’s Name:
Charlene Knox Farris
Achievements:
Charlene has dedicated her life to history and education. She taught fifth grade at Searsport Elementary School for over 30 years. She was appointed as Searsport’s Town Historian on Marh 6, 2010. She has volunteered countless hours to educating us all on the history of Searsport and Waldo County. Her walking tours of Searsport, given during special events, are amazing.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Androscoggin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Greene
Winner’s Name:
Sherry Lavoie
Achievements:
Over the years as far back as when she was a teen, she helped and volunteered her time for the Greene Bicentennial Celebration in 1988, American Rd Cross blood drives for the past 25 years, a member of the Women’s Club of Greene for roughly 30 years. Her most recent project was establishing the Greene Fire Department Auxiliary and as President, let the effort in helping the Greene Community. Sherry has exemplified the meaning of volunteerism and this is why she has been recommended for this honor.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Select Board Town of Garland
Winner’s Name:
Sanford Giles
Achievements:
Volunteerism to Community and Town
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Select Board Town of Garland
Winner’s Name:
Victory Glenar
Achievements:
Volunteerism to Community and Town
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Chesterville
Winner’s Name:
Glenda Barker
Achievements:
Glenda Barker goes above and beyond volunteering wherever she can Budget Committee member Ballot Clerk Community events to name a few: St. Patrick’s day luncheons, Trunk or Treat, Christmas parties, haunted hayrides, Chesterville Fun Days, probably more cooking and decorating for numerous occasions North Chesterville Extension Homemaker member – they raise funds to benefit the town in many ways
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Penobscot
Awarding Entity:
Town of Lagrange
Winner’s Name:
Jean Bishop
Achievements:
Life time resident in LaGrange. School bus driver for the Town of LaGrange, active in local social groups, wrote for LaGrange news in the 70’s, helped establish a library in the town, served on the MSAD #41 school board, purchased a new fence for the Hillcrest cemetery in LaGrange, Jean has lived in LaGrange for the past 68 years, she is a wonderful human being and an inspiration for the right way to live in this beautiful state of Maine, Jean married John Bishop in 1954 and made LaGrange their home, they raised 4 children and developed a successful business for themselves which provided enrichment to the surrounding communities.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Somerset
Awarding Entity:
Madison
Winner’s Name:
Freeman Buzzell
Achievements:
Freeman “Buzzy” Buzzell has done a lot to help his community during the 60 years his business has been operating. Buzzy’s Barber Shop is Madison’s longest running continuous Main Street business & he’s often quoted in local news articles..
Year:
2022
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Rangeley
Winner’s Name:
Audrey Hodge
Achievements:
Audrey Hodge was born in Rangeley, Dec. 7, 1925, a daughter of James and Katherine (Russ) Wilcox Sr. and attended local schools. She continued her education at Golden Beauty School and at the Maine School of Commerce in Auburn. She worked at the Oquossoc Angling Association, the Town of Rangeley, and the Rangeley Inn for many years. She was an active member of the Church of the Good Shepherd where she was a member of the Episcopal Church Women. She enjoyed playing cards and working on puzzles.
Year:
2022
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Rangeley
Winner’s Name:
Lizbeth “Beth” Brunswick
Achievements:
Around 1993 Beth led the fundraising campaign to construct Rangeley Family Medicine. She encouraged Rangeley Health and Wellness to expand its vision to include Physical Therapy and Fitness. In 2001, she again led a capital campaign to construct the Wellness Pavilion on Dallas Hill Road. Services now include behavioral health, massage, programs for children and seniors, and many other community services. Beth’s tenacity and consistency were unwavering and built the strong foundation from which RHW will prosper for generations to come. It could be argued that her greatest and most creative fundraising idea of all time was RHW’s Annual Summer Concert. Inspired by her love of music, Beth was instrumental in leading RHW through twelve major concerts. There is also The Beth Brunswick Memorial Fund for Child Development, established in her memory to create a safe place for all children to learn, grow and develop. This community wide effort will serve as a lasting memory of Beth’s love for children, wellness, and the Rangeley region.
Year:
2022
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Rangeley
Winner’s Name:
Edward James Kafoury
Achievements:
Oquossoc and the beauty of the Rangeley Lakes Region was always an inspiration to Ed. This is where his soul called home. He worked tirelessly with his wife by his side on creating the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust and revitalizing the Cupsuptic Campground to ensure that future generations could appreciate and enjoy the unique natural wonders that embody the spirit of the area. He owned Mooselookmeguntic House, the Gingerbread House Restaurant, The Gallery at Stonybatter, and Stonybatter Enterprises. His lasting legacy will be found in the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust which preserves over 14,000 acres of western Maine.
Year:
2022
State:
Maine
County:
Franklin
Awarding Entity:
Town of Rangeley
Winner’s Name:
Susan Koob
Achievements:
Originally from CT, Susan moved with her family to Camp Antlers in Oquossoc as a young girl. She attended and graduated from Rangeley High School and the University of Maine with a master’s degree in early childhood education. A devoted educator, Susan excelled in her gift of teaching special education in Rangeley, Phillips, and Kingfield schools until her retirement in the early 2000’s. She was a registered Maine Guide with a passion for fly fishing that took her around the world, casting for salmon in the waters of Maine, Alaska, Chile, and Coopers in Labrador. Beyond the love of family, teaching, and fishing, the 35 panoramic years she shared with her husband Larry, living on the shores of Mooselookmeguntic Lake, her devoted dogs, and all animals gave her the utmost joy.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Oxford
Awarding Entity:
Town of Fryeburg
Winner’s Name:
Theresa Shaw
Achievements:
Theresa Shaw was born in Hartford, Connecticut in St. Francis Hospital in 1941. She was the oldest of four kids and as such was very responsible with the rare exception of when the police officer had to escort her home that one time….Her mom wasn’t very pleased! After high school she went to work for the State of Connecticut in the Hartford Welfare Office around 1959-1960. She also worked for the Registry in the Court System where she REALLY learned a lot about the world! She then moved to the Governor’s office, Budgeting Division and Manchester Training School Purchasing Officer. She developed good organizational and interpersonal skills working this job. When the toilet paper runs out people are NOT happy. In 1972 she moved to Fryeburg, Maine with Willis Shaw. She commuted for a time between Connecticut and Fryeburg and had that drive down to about 3 hours 30 minutes (it is supposed to take 4 hours). She co-operated and co-owned a gas station in town with Willy before moving from part time to full time at the Fryeburg Town Office in 1978. She started in the old Town Office on main street and moved into the new Town Office all those many years ago. She participated in elections in the old Grange Hall out in North Fryeburg heated with wood and a wooden bench with a hole opening to the ground for a toilet. Good times. Theresa has worked through labor pains, fresh from surgeries, through sickness, and COVID with unwavering steadfastness and a cool, calm demeanor. Theresa is a staple of the Fryeburg Town Office. She knows the history of the town and the changes that have happened over the last forty-four years. She is a treasure for the town and beloved by her husband, daughter and two grand-daughters who aspire to her work ethic and eternally optimistic outlook.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Washington
Awarding Entity:
City of Calais
Winner’s Name:
David O. Sivret
Achievements:
David Sivret was a Purple Heart recipient while serving in the Army National Guard in 2004. At the time of his death he was serving as the Director of the Irene Chadbourn Ecumenical Food Pantry in Calais and volunteered much of his time there. David was instrumental in starting the Calais Community Thrift Store and the Calais Veterans Center. He also volunteered as the H.S. Tennis Coach and lead the fundraising efforts to re-surface the community tennis courts. David Sivret was a kind hearted man of faith that dedicated his life to serving others, and will be forever missed in the Calais Community.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Waldo
Awarding Entity:
Town of Lincolnville
Winner’s Name:
Michael Eugley
Achievements:
Michael Eugley has served over 40 years a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Lincolnville. His tenure included more than 14 years as Chief.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Washington
Awarding Entity:
City of Calais
Winner’s Name:
Kenneth J. Murphy Jr.
Achievements:
Kenneth Murhy Jr was an extremely kind-hearted man with a passion for helping others, particularly less fortunate kids. Kenny coached Little League in Calais for many years, and he coached High School baseball at Calais High School from 2006 to 2016, and Woodland High School from 2017 until his untimely passing in 2022. He volunteered as a referee and coach at the Calais and Woodland Rec Departments for over 25 years and helped organize the area American Junior Legion Baseball Program. Kenny also volunteered to help with the Junior Golf Clinic for many years at our local Golf Club.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
Washington
Awarding Entity:
City of Calais
Winner’s Name:
John “Jack” Monaghan
Achievements:
Jack Monahan faithfully volunteered as a crossing guard at the Calais Elementary School crosswalk for 26 years ensuring the safety and well-being of thousands of children in our community.
Year:
2023
State:
Maine
County:
York
Awarding Entity:
Town of Parsonsfield
Winner’s Name:
Wesley M Stacey
Achievements:
Wesley is a life-long resident of the Town of Parsonsfield and we feel that he deserves this award in recognition for the decades of work he has spent, without renumeration, in service to his community. Not only did he selflessly serve in the military of our country, he continues to serve his community by commemorating all Parsonsfield veterans each year by ensuring all veterans who are buried in Parsonsfield are remembered with a flag on each grave and a ceremony held on Memorial Day. In addition, Wes has worked tirelessly to ensure that those buried in Parsonsfield (not just the veterans) are remembered. He has mapped and recorded coordinates for nearly all the cemeteries in Parsonsfield and helped clean up as many cemeteries as he could. Parsonsfield has one of the highest counts of cemeteries of any municipality in Maine, so that is no easy task. Wesley has also been sharing his knowledge with others in our town. While he is sharing the work load of cemetery clean-up, he is building respect for those hearty souls who settled here long ago and ensuring that our predecessors will not be forgotten. These comments were written by Lyn Sudlow, a longtime resident of Parsonsfield, supported by many Parsonsfield residents, and strongly endorsed by the Parsonsfield Selectboard.