Central Aroostook Chamber to Present 2017 Awards
Three northern Maine individuals and one business will be honored this month when The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, Presque Isle Elks Lodge, Presque Isle Kiwanis Club and Presque Isle Rotary Clubs present annual awards to recognize those who have contributed significantly to improving lives of others in the area.
Chamber Director Theresa Fowler says Richard “Dick” Hallett, well known throughout the region and often seen wearing a fez, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Annual Awards Dinner on January 26, 2017.
"Dick has a distinguished career of over 50 years in The County, and in retirement keeps busy helping at the local food bank, working with farmers during harvest and fulfilling duties with the Anah Temple Shriners. He has twice served as Potentate; in addition to his leadership, he has worked tirelessly for County children who have needed the services of Shriner’s Hospitals. He is a shining example of what it is like to be from The County and embodies all of our area’s values."
Citizen of the Year for 2016 will be bestowed on Deborah Gray, the owner of Life By Design. Fowler says Gray "is dedicated to helping others. She is quick to offer help, support and kindness to those in need. She has expanded her agency’s services to meet the needs of the community. She is a role model to others and embodies 'service above self' and 'paying it forward.' She offers her own support, time and money and encourages her staff to give back to the community as well."
Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery is being recognized as Business of the Year as the staff and owners celebrate the 20th Anniversary of opening the Presque Isle location. "Through the years, Tony & Sherry Sullivan and their family have contributed to many events and organizations throughout the region. One of the best stories is of a teacher approaching them during the construction phase for sponsorship of a high school yearbook. As in many other instances the answer was a quick 'yes'. The Sullivans are proud of their employees and support them in every way possible. The staff at Governor’s truly are a family working at a family owned business."
Fowler says a new form of recognition has been added to the event this year. The President’s Award will be presented to Jim McKenney. Jim has served multiple terms on the Chamber board and is a past president. Fowler says he retired from TAMC this year after a long career helping to serve the healthcare needs of the community. His career spanned from being a paramedic at Crown Ambulance to serving as vice president of support services for the Presque Isle hospital. "Both at TAMC and at the Chamber, Jim has earned respect and admiration for his quiet leadership and strength of character. Jim is an amazing example of what can be achieved through thoughtful actions and quiet discussions."
The dinnner will be held on Thursday, January 26 at the Caribou Inn & Convention Center. Tickets are available at the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce. 764-6561, 3 Houlton Road, Presque Isle, ME 04769.
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