Area heroes to be honored at 12th annual breakfast

By Barbara Scott
Staff Writer               
    The American Red Cross-Pine Tree Chapter, Northern Maine Community College and WAGM-TV have announced the selection of the 2010 Real Heroes will be honored at the 12th annual Real Heroes Breakfast on Thursday, April 1, at 7:30 a.m. Due to an overwhelming interest this year, the breakfast location has been changed from the Edmunds Conference Center to the Reed Dining Commons of Northern Maine Community College.
    These brave individuals, whose courage, quick thinking, compassion and composure were vital in saving a person’s life or providing incredible assistance that made a difference in a person’s life, were nominated by the public and selected by a committee of community leaders. Each individual exhibits a true act of selflessness and his/her heroic acts embody the principles and ideals of the American Red Cross’ humanitarian mission.
    “The Selection Committee was very touched by the hero nominations this year,” said Joyce Knorr, Aroostook County branch manager of the Red Cross. “We are proud to honor these heroes right here in our local area.”
    Those receiving Real Hero Awards this year  include: John Holmquist of Caribou, Clara Barton award – caring for those who are unable to care for themselves; Marilyn McPherson of Mapleton, Everyday Helping Hand award — exhibiting care and support to others every day; Jennifer Woodman of Presque Isle; Neighborhood  Friend award — realizing and providing help in time of need; Dawn Kerekes of Hodgdon; Red Spirit award — performing a life saving action such as CPR, AED application and/or First Aid; Bob Adams of Presque Isle; Valor award — making a difference in the lives of others by exhibiting courage, selflessness and strength; Brody Gallagher-Easler and Marky Curtis both of Presque Isle; Young Courage award — exhibiting courage, quick thinking and help in time of need and Cindy Bomar, Easton and John Metz,  Fort Kent; Extra Mile award — ensuring the mission of the Red Cross is met.
    Individuals receiving the Outstanding Community Spirit Recognition awards include: Dave Cunya, Houlton; Deb Raymond, Helena Ford, and Alison Ireland all of  Presque Isle; the Presque Isle Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Team; and Nancy Morneault of Conner Township.
    Doors will open at 7 a.m. and Master of Ceremonies, Rene Cloukey of WAGM-TV will begin the program at 7:30 a.m. with keynote speaker, “Fireman” Fred Parsons.
    Community and business members are invited to celebrate the heroism of these local individuals, while at the same time supporting the local disaster relief and preparedness efforts of the Aroostook County Branch of the American Red Cross. There are a limited amount of tickets that can be purchased for $25 each. For more information, call 493-4620, ext. 108 or stop by the Red Cross office at 111 High St. in Caribou.