LIMESTONE, Maine — Two members of the Limestone Rotary made a special presentation during the annual town meeting on June 13, surprising Police Chief Stacey Mahan with the Paul Harris Fellow award.
Rotary member Pete Huntress began by telling guests in the Limestone Community School auditorium that this is the “highest honor a Rotary Club can bestow.” Larry Berz continued, stating that its recipients are individuals who exemplify Rotary’s “service above self” motto and who are able to abide by the “Four Way Test” of the organization in their daily life: telling the truth, being fair to all concerned, building goodwill and bettering friendships, and being beneficial to all concerned.
Berz than announced that Mahan was the 2018 recipient and applause ensued as Mahan approached the stage.
With Mahan on stage, Berz detailed the chief’s dedication to the well-being of those around him.
Limestone Police Chief Stacey Mahan walks to the stage during the annual town meeting, after two members of the local Rotary surprised him with the Paul Harris Fellow award. (Christopher Bouchard)
“He has shown great care and concern for the citizens of this town by purchasing gift certificates from Mike’s Family Market with his own money to help citizens in need,” said Berz. “He has organized efforts to provide a needy family in Limestone with household goods and furniture, and went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure these items were collected.”
The Rotarian said that citizens have observed Mahan giving away “his last dollar” so others could purchase gas for their vehicle. He also complimented Mahan’s work with volunteers who donated their time and equipment to clean up and renovate the town office, and brought attention to how the chief and his officers take time out of their day to organize activities for children during holiday events in the community.
“When an interim town manager was needed for Limestone,” Berz continued, “you, Stacey, stepped up to the challenge.”
The two Rotarians then presented him a medal, and the chief shared a few words with those present.
“I’ve really loved Limestone,” he said, “and I hope it’s loved me back some. I think we’ve had a love-hate relationship, like everybody does. I really appreciate the guys who work with me, they follow suit and they’re always there to help out when it’s needed.”
Mahan credited the people he works with for much of the honor bestowed upon him.
“Certainly coming here tonight and seeing my family, which is not a normal occurrence for town meetings, kinda made me wonder what was going on,” he said about the surprise honor, adding that “it didn’t really click until the last minute.”
Of his family, Mahan said he especially appreciates everything they have done, and the sacrifices they’ve made.
“This means a great deal to me,” he said before leaving the stage. “I truly appreciate it.”
