John Martin Roast
benefits NMCC scholarships
PRESQUE ISLE — A who’s who in the world of Maine politics gathered Aug. 24 for a dinner roast of the Honorable John L. Martin of Eagle Lake to raise money for Northern Maine Community College scholarships. Some $14,000 was raised to endow a scholarship in his name and for other NMCC programs.
Photo courtesy of Northern Maine Community College
FORMER GOV. JOHN BALDACCI, right, and the Honorable John Martin chat during the social hour prior to Martin’s roast which was held Aug. 24 to benefit student scholarships at NMCC. The event raised about $14,000.
Among the speakers at the fundraiser held at the Crow’s Nest Event Center was Congressman Michael Michaud, former Gov. John Baldacci and Maine humorist Gary Crocker. Messages of congratulations and good-natured ribbing were also sent from U.S. Sen. Angus King, U.S. Sen. Susan Collins and former Sen. George Mitchell.
Martin was singled out for the dubious honor because of his nearly 50 years as a legislator and due to his tireless work on behalf of northern Maine and education in particular.
“John has been a true force in the legislature for decades and we owe him a great deal for his help in the growth and development of Northern Maine Community College,” said Timothy Crowley, NMCC president.
Friends and fellow politicians enjoyed sharing a few quips and anecdotes at Martin’s expense.
“When my son was young, he once marveled about the John Martin building located on the NMCC campus,” said Sen. Troy Jackson (D-Allagash). “He then asked, ‘Do you suppose they could name a broom closet after you, Dad?’”
“As a young legislator, I had heard about the wrath of Speaker John Martin. Wanting to test it, I went to his office to tell him I couldn’t agree with him about a certain bill. John told me he was informed by the clerk of the House that I had already voted along with him on the measure,” Congressman Michaud told the audience of 160. “What John did not know is, the clerk was out sick that entire day, so I learned you couldn’t always believe what came out of his mouth.”
Former colleagues from as far as York County were on hand to participate in the roast and support the cause of student scholarships.
