PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Theresa Fowler, executive director of the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce, has announced the honorees for the 2016 recognition awards, to be presented during its annual dinner later this month.
The chamber, along with the Presque Isle Elks Lodge and the Presque Isle Kiwanis and Rotary clubs, support annual awards to recognize individuals, groups and businesses who have contributed significantly to improving lives of others in the area, Fowler said. The awards dinner takes place Thursday, Jan. 26.
Richard “Dick” Hallett, well known throughout the region and often seen wearing his Shriner’s fez, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Hallett has a distinguished career of over 50 years in The County, and in retirement helps at the local food bank, works with farmers during harvest and fulfills duties with the Anah Temple Shriners. He has twice been Potentate.
“In addition to his leadership, he has worked tirelessly for County children who have needed the services of Shriner’s Hospitals,” said Fowler. “He is a shining example of what it is like to be from The County and embodies all of our area’s values.”
Deborah Gray will receive the Citizen of the Year Award for 2016. Gray is the owner of Life By Design, and has expanded her agency’s services to meet the needs of the community. She has offered her own support, time and money and also encourages her staff to give back to the community as well.
“She is dedicated to helping others. She is quick to offer help, support and kindness to those in need,” Fowler said. “She is a role model to others and embodies service above self and ‘paying it forward’.”
The Business of the Year honor will go to Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery and owners Tony and Sherry Sullivan.
They are celebrating the 20th anniversary of opening the Presque Isle location, and through the years, they 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,’ Fowler said. “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.”
A new form of recognition has been added this year. The President’s Award will be presented to Jim McKenney, who has served multiple terms on the chamber board and is a past president.
McKenney retired from The Aroostook Medical Center 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 TAMC.
Fowler said, “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 public is invited to attend the dinner on Jan. 26 at the Caribou Inn & Convention Center. Tickets are available at the chamber, 3 Houlton Rd., Presque Isle, or by calling 764-6561.
