Chamber names 2010 award recipients
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — What do a philanthropist, artist and owners of a local eatery have in common? They’re all nominees for the annual Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce awards, which will be presented during dinner on Thursday, Feb. 24.
“The Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce is happy to announce the recipients of the awards for 2010. The PIACC, the Presque Isle Elks, the Presque Isle Rotary and Presque Isle Kiwanis join together to select and recognize people and businesses who have positively impacted the Presque Isle area,” said Theresa Fowler, executive director, PIACC.
The Lifetime Achievement nod this year goes to a gentleman who’s contributed to the community in a number of ways, including the educational advancement of area children through a scholarship program.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award recipient “is an outstanding individual recognized for his impact on the lives of Presque Isle area citizens,” said Fowler.
“He’s a special individual who makes the Presque Isle area a better place to live. This year Raynold “Ray” A. Gauvin — a philanthropist, businessman, lifelong supporter of education and community activist — was chosen in recognition of all the time and energy he has dedicated to various non-profit organizations serving the area and his support of post secondary education,” Fowler said.
This year’s Citizen of the Year Award goes to a woman whose efforts to promote the arts has included classes for local youth as well as artistic endeavors throughout the year that have attracted dozens to art displays throughout the community.
“The Citizen of the Year award recipient is an outstanding individual recognized for her impact on the lives of Presque Isle area citizens — a special individual who shows dedication and spirit beyond what is considered regular duty,” said Fowler.
“Lara Cannon will be recognized for her effort in bringing her vision of providing artistic enjoyment and creative fun for children, teens and adults through the development of the Wintergreen Arts Center. In 2010, with Lara’s leadership, Wintergreen Arts Center developed a partnership with the Presque Isle Recreation Department to offer an easily accessible after-school program that integrates a cross section of the fine arts with music, drama, literature and poetry,” said Fowler.
This year’s Business of the Year award goes to a family-owned and -operated restaurant with strong community ties, including sponsorship of the annual Crown of Maine Balloon Festival.
“MDL. Inc., d/b/a KFC/Taco Bell, was chosen as Business of the Year for 2010. Milt, Linda, Derik and Ellyn Smith operate a very successful business which was started over 30 years ago, adapting to the multitude of changes in the food industry over the years,” said Fowler.
“Along with operating a demanding business, the Smiths support service projects that will help to improve the lives of area residents financially and through personal volunteerism. The Smiths have served on a number of boards and committees throughout the years and continue to play an active role in many organizations,” said Fowler.
For more information on the dinner or to make reservations, contact 764-6561.
