ST. AGATHA, Maine — The St. John Valley Chamber of Commerce & Tourism recognized several organizations and people for their work in the region during its annual dinner earlier this month.
Five awards were presented.
The American Red Cross Northern New England Region and Community Manager Brian Bouley were given the Outstanding Community Service Award. This award recognizes the organization’s dedication to the community, its response during emergencies, presence at local events, and for the blood drives. This award is given by the chamber to either an individual or a non-profit organization.
The Shining Star Award, which recognizes the outstanding community work of local individuals, was presented to the Schlicher Family for their commitment to the Madawaska Senior Center, the Daughters of Isabella, and their participation in fundraising efforts.
The Outstanding Community Involvement Award, which recognizes people who have brought positive change to the community and local businesses, was awarded to Diane and Joe LaChance of Madawaska Four Corners Park. This award recognized their efforts in enhancing the park and attracting visitors from across the country, which has helped contribute to local tourism and economic growth.
The Chamber President’s Award, which is given to an individual or group by the Chamber President for contributions to the chamber and its towns, was presented to Lajoie Funeral Home & Cremation Services. The business, led by Liza Lajoie, was recognized for giving back to the St. John Valley region while increasing its services.
The 2025 Business of the Year Award was given to Tulsa, Inc. of Van Buren. The business provides gas, heating fuels, food and drinks and is located near the Canadian border. The award recognized Tulsa’s community contributions, customer service, and growth and innovation.
The dinner, according to a press release sent by the chamber, also featured speeches from Madawaska Town Manager Dave Daigle and Van Buren Town Manager Luke Dyer. Both discussed the ongoing Village Partnership Initiative projects happening in their towns, which will revitalize both communities.
Daigle also discussed Madawaska’s Bicentennial Park project and the upcoming expansion of Fish River Rural Health in the downtown Mid-Town Plaza.
Dyer mentioned upcoming projects in Van Buren, including the community garden, a beekeeping project and a nature walk leading to the gardens and throughout historic areas of the community.
The chamber serves the St. John Valley communities of Cyr Plantation, Frenchville, Grand Isle, Madawaska, Sinclair, St. Agatha, St. David and Van Buren. It had more than110 members in 2024 and continues to grow, officials said.
