‘Tis the season of giving; that time for pretty paper, ribbons, and happy surprises. ‘Tis also the perfect time to recognize those who give the greatest gift of all – the gift of service, of dedication, and of inspiration.
Maine is blessed with many such people. They improve lives, they strengthen our communities, and they make us proud. Here are just a few notable Mainers whose accomplishments were recognized in 2008, and who exemplify the spirit that exists throughout our great state.
There is no better example of this spirit than Maynard Walton, who marks a half-century as an educator this year, and who is retiring as Bangor High School’s track and field coach. His unfaltering commitment to his students and athletes has touched thousands of lives, and has helped many young people realize their highest potential. This commitment is found in schools across Maine.
Maine is a large, rural state, which makes the emergency transport of critically ill or injured patients from remote areas to needed care a great challenge. Under the direction of Tom Judge, Lewiston-based Life Flight of Maine has performed this essential service with outstanding effectiveness and courage, and was recognized as the America’s top aerial evacuation program for 2008 by the National Association of Air Medical Services. Life Flight of Maine has helped create a high standard for care throughout our state, improving and saving lives.
The Maine State Society of Washington, DC, is one of the largest and most active state societies in our nation’s capital, and its Big M Award one of the most prestigious. This year’s award went to someone who has truly brought national distinction to our state – Marilyn Zoidis. This Bangor native has accomplished much during her tenure at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, including serving as senior curator of the Star Spangled Banner restoration project. Throughout her career, her exhibitions have reflected great expertise in American history and the role of our nation’s flag.
Small business is the backbone of Maine’s economy, and the hard work and ingenuity of our entrepreneurs move our state forward. Ford Reiche, president of Safe Handling in Auburn, exemplifies these traits and that is why he was named Maine's Small Business Person of the Year for 2008 by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Safe Handling began as an industrial transport company in 1989, serving Maine's paper industry. Today, it is the largest rail-to-truck transloading facility in Maine and employs 100 people. It is also the first company in Maine to open an ethanol terminal, converting its entire fleet to biodiesel in July 2007, and has since helped paper companies, such as Verso, reduce transportation costs in half and cut transportation emissions 90 percent. I am impressed not only by the company’s success but also by its commitment to protecting the environment.
Twenty years ago, Kathy’s Freund’s young son was struck and seriously injured by an elderly driver. Her response was remarkable and compassionate – she recognized the challenges faced by seniors who cannot drive safely and the consequent loss of mobility. She founded the Westbrook-based Independent Transportation Network to provide rides to seniors, not just to essentials, such as medical appointments, but to social activities to help them remain connected to their community. In partnership with Liberty Mutual, and through legislation I have authored, her ITNAmerica is spreading throughout the country. At a recent ceremony in Washington, Kathy’s work to provide seniors with safe and reliable transportation was recognized with an “Inspire Award” from the American Association of Retired Persons.
The Beijing Olympics was one this summer’s highlights. The enjoyment by Mainers was doubled by the gold-medal performances of Elle Logan of Boothbay and Anne Goodale of Camden – teammates on the U.S. women’s rowing team. Their win was the result of very hard work, lots of talent, and unwavering determination. It demonstrated that Mainers can compete successfully anywhere and in any sport. I was especially delighted to participate in a ceremony in Boothbay Harbor as her neighbors welcomed Elle home and celebrated her victory.
Last, but certainly not least, is another Mainer who excelled in competition on a foreign stage – Gorham High School physics teacher Bob Crowley, who just won the million dollar prize on CBS’ "Survivor" in Gabon, Africa. In keeping with the show’s slogan, he proved Maine’s ability to "outwit, outplay, and outlast."
In addition to gift-giving, another tradition of this time of year is writing thank-you notes. This column in intended as a thank-you note to all throughout our state who do so much to make Maine such a wonderful place to call home. Happy Holidays.