Community members gather for 63rd Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Ceremony

WATERVILLE, Maine (WABI) - Business leaders, community members and more in the Central Maine area packed the Waterville Elks Lodge to recognize those that are going above and beyond.

It was the 63rd year that the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce hosted their awards ceremony and earlier tonight nine individuals and groups were honored.

The winners varied from large and small businesses, municipal employees and college presidents and more.

“I grew up in this area and I had a difficult childhood and I never thought I’d be up on stage getting honored for such a meaningful award,” answered Rising Star of the Year Shawn Packard of Red Claw Media.

The one thing in common for those who were honored, dedicated service to the Mid-Maine area.

“I’m a big believer in community and I’m a big believer in engagement and so I believe very strongly in directing the college and guiding the college to be a really strong community member,” responded President of Kennebec Valley Community College Karen Normandin who was honored with the Elias A. Joseph Award.

A new award, the lifetime achievement award, was given to Ken Walsh, who spent decades working with Alfond Youth and Community Center.

“What they do, what the outstanding staff provide triggers for passion,” said Walsh. “Whatever that passion may be, it’s so important at a young age to find out what you want to be in life and find purpose. That’s what the AYCC does.”

President and CEO of the Chamber Kimberly Lindlof was also honored at the beginning of the ceremony for 25 years of service with the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce.

Award Winners:

• Lifetime Achievement: Ken Walsh
• Distinguished Community Service: Brian and Amy Bernatchez
• Large Business of the Year: SAPPI Fine Paper
• Small Business of the Year: One River CPAs
• Outstanding Professional: Dr. Steve Diaz
• Municipal Employee of the Year: Matt Skehan
• Exceptional Volunteer of the Year: Jackie Dalton
• Customer Service Stardom: Kim Moxcey
• Rising Star of the Year: Shawn Packard
• Elias A. Joseph Award: Karen Normandin