Valley Grange to honor The Observer and WABI-TV 5

    GUILFORD — For over a decade, Valley Grange has honored a local citizen each year its with “Community Citizen of the Year” award. This year the Guilford-based organization is breaking tradition by presenting two awards. One will go to the Dover-Foxcroft-based Piscataquis Observer and another to Bangor-based WABI-TV 5 at the Grange’s Community Celebration on May 17.

    “This is not the first time we’ve presented the award to an organization,” noted Mary Annis, Valley Grange Community Service Chair. “But it is the first time we’ve given two awards in one year.” Annis explained that members always use a “boots on the ground” standard when selecting the recipient. “And these two organizations have supported our communities by taking interest and sending reporters to cover news and events that are important to the welfare of our communities.”
    By coincidence, The Observer is celebrating their 175th anniversary this year and WABI-TV 5 its 60th making the honor seem even more appropriate. For all these reasons, Grange members agreed unanimously to double up the award and create a media event for media.
    Publicity and Program Director Walter Boomsma noted there is some irony surrounding the event. “Who’s going to take the photos and write the story? The people who would usually do so will be the featured guests!”
    Boomsma further noted that the program is also a celebration of community. “While we are honoring these two organizations, we are also celebrating our communities. We should be proud of the things we achieve by working and playing together as friends and neighbors.”
    The May 17 program will begin with a community potluck supper at 6 p.m. and attendees are invited to “bring a dish to share.” The program begins at 7 p.m. with a brief introduction of the Grange’s work and mission. The formal presentation of awards will be followed by an opportunity for individuals and organizations to express their support and appreciation in the form of brief testimonials or additional honors. Those who cannot attend are encouraged to send letters to Walter Boomsma, 17 River Road, Abbot 04406 to be read during the program.
    Valley Grange Master/President Jim Annis notes that the invitation is extended to local organizations in the area. “I can’t think of any local organization — non-profit, school, or business — who hasn’t in some way benefited from the work of The Observer and WABI,” he said. “We hope many organizations will send a representative to the program and join us in saying ‘thanks.’”
    The Valley Grange is located at 172 Guilford Center Road at the corner of Butter Street in Guilford. Additional information is available on the Valley Grange website http://valleygrange.com.