RUMFORD – There’s a lot more in the River Valley than many people realize. Jacqueline Waite put that thought into her winning entry for the River Valley’s new slogan: Western Maine’s Hidden Gem.

Her submission was chosen from more than 50 entered over the past few weeks, and for her effort, she received $50 from the sponsoring agency, the River Valley Growth Council.

“The slogan came immediately to mind,” said Waite on Monday afternoon. “I love the rocks, gemstones, nature. This area is so beautiful. It should be promoted more.”

Waite is a retired clerical worker from Mexico who graduated from Mexico High School and has lived most of her life in the River Valley. In fact, she has a camp on Garland Pond in Byron. She spends lots of time there snowmobiling, riding her ATV, looking at the flowers, rock formations and scenery.

“This area has so much to offer in both summer and winter,” she said.

The growth council launched the slogan contest to help better identify the region. It’s all part of the council’s strategic plan that is aimed at promoting and economically developing the area, said growth council economic developer Scott Christiansen.

A subcommittee of the council narrowed down the 50 or so entries to 10 or 11, then to the top three. Area residents were then invited to choose their favorite, said growth council Executive Secretary Rosie Bradley.

Waite’s entry received 20 votes; “The Best of Western Maine,” received 13; and “Nestled Between the Beautiful Hills of Western Maine,” received seven.

The new slogan will now be used on regional signs, promotional materials, and anywhere else that will help the area achieve a distinct identity, said Bradley. It may also be used with River Valley Chamber of Commerce promotions

Waite will use the money when she takes her teenage granddaughters, Amber and Brittany Billings of Milton Township, on an overnight cruise on the Scotia Prince.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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