MEXICO – The town of Mexico went all out to show its appreciation to the many volunteers who make a difference in their town.

Awards were given out Thursday night at a special dinner in the Town Recreation Hall. The meal of ham, potatoes, peas, slaw and gingerbread cake was cooked and served by volunteers from the Historical Society to a large gathering in the festively decorated hall.

Numerous door prizes that had been donated from local merchants both from Mexico and neighboring Dixfield, were given out throughout the gala evening.

Town Manager Joseph Derouche welcomed the gathering and was emcee for the evening. He was flanked at the head table by Selectmen and volunteers.

The highlight of the evening came when the Citizen of the Year award was given to Ernest Robichaud. Derouche said this was an easy choice as Robichaud had been a selectmen in the ’80s and had been one of the founders of the Northern Oxford Task Force on Economic Development, now known as the River Valley Growth Council. He was also on the Planning Board and worked on the Comprehensive Plan. “Ernest had been involved in everything that has shaped our town,” Derouche said.

Sheryl Briggs was honored with the Town Manager’s award for setting up the night’s event and also a previous event that honored the returning soldiers from Iraq.

Elder John Russell was honored for his service in spearheading the 130 youths and adults that had cleaned and painted the recreational park and the library.

A picnic table was dedicated to Greg Arsenault, the recreational director and town volunteer. A park bench was dedicated to Robert Lyons, a former selectman who is also on the recreational committee. Norwood Waterhouse, 89, was given words of appreciation for being the town’s expert carpenter.

Awards were given to the Volunteer of the Year, Louise Arsenault, Employee of the Year, Paul Cayer, a fireman and part-time employee of the town, and Anne Simmons Edmunds, the code enforcement officer for the town.

All service men and women who had served in any prior armed service were invited to come forward and receive a medal. Todd Glover, Army 133rd Battalion “C” Company, was honored and welcomed home from Iraq.

Service awards were given to Penny Duguay, town clerk for 10 years, and Phil Libby, who has been on the Highway Department for 15 years.