MEXICO – A woman known for speaking her mind with compassion and forcefulness was named Mexico’s Citizen of the Year at the town’s annual Night of Appreciation.

Bertha “Betty” Barrett took home the plaque and received a standing ovation from the more than 150 volunteers and employees at the annual event meant to recognize those who give to the town.

“Betty, you make me a better town manager. I never know what to prepare for,” said John Madigan.

Selectmen Chairman Barbara Laramee, who made the presentation, said this was the first time she had ever seen Barrett speechless.

Laramee said Barrett began volunteering her time in municipal and school district offices when she turned 55, the time many start cutting back, she said.

“The only agenda she has is the community,” said Laramee.

Barrett, now 83, has served as a selectman, Budget Committee member, and SAD 43 board member. She said she was honored to be named Citizen of the Year.

Many of her family knew about the presentation in advance and were with Barrett when the award, the last of the night, was presented.

Also honored during the annual event were husband-wife team Roy and Rene Hodsdon.

Roy is a sergeant in the Mexico Police Department who was named Employee of the Year.

He has served as a police officer for years.

“He has high standards and a positive, caring attitude,” said Tim Gallant, who read from a letter written by his now-deceased son, Joe. Joe had worked with Hodsdon on the formation of the Mexico Police Explorers group. “He shows kids that helping others is an important part of growing up.”

Rene was honored as Volunteer of the Year because of the hundreds of hours she has given to the Mexico Police Explorers.

“She attends every meeting and does physical education with the kids. She transports them. The program would not be possible without Rene,” said police Chief Jim Theriault.

Other honorees included three long-time Mexico firefighters.

This year’s annual report had been dedicated to David McDonald, a 50-year member of the department, but no official recognition had taken place. On Monday, he was honored for his 50 years with the fire department, and for his past work with the highway department and for serving on the water board. He was presented with a legislative sentiment and American flag that had flown over the state house. Longtime firefighters Richard Jones Sr., who was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Maine Federation of Firefighters last week, and Ray Broomhall, who had received the same award two years ago, were also honored with American flags.

Part-time Employee of the Year was Seth Marshall, a charter member of the Mexico Police Explorers who works for the town. The Town Manager Award went to Road Commissioner David Errington.

Madigan said Errington served the town over and above what was expected during last season’s tough winter.

“He may have been tired, but he was there,” said Madigan.

The annual event was started about a dozen years ago by former town manager Joseph Derouche, who also attended Thursday’s event.

“We wanted to honor the volunteers and employees for all the work they do throughout the year. Things were being done that people weren’t recognized for,” he said.

The Mexico Historical Society served a supper of 362 meatballs made by town office employee and state legislator, Sheryl Briggs, 20 pounds of spaghetti, 18 gallons of pasta sauce and a colorful array of cookies and squares.

“It’s a chance for everyone to get together,” said volunteer Al Sargent.