RUMFORD – Rep. John Patrick of Rumford was presented the Edmund S. Muskie Award for Distinguished Legislative Service and Outstanding Community Service in the River Valley during the Oxford County Democratic Acadian Supper at the Rumford Eagles Hall on Sept. 18.

Matt Peterson, candidate for the legislative seat represented by Patrick for the past eight years, made the presentation.

Other speakers included Andrea Quaid, representing Congressman Mike Michaud whose Washington schedule prevented him from attending; Sen. Bruce Bryant, who served as MC; Rep. Mark Bryant; Rep. Tim Carter; Sheriff Wayne Gallant; and Roy Gedat of Norway.

County Chairwoman Cathy Newell presented greetings from Rep. Sheryl Briggs and Judge of Probate candidate Paul Dumas, who were unable to attend.

Bryant highlighted the many years that he and Patrick have worked together in the legislature. He highlighted Patrick’s leadership as chairman of the Citizens Trade Policy Commission. Bryant and Carter told of the help he had been to them as a mentor when they were first elected.

Gallant and Gedat recounted stories about Patrick’s service to the Oxford County Democrats and Quaid mentioned the esteem Michaud has for Patrick.

The supper, attended by 60 people, was prepared by a team including Bill and Linda Petrie, Bob and Carol Parise, Joe Parise, Judy Richardson, Ed and Dot Bernard and John Patrick. The ancestral treats of chaird and poutines were also taken out by customers and prompted sharing of memories of family history.

Newell thanked the hosts, including Bryant, John Richardson, Jeff Mills, Patrick, Rep. John Tuttle, Rep. Mark Bryant, Tim Hanson, John Albrecht and Ed Roach as well as the Rumford Eagles.