AUGUSTA — Ann Cook, RN, of Norway, was presented the Excellence in Long-Term Care Award for her outstanding accomplishments as a nurse manager at Maine Veterans’ Home in South Paris. Cook was one of 16 recipients from across Maine recognized by the Maine Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program at the Blaine House in Augusta on Sept. 16.

Speaker Hannah Pingree presented the awards and shared her gratitude with the recipients. The event is a celebration of the workers and the critical role they play in supporting Maine’s citizens who need care every day.

“As a nurse manager with many administrative responsibilities, she baffles us with the amount of time she spends on the floor, not just overseeing care, but interacting with the residents,” said Lynne Paradis, RN, Maine Veterans’ Home – South Paris director of nursing. “She also facilitates a dementia support group that includes caregivers from the community as well as families of residents past and present.”

In 2008, Cook was named Nurse of the Year for the entire Maine Veterans’ Homes organization, consisting of six facilities across the state.