RUMFORD — Rumford Grange celebrated open house with a Citizen of the Year Award presented to John Kezal on July 17. The award was presented after a buffet luncheon.

Kezal spoke of his pleasure in seeing so many of his high school classmates, fellow veterans, friends and neighbors present. He told about his years after high school graduation. He spent three years in the Coast Guard followed by his second career volunteering and serving the veterans in Maine.

Kezal is a member of American Legion Post 24, the Rumford Elks and Order of Eagles 1248, in addition to his work with the Little League.

Ten years ago he became a volunteer at the Maine Veteran’s Home in South Paris. Since then he has become a liaison for the home and a member of the Board of Maine Veterans. He is also secretary for the Western Maine Advisory Committee.

The award presentation was followed by a performance by the Bare Bones Blue Grass Band. Members of the group were Herman LeBlanc, the Black Mountain Hobo, lead guitar and vocalist; Becky Law, lead harmony and guitarist and married to John Law of Turner; Red Small, banjoist; and Dick Pelletier of Fayette, who plays a variety of string instruments.