NORWAY — Norway Downtown honored local business people and organizations at its annual meeting earlier this month.

Andrea Burns, president of the organization, said there were more than 60 people attended. A report was given by Laurie Lachance, president and CEO of the Maine Development Foundation, Norway Downtown awards were presented and outgoing Norway Downtown trustees recognized.

Norway Downtown was formed to revitalize the historic Main Street in collaboration with residents, business and organizations. In 2002, Norway Downtown was designated as an official Maine Street Maine Community by the Maine Downtown Center and the National Main Street Center. It has been the recipient of numerous awards for its efforts.

Before announcing the awards, Burns also noted some of the many contributions Norway Downtown has had in the past month or so. They  include an $8,000 grant for a canopy tree project, the annual Easter Festival which brought hundreds to the downtown area, the Norway Arts Festival kickoff dinner at the Unitarian Universalist Church on Main Street and a number of new businesses that have relocated downtown.

Awards were presented to Ken Morse for his leadership and service on the Norway Downtown Board of Trustees; Patricia Wiegel, president of Norway Savings Bank for the bank’s convictions to the revitalization of Main Street; the Board of Selectmen and Town Manager David Holt on behalf of the town of Norway for its leadership in acquiring, stabilizing and planning for the future of the Norway Opera House; and Patricia Shearman, president of the Norway Landmarks Preservation Society for that organization’s vision and effort in preserving and relocating and rehabilitating the Gingerbread House.

Also recognized were Fire Chief Dennis Yates on behalf of the Norway Fire Department for its skilled and dedicated service to the town and protection of historic properties, and Kevin Wiles for his investment and renovation and expanding Wiles Garage and Body Shop on Main Street.

Chris Farrar was recognized for his investment in rehabilitating an historic Main Street building, and the Western Foothills Land Trust was recognized for  its investment in the preservation of land, creation of outdoor recreation and community activities benefiting Norway residents. Robert Van Nest, president and Lee Dassler, executive director accepted the award for the Western Foothills Land Trust.

ldixon@sunjournal.com

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