Volunteer of the Year award was given to Nick Leadley, who stands beside Community Award winner Linda Dexter Stephanie Dellavalle/Rangeley Highlander

RANGELEY — “I just wanted to recognize the people behind the scenes that really make all of this work,” said Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust (RLHT) Board President Paul Reynolds as he started addressing the gatherers at the recent RLHT annual picnic, held at Saddleback Mountain.

He began by thanking the RLHT staff members: Executive Director David Miller, Deputy Director/Stewardship Director Shelby Rousseau, Office Manager Traci Clinch, Development Associate Patrick Sullivan, and Natural Resource Specialist Jason Latham.

“I want you to remember that I just read off five names. When we start talking about what we’re up to later on this evening, just think about that. We’re getting this done with those five people. It’s incredible what they do. So, thank you,” said Reynolds.

He continued by expressing his appreciation to Cupsuptic Campground Managers Randy and Heather Targett.

“They do such a good job, you sometimes forget they’re even part of the organization because they just make it happen, and they do a phenomenal job every year. That campground gets incredible reviews,” said Reynolds; while acknowledging they were unable to attend the event likely due to checking people in at the campground.

He also thanked additional individuals: support staff, volunteers, and interns that RLHT rely on for communications, trails, restoration, water quality, grant writing, legal work and consultation, and made special note of appreciation to the board of directors.

After speeches about the mission and recent RLHT accomplishments, special thanks were given.

For her constant presence at all levels of the community for many years, Linda Dexter was given the Community Award.

Volunteer of the year award was given to Nick Leadley, also for his consistent help, but especially for his help with the annual birding festival.

Acknowledgement was given to retired board member Sarah Medina who served for 19 years, and first woman to graduate from the University of Maine with a degree in Forest Management.

Special thanks was given to the Chodash family. Seen here representing the family, Jon Chodash. Stephanie Dellavalle/Rangeley Highlander

Additional thanks and acknowledgement were given to previous RLHT staff member Amanda Laliberte for her many years of service in communications and program development.

Final special presentations were given to the Chodash family for donating a sizable portion of the Mingo Springs Birding Trail and also to Joe and Kyle Haley for their extensive heavy duty restoration work.

Special thanks were given to Kyle Haley and his father Joe Haley. Stephanie Dellavalle/Rangeley Highlander