To the Editor:

The Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to extend heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of its 2024 Annual Meeting & Awards, held on November 1 at Loose Boots at Mt. Abram. The event was a tremendous success, thanks to the support of our generous sponsors, silent auction donors, dedicated volunteers, and the unwavering commitment of our Board of Directors and staff.

The Annual Meeting & Awards provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the past year, celebrate the impact of our community, and honor the outstanding individuals and organizations who have made a difference. Special thanks go to our generous sponsors, Everette Oil & Propane, Norway Savings Bank, Wheelers Insurance, Maine Health Stephens Memorial Hospital, Oxford Casino & Hotel, Mainely Provisions, Northeast Bank, Good Food Store, The Sudbury Inn, Oxford Federal Credit Union, Mt. Abram and Ski Esta, whose financial support helped make this event possible. Their commitment to our mission strengthens the work we do and the communities we serve.

We would also like to congratulate the newly elected members of our Board of Directors, Aaron Bentley of West Bethel Motel, Jennifer Merrill of Franklin Savings Bank, Rebecca Record of The Tax Loft, and Lloyd Sweetser of Northeast Bank. We are excited to welcome them to the team and look forward to the leadership and fresh perspectives they will bring to our organization. Please join us in celebrating these remarkable individuals and organizations who help make the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce a force for positive change in our community.

Lizz Peacock – Henry H. Hastings Award ~ Mainely Provisions – Business of the Year Award ~ Mark Kenney, Superintendent SAD 44 – Education Professional Award ~ Diane Merrill of Wheeler Insurance – Employee of the Year and Special Recognition Award went to Veterans Honor Roll Park Committee. Congratulations to all of you for your dedication and determination to make the Bethel Area a better place to live, work, and play!

A special shout out to the enthusiastic group of students from The Eddy Middle School who volunteered at the event to hand out programs, handled coat checking, and greeted all guests with a smile. They demonstrated remarkable maturity and commitment to the community and the Chamber. Thank you to the staff at Mt. Abram for their exceptional care in planning, executing, and delivering not only delicious appetizers and desserts but also a fun and welcoming venue for our event.

Bobbi Vandenbulcke, Executive Director

Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce

Bethel