Town of Mechanic Falls Annual Report 2019-2020

Town of Mechanic Falls Annual Report 2019-2020

Spirit of America Award

Each year the Town Council selects an individual or group in the town who represents excellence in community service and volunteerism. The Spirit of America Award was established in Maine in 1990 to honor volunteerism and community service by individuals living in Maine communities. This year the town council chose to recognize two individuals who have worked collaboratively for years to the benefit of this community and specifically youth sports. Jay Bryant & Justin Starbird have dedicated their time and energies to the Recreation Committee, assuring the youth of Mechanic Falls

have the opportunities to participate in sports both individual and team related to helping attain life lessons on fair play, being graceful at winning and losing, and realizing the value of ones role in team efforts. Jay Bryant has volunteered and served on many of the town committees over the years. His passion for giving back however, has been made most evident with his impact on our community's youth sports programs. As his children (and all of their friends) grew up, Jay was always an eager volunteer and willing participant to jump in where ever his expertise was asked for. He will be the first to say that he is one of many that have made it happen. However, without his vision, leadership, and passion many of these projects would have never gotten started. Justin Starbird has served on the Mechanic Falls Recreation Committee since 2013 serving in a myriad of ways. Some of his contributions include hosting evening events for adults at the American Legion, a Harvest Festival for families to enjoy, and the Ken Grant 3-on-3 tournament in honor of Ken Grant. Justin’s vision, passion and energy has led to program growth, operational efficiency and community inclusion. Justin is also a passionate coach for his daughters, willing referee, and coordinator of program meetings.

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