Commissioner chenette recognizes 2025 spirit of america awardees

The following individuals were recognized at a recent County Commission meeting with a Spirit of America Award. The Spirit of America Award celebrates exceptional volunteerism and community service at the local level.

Honoring Carmen Dame Gawronski - Saco Meals Program

Carmen has served for several years as president of the Saco Meals Program, which provides essential support to Saco and surrounding communities. The program operates two days a week, and Carmen is regularly present from morning to evening, overseeing food deliveries, organizing volunteers, and welcoming guests.

Beyond her on-site work, Carmen manages meetings, menu planning, grant writing, and updates to the organization’s website and social media. Her leadership ensures thousands of meals are prepared and served each year. Without her dedication, the program would require multiple leaders to fulfill her responsibilities.

Carmen’s commitment and tireless efforts make her an invaluable community leader deserving of recognition, especially at a time when food insecurity is such a big issue in our state.

Honoring the Hollis Town Manager Hiring CommitteE

In June 2024, Hollis voters approved a change to a Five-Member Select Board/Town Manager form of government. Per ordinance, the Select Board established the Town Manager Hiring Committee by September 1, 2024. Members included: Mary Hoffman (Chair), John “Jack” Rogala, Roger Hicks, Donald Marean, Daniel Yarumian, Martha Huff, Christopher Young, Kevin Flinner, and Terry Walters.

From September 2024 to April 2025, the committee completed all tasks on schedule, including drafting the job description, setting salary and benefits, creating an advertisement, screening over 50 applications, developing interview questions and scoring systems, and conducting two rounds of interviews. Six candidates were interviewed initially, followed by three finalists. The committee then recommended the best candidate to the Select Board.

These volunteers dedicated seven months to hiring Hollis’s first Town Manager, demonstrating exceptional organization and teamwork.

Honoring John “Jack” Rogala of HolliS

Jack has served on the Select Board for seven years, contributing to major projects and consistently responding to community concerns. He researches service options, secures cost-effective solutions, and ensures lasting results.

Jack played a key role in planning the new Municipal Office Building, involving staff in design to maximize efficiency. Drawing on his 30+ years as Facilities Director at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Jack advised on winter road safety and often monitors conditions during storms. He maintains strong communication with contractors, staff, and residents, ensuring concerns are addressed promptly. Jack’s approachability and commitment to oversight have strengthened trust between the Select Board and the community.