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Community Voting Form: 2026 Annual Awards Finalists

Notes:

  • Thank you for taking the time to cast your vote to honor local champions, and please encourage others to vote too!
  • This voting process is anonymous and open to the public.
  • Nominations of current Chamber members were collected from across the community between July 3 - 19.
  • The top 3 nominees in each category (those with the most nominations) will be voted on from July 22 - 31 via this form.
  • Award winners will be announced at the Chamber's Annual Celebration on September 9 (tickets sales open August 5)
Questions/comments? Reach out to info@damariscottaregion.com or call us at (207)563-8340.
Voting Instructions:
For each award category below, please select your top choice from the 3 finalists*. We welcome additional comments about your choices that we may incorporate into remarks about the winners when they are announced publicly on September 9th.

*If you are unfamiliar with these individuals or businesses, scroll to the bottom of this form for brief descriptions provided through the nomination process.
Community Service Award
(Optional) Comments on your choice for the Community Service Award:
Community Service Organization Award
(Optional) Comments on your choice for the Community Service Organization Award:
Business of the Year Award
(Optional) Comments on your choice for the Business of the Year Award:
Businessperson of the Year Award
(Optional) Comments on your choice for the Businessperson of the Year Award:
Rising Star Award(Required.)
NOMINEE DESCRIPTIONS:

Community Service Award: Recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the community through volunteer service, civic engagement, or charitable work.
  • Tim Cheney has made a lasting impact on the region through his support of causes ranging from recovery services to youth development, including spearheading Narcan vending machine installations statewide and sponsoring numerous local nonprofits. Owner of two local restaurants that provide year-round jobs, he also hosts free donation-based summer concerts at Clark's Cove Farm, with proceeds benefiting local nonprofits.
  • Angelina 'Angie' Waltz is a dedicated community volunteer, active with Rotary (LEGS), the LA Alumni Council, Special Surfers, and formerly the Chamber board. She consistently steps up to support local causes across the region, going above and beyond her day job as a dedicated loan officer with Bangor Savings Bank who helps clients navigate the complexities of the mortgage process.
  • Karen-Ann Hagar Smith serves as the Director of Outreach and Community Navigation with the Central Lincoln County YMCA. A community navigator since 2020, she connects residents with essential resources including food, clothing, housing, and transportation. She also provides support for recovery, fuel and home repair assistance, child care, tax assistance, and employment and vocational mentorship.
Community Service Organization Award: Recognizes a corporation or non-profit organization whose mission and programs have made a significant positive impact on the community.
  • Bangor Savings Bank is a yearly donor to food pantries throughout the area, helping meet critical needs in the community. Employees also dedicate significant time volunteering with local charities and initatives.
  • Healthy Lincoln County works to provide support and resources to meet health needs, focusing on public health initiatives, prevention, and education to improve health outcomes in Lincoln County. Despite recent federal funding challenges, HLC has continued to expand its support for the community, including new mobile outreach initiatives that meet the needs of many who are unable to seek help on their own, with a significant focus on children.
  • Miles Thrift Shop is operated by the Miles Memorial Hospital League, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed to improve the health and wellness of our community by providing financial support for our local healthcare system. They give generously to numerous community organizations through the proceeds of the thrift shop, a largely volunteer-run store beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Business of the Year Award: Recognizes a corporation or non-profit that has demonstrated excellence in business practices, growth, and contribution to the regional economy.
  • Cheney Insurance is a leading local employer known for knowledgeable, friendly service and a strong commitment to protecting local families and visitors alike. Deeply community-oriented, they support charitable causes, partner with other local businesses, and consistently show up for community events.
  • First National Bank supports a wide range of community needs, from hospitals and food pantries to schools, childcare services, and animal service organizations. Their workplace culture actively encourages volunteerism, and they consistently step up with donations and fundraising support that strengthen the fabric of local communities.
  • Waterstruck Wellness offers innovative, evidence-based water therapy that supports health and wellness in body, mind, and spirit. Through partnerships with other local businesses, the owners are deeply invested in connecting community members and visitors with nature and healthy living in refreshing new ways.
Businessperson of the Year Award: Recognizes a person who has demonstrated excellence in business practices, growth, and contribution to the regional economy.
  • Jane Gravel is a prominent local business leader at both Blue Lobster Real Estate and Smashed Burgers and Brews, who still makes time to volunteer and donate to numerous local organizations. She has been a tireless champion of the Damariscotta business community for over a decade. As one nominator simply put it, "She rocks."
  • Seth Hagar is known for his quiet, boundless generosity, remaining on call for Miles Hospital and the town of Newcastle around the clock in any season. A smart and conscientious businessman, he continues to expand his business while providing high-paying jobs, excellent benefits, and ongoing job training in the construction field.
  • Jasmyn Rose of Cheney Insurance was recently named Young Agent of the Year by the Maine Insurance Agency Association, a statewide honor given to just one young professional for outstanding business practices and industry dedication. She has also received the President's Award within the Cheney Financial Group and is recognized as a dedicated, community-focused business leader.
Rising Star Award: Recognizes an individual who is newer to the business community and has shown exceptional promise, initiative, and impact in a short period of time.
  • Hannah Hilton is COO and HR Manager of Cheney Financial Group, overseeing operations for Cheney Insurance, Newcastle Realty, and Newcastle Vacation Rentals while leading the company's Charitable Giving and Community Outreach Committee. She balances executive leadership with active involvement in nonprofits like Healthy Kids, Spectrum Generations, and 100+ Women Who Care in Lincoln County.
  • Forrest Meader, owner of Mythical Market, has built the only community game space of its kind in the Twin Villages area, bringing together players ages 8 to 80 through collaborations with local businesses like Medicini, King Eider's Pub, and the CLC YMCA. His inclusive gathering space has grown from the ground up into a genuine community hub.
  • Caleb Farrin of Jefferson Market has revived the store into a beloved local spot for meetings, family meals, and quick grocery runs, often working the grill himself to ensure quality. Committed to his hometown, he employs local youth and has grown into a dedicated pillar of the Lincoln County community.
Please hit "Done" to submit your vote, and thanks again!
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