BRUNSWICK

The Brunswick Downtown Association recognized several individuals and businesses at its annual meeting Thursday at Bowdoin College’s Daggett Lounge.

Nearly 130 people filled the lounge for the presentation of awards and the announcement of the Brunswick Commercial Historic District being placed on the National Register of Historic Places list.

Volunteer of the Year awards were presented to Keith Garovoy and Mary Lou Kennedy by new BDA Chair- man Mike Feldman. Feldman said Garovoy, when Santa Claus comes to town, who makes the 35 gallons of hot chocolate served on the Mall. He also credited Garovoy with the holiday lighting on Maine Street and many other behind-the-scenes tasks.

Feldman said Kennedy has served as a liaison between Bowdoin College and the town as well as being a longtime board member and active volunteer at several events.

Kathy Barber and Ryan Pelletier accepted the Member of the Year award on behalf of Key Bank. BDA board member Dick Visser presented the award.

“Key Bank has been a regular corporate donor to the BDA. Its employees often volunteer and participate in BDA-sponsored events and programs,” Visser said.

Visser said Key Bank has provided storage, furniture and manpower through their employees to help the BDA and work on beautification projects in town.

The Visitor Center Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Posie Ford for her service at the center and knowledge of the community.

BDA board member Claudia Knox presented three Preservation Awards, recognizing those who invested in the historic downtown. This year, Knox said projects have increased property values by about $7 million.

Art Boulay was recognized for renovating the Brunswick Business Center — a 1911 Victorian house on Pleasant Street. Knox said Boulay added high tech office spaces and a conference room during the renovation.

Maine State Music Theatre was also recognized for its renovations on Cedar and School streets to provide housing for actors.

“Maine State Music Theatre has raised the curtain on the second act,” Knox said of the new life MSMT has given to these neighborhood houses. Knox said the renovations have given the neighborhood an up and coming look, inspiring other homeowners to follow suit.

Coastal Enterprises Inc. was also recognized, not for a restoration but for its new headquarters on Federal Street where the old Recreation Center once stood.

“Communities have always needed and have sought renewal that invigorates jobs and public space in the heart of downtown,” Knox said, referring to the new CEI building as a landmark building for the 21st century.

dmcintire@timesrecord.com