OLD ORCHARD BEACH —  Two of Old Orchard Beach’s most dedicated volunteers have been recognized in the town’s annual report.

The town’s annual report contains an overview of the past year, with statistics and updates from town departments, elected officials and municipal boards and committees.

The 92 page softbound 2016-2017 annual report was recently published. Town Council Chairman Joseph Thornton dedicated the report to residents Pat Brown and Helene Whittaker at thile March 20 town council meeting.

“Pat’s passions show through her volunteer work,” said Thornton. He said that Brown, who has lived in Old Orchard Beach since 1998 was told early on “be careful not to change the essence of Old Orchard Beach.” This advice, plus a real caring for people directs her efforts, said Thornton.

Brown has devoted her time to the Community Food Pantry, Community Animal Watch, MAPS, Museum in the Streets, the town’s historical society, REV3/IRONMAN and The Ballpark.

Brown also serves as vice-president of the Community Watch Council, Co-Facilitator of the OOB Community Friendly Connection and works with Volunteers in Police Services. She has been a strong advocate for students in the  J1 Work and Travel program.

“This just means so much to me. I am both honored and I’m humbled,” said Brown.

Brown said she has never accomplished anything alone and she thanked all the people who had worked on projects with her.

“Every person I know should be standing up hear with me, for without all of you, I am nothing,” she said.

Thornton said Whittaker believes pride in the community is important, because when people are proud of where they live, good things happen.

“When Helene gets involved in something, her passion shows and her enthusiasm is contagious,” said Thornton. “She takes charge when there is a need and she is steadfast for holding people accountable for what they said they were going to do.”

Whittaker has served on several Old Orchard Beach and Ocean Park committee over the years. She has been active with Volunteers in Police Service, was involved in the campaign to get a new police station and has been a strong advocate for students in the  J1 Work and Travel program. She has also been working alongside Brown as the co-facilitator of the OOB Community Friendly Connection

She worked with the police department to form the Community Watch Council, and is the council’s president. 

“I’m not a person of many words,” said Whittaker. She thanked her husband for his support. She said she was humbled by the recognition and and thanked the town.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.