Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
PHOTO: Traci and Tony Austin receive a proclamation from interim Lisbon Town Manager Ryan McGee in recognition of their selection as the 2022 Lisbon Spirit of America Foundation Award recipients. (Submitted photo)
By Ross Cunningham
Lisbon Economic and Community Development Director
LISBON – When considering the list of influential people over the last 20 years in Lisbon, it doesn’t take long for the name Austin to circle to the top. Tony and Traci Austin have been involved in bettering the community for more than 20 years and their impact has been felt far and wide. The attributes and passion that exemplify makes them the town’s 2022 Spirit of America award recipients.
Tony Austin was president of the Lisbon Junior Athletic League for more than 13 years. During that time, he teams from T-ball to Cal Ripken. He is known for his ability to motivate players and volunteers alike to achieve great things. He told players they “had what it takes to win it all and go to China”. No one is sure why China, but it worked, and the kids played hard every game. He was instrumental in the creation of the new Lisbon field complex, creating a valuable community asset that serves hundreds of kids each year.
Traci Austin also is no stranger to community support, serving on the Lisbon School Committee for the last 16 years, and chair for the last 11 years. She was instrumental in approval and construction of a new high school gymnasium and has been working diligently on getting lights installed at the Lisbon High School football field. As a parent and sports fan, she also volunteered countless hours with the Lisbon Athletic Boosters from 2014-20, providing support for everything from the Snack Shack to decorating for the prom.
These herculean efforts would be enough for community-wide recognition, but the best was yet to come. In 2017, the Kennebec Fruit Co., otherwise known as the Moxie Store, was at risk of being demolished or sold to a developer. Tony and Traci, admittedly knowing very little about the restaurant business, took a life-changing risk and bought the building, renovated it and opened Frank’s Restaurant and Pub. They hired local high school graduates and employees with diverse needs as staff.
Frank’s is focused on providing a family atmosphere and celebrating the history of Lisbon, and quickly became the local place to gather with friends or celebrate a special occasion. The Austins also provided housing on the second floor.
hey used their new resources to hold fundraisers for local and regional organizations, such as the Dempsey Center and Lisbon Unified Basketball.
Frank’s remains a key part of the Lisbon community and is credited with being a large part of the rebirth of the Lisbon Main Street business community.
It is clear that Tony and Traci Austin have invested more than just finances in Lisbon, they have invested their heart and souls in an effort to make Lisbon a better place to live, work and do business.
