AUGUSTA — The Maine State Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the bicentennial of Maine’s statehood at its annual meeting and dinner Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the Augusta Civic Center, with special guest Patrick Dempsey.
Maine’s seven living governors will be honored and share their perspectives and historical context on what makes Maine special in a unique video presentation at the dinner event. Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce President Deb Neuman also will be honored.
The event will kick of at 4:30 p.m. with a Taste of Maine reception followed by the dinner and presentation of awards and then the evening’s program.
“The Maine State Chamber looks forward to celebrating Maine’s Bicentennial and honoring several exemplary leaders who have had a tremendous impact shaping Maine,” said Maine State Chamber President Dana Connors. “Our special guests and honorees at this year’s dinner continue to impact Maine’s progress and success. We are excited to hear their perspectives on what makes Maine special, and to celebrate their contributions and the bright future in store for Maine.”
The seven governors interviewed for the video presentation are, in chronological order of their terms as Maine governor, Kenneth Curtis, Joseph Brennan, John McKernan, Angus King, John Baldacci, Paul LePage and incumbent governor Janet Mills. Gov. James Longley of Lewiston, who succeeded Curtis, died in 1980.
Patrick Dempsey, a Maine native and television and film actor who grew up in Buckfield and founded the Dempsey Center located in Lewiston and South Portland, will be the chamber’s special guest and address dinner attendees.
Deb Neuman, president of the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce, will be honored with the Maine State Chamber’s “Chamber Professional of the Year” award for her leadership, enthusiasm and dedication to promoting a positive business climate in the Bangor region.
For more information on the Maine State Chamber’s annual dinner, visit www.mainechamber.org/annualmeeting.
