A huge thank-you for the support and respect shown for my mother, Ann Chadwick, by those who attended the meeting at Pittston town office on March 6 and the petition signing on March 7.

A hero has many names, none more meaningful than “Mom,” and it has always been my belief that true acts of heroism are about dedication to helping others. My mother has always been very proud of the work and service she has provided for the town of Pittston and its residents.

Prior to the Internet, I can remember countless phone calls: “Ann, sorry to bother you, but I’m leaving for a fishing trip tonight and forgot to get my license.” My mother would reply enthusiastically “Where you going? Meet you at the town office.”

As a justice of the peace, I remember her performing a wedding ceremony, then giving the young married couple a card full of well wishes — and the money they had given her to perform the ceremony.

It’s what you do when you’re from a small town in Maine. You help people and you treat them with enthusiasm and dignity. It’s why people in the rest of the world affectionately call us Maniacs.

Each town has character, and on March 6 and 7, the residents of Pittston revealed theirs by showing respect and support for a 75-year-old woman who has always tried to help.

Thank you for restoring dignity to my mother, when others tried to take it away.

Robbie Chadwick

Gardiner