The Skowhegan Regional Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted its Annual Dinner and Awards Celebration on Tuesday, Mar. 31 at the T&B Celebration Center, bringing together approximately 200 community members for an evening of recognition and celebration. 

Attendees enjoyed an evening of connection, reflection and appreciation for the individuals and organizations that help drive the Skowhegan area forward.

“This annual event is one of our most meaningful traditions,” said Chamber Executive Director Maygan Dunlap. “It gives us the opportunity to celebrate the achievements, innovation and dedication that make our community such a thriving place to live and work. It always just feels different—in the best way.”

Awards were presented across multiple categories, recognizing excellence in business leadership, community service and civic engagement. “There were moments of pride, a few tears, and a whole lot of appreciation for the people who are putting in the work to make our community stronger,” said Dunlap. See all honorees at skowheganregion.com.

This year’s recipient of the S. Kirby Hight Community Impact Award was Deb Tanner and the Sweet Dreams Project. Presented by Sam Hight, Dealer and Principal of the Hight Family of Dealerships, the award recognizes an individual who has made a large impact on the community through constant commitment to various initiatives. 

Now in its tenth year, Sweet Dreams is a faith-driven, grassroots ministry of the Skowhegan Federated Church. The program provides Christmas gifts for Somerset County children from newborn through age 16, sharing the joy and hope of Christmas with families in need.

Each gift bag includes a pair of pajamas, a book, a handmade pillowcase (created by the ‘Sweet Seams’ sewing group), a hat and mittens (often knitted or crocheted by local supporters), two toys, a handmade quilt (created by members of Somerset Samplers, a local quilting guild), a fuzzy blanket, a jacket or an additional outfit.

There are no restrictions to register for this program. Families in Somerset County who are in need can register for Sweet Dreams by contacting the church. Caseworkers, school counselors and guardians can reach out as well. 

“This award is especially meaningful to me because when I moved to Skowhegan in 1987, I lived across the street from Kirby and Grace Hight,” Tanner said. “My young daughters would often visit them, and I can still remember the sound of Red Sox games playing loudly from their back porch all summer long.

“To now receive an award in his name, recognizing the impact Sweet Dreams has made on this community, is truly an honor.”