Saco — The Rotary Club of Biddeford/Saco recently honored those who have made strong contributions to the community.

 “Most people we have honored over the years have not done what they have done for the recognition,” said Rotarian Bill Kany. “But to a person I am sure it made them feel validated for all of their hard work.”

PRIVATE SECTOR AWARD

The Private Sector Award is awarded to a person whose good works has been performed independently of their employment, usually in the private sector. Recipients work for the public good, usually outside of their employment.

For his ability to harness his passion to continue to make Biddeford City Theatre a smash hit this year’s Private Sector Award was presented to a member of the club, Mark Nahorney.

PUBLIC SECTOR AWARD

The Public Sector Award is awarded to a person who, in the course of their employment or funding, serves the public with government and/or public monies. Recipients are usually employed by a government agency, hold a political office, or have their good works publicly funded.

 For her commitment to breaking down barriers and serving the people of Biddeford, Saco and the entire State of Maine, this year’s Public Sector Award winner was Bonnie Pothier.

HUMANITARIAN AWARD

The Humanitarian Award is awarded to a person or organization, private or public, who or which has done exceptional work to further the good of humanity in the community.

For seeing a problem and acting in such a big way this year’s Biddeford Saco Rotary Club Humanitarian Award was given to the Saco Diaper Bank. Pam Mohlin accepted the award.

VOCATIONAL SERVICE AWARD

The Vocational Service Award is awarded to an individual, private or public, who has done exceptional work to promote vocational education and vocational programs.

This year’s Biddeford Saco Rotary Club Vocational Service Award was presented to former Speaker of the House, Ryan Fecteau.

GOODWIN OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD

In 2007, the Biddeford/Saco Rotary Club decided to honor all of the dedication and contributions of Carl and Earl Goodwin by creating an award in their honor.

This year’s Goodwin Outstanding Service Award was awarded to Brenda Pollock.

Paul Harris Recipients

Harris Awards are arguably the highest distinction that can be given to people by Rotary.

This year’s first Paul Harris Award was given to Cynthia Giroux, who the club described as having a big heart and always willing to help out wherever needed.

The second Paul Harris Award was presented to Jim Labelle, who the club said quietly does a great deal for our club while also injecting vitality and credibility back into our communities through his leadership of the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce.