Four new interim board members joined our board this fall and winter, and you’ll have the opportunity to confirm their membership at our July 9 annual meeting.
John Barlow of Orland joined the board in November, and hosted a weekend of Christmas tree cutting to benefit GPMCT. Originally from Plymouth, MA, John moved to Maine for graduate work at UMO in 1965. He moved to Orland in 1970 and taught marine science and oceanography at Maine Maritime Academy, where he helped found the Corning School of Ocean Studies and became Academic Dean, Provost and VP of Academic Affairs before retiring two years ago. John served as Chief of Orland’s Fire Department for 25 years. He and Diane have two sons and four grandkids and enjoy sailing.
Diane O’Connell of Bucksport came to us in December. Born and raised on a sheep farm in New Zealand, she came to America in 2001 with husband, Steve. In 2003, the couple started a charter boat business in Belfast with their friendship sloop Amity and moved to Bucksport. An attorney, Diane is now a partner at Patterson & O’Connell, LLC in Ellsworth; her practice includes conservation easements and land trust work. Diane, Steve and their two kids (now at Bucksport Middle School) enjoy hiking and boating.
Board members elected Richard Spearen, Jr. of Bucksport Assistant Treasurer in February; he’ll be up for election as Treasurer July 9. Richard is a Senior Accountant at Hollywood Casino in Bangor. He grew up in Holden and graduated from U-Maine with BAs in political science and philosophy. He enjoys traveling, reading, gaming and exploring the outdoors.
Betty J. Harris of Orland became Board secretary in March (former secretary Maddy Glover moved away in the fall). B.J. has been a consultant pharmacist with Maine Veterans Homes since 2011. She’s had an extensive career in pharmacy, from academia (recently at Husson) to long-term care, community chain pharmacies and hospitals. B.J. sings in several chorales and is also a licensed Maine Sea Kayak guide with Castine Kayak Adventures.
We say goodbye this summer to Treasurer Mike Bouthot, who has moved out of the area, and three long-time board members who’ve termed out: Bob Mercer, Jack MacBrayne and John Wedin. They’ll continue to serve on committees, and may rejoin the board after a year off. Thanks, guys!