DIXFIELD — Resident Deb Glover was presented with the Distinguished Citizen of the Year award at Thursday evening’s annual town meeting at Dirigo High School.

Town Manager Carlo Puiia said that whoever is chosen must “unselfishly volunteer their time, make significant contributions to their town because they genuinely care about their community, and have high morals and impeccable character.”

“(Glover) exhibits all of these characteristics and more,” Puiia said. “She is not just a distinguished citizen this year, but every year.”

Before presenting Glover the award, Puiia said that his wife, who works at Dirigo High School, brought home a plate of whoopee pies.

“I took a bite, and I said to my wife, ‘This is the best whoopee pie I’ve tasted in my entire life. Who made it?’” Puiia said. “She told me, ‘Bev Glover.’”

Puiia turned to Glover, who was sitting at the back of the room.

“Bev Glover, it’s my pleasure to award you the Distinguished Citizen of the Year,” Puiia said.

After being presented a plaque, Glover said, “This is a complete shock. I came here to vote on a straw poll question, and now I’m getting this.”

She added, “I just can’t say enough about this town. I’ve lived here for 29 years. I grew up in Mexico, but I can say that I’m a true Cougar now; I’m not a Mexico Pinto any longer. I love this town, love the people here, and I’m very honored to be the Distinguished Citizen of the Year.”

As Glover walked back to her seat, Puiia added, “Also, just to let people know, we presented Bev with a $50 check to buy more whoopee pie ingredients.”

The residents laughed as Puiia said, “We’ll expect them by Friday.”

Puiia said that Glover worked part-time at Dirigo High School for several years, full-time as receptionist, was a huge wrestling club supporter, and “made sure every child had what they needed without discrimination or prejudice.”

mdaigle@sunmediagroup.net