Gray Resident Mary Sweeney Underwood Receives Spirit of America Award for Outstanding Community Service
The Town of Gray is proud to announce that Mary Sweeney Underwood, a valued member of the community, has been honored with the prestigious Spirit of America Award and a corresponding sentiment from the Maine Legislature. This esteemed recognition was presented to Mary during the Gray Town Council meeting held on July 18, 2023. You can watch the recognition here.
The Spirit of America Award is bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication, generosity, and volunteerism within their communities. Mary has consistently exhibited these remarkable qualities, and gone above and beyond to improve the lives of Gray residents.
Representatives Amy Arata and Anne Graham joined the Town Council meeting to honor Mary’s remarkable achievements. Representatives Arata and Graham presented a legislative sentiment on behalf of the State of Maine commending Mary for her outstanding dedication and recognizing her as an exemplary role model within the community.
“We extend our congratulations and best wishes, and be it ordered that this official expression of sentiment be sent forthwith on behalf of the 131st Legislature and the people of the State of Maine,” read Rep. Arata from the sentiment. The sentiment is enshrined in the permanent public record, meaning it will be viewable to anyone for years to come.
Mary has been an invaluable asset to the Nordic Walking Group in Gray. As a passionate advocate for physical fitness and community wellness, she has organized regular walking events, fostering a sense of camaraderie and promoting an active lifestyle among Gray residents. Her dedication to the Nordic Walking Group has created a supportive and inclusive environment that has positively impacted the health and well-being of participants.
“I’m really truly honored to help sponsor this legislative sentiment,” said Rep. Graham. “When I grow up, I want to be like Mary.”
Mary’s impact on the Gray community serves as an inspiration to all residents, demonstrating the power of selflessness and active community involvement. Besides the walking group, Mary is also a member of the Gray Recreation Committee and the Gray Community Television Advisory Committee.
“Amy did ask me to go to Augusta to receive this award, but I thought it was important to come [to Gray] because it’s not just me… It’s a community activity,” said Mary.
Mary was joined at the Council meeting by her son, Patrick, and her granddaughter, Amira, as well as Gray Recreation Director Anthony Dahms.