The Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce Dick Gray as Poultney’s Citizen of the Year for 2024-2025!
Dick will be honored at a reception on November 16th, from 5-7 pm at the American Legion Post in Poultney. He will also receive a specially designed slate clock, custom made and donated by Sheldon Slate of Middle Granville, in recognition of his outstanding service. The Citizen of the Year participates in the Official Tree Tapping Ceremony at Maplefest in March, and serves as the Grand Marshall in the Fourth of July Parade. Please come and help us honor Dick at the reception in his Honor on November 16th.
“We are incredibly fortunate in Poultney to have so many dedicated individuals who contribute their time and resources to the community,” said Chamber President Elizabeth Ayers. “This year, we received nominations for many worthy candidates, and we thank each and every one for their service, as well as the citizens who took the time to make a nomination.”
However, Dick’s dedication truly stood out. He consistently embodies the spirit of giving back. Community members who nominated him highlighted numerous instances where Dick quietly stepped forward, providing crucial funds or items to support the Poultney Recreation Department, the library, the food shelf and other local organizations.
Dick exemplifies the “unsung hero.” He is known for his generosity of time and money, often preferring to work behind the scenes. Dick’s love for Poultney shines through in all he does. From replacing missing flags at the cemetery to advocating for a community skating rink at the American Legion, his dedication to improving the town is evident.
Many local churches enjoy his generosity as well. Dick is also remembered for his cheesecakes and fruit tarts that he delivers to his customers, as well as, meat platters that are delivered when a family member passes away. In the past Dick coached many Poultney Little League teams as well as JV Baseball. He set up a scholarship for graduation seniors interested in pursuing construction careers. He worked with the local Methodist Church to travel to Kentucky to help install roofs as well as volunteered to help with local residents who needed new roofs. Dick is certainly a Poultney resident who loves his community and continues to help others in many ways without wanting any recognition.
The Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce extends its deepest gratitude to Dick for his long-standing dedication. He is a true “unsung hero” who consistently goes above and beyond for Poultney and the surrounding area. We are incredibly proud to name Dick Gray as our Citizen of the Year for 2024-2025!
A recipient may receive the award one time. A list of present and past recipients is available on the Chamber website here.
The Poultney Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is a non-profit organization of businesses and organizations that works to improve the economic, cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities in the Poultney area, and guide, inspire and promote the best interests of its business and professional members. For more information or a membership form call (802) 294-3220, visit the Chamber’s website or email PoultneyVtChamber@gmail.com.