Since 1883, when Arthur Hannaford started selling produce in Portland, Hannaford Supermarkets has grown to 171 stores and 27,000 associates in five states. In 2009 Hannaford opened new stores Augusta, Winthrop and China, in addition to existing stores in Augusta and Gardiner and a major distribution center in Winthrop. "We're committed to the Capital region," said Beth Newlands Campbell, executive vice president, "where we enjoy strong relationships with customers and with producers of local foods." The new Augusta/Cony store is the world's first supermarket certified to the highest standards of the U.S. Green Building Council and is a statewide learning lab for environmental best practices.

This former teacher, entrepreneur and owner of Kennebec Technologies (formerly Kennebec Tool and Die) since 1984, exemplifies business success and community service. KT is a growing, leading edge producer of complex components for aerospace, defense and technology industries. Products go to Boeing, GE, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls Royce Volvo Aerospace and others. Wick has led the KT team of innovators while serving public roles: University of Maine System Trustees (past chair), Augusta Board of Trade (past chair) and the Maine State Chamber Board of Directors.

A retired engineer who built his successful business on hard work, innovation and going the extra mile, Ed Coffin is now dedicated to his city as one of Augusta's Councilors. A University of Maine civil engineering grad, Ed worked for Maine's transportation department prior to embarking on his own in 1973 as Coffin Engineering and Surveying. While his technology-focused, award-winning firm prospered with a team of innovators and entrepreneurs, this father of five also became a well-respected volunteer baseball, softball and basketball coach for three decades.

In 2000, after 10 years as a Field Engineer and Software Analyst for Digital Equipment, Scott Fossett formed his own company of one to serve a paper company's computer service needs. Within a couple of years he added staff to meet the needs of a growing client list who liked high quality work and personal touch. API's "experienced" team provides Computer and Network Solutions for Maine business and sees growth in serving Financial, Legal and non-profit clients.

Established in 1972 to serve three Waterville hospitals. Delta expanded to the Augusta area in 1991 and soon grew its 911 response area to 18 communities. Delta is licensed as a paramedic service, Maine's highest level of EMS care, and answers 15,000 calls a year from bases in Augusta and Waterville. Delta employs 120 EMS professionals, and operates 16 ambulances and three wheelchair vans. Executive Director Timothy Beals says Delta "resolves crises with compassion and excellent pre-hospital care."

Founded in 1982, this consulting firm specializes in public policy research and governmental affairs, community development and association management for public, private and non-profit clients. Company President John Melrose, an avowed "problem solver," heads a team of seven talented professionals proactively engaged in moving Maine forward on many fronts. Clients include: Maine Better Transportation, Maine Affordable Housing, Kennebec Valley Tourism, Augusta Board of Trade, Concord Coach, Maine Grocers, Maine Food Producers, MaineGeneral and the American Council of Engineering Companies.

When Bob Moore was hired in 2003 to direct this fledgling group, started by lakeside resident Jay Snider, Friends had some 70 members. Bob's leadership, along with strong support from the business community, individuals, and foundation grants, has catapulted the "friendly ice cream boat" initiative into a major education and environmental movement with 6,500 members. To support a healthy watershed, the Friends educate 1,400 children annually and work to keep the waters clean and free of invasive plants, employing students as Youth Conservation Corps and Courtesy Boat Inspectors, the largest such effort in Maine.

This relative newcomer to Augusta fell immediately in love with her Capital City and particularly enjoyed its walking trails. Offended by "vandal art" along the Rail Trail and in other public places, she sought City permission to voluntarily, single-handedly, clean up the messes. Hundreds of hours of hard work and hundreds of messy projects later, Sukey's one-woman city beautification campaign is a remarkable success story. She credits a third grade teacher for promoting her strong work ethic that makes cleaning messes sort of fun – "a work of love."

The Executive Vice President and Treasurer of Kennebec Savings Bank learned early the value of giving back to the community. This Augusta native - Maranacook basketball captain – European backpacker – fraternity president – UM grad – father of three developed a strong work ethic mowing lawns at age 11. His banking career began in college when he very willingly took on increasing challenges that propelled him by 2008 to the number two spot at KSB. Leadership in United Way, Fort Western, Lithgow Library, KV Chamber, Literacy Volunteers are but a few of Andrew's gifts to his community.