A large contingent of Gorham High School students were allowed to walk out of classes Jan. 30 in a 20-minute controlled protest. Several students waved signs and the group repeatedly chanted “Make America great, stop ICE hate.”

School officials and police monitored the protest in the bus loop behind the school on Morrill Avenue. Police cars blocked both entrances to the loop and media representatives were stationed some distance from the protest without access to photo individual students.

The national strike organizers sought closure of businesses and schools that day, but in Gorham it was school as usual. In a Jan. 29 email, Superintendent Heather Perry said, “Gorham schools will be open. Maine public schools are required a minimum of 175 student days. If a school is closed for a snow day or for any other unanticipated reason that would reduce that number, they must make up the day so that they meet the required 175.”

Community loses Gerry Day

Geraldine “Gerry” Day, a Baxter Memorial Library and Baxter Museum trustee, died Jan. 24 at age 84. Day, an educator, served the community in several capacities including president of the Gorham Medical Loan Closet, vice president of Lakes Region Senior Center, a town voting registrar, and board member of Cressey Road Christian Church.

A memorial service was held Jan. 31 at the church.

Bruni named Gorham officer of the year

Sgt. David Bruni, in a Jan. 15 ceremony, was named Gorham Police Department’s Employee of the Year. Chief Christopher Sanborn in a Facebook post praised Bruni for the depth of his experience through decades of service. “With 40 years in law enforcement, Sgt. Bruni continues to look forward to each day with the same commitment to making a difference as ever,” Sanborn said.

Others recognized included School Resource Officer Todd Gagnon, who received the Cop’s Cop Award; School Resource Officer Mark Sanborn received the Wayne “Pooch” Drown Award; and Officer Jarrett Oceguera, Bravery Award, during a standoff.

Life-saving awards were bestowed on officers including Gagnon, Vincent Perfetto, Taylor Stroup, and Brady Denison in addition to Sgts. Stephen Hinkley and Ted Hatch.

Meritorious awards were presented to Hatch, Denison, Detective Sgt. Steven Rappold and Detective Peter Cates.

Recognized for their years of service were Lt. Dan Young, 30 years; Bruni, 25; Mark Sanborn, 25; and Gagnon, 25.

Officer Brent Frank stepped down after 28 years on the force that Chief Christopher Sanborn called a bittersweet moment. “We will miss his professionalism, commitment, and special humor long after his departure,” he said.