Susan Collins: “August 7 marks the 95th birthday of Maine's Alan Baker, a truly remarkable journalist, community leader, and public…”

“August 7 marks the 95th birthday of Maine's Alan Baker, a truly remarkable journalist, community leader, and public servant. It will be a pleasure to join Alan's friends and family in celebrating a remarkable life of adventures, accomplishments, and lasting contributions. Alan's commitment to service began when he was growing up in Orrington, ME, during World War II. Spending more than 250 4-hour shifts in a tower above the town office to spot enemy aircraft targeting the vital Dow Army Airfield in nearby Bangor taught him the importance of individuals stepping forward in times of need. After graduating from Bowdoin College in 1951, Alan launched a long and successful international career in publishing. He brought his work ethic, vision, and experience back to Maine in 1986 and joined the staff of the legendary Ellsworth American, one of the oldest newspapers in Maine. He purchased that newspaper 2 years later and later founded the Mount Desert Islander. Under his leadership, those two publications demonstrated the value of community newspapers by keeping readers informed and helping them to become involved citizens. Alan was recognized with many industry awards over the course of his career, including the National Newspaper Association's James O. Amos Award for outstanding achievements in community journalism. In addition to being named Maine Journalist of the Year, he is a member of the Maine Press Association Hall of Fame.…”