CAMDEN – P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center held a Heroes Gala to honor and celebrate the service of four individuals who have proven to be everyday heroes for homeless and abandoned animals.

The event was held at the Cellardoor Winery in Lincolnville and offered a three-course meal provided by Stone Cove Catering. Amy Sutherland, author of Rescuing Penny Jane served as the keynote speaker.

Margaret Morey was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for her many years of service to the organization and for being a tireless advocate and activist for the humane treatment of animals, large and small, wild and domestic.

The award presented to Morey will be renamed the Margaret Morey Lifetime Achievement Award in subsequent years.

Additional awards were presented to Jeb Smereck of Camden for 2017 Outstanding Youth Volunteer of the Year and to Joe and Ginny Ryan of Adventure Advertising, who were recognized as the 2017 Business Partner of the Year.

"The Heroes Gala is our opportunity to honor and celebrate the success of the shelter and of those who have offered their support, their passion and their compassion to the organization and most especially to the animals we serve," said Shelly Butler, executive director of P.A.W.S, in a news release.

P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center, founded in 1974, provides a safe, caring environment for homeless and abandoned dogs and cats until they can be placed with loving families, and to promote humane values in the communities. For more information, call 207-236-8702 or visit www.PAWSadoption.org