Reflections on America 250
Supervisor Kimberly Jones
As our nation prepares to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, I am taking the opportunity to not only reflect on our history, but also recognize what it means to be an American today.
Every day at Maine Township, we see people from different backgrounds, experiences, and generations come together to support one another and strengthen the place we all call home. Whether it is helping families through difficult times, supporting older adults, mentoring young people, maintaining safe roads and neighborhoods, or creating opportunities for neighbors to connect, this work reflects some of the very best of what it means to be an American.
Throughout the year, we see this spirit on full display at community events across the township. Every summer, residents gather for National Night Out, where families, first responders, elected officials, and community organizations come together in an incredible show of neighborhood pride and public safety partnership. Our annual Community Garage Sale not only brings residents together, but also raises funds to help local children attend summer camp. At our Veterans Breakfast, we pause to honor the men and women who served our country. These are just a few of many examples.
Beyond events, it’s always inspiring to see donations to our food pantry, volunteers and staff who enrich the lives of people of all ages through programming and activities, and the countless everyday acts of kindness that remind us how deeply connected our community truly is.
I especially thank our township staff, volunteers, and community partners whose hard work makes it all possible. They help demonstrate that America is at its best when people come together in service of one another.
That spirit is alive in Maine Township every single day, and it is something worth celebrating.
Kimberly Jones
Maine Township Supervisor
Highway Commissioner Ed Beauvais
Long before I ever held the title of Highway Commissioner, I was just a teenager spending my summers working for the Maine Township Highway Department. Those early days were hands-on with long hours in the heat laying pavement, planting trees, and learning the value of a hard day’s work. What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was also learning one of the true meanings of citizenship, and an important part of being an American.
That summer job became one of my first introductions to public service. I saw the pride my coworkers and I took in their work and how every task, no matter how small it seemed, had a real impact on the people who lived here. We weren’t just maintaining roads or clearing brush, we were helping build the foundation of a place where families could thrive and neighbors could feel connected.
Today, as Highway Commissioner, that sense of purpose has only grown. The job is bigger, but the heart of it remains the same. Service doesn’t stop at the edge of the road. Whether it’s organizing Toys for Tots drives, hosting tree giveaways, supporting local businesses, or simply stepping in where help is needed, I believe in doing everything I can to give back to the community that has given me so much. That sense of giving back is an important part of what I am celebrating for America 250.
To me, this milestone for our country is a reminder of the ideals we all share like freedom, liberty, and justice for all, but it’s also about something closer to home. It’s about people coming together, supporting one another, and working side by side to make communities like ours exceptional.
Ed Beauvais
Highway Commissioner
Maine Township