Houlton inducted its first new postmaster since the late 1980’s with Fred Workman’s installation ceremony on Wednesday, July 23.
The service was held on the side lawn of the post office, presided over by Sue Mills, Manager of Post Office Operations, and Pastor Wayne Robertson, of the Wesleyan Church, opened and closed the ceremony with blessings.
In attendance at the service were numerous members of the town, including former postmaster Leigh Cummings, Chief of Police Butch Asselin, Chief of the Band of Maliseets, Brenda Commander and representatives of both Senator Susan Collins and Representative Mike Michaud.
However, the most important people in attendance, according to the new postmaster, were his wife, Tammie, and two daughters, Hollee and Melanee.
“That was the most important thing. I could have done [the ceremony] prior to them coming here but… they’re the reason I do my job. They’re the reason I moved to Houlton. It was paramount that they were there. It was great getting recognized by my peers, for one thing, but it was a shining moment for my family too,” explained Workman.
Following the induction ceremony, a light meal was served on the second floor of the post office, allowing those who attended to get off their feet and get to know their new post master.
Since his induction, Workman has worked on both the efficiency of the routes around town, as well as the availability of collection points around town.
“The [route] adjustments are going well. This is going to give us more flexibility throughout the winter to get the mail delivered. We also changed our collection points and times. There’s a new collection box at the IGA, and I also put a drive up collection box at the Sherwin Williams store … so the customers do not have to dismount their vehicles,” explained Workman.
Workman also stated that he is truly beginning to feel like he belongs in the area, and is looking forward to being able to serve the town to the best of his ability in the present and future.
“We’re starting to really get acclimated to the community. We’re starting to feel at home, finally,” said Workman.