Augusta, ME – Maine Governor Paul LePage presented Saddleback Ski Resort in Rangeley with a 2012 Governor’s Award for Business Excellence during a reception held today at the Statehouse Hall of Flags in Augusta.

The 22nd annual awards, administered by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and sponsored by Fairpoint Communications, recognize companies that demonstrate a high level of commitment to their community, employees and to manufacturing or service excellence.

Saddleback’s owners, Bill and Irene Berry, daughter Faith Berry, grandchildren Martin and Adrienne Berard along with Chris Farmer, General Manager, all accepted the award.

“The Berry family is honored to receive such a prestigious award on behalf of Saddleback,” said Bill Berry.

Since 2003 Saddleback has increased its workforce from 66 full and part-time employees to 225 during the peak winter season. The Berry family has invested more than $40 million during that time to improve and expand mountain and resort operations. Saddleback recently became the first Maine business approved to operate a Regional Center within the federal Immigrant Investor Pilot Program known as EB-5.

“This year’s honorees represent businesses that are regional, national and international leaders in their fields,” said Governor LePage. “I am particularly pleased that each business has shown a commitment to investment, innovation, their community, and to Maine.”

Speakers at the award reception included LePage, DECD Commissioner George Gervais, and Fairpoint Communications Maine State President Mike Reed.