Community Salutes Cameron Bain

We asked a number of familiar names in and around Stoneham for their thoughts on Cameron Bain, who will be honored Sunday, Nov. 18. Here's what they said:

"Days after I was first elected State Representative in 2008, Cameron Bain approached me to bring me up to date and on board with the Tri-Community Greenway project. In decades of tireless advocacy, Cameron never wavered in bringing in new stakeholders and growing community consensus around the Greenway project. Now, as the project reaches fruition, we all owe Cameron Bain a great debt of gratitude. The Tri-Community Greenway is a wonderful new resource for our communities, and it will improve commuting, recreation, and local economic development across Stoneham, Winchester and Woburn." – State Senator Jason Lewis

“The Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham & Wakefield are honored to be part of Cameron Bain Day. He is our founder, longest serving Board Member, and an example of civic service, that along with his wife Connie, has helped generations of local families. Without Cameron Bain, there is no Stoneham Club. Great futures start at our Clubs, and our Clubs started with Cameron Bain. Our Clubs, our members, and this town, are in his debt. Thank you Cam." – Anthony Guardia, Chief Development Officer at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham and Wakefield

“I admire Cameron because he never quit, never gave up on his dream despite disappointment after disappointment. Many would have thrown in the towel but he chose not to. His perseverance, determination and commitment acts as encouragement to all of us to keep moving forward in the face of obstacles. He was wholeheartedly pursuing his goal and his life became shaped by it. Cameron thanks for never quitting on us - see you along the Path soon! The path that future generations will enjoy for many years to come. Thank you!! – Select Board member Caroline Colarusso

"Cameron Bain has worked tirelessly towards the creation of the Tri-Community Greenway and I am so happy that his vision has become a reality. He could have thrown in the towel many times but he never relented in his pursuit. In addition to the Greenway, Cameron was instrumental in establishing the Boys and Girls Club in Stoneham. We are fortunate to have caring and dedicated citizens like Cameron, who are willing to put forth so much personal effort to create a community that is accessible and welcoming to all." – Select Board chair Shelly MacNeill

"I met Mr. Bain in the rear of town hall in October of 2009. He had received approval from town meeting to re-establish the Stoneham Bikeway/Greenway Committee which was chartered to work with the town and engineers to design and build a multi-use trail on the Rail Road Right of Way. This seemed like such a great idea and I offered my assistance. I quickly learned of Mr Bain's passion for the project, the extent of his commitment and the 30 year history of the project. The project offers an off road connection between businesses, schools and parks. It provides a peaceful and safe place to walk, run, ride or sit in an urban/suburban town. Mr Bain could see this vision 30 years before the trail became a reality. As we near the official opening, I think we all owe Cameron a big "thank you" for your passion, vision and persistence." – Select Board member Anthony Wilson

“I have known Mr. Bain for many many years . His service to the town and Boys and Girls Club has certainly been notable. In addition many other citizens deserve congratulations for their hard work in bringing the bike path to fruition! The Community should be grateful for citizens especially Mr. Anthony Wilson who worked so diligently in the final years, they have served over many years to get it done! I hope it is used safely and enjoy by many on foot or two wheels , congratulations to all." – Jeanne E. Craigie, Moderator, Town of Stoneham

“Cameron Bain is a testament to what perseverance can accomplish. His commitment to the Tri-Community Greenway has been steadfast over the course of decades of twists and turns in this project, and he is a major reason behind the realization of this community resource. Cameron's dedication to this community is evident in the ongoing success of the Boys & Girls Club and other endeavors. I am very happy to know that this Greenway will be a lasting symbol of his constant drive to improve the lives of our residents.” – State Representative Michael Day

"Although I did not have the pleasure of working with Cameron his persistence and tenacity for working hard for the youth and residents of Stoneham is commendable. I admire all the work he has done for the community of Stoneham." – Select Board member Raymie Parker

Photo by Bob Holmes