Maine Distributor Presents Frank Gaziano Scholarships Named for All-American Founder

Pictured left to right: Jeff Kane, president of National Distributors; Logan Mars, senior from Scarborough High School; Luke Libby, senior from Thornton Academy; and Peter DeSimon, Gaziano Awards OfficerFor the second consecutive year, National Distributors of South Portland, Maine, has provided funds for a scholarship program which recognizes outstanding scholar athletes who embody the values of Frank J. Gaziano, the company’s founder.

The Frank J. Gaziano Memorial Offensive and Defensive Lineman Awards are presented to the Maine high school football offensive and defensive linemen who epitomize the character, leadership and perseverance of Gaziano, a former college All American and professional football player with a life-long passion for local sports.

After an outstanding football career, Gaziano became a successful businessman, community benefactor and family man. As such, the recipients of the Frank J. Gaziano Memorial Scholarships are selected by the awards committee based on their strong leadership on the field, in the classroom and in the community – values Gaziano promoted throughout his lifetime.

Jeff Kane, President of National Distributors and Gaziano’s son-in-law, announced the winners of this year’s scholarships and awards during a banquet at the Augusta Civic Center. Logan Mars of Scarborough High School and Luke Libby of Thornton Academy were named the top high school football offensive and defensive linemen in the state because of their hard work on the field, in the classroom and in their communities. The winners received a trophy and a scholarship of $2,500. All eight finalists were presented with a commemorative jacket to honor Frank Gaziano.

“This year's class of finalists featured many strong candidates,” Kane said. “While Logan and Luke are recognized as the winners, I believe that the communities and families of each of the finalists are also winners. These young student athletes are not only talented, but tremendous people that are committed to their communities. I know that if Frank were with us today, he would have been proud of each and every one of them.”

Logan Mars was named an SMAA Conference Player as a junior and senior. In 2011, he was named the Team MVP by the Quarterback Club. In addition to his success on the field, he is a member of the National Honor Society, a volunteer for the Special Olympics and is also a member of the Police Explorers.

Luke Libby was named All SMAA Conference for the past two seasons; he is also President of the National Honor Society, Rotary Youth Leadership member and a volunteer coach for middle school track and youth football.

For more information about the scholarship program, which is expected to continue to grow in the future, visit www.gazianolinemanawards.org.

About National Distributors:

Established in 1960, National Distributors Inc., is a family-owned company that has been providing quality beverages to retailers for the benefit of consumers over 50 years. Though predominantly servicing retailers in Southern Maine, the company continues to provide a variety of products and expand their distribution to Central & Coastal Maine. National Distributors maintains a strong vision for a greener future with an active environmental program. The company and its over 170 employees also continue to be proud community leaders and promote the responsible consumption of their products. Visit the company's website at www.nat-dist.com.

###