The 2009 Next List

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It's easy to give in to gloom and doom when you step back and look at the rocking wake of economic turbulence we've had this year: financial crisis followed by housing slump followed by tax reform followed by health care debates.

Whew.

Luckily, we know a group of people who don't let headlines derail them from their mission to get their businesses and organizations in gear and, in the process, shape Maine's economy and future. Culled from dozens and dozens nominations, we've selected 10 Mainers who have the passion and vision to bring Maine to a better place. Some are young go-getters, just embarking on their careers and some are old hands who've survived more than one recession and lived to tell about it. Together, they present a brighter future for Maine. We call them Nexters. Let us introduce them to you.

Breaking down walls | Suzanne Fox, president, Fox Intercultural Consulting Services, Falmouth

Bark and bite | Chris Roberts, co-founder, Barkwheats, Stockton Springs

Shot in the arm | Devore Culver, executive director, HealthInfoNet, Portland

Technology to a tee | William Sulinski, co-founder and CEO, AccelGolf, Portland

Girl Power | Megan Williams, executive director, Hardy Girls Healthy Women, Waterville

Northern exposure | Matt McHatten, Senior VP of external operations, MMG Insurance, Presque Isle

Burning drive | Matt Bell, owner, Northeast Pellets, Ashland

Rolling on the river | Jonathan LaBonte, executive director, Androscoggin Land Trust, Lewiston

Spirited effort | Bettina Doulton, owner and operator, Cellardoor Vineyard, Lincolnville