Anne Antonellis lives and breathes this town. Around town, she’s known as the Ambassador of Duxbury -- and rightly so. The Clipper caught up with Anne during one of her infrequent breaks and asked her how she does it all.

People have called you the “unofficial Ambassador of Duxbury” how do you feel about that title?

I think it’s funny.  I am very proud to live in Duxbury. My father decided to move us here when I was 10-years-old and I fell in love with the town. So I guess I am proud to have made a little mark in Duxbury’s history. You do a lot around town. How many groups or organizations are you a part of?

I have been involved in many different groups, but I’m presently co-chair of Duxbury’s 375th Committee, executive member of the Duxbury Business Association, leader of Duxbury Annual Holly Days Celebration and member of Duxbury Senior Center’s Council on Aging, soon to be chair.

What have been some of your favorite events or groups that you’ve participated in so far?

I am probably most proud of Holly Days, which was literally conceived of during a dream. I must admit that I have a soft spot for fun events.  So, the 375th Clambake and second year of the annual Speak for Thyself awards really stand out because we celebrated with hundreds of Duxbury townspeople.

You are also the owner of Duxbury Mortgage Services. What is it like owning a business here in town? How long have you been in business?

Growing up here, I always had so much respect for small businesses. I remember going into Cotton’s when Mr. Cotton owned it and thinking how cool it was that he could work and live in the same town.  I made it one of my goals to do the same. This year Duxbury Mortgage Services will celebrate its tenth anniversary in September. I’m proud to be a part of the Duxbury Business Community. They give a lot back to the community and are thankful for all the support from townspeople.

How do you balance owning a business, your committee work and your family?

Sometimes it feels like I never sleep, but when you’re passionate about a lot of things, the energy just comes. I tell my kids do what you like and you will be successful. Isn’t sleep overrated anyway?

Why do you give your extra time to committees and other groups? What do you gain from the experience?

When I look back at the past years, I feel that I’ve been given so much.  I just love being involved where I live and hope others feel the same way.

You were recently featured on Chronicle for Duxbury’s 375th birthday. What was that experience like? 

It was cool and scary at the same time. Thank God they had the tiny microphone, that was less scary. I’m so proud of what the 375th Anniversary Committee has done this year. Everyone’s worked so hard and I was excited to be the representative of our group.

Do you plan on being this busy in the future? Any new groups or organizations you want to get involved with?

That is a loaded question. I plead the fifth!

When you aren’t working or helping out around town what do you like to do? Do you have a favorite place in town or activity? 

I wish I had more time to spend at my favorite place, which I would say is Shipyard Beach.  It’s so peaceful and I actually like it best in the off-season.  My favorite activity is being with my family and friends, laughing. We have a blast.

What is so important about town events like the 375th Celebration and other celebrations in your opinion? What do they offer to the town?

Community Spirit! With everyone so distracted today, reminding ourselves that we are surrounded by a town that is the result of the commitment of previous Duxbury residents, over several centuries, keeps us grounded.  Maintaining a community of committed residents keeps Duxbury vibrant today and will preserve it for future generations.

What do you hope Duxbury will be like in the future? 

The same, only better.

What is your favorite thing about the town and living here?

I like the solitude and small town feel.  I love going anywhere and seeing someone you know.  Honestly, I would not want to live anywhere else.  My husband and I refer to it as our Center of the Universe.