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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 23, 2026 |
LEWISTON, ME—Maine Turnpike Authority’s newest snow plow connected art, mission, and community at the 2026 Dempsey Challenge, where it made its event debut just one day after being unveiled. Positioned near the start line, The Defender immediately drew curiosity, questions and conversation. As people approached the bright berry pink truck and yellow plow, many paused to take in the artwork celebrating everyday heroes who help clear the way to care.
The design reflects the Dempsey Center’s mission of supporting anyone impacted by cancer, while its ribbon and shield motif highlights the connection between patients, caregivers, Dempsey staff, and MTA crews who keep Maine’s busiest corridor safe.
“It really struck me how connected everything is,” said race participant Kim Cobb, who stopped for a selfie with her 5K team. “Knowing the roads are clear so we can get to our doctors and to the services at the Dempsey Center gives me real peace of mind. Seeing that message on a giant snowplow makes you think about all the folks working behind the scenes to make reaching my care possible.”
One of the morning’s most memorable moments came when Patrick Dempsey arrived by golf cart to see The Defender—named in his honor—for the first time at the event. He greeted MTA volunteers with a laugh, asking if he should “be expecting snow today,” before climbing into the driver’s seat at the invitation of snowplow operator Mike Somerset. Dempsey spent several minutes taking in the artwork and learning about the “beast of a vehicle” built for Maine’s harshest winter conditions. Later, he returned to congratulate auto racer Brandon Barker, winner of the 53rd Annual Nitro Trailers Oxford 250 and a MTA snowplow driver. The two talked about growing up in Maine, racing, and the unique overlap of racing cars and driving a snowplow.
Throughout race day, The Defender served as a visual anchor for the partnership—a reminder of the shared mission behind the collaboration: helping Maine people reach the emotional, physical, and social support offered by the Dempsey Center. The presence of The Defender underscored how reliable roads play a crucial role in connecting patients and caregivers to essential services year round.
Now returned and ready for duty within MTA’s winter fleet, The Defender will carry its message up and down the Turnpike over the winter. Hundreds saw it for the first time at the Challenge; in the months ahead, countless more will encounter it during winter storms as it continues its role as a moving symbol of care, connection, and community.
If you see The Defender out making the roads safe this winter, let it be a reminder that help in Maine is here. Learn more about the Dempsey Center at dempseycenter.org
A full video recording of the press conference and unveiling from Friday, September 18 is available on the MTA Youtube channel.