The Bolivar Chamber of Commerce held their 2012 Annual Awards Banquet Tuesday evening. Over 100 guests were in attendance to recognize “Bolivar Peninsula’s Best”. The Chamber of Commerce honors local citizens in the categories of Citizen of the Year, Educator of the Year, Business of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year. In addition, this year two special awards were given.
The event was hosted by Stingaree Restaurant, providing a fantastic Luau feast. Pastor Richard Sallee of the Baptist Church in High Island offered the invocation and the buffet began. Shrimp, fish, beef, pork, chicken, zuchinni, salad and rice, ending with pineapple or oreo bread pudding. Delicious!
The luau feast was enjoyed by all.
Mac McDonald, President of the Chamber, introduced the Guest Speaker, John Paschall, president of the Better Business Bureau of SE Texas. John presented a very motivating speech using visual images such as a flower pot, a mason jar, an old fashioned water pump and a mirror. His analogies provided what it takes to build a successful business, as well as what it takes to be successful in business, to be motivated from within, accomplishment by activity, and priming the pump by “putting something in before you can get something out”.
 Pastor Richard Sallee offered the invocation. |
 Guest speaker John Paschall, President of BBB SE Texas. |
Mac began the Special Awards Presentation by calling Anne Willis to present an Honorary Citizen award to County Commissioner Pat Doyle for all his efforts and contributions during and after Ike to the residents of Bolivar. Mr. Doyle will be stepping down as Commissioner after this term.
Then, much to her surprise, Anne was presented an Honorary Award for all her years of service to the community, including 25 years as President of the Chamber of Commerce.
 Anne Willis presenting an Honorary Citizen Award to County Commissioner Pat Doyle. |
 Anne Willis receiving Honorary Award in appreciation for 25 years of service. |
George Strong presented the Citizen of the Year award to Craig and Gerry Lange. The Langes are involved in numerous church and civic activities throughout the peninsula.
George turned the mike over to Judge Pat Vondra who presented the Business of the Year award to Tropical Accents owners, Robin Kasiske and Laura Pierce, “The Energizer Bunnies”.
 George Strong presenting Citizen of the Year Award to Craig and Gerry Lange. |
 Robin Kasiske and Laura Pierce receiving Business of the Year Award. |
The Educator of the Year award was presented by High Island Schools Superintendent Dr. D’Ann Cathriner-Vonderau to Gwen Edgar, Counselor at High Island ISD.
Lastly, and equally as emotional, Velma Rutherford presented the Volunteer of the Year award to Janet Leigh Davis. Janet Leigh is well known in the community and is always available to lend a helping hand.
 Educator of the Year, Gewn Edgar, with Superintendent Dr. Vonderau |
 Volunteer of the Year, Janet Leigh Davis, presented by Velma Rutherford. |
 George Strong greeting people at the door. |
 Anne and Joe Willis at the head table. |
 Susan Free giving out door prizes. |
 Scott Hebert serving up the feast. |
Posted in 
