2-14-12
Highlighting volunteerism seemed to be the theme at Monday night’s 56th annual Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce Meeting and Dinner at the Rock Falls Hotel.
(Bethany Bland welcomes all the Monday night's annual Chamber meeting and dinner)
Diners enjoyed the sounds of vocalists from Rock Falls High School and emcee and Chamber Events Coordinator Bethany Bland introduced several dignitaries including 90th District State Representative Jerry Mitchell who was honored with a distinguished community service award.
(Representative Jerry Mitchell accepts a community service award from Chamber President Doug Wiersema)
New board members were introduced and outgoing members were recognized.
There were words from outgoing chairman Jim Wickert, Rock Falls Mayor David Blanton, and retiring Chamber President and CEO Doug Wiersema.
(Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce President and CEO - Doug Wiersema)
Wiersema talked with appreciation for the hard working businesses and volunteers in the community, about his tenure at the helm of the Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce.
(Rock Falls Mayor David Blanton address the guests at Monday nights Chamber dinner)
The awards commenced as Joan Hermes honored Carrie Olson of the YMCA as the Ambassador of the Year.
(Carrie Olson accepts the Ambassador of the Year Award from Joan Hermes)
The Shoulder to the Wheel awards started with recognition of the BLIND – or – Building Lasting Impressions That Never Die program with the Youth Award.
(BLIND members introduce themselves to the crowd as they accept the Youth Award)
The Club or Organizational award went to the YMCA Summer Camp program and the Meritorious Award went to the Rock Falls Little League which encompasses a long history of success for boys and girls baseball and softball in the area.
(Representatives with the Rock Falls Little League accept honors for the Chamber's Meritorious Award.)
A highlight of the night was the presentation of the Individual Shoulder to the Wheel Award which was bestowed on Jeff Bright of Rock Falls, owner of Jeff Bright RV.
Bright was recognized for his involvement in the community on many levels. He reports that growing up in the community helps motivate him to be involved, hoping that his kids will benefit from the community in the future:
(Jeff Bright poses with his Should to the Wheel Individual Award)
Around 200 people attended the event, and the Chamber celebrated... as there were 23 ribbon cuttings over the past year, indicating growth in Rock Falls.
For more information on Rock Falls visit online at:
www.rockfalls61071.com
