The Kingman Area Chamber of Commerce held its 45th Annual Andy Devine Awards at the Elks Lodge #468 recognizing Chamber Members for a number of achievements. Those who received awards did so by working to make the Kingman community a better place. Nominees were awarded in 11 different categories.
Beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation was followed by remarks from the Chamber of Commerce organizers. As a dinner of chicken and steak skewers was served, organizers called on Chamber members to receive awards for their efforts.
Student of the Year Julianna Couser, a Kingman native, is an active volunteer and feels it is essential to give back to the community. Couser is currently attending both KAHS and Mohave Community College and has demonstrated exemplary talents in academics. Sponsor Taco Bell presented this award.
Educator of the year presented by Chicago Title went to Joy Short, who operates Little Brick Schoolhouse. The Chamber of Commerce recognized her for “going above and beyond to help each child and the family that attends.”
As for Organization of the Year, Kingman Cancer Center took the award. The non-profit was recognized for providing support for cancer patients and their families. Teri Williams was honored with the Public Service Award. Williams of Kingman Regional Medical Center translates trends and characteristics to public health programs for her community. Williams said, “I am thankful for this award. With everything that happened last year, public service really goes to our nurses and doctors.”
In the Young Professional of the Year category, there was a 3-way tie between Dyllan Farney, a role model for youths with disabilities; Lauren Peterson, a Ph.D. focusing on alternative education methods; and Sharon Stockbridge, a City Commission member. The Bee News received the award for Business of the Year for keeping the community connected. Presented by T.R.Orr, the Most Improved Commercial Property, the award went to Ben LaParne and the K-mart Plaza. When it came to Citizen of the Year, Marcia Joslin of Kingman Cares was presented with her own Andy. Joslin said, “I wanted to say thank you. It’s not something I can do by myself. There are a lot of organizations and people in this community that help me. We’re delivering food and care packs, medical equipment, and helping people who get medication who can’t make it to the store on their own to get it. I don’t do it all myself.”
When It came to recognizing the Chamber of Commerce administrative members, the Ambassador of the Year went to Lori Gunnette. Her fellow Ambassadors selected her. The Chamber Member of the Year went to Anderson Ford for their support of the programs and missions of the Chamber of Commerce. Lastly, the Chamber of Commerce recognized Owen Shultz as a Lifetime Achiever. Shultz worked to get the Hualapai Valley Fire Department started along with the Kingman First Pentecostal Church of God. The Chamber said, “Owen has shared his life serving God, fellow citizens, and his country.”
The Chamber wrapped up the ceremony thanking its Board of Directors and staff and congratulated its nominees. The Chamber of Commerce is in located downtown Kingman at 309 E. Beale St. The Chamber can also be contacted at 928-753-6253 or on their website www.kingmanchamber.com.
Chad Walker
