A special perk of an awards banquet is the element of surprise.
And none was caught more off guard Friday night than former Iola Mayor John McRae who was honored with a Lifetime Service Award at Thrive Allen Countys annual banquet.
McRaes duties as mayor for 12 years, president of Rotary, Iolas Chamber of Commerce, Iola Industries, chairman of Tri-Valley Development Services, trustee of the former Iola Bank and Trust, and a founding member of Thrive have all contributed to leading the county in a positive direction and making it a hub of commerce and industry, according to Allie Utley, an Iola High School student with the responsibility of introducing McRae.
It was during McRaes tenure as mayor in the late 1990s that Russell Stover Candies came to Iola, and that 60 new homes were built at the Cedarbrook Addition after the 2007 flood.
McRae and his wife, Merryl, took the stage to accept a warm round of applause from the crowd of more than 250 at St. Johns Parish Hall.
The two were also instrumental in seeing the possibilities of rail trails in property alongside the long-abandoned Lehigh Cement, now known as the Lehigh Portland Trails, an extensive network of walking and biking trails that meander between Elm Creek and the abandoned quarry.
CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates, received the nights other top award, The Donna, named after the late Donna Talkington, a volunteer extraordinaire.
CASA was noted for its tireless and fierce defense of children who must appear in court due to abuse and/or neglect.
At any time there are 200 children across Allen, Neosho, Wilson and Woodson counties in need of an advocate. CASA brings together volunteers and kids in need to not only ensure that these vulnerable children are protected but also that the cycle of abuse and neglect is broken.
The selflessness of volunteers who are willing to enter this incredibly emotional work keeps childrens needs at the forefront of family courts, the foster care system and schools.
Aimee Daniels directs the program for the 31st District Court system.
MARILYN LOGAN was recognized as Thrives Volunteer of the Year. As a non-profit dedicated to making Allen County the healthiest rural county in Kansas, Thrive depends on volunteers to help answer calls, greet visitors, participate in community clean-ups, build and maintain rail trails, and organize events.
Logans dynamic personality is a perfect fit, Thrive representatives noted, adding that her compassionate and caring attitude makes for a great first impression.
