The Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View, AR held its annual Awards Banquet to honor their outstanding staff. The Committee of 100, an OFCSP volunteer support group, sponsors these awards in addition to many other events and activities at the center.
Craft Person of the Year goes to Linda Odom, of Aunt Linda’s Apothecary Shop. In 2012 she has remodeled her second shop; taught soap making classes to students from around the USA; worked as a host with the Road Scholar program; trained two apprentices; and helped countless visitors use the new electric mobility lift – all while single-handedly running one of the top shops in the Craft Village.
The Helen Meggs Volunteer of the Year Award goes to the Master Naturalist. This group of naturalist has contributed to the maintenance of the Herb Gardens this past year, contributing much needed labor to an important aspect of the park.
The Musician of the Year for 2012 is Caleb Cobb, Samuel Cobb and Nathan Cobb. The Cobb Brothers, all multi instrumentalists, got their start on the stage at the Ozark Folk Center State Park and have become one of the premier musical groups in the region. Aside from their outstanding musical ability Caleb, Samuel and Nathan are all fine young men and represent Mountain View and all of Stone County in a way we can all be proud of.
The 2012 Hospitality award goes to Assistant Superintendent Josh Epperson. Josh is the true example of hospitality. Voted by his peers and employees for consistently going out of his way to make park guest happy.
Shawn Hoefer was voted by his peers to receive the Bette Rae Miller Spirit Award for his dedication to the mission of the Ozark Folk Center State Park. Shawn consistently exceeds the visitors expectations, voluntarily assists the park with special events, and other areas within his wide realm of expertise. The operation at the OFCSP is better for Shawn’s contributions.”
This year there were three Arkansas State Parks Director’s Special Commendations awarded.
Bette Rae Miller – For 26 seasons of friendship, hospitality, and work. For 26 seasons of setting the bar for customer service. For 26 seasons of being the one employee who made hundreds of thousands of visitors feel instantly at home. For 26 seasons of being the reason for a Bette Rae Miller Spirit Award. For 26 seasons of being the loveliest person in Stone County.
Mary Gillihan – Mary consistently does her job with excellence, being a leader in her field, and always energetic. Mary is known for her hospitality, storytelling, and musical talent.
Melody Miller – For her tireless work, consistently going above and beyond expectations of guests and staff, faithfulness to the operation, and creating order and efficiency in the work place.
