AAt the annual Christmas party for the Ozark Folk Center employees, Grady Spann presented the 2009 annual awards as well as highlights of the past season.
A special thank you to the Committee of 100, represented by Norma Sims for their contribution to the awards.
The following are the award winners:
Helen Meggs Volunteer of the Year Award (two separate awards)
Sam Smith
In recognition of his willingness to enthusiastically help wherever needed and his friendly interaction with the Ozark Folk Center staff and visitors and for volunteering a total of 362 hours during the regular season.
Dan Smith
In recognition of his willingness to enthusiastically help wherever needed and his friendly interaction with the Ozark Folk Center staff and visitors and for volunteering a total of 358 hours during the regular season.
Bette Rae Miller Spirit Award – Bill “Bubba” Standard
In recognition of his extraordinary enthusiasm for promoting the park and all its facilities. Reaching out with his own brand of humor, Bill spent the entire 2009 Season as a special first-contact crafts person, helping visitors understand the park better and building their interest in happenings at the Ozark Folk Center.
Craft Person of the Year – Gail Lewis
In recognition of her passionate perpetuation of the styles and interpretation of the history of clothing of the late 1800’s to early 1900’s. For 2009, Gail re-built the displays of historic clothing and re-decorated the Clothier Shop, making it an interactive, engaging feature for visitors to the Ozark Folk Center Craft Village.
Hospitality Award – Donna Farar
In recognition for her consistency in making sure each customer’s experience was unforgettable, building warm relationships with the staff, regular customers, and making new visitors feel at home. Her enthusiasm for making people feel at ease is contagious and reflects a true representation of what defines Ozark Folk Center hospitality.
Musician of the Year Award – Gresham McMillon
In recognition for the tireless hours and interaction while working with numerous bands throughout the year which has netted the admiration and praise of both locals and visitors and is a loved and valued part of the Ozark Folk Center’s expression of traditional music and craft.
Director’s Special Commendation – Shirley Blackwell
In recognition for her dedication to the Ozark Folk Center and her leadership she gives to the staff of the Smoke House. For the wonderful Peach and Apple Chunky she has produced for so many years that are now a signature product of the Ozark Folk Center.
(Above) Pictured are Sam Smith, Dan Smith, Bill Standard, Gail Lewis, Donna Farar and Norma Sims.
