For Stan Garwood, receiving the Citizen of the Year award may not have been his biggest surprise.
‘It was a huge surprise to see all my kids here,? said Garwood, honored at the Community Awards breakfast for his volunteer work. ‘I should win more awards like this so we can get together. It’s always good to have them visit.?
He volunteers with North Oakland Disaster Relief Team, which he founded, Clarkston Optimist Club, Lighthouse North, Clarkston Area Youth Association, Chamber of Commerce, and other groups.
‘I can’t think of a life more fulfilling than mine when I’m helping to give people hope back,? he said.
Hosted by Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce in honor of Michigan Week, nine individuals and groups earned Community Awards.
‘We received lots of wonderful nominations this year ? the winners are top notch,? said Heidi Wood, chamber president, at the May 21 breakfast meeting at Fountains Golf and Banquet Center.
‘The nominations get stronger every year,? said Anita Banach, awards co-chair along with Johnna Goodwin and Kelly Hyer.
John Bowman Chevrolet earned the Community Beautification award for renovation work to his Dixie Highway dealership.
‘In 25 years, I’ve sold over 20,000 Chevrolets,? Bowman said. ‘I hope to be around for another 25 years.?
Dick Ellis and Kyle Hughes each earned Adult Youth Volunteer awards.
‘I’m surprised, very pleased to receive this award,? said Ellis, honored for his work as a mentor at Clarkston Junior High School. ‘There are many fine volunteers in community schools who make a difference in young people’s lives. That’s our goal.?
He works with at-risk students in grades 8-9, spending quality time with them, teaching basic skills, and assisting with other important life skills.
Hughes was recognized for her work with high school robotics students.
‘I want to thank Clarkston Community Schools for supporting all my crazy ideas,? she said. ‘CSM Tech makes an incredible difference in children’s lives.?
Zach Rabideau, ninth grader at Clarkston Junior High School, earned Young Person of the Year for his volunteer work with the Salvation Army, school Lunch Buddy and library programs, Junior Olympics, and other community events.
Community Enhancement award went to Clarkston Rotary Club for its programs including scholarships, playground equipment at Depot park, shelter boxes, Labor Day Parade, Shoes for Kids, and holiday decorations.
Oakland Schools Technical Campus Northwest earned the Community Collaboration award for providing students valuable real-world experience while offering support and assistance to community groups.
Bill Burr of All Saints Cemetery earned Businessperson of the year.
‘I’m very humbled ? I wish to thank all those who make this possible,? said Burr, who volunteers with the chamber, Knights of Columbus and Optimist Club. ‘I will cherish it with all my heart.?