2007 Good News Ceremony
Three groups and ten individuals have been named recipients of the 2007 Good News Awards given by Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce (GOACC). The awards honor those who enrich the community by their work and activities and were presented at the annual Good News Award Ceremony Thursday, May 10, at the Premier Banquet Center in Olean.
“The Good News Ceremony that the GOACC organizes annually allows the community to recognize individuals and organizations for their contributions in building a strong, dynamic and prosperous neighborhood,” said John Sayegh, Chief Operating Officer of Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Sayegh added, “These fine people are your neighbors and your friends and they represent all that is good about this community that we live and work in. Those extraordinary individual contribute to the well-being of this area and give us all a reason to feel proud and be a part of this community.”
The Chamber of Commerce will recognize recipients in eight categories: Youth, Education, Government, Wellness, Senior, Religious, Culture, and Community. The Youth Award will go to Faith Benson, an Allegany-Limestone Central School student, and to David Allen, a student from Olean High School. Faith and David will be recognized for their outstanding service to our community.
The Education Award presented to Mr. Jeff Anastasia and the Parent Education Program. Mr. Anastasia’s embodies what the Olean City School District mission identifies as core values: excellence; honesty; learning; mutual respect; responsibility; and sensitive to diverse needs and teamwork. Parent Education Program’s award acknowledges the selfless service to rebuild families. Jon Baker is recognized in the Government Category for his many years of service with the Cattaraugus County Legislature serving the County residents.
Bill Burdsall and the Dr. Lyle F. Renodin Foundation received the Wellness Awards. Mr. Burdsall has served as the area’s coordinator for NYS Special Olympics for 38 years. His selfless dedication and leadership has significantly and positivity affected the lives of kids with special needs. The Renodin Foundation has focused its energy and resources in the Twin Tier region to improve the residents’ quality of life. The Foundation supports and makes grants to benefit charitable ministries and works consistent with the historical health-related mission of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.
Betsy Leute ecognized with the Senior Award for her many years of volunteerism with Interfaith Caregivers, Genesis House, Southern Tier Quilters Association, and St. Mary of the Angels Parish. Hugh “Al” Morrow will be presented the Senior Award in recognition of his many years of volunteering with the Westons Mills Fire Department and Olean General Hospital and for the special care he has given to many children with pony rides and horseback riding lessons. Debbie Bigham will be recognized with the Religious Award for her devoted service to the Ecumenical and faith sharing community. Debbie’s efforts will continue to make a difference in the lives of children and many others in our community.
Jennifer “Jan” Rhody received the Culture Award for her duties as a teacher of music for the Olean City School District. Ms. Rhody is an encourager, a nurturer, a person who goes well beyond the boundaries of the school day, both to instill a love of music in students and to show them the vast richness music can bring to their lives.
The Leadership Cattaraugus recognized with the Community group award. Leadership Cattaraugus’ mission is to grow a network of informed active leaders who work collaboratively to build a better community.
Julie Wolf was recognized for her contributions to Community. Ms. Wolf has provided strong and valued leadership to many organizations: American Cancer Society, Interfaith Caregivers and Association, Gift Tree Program, United Way, Senior Planning Board, Greater Olean Area Churches, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.
| Awardees |