Volunteers recognized as pillars of community

Business person of Man of the year James the year went to Leslie Tripp of State Farm Insurance. Grierson, M.D. Keynote speaker, Teri Lindgren, nursing administrator of Josephine xare facility, said she was pretty sure volunteers were made of flesh and blood, but the “secret element that separates the mundane from the magical” is as unique as each individual. Each has a passion for giving back to the community.

Her speech on the touchstones of volunteering rang true for many attending the Stanwood Chamber of Commerce man, woman and business person awards luncheon on Thursday at Warm Beach Camp.

What volunteers can accomplish is difficult to measure, but in the end, everyone is granted far more in return for their investment, said Lindgren.

She ended her sentiments with a quote from sports legend and cultural icon, Muhammad Ali: “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”

The nominees for the awards have earned their room for a variety of reasons.

Since 1985, said presenter Dave Pinkham, one man and one woman have been acknowledged by the chamber as classic examples of community leaders. A category to honor local business owners was added in 1996. The event is co-sponsored by the Stanwood/ Camano NEWS.

Among the group of nominees for man of the year, Dr. James Grierson stood out for establishing Safe Harbor Free Clinic in Stanwood and was awarded the honor. The non-profit, housed in the Stanwood-Camano — Skagit Valley Medical Center, provides health services to the low-income uninsured population of Island, Skagit and Snohomish counties.

“The free clinic has been an amazing blessing,” said Grierson.

He encouraged people to “find a passion” to focus on.

“This community has many needs,” he said.

Karla Jacks, executive director for the Camano Senior and Community Center, was honored as woman of the year.

Her service to the community includes working as a leader for Boy Scout Troop/ Pack 46 for eight years, PTA secretary for Port Susan Middle School for two years and co-authoring the program, Peer Buddy for Children with disabilities.

Jacks is also active as a key communicator for the Stanwood-Camano School District and is a member of the AAAA Booster Club, as well as the Stanwood Rotary Club.

She was unable to attend the luncheon.

Rumor has it she was taking some time away for herself, learning to surf on vacation in Florida.

Business person of the year went to Leslie Tripp of State Farm Insurance.

Tripp was recognized as a compassionate businesswoman, ready to help her agents and customers at the drop of the hat.

She volunteers for the Stanwood-Camano Area Food Bank and serves on the board for Hope Unlimited.

Recently, she gave her time to participate on the school district’s budget task force.

Tripp said her commitment to serving the area through her business carries through to volunteering.

“It happens automatically,” she said.

Tripp said the motivation to volunteer is contagious.

“This is the place I plan to call home forever,” she added.

The luncheon came to close as Mike Gibson, chamber president, prompted those in attendance to participate in volunteer efforts.

“The enjoyment is visible,” he said. “I hope we can keep that passion alive.”

Staff Reporter Adam Stewart: 629-8066 ext. 115 or astewart@scnews.com.