Saturday, April 11, 1998

Reporter-News salutes

Interim to permanent

The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra decided Andrea Molina was a keeper, elevating her from interim executive director to permanent executive director. Molina had been appointed as a temporary replacement for Wade Kelley, who resigned in December, and Philharmonic officials apparently liked what they saw. Andrea is also the orchestra's pianist and is married to principal cellist Moises Molina. The Molinas have been in Abilene three years, and we're glad to have people here who make such outstanding contributions.

Feted in Merkel

Merkel native Carl "Cobb" Smith -- a cheerleader for Merkel's parades, pep rallies and ball games -- was named Citizen of the Year by the Merkel Chamber of Commerce. The Woman of the Year award went to lifelong Merkel resident Willie Reynolds. Longtime farmer Samuel Ford "Buddy" Smith Jr. was named Senior Citizen of the Year. Danny Malone, a lifelong Merkel resident and Merkel school trustee, was named Ag Business Person of the Year. And second-grade teacher Beverly Davis was named teacher of the year. Congratulations to these honorees.

Comanche honors

The Comanche Chamber of Commerce named outgoing President Karen Erwin as Woman of the Year and Terry Barnes as Man of the Year. Erwin, chairman of the rodeo parade since 1993 and the Christmas parade since 1994, is active in numerous local organizations. Barnes is president of the Comanche County Pow-Wow and the Comanche Kiwanis Club. Dr. W.A. "Bill" Hill, a longtime veterinarian and civic activist, received the Cornerstone Award. Rodney and Sheila Stephens were named the Agricultural Family of the Year. The Comanche Youth Council was named Organization of the Year, and Grand Central Foods was named the Business of the Year. Plus, a special Volunteer Award was presented to Bob and Suzanne Jones.

Awards in Gorman

The Gorman Chamber of Commerce recognized the enduring efforts of Fred and Joy Rogers by presenting them the Community Service Award. The two lifetime residents of Eastland County seem to have had a hand in just about everything that has happened in Gorman since their marriage in 1952. Also honored were Durwood and Aleta Burgess, winners of the Agricultural Award, and Gene Foster, civic volunteer and owner of Foster Floral since 1969, who was presented the Special Recognition Award. Congratulations to all these honorees from towns around the Big Country whose civic pride and dedication combine to make up the spirit of the Big Country.