MASON CITY – The 19th Annual Volunteer Recognition Award Banquet was held on November 10 at the MacNider Art Museum Salsbury Room. The theme this year was Gems. Around 60 volunteers were recognized for their work on behalf of the Volunteer Service Department on various projects including Adopt-A-Street, Adopt-A-Lot, Beautification, Parks, MacNider Museum events, Highland Golf Course, and other special projects including school partnerships, graffiti eradication, tree plantings and administrative assistance.
Karen Byrne and Craig Clark were this year’s recipients of the Shining Star Award. Karen volunteers her time at the Cemetery putting numerous hours of work on the History Walk, to help make this project a huge success.
Craig Clark has been volunteering with the Recreation Department for many years, overseeing and maintaining the Koloni Bikes.
The 2022 Shining Star Team recognition was awarded to RAGBRAI VOLUNTEERS donating countless hours throughout the entire Mason City community to welcome the thousands of riders, making this event a memorable success.
Rookie of the Year Award in its 3rd year was presented to a new volunteer to Mason City, December DeBattista. Her volunteer efforts made the Halloween Party for the Recreation Department enjoyable for all!
This year the GEM theme included two different awards (Going the Extra Mile) that were awarded to Jane Fischer and Robert Berggren; Jane for her huge support of the Beautification gardens for the RAGBRAI event and Robert (Bob) for his volunteer time with numerous groups and projects, above and beyond his job!
The Shining Star Award is awarded to individuals and teams or businesses that contribute to the needs of the City. It’s through their efforts that others see the commitment and dedication they share with the community.
City Council members were present to help celebrate the contributions volunteers make to the city organization. Mayor Bill Schickel gave his appreciation and thanks to the Volunteers, City Administrator Aaron Burnett presented the Shining Star Team Award, Recreation and Cemetery Department Staff assisted in presenting the Shining Star Awards and Rookie of the Year. Volunteer Department presented GEM Awards.
