By Bobby Tingle

Two of the individuals who were recognized Tuesday night at the Orange County Chamber Annual Awards Banquet were impressive. Neither seemed to be particularly in the newsmaker category. Neither appeared to be the type you would find in the spotlight. Yet both were recognized for their contributions to the community.

Chad Stevens accepted the Business Community Service award on behalf of Bridgefield Electrical Services. Chad has a team of volunteers who support his efforts to give back to the community. One of those is Krissy Reese who gives credit to the employees of Bridgefield for the success of this organizations community involvement. Krissy is involved with CASA for Children and their work helping children in need of foster care. Stevens along with the rest of the volunteers put on Rope for the Kids, a rodeo event held to raise support for CASA.

Recently the Special Angels Rodeo was held at Stevens T2 Arena. The Orange County Sheriff’s Posse sponsors this event and it is normally held at their arena. With the threat of bad weather the event was moved to the T2 Arena. I had the pleasure of attending the rodeo with several of my co-workers. It was impressive to say the least. Hundreds of ‘Special Angels’ were treated to food, fun and a rodeo experience.

Steve Jones accepted the Citizen of the Year award. I have never met Steve who apparently is also known as “Uncle Steve”. Steve didn’t win the award in the last year though. He has been a part of many community events during his life and even in retirement he continues. Major Jones served many years on the Orange Police force. As if that was not service enough, he found time to volunteer at community events as well. And unless he is a good actor, I doubt very seriously from his reaction to receiving the award, that he has served all these years to gain the spotlight.

Look around and I bet you will find folks doing well also. When you find them thank them and encourage them.