Celebrate Guthrie Center event held Friday

By Shane Goodman | Times Vedette

Individuals from several organizations in the Guthrie Center community gathered together at the Guthrie Activity Center on Friday, May 9 to celebrate the progress made in the last year and to recognize the Volunteer of the Year.

This annual event included updates from Mary J. Barnett Library, Little Charger Early Learning Center, Main Street Guthrie Center, Guthrie Center Area Development, Guthrie County Supervisors, ACGC Schools, the All-School Reunion, Guthrie Center Chamber of Commerce, Guthrie County Hospital, and the city of Guthrie Center. Dinner was catered by Café on the Hill.

Lisa Calvert was unanimously named the Volunteer of the Year, as every nomination form that was submitted was for her. Calvert has been involved with numerous school, 4H and FFA activities while raising her family and supporting her husband, Jim. She handled most of the financial work for her church, while also donating time for music events and church programs. She served as the treasurer for the Guthrie Activity Center for more than 10 years, playing a big role when the center was updated and remodeled. She has also been the treasurer for the Guthrie Center Area Development Group for more than 30 years, donating her time and resources. Comments about her that were shared by Mary Jo Laughery and Pam Kunkle, last year’s recipients, included:

“She’s been a boss in every sense of the word — at work, at home, and in just about every corner of this town.”
“She has been an active member in our community by humbling helping many organizations such as Economic Development Board, Main Street Guthrie Center, First Christian Church board, the GC Activity Center board, Midwest Partnership, Chamber and so many more board and organizations.”
“She mentors new businesses coming into town as well as struggling businesses.”
“She offers her humble advice from a loving place in her heart.”
“She is eager to take part in our community, does not ask for any recognition and takes the lead when needed. She is an integral part of our community.”