Stars recognized at B’ville Chamber event
Amy Davidson
Pictured is Becky Brown- Educator of the Year, Jama Linkel-Cleghorn- Volunteer of the Year, Dr. Stephen Glaser and Jena Gerritsen- Organization of the Year, and Mary Ellen Rippe- Distinguished Service of the Year.
The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual awards dinner on Thursday, Mar. 27 to celebrate a night full of stars. The Hall-Knights of Columbus held the event and catered a meal to all chamber members and guests.
“The show goes on with precision and purpose.” stated Executive Director Melissa Tucker, as she spoke to the crowd. Melissa had an accident in January, which left her limited to help these last few months for the event. She nominated her office manager, Erin Telles, for Rockstar of the Year. With Erin’s leadership and support from board members, and the community, the annual dinner was a great success. Casey Robinson was nominated for Best Supportive Volunteer Award for stepping in and assisting with the event, always going above and beyond.
The Organization of the Year award went to Southeast Indiana Health Care. Jim Saner presented the award. Founder Dr. Stephen Glaser told the crowd, “For years as a doctor, it was my dream of starting a clinic for free to patients who did not have insurance or high deductibles.” With his vision and determination, Glaser formed the clinic. The clinic is beneficial to this community and well deserved of the organization of the year award. “With our dedicated volunteers and staff, the goal is that more people could benefit from our care. Spread the word for us. Thanks for this honor tonight.” Glaser concluded.
Volunteer of the Year award went to Jama Linkel-Cleghorn. Anne Wilson was honored to give out this award. Wilson stated, “Her success is contagious. Jama made a hallmark atmosphere for Santa’s House downtown in Batesville with the use of the new Bulldog Ready program.” Jama was very appreciative of the award telling the crowd, “Volunteering is a core part of my character. It makes me happy without recognition.” Jama continues with new ideas not only for the city of Batesville, but for the Batesville Community School Corp. and the Bulldog Ready program. Jama concluded, “I have shown that learning practice skills can be fun.”
The Distinguished Service Award this year went to Mary Ellen Rippe. Jim Doyle presented this award to Mary Ellen stating, “Mary Ellen is a do-er. She makes things happen.” Mary Ellen has brought a lot to this community. Mary Ellen stated to the crowd, “I always have had a love to donation solicitation, and to make this community an even better place.” Mary told a little bit about her journey.
After a tragic loss of young teen Sierra Adams, Sierra’s mother, Karen, wanted something to keep kids off the streets. With the help of Mary Ellen and others, Sierra’s Club was formed. Mary Ellen worked with volunteers and the community to form the Halloween spirit of Batesville-Fear Factory. This got teens involved, wanting to volunteer and be a part of the fun, scary experience, making it a success. This led to Batesville Booville and Trails of Fear.
In 2013, Mary Ellen opened the Party Place; this venue space has held school events, parties, weddings and organizational gathering. Mary Ellen’s give back to the community is endless and her dedication to making a difference is deserving of this award.
This year’s Educator Award went to Becky Brown. Brad Stoneking, Principal of Batesville Primary School, did the honor of presenting the award. Stoneking stated to Becky and the crowd, “You are a great teacher, but you are even better as a person. Our students have a mentor and hero. My daughter is in first grade and pretends to be Mrs. Brown.”
Brown has been teaching for 36 years for the Batesville Community School Corp. The amount of loyalty to one school is simply amazing. Brown’s first grade class put together a video to show their appreciation and love for her and was played at the event. This brought an emotional response from the crowd. Brown stated, “Teaching has been my dream as long as I can remember. My brothers and I spent hours in our basement growing up as I would pretend to be a teacher to them.” She was honored to be nominated and to be accepting this award
The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce thanked everyone for coming to the celebration of the stars. With sponsors, dinner committee, and The Hall staff, it set the stage for an unforgettable night.
