Tri-Valley Developmental Services celebrated its 50th anniversary with a party and awards ceremony. The event was held the afternoon of May 1 at Central Park Pavilion in Chanute. 175 Attendees were treated to celebration cupcakes and punch as well as a travel mug commemorating Tri-Valley’s 50 years. The afternoon’s entertainment was Robbie Bell, who performed hits from the year 1975. Right before the awards ceremony, CEO Bill Fiscus raised a glass to toast Tri-Valley’s past, present, and future.
Following the toast, the annual awards ceremony was held. Awards were given to individuals and organizations who actively support Tri-Valley in its mission to support those with intellectual or developmental disabilities in Allen, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Elk, Greenwood, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson counties.
Awards were presented to the following businesses and organizations.
– Business of the Year: Ruddick’s Furniture and Flooring, Fort Scott and C & H Lanes, Chanute.
– Achievement Awards: Koby Erie, Michael Mitchell, and Matthew Patch.
– Ed Bideau Advocacy Award: Jim Godinez.
– Masterson Family Award: Beth Ringwald.
– Friends of Tri-Valley Foundation Visionary Award: Mike Reid.
– Winfred Jent Award: The City of Moline.
– Lifetime Achievement Award: The Grain Bin.
– Employee of the Year Award: Melissa Gillenwater.
– CEO Award: Grace Kramer.
Grace Kramer, left, poses with her CEO award, and her husband, Larry Kramer, right. Courtesy Photo
