The 58th St. Pat's Celebration went off like clockwork despite Mother Nature trying her hardest to keep the good Irish folks inside on Saturday with a slight dusting of snow, colder temperatures, and strong winds. This year's festivities started on Wednesday with the painting of the Shamrock, the annual Irish Walk of Fame Awards, and the Chamber of Commerce awards. Scott Poese and Tom Allan received this year's honors for the Walk of Fame. Poese and his wife were also crowned King and Queen of this year's event, while Roger Miller was voted in as this year's Grand Marshal of the parade. The annual Chamber of Commerce awards were given for Community Service, Ambassador, and Customer Service. Deb Kelly was awarded the Community Service award due to her leadership with the Avera St. Anthony's Board and is always thinking of new ways to show appreciation for the staff at the hospital. Most recently, when the parish center explosion occurred, Deb sprang into action, starting the day helping the hospital staff get set up at the community center and then helping coordinate with St. Mary's School to secure locations for them to continue their classes at alternate locations. Whatever the task, big or small, Deb puts her heart into the job and ensures that things are handled as smoothly as possible. She always makes sure to add special touches to make an event classy. Deb is a wonderful community leader. Kelli Eiler was awarded the Customer Service Award for being a ray of sunshine at Shamrock Nursery! Whether you are looking for the perfect petunia or a heartfelt memorial gift, Kelli can help. She can create the ideal adornment for your holiday table or guide you in planting the perfect pot for your patio. Her smiling face and helpful nature put everyone in a good mood. Kelli goes above and beyond daily to make everyone's shopping experience at Shamrock Nursery memorable. Riley Wakefield was given the Ambassador Award. When he competes in professional rodeos, Riley represents O'Neill all over the US and Canada. We appreciate how Wakefield puts O'Neill, Nebraska, before the spectators every time he competes! Riley appreciates the support and encouragement he's received from the community throughout his rodeo career. Roger Miller, recently retired from O'Neill Electric Motor Service. Roger moved to O'Neill in 1982 where he started his career as an electrician for Midwest Electric. In 2001, Roger and his business partner, Gary Pistulka opened O'Neill Electric where he worked for 24 years until his retirement this past December. He joined the O'Neill Volunteer Fire department in 1987 where he served as Assistant Fire Chief for 25 years, as president for 4 years, fire chief for 7 years and currently holds this position. He has been an EMT for 37 years and was on the 911 board for 9 years. Roger has been instrumental in assisting the community with Summerfest activities such as the street dance and recently, the air show. He is always working to improve the fire department and keeping our community safe. Roger is a member of Christ Lutheran Church and has been on numerous boards and committees throughout his years of service. Roger and his wife Mary have two daughters, Stephanie and Craig Drueke and Elizabeth and Aron Parks. He is the proud papa of 6 grandchildren, who he is looking forward to spending lots more time with!
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