August 31, 2011
09/01/11 The first annual Marshall County Soaring Eagle Recognition Dinner was held Wednesday evening at Christo’s Banquet Center. Mayor Mark Senter and John (Ford) Oliver served as master of ceremonies. Following a wonderful meal John Oliver gave a brief history of the 100th anniversary of Scouting.
Mayor Senter explained the Soaring Eagle Award noting that it is exclusive to the LaSalle Council. This award recognizes individuals who have been successful in their field of endeavor and have demonstrated integrity, a record of volunteer leadership, service to youth and their community. He noted that recipient must carry “The Spirit of Scouting” into their adult life. Soaring Eagle Award honorees are people who have been unselfish in their service to others on an individual and community basis. They seek no return for their service, other than satisfaction of aiding their fellow citizens, their community and their nation.
Pat Bridges, CEO of the LaSalle Council of Boy Scouts of America introduced this year’s honoree, Dave Gibson. Gibson is Chairman Emeritus at Gibson. A former Boy Scout, he received his Eagle Scout in 1956, served as a scout leader, is President of the LaSalle Council Executive Board and received the Silver Beaver from the Boy Scouts in 1987.
Although Mr. Gibson didn’t have any prepared statement he said that he has been a scout for 60 years and noted that values he learned from Scouting served as an integral part of his life’s development.
Also receiving an honor during the dinner was John Oliver and U.S. Granules. The Boy Scout Good Turn Award recognizes outstanding companies or individuals that make a significant and enduring contribution in the community where they live. They are noted for good turns that focus on one or more of the five core values of the Boy Scouts of America: Leadership, Achievement, Community, Service, Character and the Outdoors.
Nick Chaney accepted the award on behalf of Mr. Oliver. He said that 25 years ago Mr. Oliver purchase and started U.S. Granules. He has given back to the community over the years and feels in his heart the need to be a part of the community. He also knows the importance of give back as much as you can to the community.