The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Sisters Habitat for Humanity board members expressed gratitude to all their volunteers who have helped make home ownership possible for working families in Sisters, at their annual Volunteer Appreciation Barbecue at Village Green Park last week. Ninety-plus volunteers showed up to enjoy the fun, food, and hugs.

Toni Landis, board president, introduced the board members, and thanked them and all the volunteers in the Thrift Store, in the ReStore, and on the homebuilding sites for their service.

Executive Director Sharlene Weed described the President's Volunteer Service Award, which recognizes citizens who have achieved a required number of hours of service over a 12-month period or over their lifetime.

"Presidential recognition sets you apart from your peers," Weed said. "It is a tremendous honor. Even though you may not seek recognition, your example can deliver a powerful message that encourages others to take action."

Weed introduced the new members of Habitat's 1,000 Hours Club and presented them with a bouquet of flowers in a Habitat mug. They are: John Milne (building); Micky Macey, Jackie Kvanig, Lael Cooksley, Paula Surmann, Sherry LaVoe (Habitat Thrift Store); Kit Thompson, Diane Goble (Habitat ReStore).

ReStore Manager Robin Tawney thanked her volunteers for all the things they do that keep this successful program running smoothly and providing homes for so many deserving families.

"I couldn't do this without you," she said, with tears in her eyes.

Marlina Moffett, who is the newest homeowner-to-be, expressed her appreciation to everyone for making her dream of home ownership possible for their family, including husband Tim, their two boys, Sean and Russell and the new one on the way. She is happy to be able to live and work in Sisters, and to add to the school population.

With speeches out of the way and the rock "n' roll music blaring, the food line opened up to feed the hoards of hungry volunteers - burgers and sausages hot off the grill, great salads from Melvin's Fir Street Market, topped off with a chocolate gratitude cake.