photo by Mike Wilson | Francois Tucker, Randy Mayeaux, and Lelenna and Todd Willson were recognized for their service in the community. Jeff Miller was also recognized but was not able to attend.
Amidst hairspray, leggings and the glam of the 80s, the Kremmling Chamber of Commerce and the Grand Gazette joined forces to recognize volunteers who have made Kremmling not just a town, but a community.
Todd and Lelenna Willson of West Grand Wishes were the first to be honored for their service to the community. For over 20 years, West Grand Wishes has provided Christmas gifts for children and families to help ensure they have a happy holiday. It is not unusual for West Grand Wishes to help 200 or more children during the holiday season. West Grand Wishes collects toys, as well as shops with donated money, gift wraps and hosts the children as Santa gives out the toys. Todd and Lelenna do the majority of this work to make all this happen. They are quick to share any recognition with the other volunteers who also help with the program.
Tucker were honored for their work on Kremmling’s Christmas tree, the tallest living Blue Spruce west of the Mississippi. This year Westminister, CO challenged Kremmling for the honor and Kremmling’s tree was featured on Channel 9 News.
For the past five years, Mayeaux and Tucker spent countless hours stringing lights and planning on how to make it better each year. This year they included the trunk of the tree also. The tree boasts nearly 2000 LED lights.
Jeff Miller, who was not in attendance, was also honored at the ceremony. He was honored for his help at the annual Wolford Fishing Tournament and for his help at other events. He is often a go-to-guy for his knowledge of events. He serves on the Planning and Zoning Board and also the Middle Park Medical Foundation.
Awards for the ceremony were customized by Robert Johnson, the owner of Concept Fabrication. Johnson used CNC (computer numerical control) plasma cutting, powder coating and CNC laser.
photo by Kim Cameron | Francois Tucker helps store Christmas lights until it is time decorate for the annual tree lighting on the first Saturday of December.
