Annual Banquet held February 2 - Toubin and Tate named Man and Woman of the Year

 
            A crowd of nearly 600 people attended the Annual Banquet held by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Brenham Economic Development Foundation on February 2.  The theme was “Leadership: Sharing the Vision” and John Sharp, Chancellor of Texas A&M University System, was the keynote speaker.  Senator Lois Kolkhorst presented special remarks to the crowd and Charles W. Schwartz of the Texas A&M Board of Regents introduced Chancellor Sharp. Chad Gerke served as Master of Ceremonies.
Thanks to all the members and guests who attended, and to the following headline sponsors for ensuring the success of the event: 
   
            After the keynote presentation, EDF Chairman Billy Holle was called to the stage.  He talked about the history of the EDF and thanked retiring board member David Yeager for his years of service.  He also thanked several partner organizations including the City of Brenham/BCDC, Washington County, and Bluebonnet Electric. 
Next the Chamber Board Chairman for 2015, Wesley Brinkmeyer, thanked the retiring directors whose terms ended in December: Dennis Crowson, Michael Groves, Brice Milliorn, Ash Patel and Gracie Slattery. He also thanked the officers who served alongside him in 2015:  Michael Pittman, Kurt Alfred, Brice Milliorn, Michael Groves and Liz Hopkins.
The current president of the Blue Blazers, Brice Milliorn, thanked the club members for all their hard work helping to recruit and retain members. He then announced the Blue Blazer of the Year award. It was won by Eddie Harrison, longtime member.
            Twila Tate won the 2015 Woman of the Year-Lifetime Achievement Award.  She was introduced by 2014 winner Nita Hyatt.  Leon Toubin won the 2015 Man of the Year Award, introduced by the prior year’s winner Donald Ahrens.  Both winners were stunned and surprised.  They expressed sincere appreciation for being selected and talked about what a great community this is to live in and serve others.
            That concluded a wonderful evening of celebration for this community’s business leaders and hard-working volunteers.  Plans for next year’s banquet are already underway.