ORANGE — Tuesday night provided certain North Quabbin residents with confirmation of how much their community appreciates their work.
Boiler Bar and Grille hosted the North Quabbin Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau’s annual awards banquet, where people typically proving their character in the shadows were welcomed into the spotlight for recognition of their hard work.
The chamber’s Citizen of the Year award was bestowed posthumously to Pauline “Polly” Whipps, while 17-year-old Brian Tomlinson received the first North Quabbin Inspiration Award, Marc Ostberg was recognized as Director of the Year and Red Apple Farm in Phillipston won the Business of the Year award.
Dinner was served at 6:30 p.m. and the award presentation began at 7:15. There was also a silent auction.
Born in Athol in 1934, Whipps graduated Athol High School in 1952 and Green Mountain College two years later. She worked at Olyers Hat Shop on Main Street and later bought the business. She founded Whipps Inc. with her husband 1977 and was active in the company until recently. A sixth-generation Athol resident, she was involved with the Athol Historical Society, Athol Hospital Auxiliary, Athol Women’s Club and The Salvation Army. She also volunteered more than 10 years comforting and supporting patients at Athol Memorial Hospital’s oncology clinic.
Whipps’ family, including State. Rep. Susannah Whipps Lee, R-Athol, accepted the award of her behalf. The matriarch died in February. State Rep. Paul Mark was on hand to present the family with a Massachusetts Senate citation in recognition of Whipps’ commitment and generosity toward her community.
Ostberg, the branch manager of Hometown Bank in Athol, accepted his award with a handshake from Chamber Executive Director Mark Wright.
Tomlinson became the first recipient of North Quabbin Inspiration award for his resolve in the face of hardship. A passionate student athlete at Athol High School, he experienced pain in his right leg and shin last year and underwent an MRI for what his family thought was a meniscus tear. A bone tumor was discovered and Tomlinson was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in June. He had part of his right leg amputated in October and has maintained a positive attitude throughout his battle.
Using crutches to get to the front of the room, Tomlinson stood alongside his family members and expressed gratitude for the honor. He also told the 17 tables of guests that his family members and the community as a whole serve as his own inspiration.
Al and Nancy Rose, owners of Red Apple Farm, accepted their Business of the Year award. Al said he is privileged to work with his wife every day and continue the agricultural tradition his family started.
“I always say my grandparents built the ship, my dad steered the ship and we’re just wind behind the sails,” he said.
Earlier in the evening, Paul Anderson was given the chamber service award and Brian Hunton got the presidential service award.