By TAMMIE NASON
KWCB Director
The Panacea Community Center buzzed with excitement on June 27 as the Keep Wakulla County Beautiful (KWCB) Awards dinner honored local heroes for their dedication to community and environmental stewardship. The event spotlighted the tireless efforts of individuals, businesses, and organizations committed to making Wakulla County a cleaner, greener place.
The evening began with opening remarks by KWCB outgoing president Jim Davis, followed by the incoming president Steve Sanabria, who served as the emcee. Sheriff Jared Miller attended and shared impressive statistics on the amount of litter collected by the work crew over the past year, reporting that 1,936 bags of trash, weighing 48,400 lbs., were gathered in 2023. Sheriff Miller also presented a plaque to KWCB for their partnership. FWC NW Region Volunteer Program Biologist Rhett Barker gave a presentation on the Diamondback Terrapin Turtle, found in the area, inspiring many attendees to sign up to help monitor and track these turtles. The invocation was given by KWCB Executive Director Tammie Nason.
Dinner, catered by Posey’s, was served on eco-friendly dinnerware made from palm leaves, with bamboo utensils and recyclable, reusable steel cups. The theme, “Wilderness Wonders: Nurturing Nature and Honoring Habitat,” was reflected in the decorations. Live plants adorned the venue, with centerpieces featuring bowls of succulents, moss, rocks, or live comets. Life size image cutouts of local wildlife were also placed among the plants.
A mural, donated by Verizon through a partnership with American Rivers, was unveiled in recognition of KWCB’s participation in the annual American Rivers National River Cleanup. This stunning piece of art added a special touch to the evening, focused on climate protection.
The awards were made by KWCB board member and past multi-term President Steve Cushman. The awards were a cedar block that was stained and varnished, atop the cedar block was a beautiful slice of blue agate, and the award plate attached to the front.
Award Recipients
Adopt a Road Group Award
Winner: Rybak Realty
Nominees: American Legion 114, COABI
This award recognizes groups for their significant contributions to keeping litter at bay, considering cleanups reported, accuracy of reporting, volunteer hours, and engagement methods. Rybak Realty emerged victorious for their outstanding efforts. Steve Cushman came upon an antique litter picker, and made a display that will feature the Adopt a Road winners for each year.
Green Guardian Public Service Award
Winner: Rachell Mathis
Nominee: Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office
This award honors local government groups, employees, or elected officials who go above and beyond their expected duties out of love for Wakulla County and its natural wonders. Rachell Mathis was celebrated for her exceptional dedication to community improvement and longstanding environmental commitment.
Business/Nonprofit or Community Sustainability & Beautification Award
Winner: Panacea Waterfronts
Nominees: Friends of St. Marks Refuge, White Squirrel Nursery & Botanique
This award recognizes businesses, organizations, or neighborhoods that enhance visual appeal, livability, sustainability, and community pride through beautification initiatives or environmentally friendly alternatives. Panacea Waterfronts stood out for their significant contributions.
Golden Vest Volunteer of the Year Award
Winner: Dan Wagner
Nominee: Ashlee Barton
This award acknowledges individuals who dedicate their time and effort to volunteering, making a meaningful impact, inspiring others, and embodying the values of service and community engagement. Dan Wagner’s exemplary service earned him this honor.
Don Henderson Award
Winner: Steve Cushman
Nominee: Heather Rybak
Presented in memory of Don Henderson, a long-time KWCB member and eight-term Board President, this award recognizes individuals who exemplify Henderson’s qualities and values of leadership, service, and commitment to excellence over many years. Steve Cushman was honored for his significant contributions to the community. Erica Morse, Executive Director for KWCB for a period with Don, presented a tribute and the award.
Youth Volunteer Award
Winner: Caden Gruebel
This award celebrates the collective efforts of youth in volunteering, emphasizing their impact, collaboration, creativity, and commitment to making a difference. Caden Gruebel, the sole nominee with three nominations, received a $2,000 scholarship for his outstanding efforts in community cleanliness and other volunteer activities. Caden also serves on the 4H Youth Council.
Looking Ahead
KWCB plans to make this an annual event, hoping for more nominations in the future. The youth scholarship is also planned to be awarded annually. The evening was a heartfelt celebration of those who make Wakulla County a better place to live, honoring the spirit of community service and environmental stewardship.
