A nova is a brightly shining star. Community Partnership of the Ozarks feels that organizations and individuals that tirelessly work at making our community a better place to live should be recognized as stars. The Diamond Gala, the 10th annual NOVA banquet, was held Nov. 29, 2016 at Central Assembly of God.
The annual NOVA banquet hosted by CPO allows us to reflect on the achievements and contributions made by dedicated people in our community. The NOVAs are a highlight of our year and we truly enjoy the opportunity to celebrate so many of you that go unnoticed for all you do for and in your neighborhoods.
The Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) was awarded the Organizational Rising Star Award.
The NAC is an advisory board created to increase communication between organized neighborhood associations, City Council and City staff. The NAC also focuses on issues common to all neighborhoods in the City. The NAC has championed the cause of reducing chronic nuisances and crime, and increasing neighborhood solidarity. The NAC is chaired by Pete Radecki and led by a subcommittee of neighborhood residents, dubbed the Positive Action Committee (PAC).
Individual Rising Star Awards were presented to:
- Bissett: Pastor Mario Gonsalez and his mother, Brenda Rickel
- Bradford Park: Jacque Ford
- Fulbright Springs: Pamela Jackson
- Grant Beach: Kathy Lutz
- Greater Parkcrest: Carl Redmon
- Heart of the Westside: Major Mike Mills
- Midtown: Marie Wood
- Oak Grove: Powell McHaney. Also nominated was Gerald Clary.
- Phelps Grove: Renee Tyson
- Robberson: Roy Stass
- Tom Watkins: Wanda Plumb
- Weller: Steve & Antoinette Young
- West Central: John Dukewits
- Westside Betterment: Bev Wilson
- Woodland Heights: Demita Gookin
“Not only are you stars to us, but you each represent true gems within your neighborhoods. Because of the passion and hard work you bring, you not only inspire your communities to greater heights, but you inspire us at Community Partnership as well. You shine brightly to all those around you and your neighborhoods are truly better through your presence,” said CPO Executive Director Janet Dankert.
“Like diamonds, you all are refined by the difficulties and issues you face as a neighborhood, yet you continue to shine forth better than before. Our work would be in vain without each and every one of you, along with the countless others who could not attend,” she added.