New Madrid residents are honored

Reagan Baird, left, presents Bill French with his "Man of the Year" award.

NEW MADRID - "One of the truly greatest things a person can do is serve the community," said a presenter during New Madrid Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet. Saturday evening, the Chamber took the opportunity to honor four "great" individuals.

Leading the presentations was the Community Service Award given to Mark Kolwyck by Eddie Barnhill. Kolwyck was instrumental in bringing the successful Cabela's Catfish Tournament to New Madrid in 2005 and again this year.

The Public Service Award went to New Madrid Fire Chief Jim Harris. Monica May, who presented the award, explained immediately after Harris became chief he was informed of an impending ISO inspection, which sets the community's insurance rating.

Through Harris' efforts equipment was improved and additional training completed leading to a reduction in the city's rating from a 7 to a 5. "We all save because of the work he has done," said May.

Selected as Business of the Year was Harry Gremore who is with investment office of Edward Jones in New Madrid. Gary McWaters noted Gremore is also a recruiter, mentor and field trainer for Edward Jones and has received numerous company awards.

From left: Harry Gremore, Mark Kolwyck, Bill French and Jim Harris.

"This is an award for all the terrific people who surround me," said Gremore in accepting the award. He was accompanied to the podium by his wife and son.

Highlighting the evening was the announcement of the Man or Woman of the Year. The announcement of the winner, kept under wraps until the banquet, was made by Reagan Baird, Chamber president.

The award was presented to William "Bill" French.

A longtime New Madrid businessman, French has served on numerous civic and community boards including for the Housing Authority, the Kiwanis Club and the Country Club. As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, he served as the group's president as well as a board member. Currently French is president of the New Madrid Historical Museum Board and commander of the local American Legion Post.

In accepting the award, French said simply of his years of community service: "I enjoy it."

The evening also included dinner, entertainment by singer Madison Steward and drawings.