The Greater Issaquah Chamber of Commerce held their annual  Community awards banquet held May 29, at the Hilton Garden Inn. As a somewhat cynical journalist and former corporate manager, this writer has sat through many such an event without much enthusiasm. But this one was different.  It was fun. The food was good, the bar was open and the people were warm and friendly.

There was something unique here — despite a warm sunny evening beckoning outside, the smallish banquet room was full of laughter. No one was in any hurry to go. There were obvious signs of a group of people who know each other well, despite being from completely different realms.

Rather than just recognizing their own members, the Chamber champions the community.

School administrators mixed with city folk, business- owners, police and fire officers. People young and old were celebrated. There were teen math scholars and teachers. A father and son who volunteer to help special needs kids race go-karts. There was a pair of super-recycler Issaquah businesses who were the very proud recipients of the Golden Dumpster award, (the small replica even had a lid that opened and closed). There was an award for the volunteer who took on the rather dicey task of coordinating the shuttle buses during Salmon Days. More awards were handed out to Keyclubbers, a minister, a sportsperson and more.

And there was royalty. Our own Ed Pingul of the Issaquah-Sammamish Reporter was crowned King. Pat Rhea (aka The Cake Lady) of Costco, was crowned as queen. Notably, Shelley Frey, a chaplain with Eastside Fire and Rescue was recognized for her essential role in helping those in traumatic situations.  Fittingly, she received the ‘Hall of Fame’ award to great applause.

The winners, of course, credited the support of others, for their success and good works.  As for me, I’ll go again next year.

Mary L. Grady, editor