BROOKINGS The Brookings Park and Recreation Advisory Board is recognizing several 2024 Mayors Awards recipients for their impact on parks and recreation and land preservation.
The recipients will be honored by Mayor Oepke Ope Niemeyer and the Advisory Board at the annual Mayors Awards and Holiday Celebration event on Dec. 4 at the Dacotah Bank Center, 824 32nd Ave. The event will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. with the awards program starting at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
The Impact Award honors individuals or groups who have shown exceptional leadership and advocacy in advancing the mission of parks and recreation. Impact Award recipients are:
- Deb Wolforth
- Gary Moen
The Champion Award recognizes outstanding contributions and initiatives that enhance community well-being through parks and recreation. Champion Award recipients are:
- Bill Flynn
- Dan and Rae Jean Gee
The Public Lands Preservation Award recognizes exceptional efforts in the stewardship and conservation of public lands. The award recipient is:
- Brookings County Pheasants Forever
Details about the awardees follow.
Deb Wolforth Impact Award
The Park and Recreation Advisory Board recognizes Deb Wolforth for her outstanding support of the Hillcrest Pickleball Court project.
Wolforths passion for pickleball and her tireless advocacy were instrumental in bringing the project to life. Through her enthusiasm and commitment, she rallied community members, worked closely with local leaders, and raised awareness about the need for better pickleball facilities.
Her dedication not only helped create a top-tier recreation space, but also sparked a sense of community and connection among pickleball players of all ages and skill levels. Wolforths efforts have made a lasting impact on the local pickleball community.
Gary Moen Impact Award
The Park and Recreation Advisory Board recognizes Gary Moen, manager of the Edgebrook Golf Course Clubhouse. Moens leadership has transformed the clubhouse into a vibrant community space where visitors feel welcomed. His passion and dedication to enhancing the clubhouse experience and creating meaningful community connections has made a lasting impact on Brookings.
Bill Flynn Champion Award
The Park and Recreation Advisory Board recognizes Bill Flynn for his contributions to the Brookings community. As the driving force behind the Brookings Kite Festival, Flynn turned the festival into a beloved annual event that fills the skies with color and fosters a sense of community spirit.
Beyond the festival, Flynn has been a steadfast supporter of local tennis programs, working to enhance opportunities for players of all ages. His dedication to promoting active lifestyles and his commitment to youth development have significantly enriched Brookings recreational offerings.
The award celebrates Flynns passion, leadership and tireless efforts to help make Brookings a better place to live, play and connect.
Dan and Rae Jean Gee Champion Award
The Park and Recreation Advisory Board recognizes Dan and Rae Jean Gee for their 25 years of volunteer service at the Edgebrook Golf Course. Over the past two and a half decades, they have planted and maintained the flowers that adorn the course, adding vibrant color and charm to the landscape.
Their dedication and hard work have created a welcoming and picturesque environment for golfers and visitors alike. The Gees unwavering commitment has made a lasting impact on the beauty of Edgebrook and the Brookings community.
Brookings County Pheasants Forever Public Lands Preservation Award
Pheasants Forever has been awarded the Public Lands Award Preservation Award for its commitment to conservation and habitat restoration in Brookings. Through its tireless efforts, Pheasants Forever has enhanced local public lands to help ensure the preservation of vital ecosystems and create thriving habitats for wildlife. The groups work not only supports sustainable land use, but also provides residents with enriched outdoor spaces to enjoy.
The award recognizes the significant impact Pheasants Forever has made in fostering conservation and promoting the long-term health of the communitys natural areas.
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