Phillips was named as Steilacoom’s “Citizen of the Year” for 2009. He is the 15th resident to be tapped for this special yearly honor. And was he “surprised” to be picked!
It means that George and his wife, Cheryl, will ride in a specially marked car during the Town’s upcoming 4th of July Parade in about a week’s time.
The honoree’s selection is an annual custom shared between the Steilacoom Chamber of Commerce and Kiwanis of Steilacom.
In making the announcement, Kiwanis President Mark Pires enumerated the many ways in which George has served the community. Those include his tireless efforts in Kiwanis—such as selling spring flowers and assisting with the annual Egg Hunt, to his Museum Association efforts, especially taking his turn at the grill at the Salmon Bake. He also assisted during the construction of the Steilacoom Historical Museum.
Because of the threat of rain the kickoff concert was shifted to the Community Center, where more than 100 concert fans filled the chairs and enjoyed the 56th Army Band’s lively evening program.
Earlier that afternoon, Steilacoom’s Farmers Market began operating on the Tennis Court and along Wilkes Street. The verdict? Wonderful! And many vows from shoppers who said they’d “be back.”
The band’s repertoire ranged from traditional John Phillips Sousa marches to W. C. Handy’s Blues March; concluding with a salute to all branches of the Armed Forces.
Joey Jewel, singing songs by Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, is the featured entertainer for the July 1 concert. The program begins at 6:30 p.m.
Stop by the Community Center and pick up a schedule of the complete 2009 concert series as well as a schedule for the 4th of July events.