Houston claimed the top prize in its population category Monday in the Missouri Community Betterment contest. A Houston youth group and a community leader also were recognized.
Thirty-six communities and 14 individuals were honored at the event.
An awards banquet was the highlight of the 49th conference that assists communities to improve their quality of life. Nearly 325 volunteers, town leaders and youth from across the state were in attendance. Houston’s delegation also included youth involved with a program offered by the Community Betterment and Arts Council of Houston. It was recognized with a first place in its population group.
Elaine Campbell won an MCB Ambassador Award; she organized a judges’ tour of the community and submitted a project book of activities undertaken in Houston.
The City of Lamar won the Gene Speichinger Community of the Year Award over the other 35 communities that entered this year. MCB judges and board members were impressed with the overall number and level of projects that were completed using a variety of community resources, and for completing projects that were prioritized in their own community assessment.
Competing in Houston’s category were: Bethany, fifth; Hamilton, fourth; Louisiana, second; and Windsor, third.
“The Missouri Community Betterment Board congratulates all the winners and participants,” MCB President Kathleen Bruegenhemke said.” “Because of these dedicated individuals and organizations, Missouri communities will continue to be a place where our children can, and want, to come back to live.”
The awards banquet is an integral part of the MCB program, which is administered by the Missouri Community Betterment Educational Fund Inc. MCBEF is a not-for-profit organization made up of businesses, public utilities, community representatives, federal and state agencies and individuals.
For a list of the community and individual award winners go to the MCB web site at www.mocommunitybetterment.com.