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MELIA BOWIEA former sheriff, mayor, philanthropist, school board chairwoman, pioneer and banker were lauded.
NEW PORT RICHEY - The West Pasco Chamber of Commerce announced its awards for the area's top residents and civic groups Friday night at an awards banquet.
At the group's 60th annual banquet notables including Sheriff Bob White, former New Port Richey Mayor Frank Parker, eye surgeon and developer Dr. James P. Gills and groups such as the New Port Richey Marine Institute and the Rotary Club of New Port Richey received honors.
The winners were honored for "their outstanding contribution to our community and their commitment to our community," chamber president Joe Alpine said. "They don't just live here; they're highly dedicated and involved."
Individuals recognized by the chamber included Pasco's sheriff as Outstanding Public Servant and former mayor Parker was named Outstanding Citizen.
Dorothy Mitchell, 75 and wife of rancher Jim Mitchell, received the Eminent Pioneer Acknowledgement Award at the banquet.
"She is an individual who has worked and resided in Pasco County for the last 57 years," Alpine said.
In her time here, Mitchell served as a 20-year member of the county's School Board including four terms as chairwoman. Over the years her work also included contributions to CARES, the Boys and Girls Club and the Salvation Army.
"We are proud to call her a long time friend of Pasco County," Alpine said.
Also among the winners Friday was banker Candace Glewen, who was named the chamber's Ambassador of the Year. A New Port Richey resident, Glewen works for People's Bank in Palm Harbor and is chairwoman of the chamber's ambassador group.
The New Port Richey Marine Institute was named Outstanding Area Youth Organization. The Rotary Club of New Port Richey was awarded Outstanding Service Club honors.
Ophthalmologist and philanthropist Gills, who founded St. Luke's Cataract & Laser Institute in Tarpon Springs, won the Outstanding Innovator award.
Gills, 69, has left his mark on the county not only through his civic works but also through his business skills, noted Alpine, who pointed to Gills' roles as owner of real estate company Jireh Inc. and Adam Smith Enterprises, which built the Trinity suburb in southwest Pasco. He also owns Tampa Bay Executive Airport, which is slated to close Oct. 1.
In addition to writing 16 books on Christian living, Gills has earned the distinction of an accomplished athlete, said Alpine. The surgeon bought the World Triathlon Corporation, organizers of the renowned Ironman competition, in 1990.
Gills has competed in numerous marathons, triathlons, Ironman competitions, double Ironmans and 200-mile races, added Alpine.
The chamber also issued its Outstanding Community Service award - a "surprise award" (dubbed so because board members decide it without nominations.)
Accountant G. Michael Stone won the honor for his years as an active volunteer in West Pasco.
"He has given unselfishly of himself for the betterment of the community," said Alpine, listing a resume of volunteer affiliations including key roles with Leadership Pasco, the YMCA, the Pasco Economic Development Council, Port Richey Rotary club and more.
All told, the chamber handed out eight awards at its banquet. The nominees for those honors totaled about 40, Alpine said.