Waits named 2023 Citizen of the Year

Feb. 27—A local businessman was honored for his devotion to feeding the community. Casey Waits — owner of Loaf'N Dog and EmergencyTrailer.com — was awarded the 2023 Citizen of the Year during Thursday night's Cleburne Chamber of Commerce 105th Annual Awards Celebration — "Legacy of Leaders," presented by Members Credit Union.

The Citizen of the Year Award is based on outstanding activities continually performed within the city of Cleburne.

"Casey's unwavering commitment to the community of Cleburne and surrounding areas has aided in combating food insecurity," said Jay Lewis, who served as emcee for the evening. "His selflessness is reflected in his compassion and dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of anyone he meets.

"Casey serves on the board of The Bread Connection, volunteers and contributes to The House of Prayer David Cole Ministries, Meals on Wheels and SHINE Together as well as caring for the homeless. The community of Cleburne is better because of you, Casey. Congratulations and thank you for all that you do."

Also honored during the evening was David Murdoch, who received the Cathy Marchel Spirit of Cleburne Award. It is awarded to someone who truly embodies the Spirit of Cleburne through words, actions and life. The spirit of Cleburne is loving people, the community, giving back and uniting people in a common cause.

"Mr. David Murdoch has been an icon in Cleburne and Johnson County for many, many years," Lewis said. "He is a well-known published author, has been a leading authority on the history of the Chisholm Trail Cattle drive and the foundation of Cleburne. Mr. Murdoch has served on just about every board in Cleburne. He started Habitat For Humanity, is the driving force and co-creator of the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum, now in its 21st year and serves as CEO on the board of directors.

"Because of David and his perseverance, we now have the largest Native American Pow Wow in Texas right here in Cleburne. He also started the Johnson County Heritage Foundation. He started the original and was largest Arabian Horse Breeding facility in Texas, where he co-wrote the "Encyclopedia on Arabian Horses" and it is still used today worldwide. David is a pillar to everyone including the Johnson County Sheriff's Department where he serves as the Senior Chaplain.

"David has been a counselor for well over 50 years. He never puts himself above anyone or situations. You can find David at the sheriff's office or out on dispatch calls even at 2 a.m. He has always been the first one to roll his sleeves up and get involved in every project. He is active in Tuesday Forum and Rotary. David's first comment he gives when events are being planned is, 'How can Cleburne benefit from it and where are people coming from?' He is one of the most selfless, caregiving individuals we know."

The Young Business Professional Award was presented to Cara Olivares, owner of Action Signs in Downtown Cleburne. The recipient must be 40 years or younger and most importantly they must show leadership qualities through involvement and commitment to community improvement and quality of life by advancing local projects, civic organizations, and/or outreach programs.

"Her generosity through her sign company is well known among her customers," Lewis said. "Aside from helping meet the needs of her clients Cara supports Cleburne Robotics Club, the Spartans Basketball Team, as well as a variety of outreach programs such as battered women, drug addiction and the Shriners. Cara has played a vital role through her mentorship with high school students and the Christian Women's Job Corps giving them opportunities to explore the graphic design and marketing industry. On top of all that she often gives at no cost, to help many nonprofits with Cleburne. Cara runs her business with heart and is committed to giving back to her community."

The 2023 Wall of Fame Award was presented to Hope Kirkpatrick, president of Webb Kirkpatrick Real Estate. The Wall of Fame Award is presented to the chamber member who, by precept and example, best exemplifies true voluntary chamber effort and support. The Wall of Fame Award recipient is a true advocate for the Cleburne chamber and the Cleburne community.

"Hope's greatest accomplishment would be considered her family," Lewis said. "She chose to stay home and take care of her children after she had received her real estate license in 1996. Once her youngest was in school she joined her mother working in the real estate business. Hope has continued to put priorities in place — God, family and then her career.

"Hope loves spending time with her four grandchildren and soon-to-be six grandchildren. As president of Webb Kirkpatrick Real Estate, she stays very busy serving her clients but still finds time to serve her community through a variety of organizations. Hope has been instrumental in the growth of the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce and community. She has served multiple years with the chamber which included serving as chairman of the board in 2022. Hope has a servant's heart and is well deserving of this award."

The Community Service Award was presented to The Bread Connection. The award is presented to an organization that through their efforts has brought honor, prestige and favorable publicity to Cleburne and Johnson County.

"The Bread Connection is a gift to the community of Cleburne and has played a pivotal role in the lives of so many," Lewis said. "By partnering with charitable organizations that provide aid to those in need throughout our community and surrounding areas. Holding tightly to Matthew 25:35 — 'I was hungry, you fed me. I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink ...' — the Bread Connections mission is to provide nutritional support for residents within the communities they serve and to assist like-minded organizations. Because no one should have to go hungry."

Passing the gavel

The 2023 Cleburne Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board of Directors Bobby de la Garza welcomed attendees to the banquet.

"What an honor it is to be standing before you," he said. "I would like to thank you all for allowing me to serve as chairman of the board of directors this past year. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with a wonderful team. The chamber board, ambassadors and staff are all dedicated to help grow our businesses and community."

de la Garza shared a few highlights from the last year:

* The chamber continues to be strong with over 700 total members, hosted 65 ribbon cuttings and increased social media presence.

* They hosted several events and trainings through the following committees and programs: Hispanic Business Alliance, Industrial Alliance committee, Women in Leadership, Tourism and Special events committee, Leadership Cleburne and Empowering Business.

* The Convention and Visitors Bureau received nationwide media coverage, developed cross promotional attraction signs. They held media campaigns through TV commercials, billboards and social media presence, as well as marketing through trade shows.

"It was a busy year, to say the least," de la Garza said. "Resilience, creativity and collaboration are the foundations of Cleburne's culture, and the Cleburne Chamber is proud to represent the businesses contributing to our communities' success. I look forward to seeing what we accomplish together in 2024 and beyond!"

After he concluded his speech, de la Garza introduced G. Aaron Siler, the 2024 chairman of the board.

"In 2007, Aaron and his wife, Milette, moved to Cleburne where they co-founded Plaza Theatre Co. with the Barrus family," de la Garza said. "Building from the ground up they have worked together over the past 17 years to build Plaza Theatre Co. into a premiere tourist destination focusing on family-friendly live entertainment and arts education for youth and teens. Today Plaza Theatre Co. is nationally recognized with producing 12 high-quality stage productions, six youth productions and a Shakespeare in the Park production right here in Cleburne, Texas.

"Plaza also operates the nationally recognized Plaza Academy which currently has 320 students enrolled participating in after school arts education in various classes for dance and music theatre classes. In 2024 Plaza Theatre Co. is on track to have 50,000 visits with 65 percent of their visitors living outside of Johnson County."

All three of the Siler's children — Dana, Ryan and Mitchell — graduated from Cleburne High School.

"Their love and support serve as a source of inspiration and motivation in all that Aaron does," de la Garza said. "G. Aaron Siler's contributions to Cleburne has played a pivotal role in the revitalization of downtown Cleburne, the enrichment and economic growth of our city. His passion, dedication and tireless efforts with others at Plaza Theatre Co. have helped shape the performing arts in our community and pave the way for a brighter future."

Ambassador recognition

Also recognized on Thursday night were the chamber ambassadors. The Top Team of the Year was Terri Wood's team.

"The ambassadors are divided into two teams and gain points throughout the year for each activity and event they attend," Lewis said. "Ambassadors play a vital role in the chamber of commerce. In 2023, they attended 65 ribbon cuttings, community improvement awards, along with groundbreakings and grand openings. They also assisted the chamber staff with successful execution of projects and events, and are true servants to our business, the chamber and the community."

Laura Clanton received a new name tag with the title of Brigadier General Ambassador, meaning she has served a total of four consecutive years as an ambassador. Ambassador General honors were presented to Roseanne Nabors for 10 years of service as a chamber ambassador. There are only two others who have achieved that highest ranking.

The Top Ambassador of the Year Award is an honor voted on by their peers. The ambassadors vote on who they believe best exemplifies what a true ambassador is for the chamber.

This year's winner was Angie McDaniel.

"Angie McDaniel has gone above and beyond serving the chamber along with being a successful business woman," Lewis said. "he truly enjoys watching other businesses flourish. She is very proud of her family and enjoys spending time with them. She has been intentional about her commitment and service to the community. One of her greatest joys is giving back."