Honors handed out

Saturday evening at the fair building, members of the community gathered for the 96th annual Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Banquet.

Among the festivities for the evening were the announcement of the 2016 Business, Non-Profit and Citizen of the Year.

This year saw two recipients for Business of the Year - Thermopolis Hardware & Mercantile and Vicklund Pharmacy. Comments made about Thermopolis Hardware were, "This business has created a fantastic inventory to provide a service of availability when anyone needs," and, "They are very knowledgeable and helpful with projects."

A comment about Vicklund was, "Owner and staff provide great service and go the extra mile. They provide an invaluable service in the community."

The 2016 Non-Profit Organization is Hot Springs State Park. Comments about the park described it as a "wonderful asset to our community," and "the staff does a tremendous job."

The 2016 Citizen of the Year was Thomas A. Sullivan, Sr., who was described as someone who is passionate, and who lives and breathes the community of Thermopolis. Among his favorite sayings was, "It doesn't' get any better than this."

Sullivan passed away on Jan. 17 so family members accepted the award on his behalf.

Prior to the awards presentation, attendees enjoyed a social hour and a meal including salad, shrimp cocktail, rice, potatoes and kebabs.