March 2026

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PAGE 6A March 2026

Guntersville Chamber Holds Awards Banquet The Lake Guntersville Chamber of Commerce celebrated 88 years by holding its annual dinner and awards banquet on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at City Harbor. During the event, the chamber presented awards to Morgan Patterson O’Dell (Educator of the Year), Doris Stewart Vaughn (Citizen of the Year) Streamline Cleaners (Business of the Year) and Rick Richter (Chairman’s Cup). The chamber provided the following information about each award recipient in a news release on their website.

Morgan Patterson O’Dell, a second-grade teacher at Guntersville Elementary School, has been selected as the 2025 Educator of the Year. Nominations praised Morgan for being exceptional, creative, hands-on, and positive. Morgan consistently seeks out new ways to help her students understand lessons—whether in math, reading, or even diversity and kindness. She stands out because she recognizes that every student learns differently and effectively uses differentiated teaching methods to keep everyone engaged. Students leave her classroom feeling valued and cared for. Doris Stewart Vaughn, a retired Guntersville educator and devoted community volunteer, has been named the 2025 Citizen of the Year. Doris was described by those who nominated her as loving, steadfast, dedicated, compassionate, and tireless. She is deeply involved in her church, where she helps run the Summer Feeding Program, providing meals to about 100 children every Thursday during summer. Additionally, Doris is Treasurer of the Lakeview Community Civic Organization and co- chairs Back to School Blessings—a program that started at Williamson-Harris Park but grew so much under her leadership that it moved to the Rec Center. Although she quietly works behind the scenes, Doris’s impact on others is always recognized and appreciated. Streamline Cleaners has been recognized as the 2025 Business of the Year. With over fifty-five years of continuous operation at its original Gunter Avenue location, Streamline Cleaners exemplifies longevity and commitment within the Guntersville business community. Established in 1970 by Powell and Nell Rains, this family-owned enterprise is among the oldest in the area. Scott and Lou Ann have maintained high standards of service and fostered lasting customer relationships, earning respect for their professionalism and integrity. Streamline Cleaners also actively supports local fundraisers, school events, and church initiatives, further demonstrating its role as a valued member of the community. Rick Richter will be recognized with the 2025 Chairman’s Cup in acknowledgment of his over 32 years of dedicated service as a member and Chairman of the Guntersville Water Board. Through Rick’s leadership, the Guntersville Water Board has transformed from a utility facing challenges into an innovative and financially robust leader among utilities in the state. Bay Chandler, Water Board Manager and 2025 Chamber Chairman, remarked: “While much of Rick’s service to our community occurred behind the scenes, his enduring contributions will benefit Guntersville for many years to come. On a personal note, Rick has served not only as my supervisor and mentor but also as a trusted advisor and friend, guiding me through challenging situations and fostering a sense of composure.”