LAKE WAWASEE — Carolyn Anderson and Jerry Babb were recognized for their services at the annual Wawasee Property Owners Association meeting Saturday, Aug. 17, aboard the SS Lillypad.

Anderson was presented a new and special award — Director Emeritus.

Babb was awarded the WPOA Chief Award.

Kay Young, board president, presented both awards.

Kay Young, WPOA president, left, is shown presenting the 2024 Chief Award to Jerry Babb. Photo by Deb Patterson.

Anderson has been an integral and important part of the association for numerous years. Her initial contact with the association was as the secretary of the board in the early 1990s, when she and WPOA President Dave Lichtenour worked on computerizing the list of property owners. She then became a director on the board, representing her area of the lake. Anderson and her husband, Doug, and now the next generation, have served the lake they love.

“Most recently, Carolyn, while serving on our board was also instrumental with the forming of the dam/dike conservancy board as well,” said Young. While Anderson was unable to attend, Young stated “we want her to know how much her guidance over the years has meant. To that we have implemented a new, special award of Director Emeritus, we’re presenting to Carolyn.”

The award was accepted by her husband Doug and son Russell.

The award was presented as the Lillypad passed the Anderson home, with the boat’s horn sounding several times as it passed.

“Thank you so much, Carolyn when I asked her what should I say, she said just tell them thank you, thank you for the all that they do, I do appreciate it,” said Doug Anderson. He noted Carolyn came to the lake 45 years ago and has adopted the lake. He came to the lake when he was 3. “She really appreciates it, her association to the lake has given her so much joy and all the people here … very, very gracious to her.”

The Chief Award

Babb gave his wife, Kay, a glance with a look only she would know, when he realized he was going to receive the Chief Award.

Always humble, Babb stated afterward, he was honored to be associated among the prestigious names of past recipients. Upon receiving the award Babb stated “This is certainly a surprise, I really don’t know what to say. Its been enjoyable, loved every minute of it, I love the lake. Just getting older and meaner.” He thanked the board and those who attended.

In announcing the Chief Award, Young noted “our chief has been described as … never meeting a stranger, always helpful and always has an opinion! Jerry I know this may not top the honor flight that you took to Washington, but you, Jerry Babb are the WPOA Chief for 2024.”

Link to entire article & pictures: https://www.inkfreenews.com/2024/08/20/anderson-babb-honored-by-wawasee-property-owners-association/

By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews