Chamber presents community awards

Community members and local businesses who have made a difference in Green River were recognized during the Green River Chamber of Commerce's Awards Luncheon Tuesday afternoon.

The 2023 Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award was given to Tom Wilson.

Mayor Pete Rust presented the award and shared Wilson's long history in Green River and many contributions to the community.

Wilson was a standout football player for Green River High School, which he graduated from in 1947 with multiple achievements and honors for the Wolves. His football coaching career began in 1987, and in 13 years he led the team to six semifinal appearances. He holds 53 wins, the most wins of an coach in GRHS history.

Wilson also had a long and impactful career as an educator and leader in Sweetwater County School District No. 2. But he did start his teaching career at Rock Springs High School before returning to Green River.

"We won't hold that against him," Rust joked.

Wilson taught courses included Woods, PE, Architectural Design, Construction Technology, Tech Lab, and Welding at various levels. In 2002, he became the Dean of Students/Activities Director at GRHS, and in 2004 he became the District Activities Director for the whole school district. He served on multiple committees and earned a number of awards during his time as Activities Director.

One of Wilson's special projects was spearheading the Green River Hall of Fame, which has inspired other Wyoming high schools to do the same.

Wilson has also been actively involved in other areas of the community, like the Green Belt Task Force, where he has been working on a project to create a wheelchair accessible multi-use trail system.

"Committed to students, committed to fellow teachers, committed to athletes, committed to family, and committed to the community of Green River," Rust read, pausing and admitting he was getting choked up. "An extraordinary football player, educator, coach, mentor, volunteer, community member, husband, father, grandfather; a true Green River Wolves fan."

After the applause from the standing ovation died down, Wilson addressed everyone at the luncheon.

"I gotta admit, when Judge Vicky Schofield and Dr. Pat Gaensslen and myself were underneath this bridge 55 years ago throwing snowballs at cars, and then Vicky's brother David was loading me into the back of a police car, the last thing I ever thought I would be was a distinguished citizen," he said.

Wilson thanked everyone for the recognition and the award.

"I'm honored, I'm committed to this community, I have a beautiful family and a great support group, and I couldn't think of a better place I would rather be," he said. "When you cut me I bleed green."

The Chamber's 2023 Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Sean Deichmueller.

Deichmueller was recognized for his involvement in multiple community events, including the Red Desert Roundup Rodeo, Flaming Gorge Days, and the Crystal Classic, but most notably the River Festival and Run with the Horses event.

"His positive attitude and friendly demeanor in greeting the event attendees does not go unnoticed," presenter Kelly Davis commented on Deichmueller. "And although it is a volunteer position, he takes his duties very seriously, making sure the event continues without a hitch."

The 2023 Organization of the Year Award went to Fast Cars & Foster Kids, a group that has dedicated itself to helping foster children in Sweetwater County and making sure their needs are met. The organization achieves by putting on autocross and car show events around the community.

"They have helped several hundred local children and given miles of smiles to future gearheads in our area," presenter Joe Olivas said.

The 2023 Breakthrough Business of the Year Award, which recognizes someone who's been in business less than five years, was given to Green River Bowling Center.

The bowling alley's new owners Jeff Stout and Kelli Lennon re-opened the doors at the end of 2020.

"The hard work and dedication of these two entrepreneurs and all their wonderful staff has revitalized an integral gathering spot for everyone in Green River to enjoy," Mike Shutran said as he presented the award.

The 2023 Pacer Business of the Year Award, for someone who has been in business more than one year but less than two years, went to Twisted Timber. This family-owned business started from home and grew quickly, having to move to a new location within a year of opening a brick and mortar store.

"Since their opening, this business has collaborated with many other local establishments, merchants, and home-based shops to promote a thriving small town business community," presenter Tom Murphy explained.

The 2023 Outstanding Business of the Year Award, for a business that has been in business more than five years, went to NAPA Autoparts Unlimited. The locally owned and operated auto parts store opened its Green River location in 1994. Not only has the business itself been involved in community events as a sponsor, but the owner and his son have served as volunteer firefighters.

"Their long history of community involvement and their willingness to add a positive aspect to our little community here in Wyoming make this business an excellent candidate for this award," Mike Shutran commented.