JoAnn Bokovoy honored as chamber Citizen of the Year

“Through JoAnn Bokovoy’s generosity and example, we can all be assured that each of us matters, and that whatever our situation, creating joy is still possible — and perhaps the most important purpose in life,” said Faye Whitbeck, president of the chamber, said in introducing Bokovoy’s award.

Bokovoy was recognized for her contributions to the community and in the lives of others during the past year. Several nominations noted her contributions directing the local People-Able-Learning-Social group, known as PALS, for adults with disabilities.

“Personally, I know that JoAnn Bokovoy is that rare kind of being who makes everyone she knows feel like a special friend — offering her true self in ways that make a difference,” Whitbeck said at the event. “Yet she is not one who has breezed through life unscathed. She is one who has endured the darkest nights of the soul, but who, at the dawn, amazingly arose still able to deliver joy and teach us about life.”

Bokovoy spoke to the crowd, saying she feels grateful to do the work that she does.

“First of all, I want you to know that I am privileged to do what I do and I love my work,” she said. “I get to be with amazing, wonderful people every day, people who brighten my day and give me energy. Their smiles are like being surrounded by rainbows.”

She added that she feels lucky working in the International Falls area.

“I’m so proud of my community, a community who goes the extra distance — whatever it takes to help the ones especially in need and to let them know that they care,” she said. “There is just — and I’ve looked really hard — there is nothing in me that says that it’s OK to receive an award for something that I already feel so privileged to do.”

In tears, she continued, “The people who deserve an award are the people I am so honored to work with. They have great courage and strength; they are so patient and forgiving and compassionate and sweet and kind... They’re always so thankful and so appreciative of everything good. They make the most of any good time, they spend no time feeling sorry for themselves. And they focus on the abilities that they have. Thank you to all of these amazing people. You bless us with your wisdom and presence; your integrity is inspiring like none other. You have my utmost admiration and respect.”

In introducing the small and large businesses of the year, Paul Nevanen, director of Koochiching Economic Development Authority, said this is a time to recognize and appreciate all the businesses in the area.

“These businesses and individuals help make our community more than just a place on the map or bricks and mortar,” Nevanen said. “Really, they provide the DNA and the personality that make our community what I think is really special.”

Mary Jane Dougherty accepted the award for large business of the year for Thunderbird Lodge.

“As any business owner knows, there are many trials and tribulations that come with operating a business, especially a seasonal business — it’s a little like starting a new business every year,” Dougherty said. “The only reason that we received this award is from our amazing staff.”

Cedulie LaVigne accepted the award for small business of the year for her company, Cedulie’s Photography.

“The truth is, this award isn’t about me or my company. It’s about all the people that have supported me and helped me get through here today,” she said. “How many 26-year-olds get an opportunity like this? There are still days I wake up, and I can’t believe I have this great job, which to me, isn’t even a job.”

Community businesses in general, are important to recognize, Nevanen said.

“We don’t say thank you enough to all the hard work, and all the business owners that go in every day and make things happen, and especially in the economic hard times that we’ve gone through,” he added. “So I think it’s important that we say thank you and we say it often; it’s very important.”