Hard-working Yates recognized
As Margo Yates welcomed attendees at the Marion Chamber of Commerce dinner Jan. 29, she had no idea she was about to upstage Kansas Attorney General Phil Morrison.
But before turning the podium over to Morrison for his remarks, chamber president Don Noller asked a startled Yates to come forward.
Yates, who has been the executive secretary of the chamber since 1993, and who has been involved with Marion recreation programs almost as many years, listened as Noller honored her for her years of service to the community.
Noller's comments included remarks from a letter sent by Rodney Richmond, who praised Yates for her tireless efforts on behalf of Marion.
"It is very difficult to measure the value of Margo's efforts," wrote Richmond.
"I can only hope that more people will recognize the importance of her many talents, and support of all organizations she is a backbone of and have economic impact," the letter continued.
"Just imagine what this community would be capable of, if we all would put forth a fraction of the effort she provides into supporting this community," Richmond concluded.
"There's probably not another person in Marion who promotes Marion the way she does," said Noller. "It's all about Marion."
Following the meeting, Marion city administrator David Mayfield echoed Richmond's praise.
"I don't think Margo gets enough recognition for what she does," said Mayfield.
"I've seen her spend whole weekends doing things for the rec program," he continued. "You just don't find dedication like that."
Marion economic development director Jami Williams talked about how Yates has supported her work.
"We work hand in hand," said Williams. "She calls me all the time with things she's heard.
"She is absolutely invaluable, and I don't think anyone would argue with that," Williams remarked.
Williams noted when the city was receiving nominations last June for the city's outstanding business award, an appreciative citizen nominated Yates and the chamber office.
"The nomination called her the 'Heart of Marion,'" said Williams.
Yates also was nominated for the Kansas Economic Development Alliance volunteer of the year award in 2006.
Yates was admittedly taken aback by the banquet presentation.
"It was very nice, but it's embarrassing," she said. "I appreciate it very much."
"I was just glad the attorney general was there, because that kept me from crying," said Yates. "There's no crying in front of the general!"
Noller presented Yates with a gift basket filled with various expressions of gratitude.
"There was all sorts of cool stuff," said Yates. "Gift certificates, candies, and tired leg lotion — I told them I could use a barrel of that," Yates chuckled.
