MILTON-FREEWATER — Milton-Freewater residents gathered Friday evening, Feb. 21, for the annual awards banquet honor key figures and groups in the community.

The Community Building glittered with sparkling lights for the 75th Annual Citizens Awards. The Milton-Freewater Chamber Downtown Alliance hosted the event, “A Night of Gratitude — Together We Thrive.”

Robert “Bob” Moon was named Man of the Year, and Kim Munk was honored with Woman of the Year.

Man of the Year

After noting Moon’s many years of volunteer services to the community and individuals, it was evident what one supporter said, “We should all strive to be more like Bob.”

The Milton-Freewater native has a degree in electronics and is retired. Moon brought attention to Milton-Freewater 23 years ago with an amazing Christmas light show. The annual “Sounds & Sights of Christmas,” with tens of thousands of lights programed to music, has become a tradition for many to see each year and has been written about throughout the Northwest.

There was no Fourth of July celebrations in 2020 due to COVID-19, but Moon was determined to give people a Fourth of July display to boost their spirits. He lit up his yard with a red, white, and blue display of lights synched to patriotic songs.

For around 50 years, Moon has helped maintain the translator system so Milton-Freewater could have antenna TV. He upgraded the sound system at the Pioneer Posse Grounds and in the McLoughlin High School auditorium and is the sound technician for the annual regional choir competitions at the school.

Very active in the historic First Christian Church, for more than 20 years he has overseen its upkeep and renovation.

“Milton-Freewater is a great place to live,” Moon said.

He also thanked his neighbors for not leaving during Christmas time.

Woman of the Year

Munk is chair of the annual community event, Weekend @ the Blues Music Festival, she works for months finding entertainment, vendors, volunteers and promoting the festival. The event provides an opportunity for organizations and clubs to raise money for their cause.

The past Girl Scout leader serves on the Ambulance District Board, and the Vincent Water Co. Board where she is credited with being indispensable in helping make their water system better.

For 40 years, Munk has promoted the Muddy Frogs Square Dance Club. She was the main organizer of the annual Umapine Craft Sale to help locals sell their crafts and products. Volunteering with the MFCDA for many years, she has served on the board of directors and was the 2024 board secretary.

A letter of support stated, “She is not flashy or loud; she is just a kind person, who supports her community as one of the much needed ‘work bees.’ Every community could use a Kim Munk or two or three in their community.”

Munk was grateful for the recognition but explained, “I love doing these things very much.”

Other awards recipients

• Ryan Westman received the Junior Citizen Award. His volunteering includes helping with graffiti removal and city cleanup. As chairman of the Frisbee Golf Course project at Marie Dorion Park, he found grants and matching funds to complete it along with volunteer labor.

• Katie Adams was awarded Educator of the Year for her positive effect on students. She is the agriculture and Future Farmers of America adviser at McLoughlin High School. She raised more than $30,000 for students to attend the National FFA Convention.

• Elaina “Lainie” Ellis received the Youth of the Year Award. The 3.98 GPA student is a member of the Associated Student Body and the National Honor Society at Mac-Hi and volunteers in the community.

• Don Jackson took home the Philanthropist of the Year Award. He has given to numerous projects that strengthen the community and played a key role in the construction of the new building at the M-F Junior Show grounds

• Visual Eyes — Dr. Ben Winters, OD, received the Brick & Mortar Rehabilitation Project Award for revitalizing a key part of a Main Street.

• Outwest Printing & Mailing received the Business Award for exceptional customer service and community spirit.