Humble acceptance

To say that Jan Short was surprised at winning the 2014 Community Service award might be an understatement.

“All evening I’ve been waiting for my daughter to receive an award because that’s what got me here,” Short joked.

The crowd erupted with laughter as Short received her award and spoke from the podium during Osceola Chamber Main Street and Clarke County Development Corporation’s annual dinner Monday, Jan. 19, at Lakeside Casino.

“I was coming anyway,” Short added. “So, thank you so much. This is just wonderful. I appreciate all of you who have helped me over the years in lots of ways. Thank you.”

Admiration

Short said she had been coming to the annual dinner for many years and always admired the previous recipients of the award.

When she would hear what efforts the previous winners had undertaken for the communities, she would think to herself — that’s what makes them good winners.

“They do things for their community without wanting recognition or boasting about what they have done in the past,” Short said. “I’m very grateful to be a part of this community and I am glad that we had the opportunity to raise our children here.”

Three of Short’s five children and their spouses were able to attend the annual dinner and see her receive the award.

Even when the spotlight was on Short, she was thinking of her children first. She had her children stand and receive applause from the crowd.

“I certainly don’t feel very deserving of this award, but I’m very, very happy — very proud,” Short said.

• To read more on how Short has impacted the Osceola community, check out the sidebar accompanying this story on page 4.