The Dixie Honors Volunteers in 16th Annual Awards Ceremony

HUNTINGDON (August 7) — The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center hosted its 16th annual Usher Appreciation Dinner and Awards Ceremony on August 7 in the Ballroom of the Center.

Ailene Davis, representing the Center, served as the master of ceremonies.

Volunteer ushers serve to greet and serve patrons at The Dixie during performances, children’s events, and special events. They are often the face of the Center.

The Center said goodbye to three ushers, who died during the year. They were Deborah Thorne, Frank Hartman, and Billy Carnell.

During the past season, volunteers logged over 2,000 hours of service.

High-achieving ushers for the season included: Rick Jahnke: 91.75 hours, Jeane Jahnke: 86.75 hours, Sherrye Hudson: 74.75 hours, and Denise Pendergrass: 72.5 hours.

Ms. Davis said total volunteer hours over 19 seasons total in excess of 40,000 hours.

Recognition of Volunteers by Service Milestone

10-year recognition: Gaye Coleman, Lyda Hudson, Barbara McDonald.

15-year recognition: Denise Coleman, Melissa Powell, Amy Rangnow.

20-year recognition: Geneva Johnson, Linda Wallace.

The Carter-Holbrook Award

For Excellence in Organizational Leadership of the Arts

Allison Cummings was honored as the Carter-Holbrook Award recipient. She has served seven years and volunteered 200 hours. Last year, she volunteered 53 hours and served as lead usher.

The Mayor’s Award

For Good Humor and Patience in the Public Service of the Arts

Ms. Bailey Cooper received the award from Mayor Chad Edwards. She has served for over 10 seasons and volunteered almost 400 hours with 47 of those last year.

The Brooke S. Hodges Award

For Excellence in Providing A Positive Patron Experience

Ms. Pam Bergeron was the recipient. She has served four season and volunteered over 100 hours. T

Volunteer of the Year Award

For Excellence in Volunteer Leadership of the Arts

Jeff Mazik was the recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award. He has served one season and volunteered over 53 hours. That’s not just impressive—it’s a clear testament to their commitment and reliability.

Whether it’s assisting someone to their seat or stepping in to prevent a fall! - he is always there in an instant!

Krista Martin, president of the Friends of the Dixie Board, said the board is now taking over many administrative functions of The Dixie. She thanked everyone for their volunteer service.