MAN AND WOMAN OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCED AT CHAMBER BANQUET

  

Frank Blizzard and Nina Hopkins were named Man and Woman of the year at this years Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Brenham Economic Development Foundation Banquet.

Frank Blizzard was introduced by Leon Toubin,  last year's award recipient for Man of the Year. Toubin said Blizzard has had a huge impact on the citizens of Brenham and Washington County through his active participation in community programs and financial donations.

Blizzard spent his working career in Pennsylvania, Dallas, and Houston, but moved to Brenham about 20 years ago. He worked in the oil and gas industry and finished his career as president CEO of his own company. He served as a director on several gas company boards.

Frank, with the support of his wife Margaret, has been the driving force behind the success of the Washington County Healthy Living Association Senior Activity Center capital campaign and construction project. His contributions and success with the Senior Center was not his first civic organization building project. He was involved in the construction of the new and permanent home for the Boys and Girls Club of Washington County. Blizzard. He has also served on their board for 10 years and been chair of the Fund Development Advisory Committee. He has also volunteered his time as a basketball coach and mentor.

During his acceptance speech, Blizzard said he is driven by two passions in life:

Twila Tate, the 2015 Woman of the Year, introduced Nina Hopkins saying that the philanthropy of her and her family continues to bless the Washington County community.

Nina, wife of the late Mike Hopkins, worked beside her husband for many years at Mike Hopkins Distributing.  When they moved to the area she jumped right into the Brenham Public Schools and Maifest and began volunteering in a large capacity.  Wherever her children or husband were, she was there to work and support.

In addition to family, faith is important to Hopkins.  She is an active member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, giving her time and financial assistance to the church and those in need.

Hopkins served on the Board of the Washington on the Brazos State Park Association for a decade. She still serves in an advisory capacity and is currently planning the next Sundown Social for the organization in late April.

Although she is a graduate of Texas Tech, her husband and son turned her into an Aggie.  She is an active member of the Chancellor’s Century Council and attends their functions regularly.

Hopkins, surprised by the honor, commended the previous recipients of the award:

Tammy Jaster was also recognized at the banquet, winning the coveted Blue Blazer of the Year Award for her service with the volunteer organization.

The annual banquet was held at the Fireman's Training Center Tuesday evening and featured special speakers including Senator Lois Kolkhorst, Rep. Leighton Shubert, as well as Michael Groves, Joe Al Picone, and Dorothy Morgan.