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Molly Moore (Executive Director Neches River Festival), Tim Sudela, Jeffrey Wheeler (NRF President 76) and Julia Matheny (NRF 76 Social Chair 76)
The Neches River Festival made a surprise appearance at the weekly Rotary Club of Beaumont meeting Wednesday to name Tim Sudela as the recipient of the festival's annual Citizen of the Year award. This prestigious honor recognizes Sudela's unwavering commitment to community service and his dedication to enhancing the lives of others in Southeast Texas.
Sudela, President of American Valve & Hydrant, exemplifies the spirit of selflessness and activism. With a career spanning over four decades, Sudela has tirelessly contributed his time, talents, and resources to numerous non-profit organizations, embodying the essence of public service.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Sudela's impact reverberates throughout the community. He is an active member of the Rotary Club of Beaumont and has served on the boards of leading institutions such as the LIT Foundation, Symphony of Southeast Texas, and United Way of Beaumont and North Jefferson County.
Many know Sudeal as the man behind the lens. Nearly every community or sporting event in Beaumont has been graced by his talented photography, as he captures the moments that make this community so special.
Alongside his wife, Lisa, Sudela continues to spearhead initiatives that uplift and empower individuals across the region.
The Neches River Festival, now in its 76th year, celebrates Sudela's outstanding contributions as a testament to the transformative power of community engagement. His unwavering dedication serves as an inspiration to all, reflecting the festival's ethos of fostering unity and goodwill.
"We are thrilled to honor Tim Sudela as the 2024 Citizen of the Year," remarked Jeff Wheeler, President of the Neches River Festival. "His remarkable leadership and tireless advocacy embody the values that define our community. Congratulations, Tim, on this well-deserved recognition."
At the announcement, Wheeler shared how honored the festival is to be in its 76th year of celebrating the youth of our community and our greatest natural resource, the Neches River.
Wheeler stated this year marks the largest gathering of princesses, escorts, and duchesses in the festival's history, representing diverse backgrounds and areas of our community. The participants are encouraged to attend networking events, offering exposure to various facets of the community. Moreover, each participant undergoes a process involving resume building, essay writing, and interviews for scholarships and court selection. This experience equips these young adults with invaluable skills and prepares them for life beyond high school. Whether they choose to stay in our community or expand their horizons beyond Beaumont, everyone comes away with a much better understanding and appreciation of this special place we call home.
The Neches River Festival invites the public to join in celebrating Tim Sudela's achievements during the King's Arrival on Wednesday, April 3 at 5:30 p.m. at the Downtown Event Centre.
For more information about the Neches River Festival and its upcoming events, please visit nechesriverfestival.com.