Other nominees for Citizen of the Year include:

Jack Durney, Hoquiam

Durney, a former mayor of Aberdeen and Hoquiam, was described by a friend nominator as “one of those rare individuals who chose to dedicate a large portion of his private life to public service as an elected official, a volunteer, and a tireless advocate for projects that improve the quality of life in his community.” According to his nominator, Durney spent more than 15 years working on the Satsop Development Project, turning “what looked like a crazy idea to one that has become a successful reality thanks to board members like Jack.”

Joe Cornell, Aberdeen

Cornell has been a dedicated volunteer in Grays Harbor for years, delivering many sets of supplies to schools in Grays Harbor. This year, Cornell delivered over 300 pairs of gloves to Stevens Elementary School, according to a Stevens paraeducator who nominated him. In addition, Cornell and his wife Beverley have spent 35 years operating “Making a Difference for Grays Harbor Kids,” which purchases and distributes clothes, toys and school supplies for area children. More than 20 people from local schools signed a nomination form.

Tom Quigg, Aberdeen

A friend of Quigg called him the “nicest person in Grays Harbor,” and described him as someone who’s always envouraging prospective real estate professionals to enter the field. “Many brokers have flourished under his mentoring,” she described. He also publishes a brochure called “A culture of Success” that showcases individuals from Grays Harbor.

Deb Blake, Aberdeen

A friend of Blake’s was complimentary of her work running the “Freedom Trails” program at Stafford Creek Corrections Center, who pairs dogs who otherwise wouldn’t be adopted with prisoners who then train them. Blake has also spent time tracking and catching homeless dogs in the area before finding them adoptive homes, her friend wrote. Blake was described as someone who “deserves to be honored for her selfless commitment to the four-legged members of our world.