Although no two days are alike when you own a restaurant, Thursday was filled with a big surprise for Lynda Collins, owner of Thompson’s Pizzeria.
A select few folks knew what was about to happen, but Collins didn’t.
She was chosen as Chelsea’s 2015 Lifetime Achievement Winner and was “ambushed” by community leaders, friends, family, directors of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce and past winners of Chelsea’s Lifetime Achievement and Citizen of the Year awards.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to a Chelsea area resident who has demonstrated, over a number of years, a commitment and involvement in our community with the selfless intent to improve the quality of life for all of the citizens of Chelsea.
“I’m overwhelmed,” she said surrounded by a large group of friends and family inside her restaurant. “I’m totally blown away.”
As the 2015 Lifetime Achievement Citizen of the Year, Collins will occupy an honored position in the Chelsea Community Fair Parade on Saturday, Aug. 29.
Plus, she now also has a key to the city.
The formal presentation of this distinguished award will take place on Thursday, Oct. 22, during a banquet to honor both the Lifetime Achievement winner and the Citizen of the Year at the Chelsea Comfort Inn and Village Conference Center.
“On behalf of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce, Chelsea Update, and the citizens of Chelsea, we congratulate you and thank you for your dedication and service to our wonderful community, the proclamation states.
Collins has long supported people, organizations, the schools – you name it – during her 14 years as the owner of Thompson’s.
When asked how many fundraisers she’s catered, Collins said she had no idea. “I don’t keep track, but there have been a lot,” she said.
“You hit the trifecta,” said Bob Pierce, executive director of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce, referring to her honors over the years as the Large Business Leadership award winner and the Humanitarian of the Year.
A big thank you to GiGi’s Flowers for the balloons.
Lynda is such a sweetheart, and such a deserving choice for this award. I’ve known her for many year’s, and can attest to her generous heart. She’s like supermom, ready to take on any challenge. Our city is blessed with her fine family.