Bowen honored at Christmas Mixer

Many businesses and individuals were presented awards during Thursday evening's Christmas Mixer, but none were more surprised or honored than Bucky Bowen, who was named Senior of the Year.

"The Senior Citizen Center is overjoyed to present Wilbur 'Bucky' Bowen with the Senior Citizen of 2013 award," said Linda Lima, director of the senior center. "It is impossible to relate everything in the time available to me that Bucky does to make Corning a better place to live. From acting as master of ceremonies of veteran's and other events, to his active involvement in community and charitable events."

She said Bowen, 87, is her personal hero."This is such an honor," Bowen said. "I am very surprise and flattered. When I think of some of the other people who have been presented with this recognition it just makes it all the more of an honor."

Bowen was also recognized by Corning Exchange Club President Dean Cofer.

"I take great pride in presenting my friend Bucky Bowen with a certificate of recognition from the club for being named Senior Citizen of 2013," Cofer said. "After serving in combat in the Pacific during World War II, he moved from Missouri to California and carved out a noteworthy career in labor and management — retiring as a top executive of the telephone company. Upon retirement more than 29 years ago Bucky came to Corning and has been, and continues to be, an integral and important asset to the community.

He was served in leadership roles in Rotary, Elks, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and most recently as a board member of the Corning Exchange Club."

Representing the Chamber of Commerce, Terry Barbo shared comments about Bowen, as did Toni Miller of the Maywood Woman's Club.

Bowen also was presented with a certificate on behalf of the state Assembly by a representative of outgoing Assemblyman Jim Nielsen.

The mixer was held at PremierWest Bank on Solano Street. Other awards presented during the mixer were the winners of the Christmas Tree Lane: Best Overall — Peggy's Gift and Thrift; Best Night Appearance — Olive City Insurance; and Best Day Appearance — Jamison Properties.