Friday night, the Guardian Center will be holding their annual banquet at the Floral Hall at the White County Fairgrounds starting at 5:30 pm. 
Part of the ceremonies that take place that night is the presentation of their “Friend of Children” award, someone who contributes in a special way to the needs of children in the counties the Guardian Center serves.
The Guardian Center also wanted to recognize one individual who has made an impact on both the Guardian Center and the children of White County. Special arrangements had to be made though, as this year’s recipient wouldn’t be able to attend the banquet. White County Sheriff Doug Maier will be attending a conference this weekend, so Guardian Center Executive Director Sheryl Woodham arranged a surprise ceremony Tuesday afternoon. Family, friends, and law enforcement officers from multiple agencies gathered in the Carmi City Council Chambers to surprise Sheriff Maier with the award.
Maier was surprised to walk in and see those gathered, and accepted the award from Woodham, who spoke of the many ways Maier had supported the Center since its inception. She presented Maier with a certificate and copies of the many letters of nomination the Guardian Center had received in support of Maier.
Carmi Mayor Jeff Pollard also spoke in appreciation for Maier’s service to White County and its communities, while States Attorney Denton Aud spoke about the many things Maier does that doesn’t make it into the news.
Sheriff Maier graciously accepted the award, but stated that it was Woodham and the Guardian Center who are the real heroes for their work every day with the area’s most vulnerable children.
A cake and punch reception followed the award ceremony.
Tickets to Friday night’s banquet are available for $25 each or $200 for a table of eight. Midwest Dueling Pianos will be providing entertainment, and there will be silent and live auctions to benefit the Guardian Center’s programs. Contact Nicole Bradfield at [email protected] or call 618-382-8247 for more information.
