McTizic Honors Business Owners at Charity Ball
Local businesses were in the spotlight as the Mayor’s Charity Ball was held on Saturday, February 5, with approximately 275 people attending to support the participating non-profit organizations. This year, the organizations participating in the ball included the Hardeman County Carl Perkins Exchange Club for the Prevention of Child Abuse, the Restoration Center, the Hardeman County Imagination Library, Toys 4 Tots, ANGELS, and Build a Better Bolivar. Courtney Little provided entertainment for the event.
The 2022 Mayor’s Charity Award was presented to Michelle’s Magical Treasures owner, Michelle Griffin. Michelle has dedicated over 30 years in service to families and children in Hardeman County through her daycare center. It is estimated that she has served over 5,000 families throughout her career. Michelle was also honored for serving the community in which she lives. She has sponsored an outreach program donating commissary items and hygiene items to both male and female inmates at the criminal justice center. She delivered meals within the community before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and frequently visited local nursing homes. She gives to Toys 4 Tots, sponsors children on the local Angel tree at Christmas, and provides coats for kids. Michelle resides in Middleton and has three (3) children, two step-children, and 13 grandchildren.
Mayor McTizic honored three additional business owners who have served the residents of Bolivar and beyond for a combined total of 72 years. Debra Hodge, Lisa Hodge, and Maria Howell were all presented with keys to the City of Bolivar.
Debra Hodge ran Richard’s BBQ with her husband, Richard, for over 33 years. Lisa Hodge dedicated over 15 years as the owner of Joe’s Restaurant, and Maria Howell served residents for 24 years as the owner of El Ranchito. The trio was honored not only for their ownership of businesses but their willingness to support the city and its residents through various programs and organizations. They all pledged funds and resources to support programs, charitable organizations, school sports and youth athletic programs, translation services, and child advocacy groups throughout the years.
“It is their selfless spirit of giving that makes these women stand out in our community. I am honored to call them friends, and our city has been blessed by their generosity,” said McTizic.