B.O.B’s and barbecue were on the agenda as the Braddock District Council gathered to honor outstanding residents at its annual awards picnic. Hosted by Supervisor Sharon Bulova (D-Braddock), the "Best of Braddock" event — dubbed the "B.O.B" awards — is in its third year of honoring Braddock District residents and public employees in six major community-building categories.
"This is one of the neatest things that happens in Braddock District all year. It’s so great to hear the stories of the things people have done, the sense of community spirit in our Braddock residents," said Bulova.
Nominations for the awards were received from the community and voted on by the Braddock District Council, an umbrella group of citizens which provides support to the Bulova and her staff on certain civic matters. In the past year, issues on which the Council has provided input included gang violence and community association structure.
AT THE AWARDS, one of the Council’s own, Tom Reinkober, received the award for "Citizen of the Year." Reinkober, the president of the Canterbury Woods Civic Association, was honored for his work in helping Canterbury Woods readopt its civic association bylaws.
"When anyone asks about trying to revitalize their community and readopt their covenants, it’s Tom Reinkober who is the authority on doing that," said Bulova.
Reinkober was also instrumental in setting up a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) certification process for more than 30 residents of Canterbury Woods.
"Civic associations and homeowners associations can make a difference, and if you don’t think so, you haven’t tried," said Reinkober. "You can get involved."
Captain Jack Hurlock, Chief of the Fairfax County Police Department’s West Springfield District, and the members of his station, were honored as "Most Can-Do Public Employee," for "innovative approaches to community policing."
"This is one of the most rewarding assignments I’ve had in my time with the police department," said Hurlock.
OTHER WINNERS included the Kings Park West Community Association’s organizing committee and President Larry Velte for revitalizing its defunct association, Marcel Goldstein of the Rutherford Civic Association for enhancing his neighborhood, and Todd Martin of Stanley Martin Companies as "Most Outstanding Business Person."
The Council also handed out one additional award, a "Special Award for Public Service" to Bobby Mills, a retired postal worker who served the Springbrook Forest area of Annandale for over 10 years. Bulova said she considered the award after receiving numerous requests from the community during the nomination process.
In addition to the awards, each winner received a United States flag which had been flown over the U.S. Capitol building. These awards were presented by U.S. Rep. Tom Davis (R-11).
The Council also voted on its members for the upcoming year. After an August hiatus, the Council will resume meeting in September. Current Chair Janyce Hedetniemi was reelected to her post for next year.
"We are the envy of other districts," Bulova told attendees. "It’s because of you we have such a great district."