Thanks to a push by Lisa Shelton, we have been compiling a list of nonprofit organizations in Port Aransas.

We started the list last year, and published it to offer people the opportunity to donate to these organizations during the Christmas season. Shelton then approached us about putting out the information to connect the various volunteer groups and keeping that information in front of the public through the Internet.

Once we’re satisfied the list is complete, we will add a “bar” under our News menu on our Web site (www.portasouthjetty.com) called Volunteer Opportunities (we’ve just about got it finished).

The idea is to acquaint folks, especially those new to or outside of the community, with the various volunteer organizations and opportunities available in this little island community.

What is astounding is that the list is closing in on 30, and that doesn’t include churches.

That’s Port Aransas for you. Some have called us the Volunteer Capital of the World.

We are rich in people with generous spirits, willing to share their time, their talents and their bank accounts to make Port Aransas a better place to live and visit.

The people who work toward that end do not do it for any reward, other than the satisfaction of having helped make their home a better place and/or to make others’ lives more comfortable or enjoyable.

It is because of those people that the Citizen of the Year Award was established. Not that they need or want the recognition, but that we who benefit from their efforts have a desire to express our appreciation to them.

The criteria for Citizen of the Year include service to the community over a long period of time that impacts a broad spectrum of the community (i.e., not a single endeavor or focus of activity) without regard to personal gain.

Proof that the award has honored citizens who meet the criteria is that every recipient who is able, continues to do that which brought them the recognition.

Selection of Citizen of the Year is not voted upon, and is not based on the number of nominations an individual receives. Instead, it is based on the criteria and who best meets them.

In fact, a screening committee reviews the nominations to make sure nominees meet those criteria. Nominees who do are sent on to the selection committee that has the unenviable job of selecting the recipient.

Rest assured, it is a difficult job because, without exception, many people meet that criteria.

That is why it is important to continue to nominate a person even if he or she is not selected in any given year. If they meet the criteria, their time will come.

It also is important for us to be at the chamber banquet where the Citizen of the Year is honored to show our support for, and appreciation of, the individuals who are our Citizens of the Year.

It is only fitting that we honor a person who gives hundreds, maybe even thousands, of hours to our community.

So, if you haven’t gotten your tickets for this year’s banquet – on Thursday, Nov. 12 – get them today. You’ll be glad you did.

Besides, it’s going be a good time. The Almost Patsy Cline Band is playing, so get your dancin’ boots on! I’ve seen them, I’ve got two of their CDs and can’t wait to get the third.

See ya there!

Mary Henkel Judson is editor and copublisher of the South Jetty. Contact her at southjetty@centurytel.net, (361) 749-5131 or P.O. Box 1117, Port Aransas. TX 78373.