More
than 1,500 cowpokes, cowgirls, rustlers, rounders and buckaroos
gathered in Las Vegas, NV, last week for a western-themed benefit to
celebrate the work of Guide Dogs of America (GDA). The annual event
recognizes IAM locals, districts and individuals who volunteer
countless hours of service to raise funds for the non-profit GDA, which
breeds, trains and provides guide dogs free of charge to sightless
individuals.
Known officially as the 29 th William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet, this year’s event included an emotional farewell to Jay Bormann (pictured to the left), who is retiring after serving as president of the Sylmar, CA-based GDA for more than a decade. Taking over for Bormann as GDA president will be former Eastern Territory Administrative Assistant Dale Hartford.
In addition to the boot stomping salute to Bormann, several individuals were recognized with the 2009 Gift of Sight Award for their commitment to the work of GDA. This year’s honorees included Eastern Territory GVP Lynn Tucker, Local 74 President Mark Hebert, United Technologies Labor & Employee Relations Vice President James Miller and Liberty Dental Plan Vice President Hugh Hazelwood.
