Crothersville woman honored by town council

CROTHERSVILLE — Doris Kovener has devoted her adult life to helping others.

The Crothersville woman’s volunteer efforts include serving as a Cub Scout den mother, an American Red Cross blood donor, a Mental Health America of Jackson County board member, a vocalist and soloist at weddings, funerals and Immanuel Church of Christ, a volunteer at her sorority’s thrift store and publicity chairperson for Hamacher Hall.

She also is a founding member of the Crothersville Red, White and Blue Festival and was a 40-year committee member, has helped with funeral meals for families in need and has worked at the Farm Bureau ice cream booth at the Jackson County Fair.

Kovener, who turns 90 today, received an early birthday present Tuesday night as the Crothersville Town Council announced her as the recipient of the certificate of appreciation for excellence in community service for January.

The purpose of the award is to recognize a local resident, club or organization who is an outstanding citizen and goes above and beyond to give back to the community and help make Crothersville a great place to live, council President Jason Hillenburg said before presenting Kovener with a framed certificate.

“Thank you, Doris. We appreciate you very much, and happy birthday,” he said, which drew a round of applause.

As she accepted the framed certificate, Kovener said, “My goodness sakes. Oh my!”

That’s when she realized why her two sons and daughter-in-law were at the meeting.

“Now, I know why they’re here,” she said.

“Thank you very much for the recognition,” Scott Kovener said.

“Thank you, Doris, for everything you’ve done,” Councilman Chad Wilson said.

At the end of the meeting, Kovener took it upon herself to shake hands with all five council members.