Councilman Bob Aubuchon Honored for Volunteering Time to His Community

City Councilman Bob Aubuchon of Ward 2 worked with Councilwoman Bette O’Keefe at the Northwest Chamber of Commerce for years. 

“She was friendly and outgoing, and a truly wonderful woman,” Aubuchon said.

While working with her, little did he know that he would later be honored to receive the “Bette O’Keefe Volunteer of the Year” award. Aubuchon was presented with the award at the chamber’s 2011 Annual Meeting Installation and Awards Ceremony, which was recently held at Harrah’s Casino and Hotel. 

For the past 13 years, Aubuchon said he has served his constituents in many ways. Among the ways are devoting hours of volunteer service. Aubuchon, who has been on the chamber’s board of directors for two years, said one of his favorite events is the “Mingle at the Mills” at the , which is a scholarship fund fundraiser for six high schools in the area.

Imagine mayors racing in go-carts, a chicken wing cook-off competition and a classic car run. Each year, it draws crowds from near and far. Larry Perney, president and CEO of Northwest Chamber of Commerce, said Aubuchon was influential in starting the wing cook-off, which is a huge hit at this annual event.

In addition to being cochair of “Mingle at the Mills,” Aubuchon has participated in numerous events and is involved in the following chamber committees:

• Ambassador and Membership
• Casino Night
• Government and Community Concerns
• Chamber Golf Classic
• Chili-Dog Golf Tournament

Aubuchon helped start the Biggest Loser program and the King of Wings competition for the “Mingle at the Mills,” as well, which is what makes Aubuchon one of a kind to people like Perney. 

“I wish we had about 20 of him, then we’d be in great shape,” Perney said. “Bob was so deserving of this award.

"Last year, he was on every single committee we had, showed up to every event, and was always very giving of his time.”

Perney explained that the recipient of the award is determined by a committee made up of members of the executive board of the Northwest Chamber of Commerce.

“Bob was a clear favorite,” he said. “We’re thankful we have him.”