Anderson Floral Recognizes Owen
Ashton Bice and Dustie Akins, owners of Anderson Floral, know firsthand how many people work behind the scenes, every day, to ensure the school day passes smoothly.
The ladies are tasked with providing safe transportation to students of all ages, each morning and afternoon.
Last month, Bice and Akins decided to host a contest in which locals nominated a school staff member for a courtesy arrangement. Once nominations are complete, contestants are narrowed down to five and a poll is created on the business’ Facebook page and voters are encouraged to “LIKE” their favorite nominee.
“A lot of people who work at the school, work behind the scenes,” said Akins. “This opens it up to all staff — custodians, lunch ladies, SROs.”
More than 100 people participated in the maiden event.
School Resource Officer Buck Owen was chosen as the recipient of August’s Staff Member Appreciation with an overwhelming victory.
Owen has been an SRO for three years. He began his career as a law-enforcement officer in 2001 and pursued this passion, on-and-off, for more than a decade.
“I originally went to college to be a teacher then ended up as a cop,” Owen said. “A few years ago, I thought I’d pursue the best of both worlds as an SRO.”
When asked his favorite aspect of his career, Owen said: “Being able to work with and help kids address issues before they are adults.”
In lieu of a flower or candy arrangement, Owen chose to donate his prize toward the McDonald County High School Project Graduation — a wholesome, alcohol- and drug-free event each graduation night that provides a safe haven for students.
Local businesses pitched in to provide gift certificates to later be auctioned and used to raise funds for Project Graduation. The Flick, Burger Time, Blissful Baking, Anderson Floral and Farmer’s Daughter all contributed.
“These are my kids, anything I can do to help them, I will. Especially for a good program like Project Graduation,” said Owen. “The program keeps kids safe when they would otherwise be drinking or partying.”
Anderson Floral will host a monthly staff appreciation poll. Those wishing to nominate an employee can do so online, by messaging Anderson Floral, or by stopping into the flower shop anytime and submitting a name.