Rikard accepts one more accolade

Olive Branch Mayor Sam Rikard praised the leadership of his department directors as the Chamber of Commerce honored him for his leadership.

The chamber awarded Rikard the McCauley Award, named for Jack McCauley, a founding father of the chamber and friend and adviser to Rikard.

“This is one of the highest hon- ors I’ve ever received,” Rikard said.

Rikard received the award after making his farewell speech June 20 at the chamber’s annual evening event, held at Whispering Woods Hotel and Conference Center. About 200 people attended.

Rikard, whose 16-year reign ends the last day of this month, said one of the secrets to a successful city is good leadership throughout the organization, not just at the top.

The mayor named the department directors, including the city attorney, city clerk, the police and fire chiefs and the city engineer, and how they have helped make Olive Branch a place where people want to live and work.

“I could go on awhile talking about people who work behind the scenes,” Rikard said.

An alderman eight years before becoming mayor, Rikard did not seek re-election. Scott Phillips, who was assistant fire chief, won a five-way race.

After Rikard’s departure, Phillips will have the responsibility to recommend department heads. The newly constituted Board of Aldermen will take up those recommendations in its first meeting Tuesday after the 6 p.m. formal swearing in.

In addition to honoring Rikard, the chamber celebrated 40 years in existence.

In recognition of the anniversary, the chamber published “From Roots to Branches: The History of Olive Branch, Mississippi.”

The book is available for $20 at the chamber office in Old Towne or for $24.99 at amazon. com.

Vicki DuPree said Rikard was a huge part of Olive Branch’s history. She said he led “with integrity, efficiency and honor.”