The crowd response, as they immediately rose to their feet in applause with the announcement, and the many stories heard following the meeting about how Brian had touched a particular individual or group, pointed to the extent of Brian’s effort and generosity. I’ve personally felt his grace and commitment when he signed on early as a sponsor of the Film Festival in 2006 when he worked for Great Southern Bank. It made a major difference for our group and he always recognized and acknowledged me from that first meeting.
The award is always a surprise for the winner and Brian’s graciousness and breadth were on display in his impromptu acceptance speech. He noted that when he is in a ‘defensive mode’ he falls back on quotes. He offered two, including Oscar Wilde:
“What is a cynic? A man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing – For me, I know the value of family, friends and my community.”
and a more contemporary source, Elvis Costello, noting a song title as a message he also values:
(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding
According to his long time friends, from his time as an Aurora Houn’Dawg and later at Ole’ Miss, Rolling Stone magazine and rock and roll have been his long time companions. If you haven’t had a chance to meet Brian, I’d highly recommend it. As Executive Vice President of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, he continues his legacy of working for the benefit of the community. Quite a soccer dad in my opinion.
Here’s the formal announcement from the Chamber of Commerce.
