Local community leader, business woman and tireless defender of the Indiana Dunes, Ellen Firme is the 2006 recipient of the Duneland Chamber of Commerce Athena Award at Friday’s banquet held at Sand Creek Country Club.

“The recipient of this year’s award is a woman whose efforts in furthering the accomplishments of other women can be seen in her values, stewardship and service to others in the medical field, as a business owner and as an elected official,” said presenter Jean Phelps.

Firme is accredited to develop and publish workbooks, textbooks and training manuals for students and teachers to aid women on the low end of the economic scale can acquire certification in the field of medical pathology.

Firme, of Beverly Shores, also for years ran Glen L. Firme and Associates art supply and single-handedly raised four sons. Her tenacity kept the business thriving and expanding after the untimely death of her husband.

Her passion for community service includes tenures on the town council, where she paved the way for women in local office.

As a Beverly Shores Town Council member, Firme spear-headed efforts to bring water lines to her community.

As liaison with the fire department she sought and acquired state grants for a new pumper truck and wild fire training.

As a proponent of protecting the environment, she worked in the effort to expand the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Her initiatives led to bridge building between the National Park and the town it surrounds.

She is considered a mentor by her peers and recently was appointed by the Governor of Indiana to serve on the Committee for Coastal Zone Management.

She has served faithfully and tirelessly and continues to attend meetings of area organizations to stay current with issues that affect her community.

To this day, Firme is one of the first people citizens call when something goes wrong.

The Athena Award is named for the Greek Goddess of wisdom, war, the arts, industry justice and skill.

Posted 1/30/2006