Baier gave a short but powerful speech to onlookers on Friday night at the Lincoln Highway Bridge Festival. PHOTO BY JONATHAN MEYER

Lori Baier spoke of being named Tama Citizen of the Year in a short speech after being bestowed the award last Friday night. Baier is the 41st Tama resident to be honored with this annual award.

“When I answered the door last week to find firefighters and EMS personnel, I didn’t know if our house was on fire or I was having a medical emergency. How ironic that these dedicated volunteers who provide fire and EMS services for our community were at my door,” Baier said.

The Tama Fire Department announced Baier as the recipient earlier in the month, and Fire Chief Richard Jiminez noted that she had received several nominations for her work on the Wieting Theater, Tama Visioning and daycare.

Baier spends much of her time volunteering in the Tama-Toledo area and has impacted the lives of many. She is an advocate for the fine arts, being involved in bringing Camp Creamery to the Wieting Theater yearly before the pandemic.

A similar camp will return for youth this summer. Baier’s impact can be seen across some of STC’s finest thespians in recent memory and of all time.

Fire Chief Richard Jiminez shakes Baier’s hand after presenting her with the Citizen of the Year Award. PHOTO BY JONATHAN MEYER

With a smile and gratitude clearly on display Baier spoke of the awards significance to her.

“I am very humble and was very surprised. I have been inspired by the actions of many prior recipients, and am very honored to be included in this category,” she said.

Baier ended her short speech with a message to fellow community members.

“I challenge everyone here to know, you can always make a positive impact in our community,” she said.