Kimball pleasantly surprised with honor

Shock was Pamela Kimball's initial reaction, after learning she was honored as Lindsay's 2003 Woman of the Year. "At first I thought to myself, 'oh my gosh, I think they're talking about me. I think I'd better think of something to say quick,'" she said jokingly. Kimball was among the many honored during the Lindsay Chamber of Commerce's awards banquet on Jan. 17. She was honored for her many contributions to the Lindsay area. As Lindsay's current mayor pro tem, Kimball thought she was attending the banquet for Steve Ingoldsby, who was the recipient of the Youth of the Year award.

"I thought I was there to honor my nephew," she said.

One of her biggest fears is speaking in front of large audiences. Not knowing she was going to be making an acceptance speech at the event, Kimball said she was not prepared. Being put on the spot made her very nervous.

"I just said a quick prayer and went up there," she said. "One of my lifetime goals is to overcome shyness."

Being in her type of profession, Kimball said she is gradually overcoming her fears.

Not only is Kimball busy revitalizing her home town as mayor pro tem, but she is also actively involved with the Lindsay-Strathmore Coordinating Council, the Lindsay Theater, the Sister City Organization, the Tulare County Council of Governments and the Health Care Advisory Committee.

Community is Kimball's driving force in being active in the area.

"I just care about the community," Kimball said. "I think of it as more a mission to see what you can make of your life. You try to do good and help people, making a contribution to mankind. Being involved in a meaningful way."

As for receiving the award, Kimball said she couldn't put her feelings into words.

"It really feels good to be honored within the community," Kimball said of the award. "In a way, you feel kind of unworthy of the award. It's just a mixture of feelings."

A fourth generation Linsday resident, with a family history dating as far back as 1914, Kimball said she is a proud resident of the small community.

"My family has been here for a long time," she said. "We have made it a commitment to be here. I love it this place."

Lindsay mayor Ed Murray described Kimball as a smart, hardworking woman.

"She's a very capable person," he said. "She always did her best. She has the heart of Lindsay in mind and she does a superb job at whatever she sets her sights on. She's a really great person."

Upon receiving the award, Kimball said she was thankful for the recognition.

"I just really want to appreciate the community for recognizing people for their efforts," she said. "It's really encouraging for me to continue on and be active in the community."

Som Khamsaysoury can be reached at 784-500 Ext. 1051 or by E-mail at Som_Khamsaysoury@link.freedom.com