Barney Carbajal (l) and Warren Caldwell (r), 2023 Richardson Real Heroes
REAL HEROES OF RICHARDSON SHINE BRIGHTLY by Bonnie Kudlicki
O
n September 14, 2023, moonlight illuminated the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts while the spotlight was on Warren Caldwell and Barney Carbajal, two gentlemen being honored as 2023 Real Heroes at the 13th Annual Richardson Real Heroes Awards Ceremony. Established in 2009, Richardson Real Heroes was founded to honor volunteers who give tirelessly to the community with no intent of recognition. Each year in April, National Volunteer month, the nomination window opens. Anyone who works with or knows an extraordinary volunteer can submit a nomination. A review board evaluates each candidate and selects a recipient or recipients.
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RICHARDSON LIFE MAGAZINE
This year’s ceremony boasted record attendance, including Mayor Bob Dubey, City Council Members, City Manager Don Magner, and family and friends of the honorees. A highlight of the evening was a tribute to the late Ann Eisemann, who conceived the idea of the Richardson Real Heroes award more than a decade ago. And in a moving tribute, she was remembered for her generosity and giving spirit, as well as the legacy she left behind in Richardson. In that vein, the newly selected Real Hero award has been affectionately named “The Annie” in her honor and Charles Eisemann proudly presented the award to each honoree.
