Janet Johnson, Agnes Valigura and Andy Westling
Two long-time Port O’Connor Service Club members and one “honorary member” were honored at the Service Club’s yearly Seniors’ Christmas Luncheon on December 7.
Agnes Valigura, a native of Port O’Connor who recently celebrated her 90th birthday, was recognized for her many years of community service. Agnes is a charter member of the Club and serves on its Historical Committee. She has also served in the Port O’Connor Chamber of Commerce since the 1960’s, holding the office of Secretary-Treasure for 16 years. Agnes served as Postmaster of Port O’Connor from 1980 until 1994. In 2007, Agnes was recognized as “Citizen of the Year” at Port O’Connor Baptist Church’s annual Sweetheart Banquet.
A relative new-comer to the Club is Andy Westling, husband of Club member June Westling. He says he would be a member if the Club allowed men to join. Even so, he has made himself available to the Club for anything requiring “man power” like loading, unloading, and setting up the Club’s semi-annual garage sales. Additionally, he has been able to clean and repair and price donated fishing equipment for the sales.
Andy is retired from the commercial construction business and he and his wife June, a former realtor with Russell Cain Realty, have made their home in Port O’Connor since 2010. Andy is an avid fisherman, sometimes going fishing twice a day. He spends some of his time repairing rods and reels and hand-tying flys. He and June enjoy fly fishing at lakes around the state.
When not helping out at the Service Club, Andy uses his knowledge and experience in construction to help his neighbors with their electrical, plumbing, and other handy-man type projects. His neighborly concern has even resulted in one man being rescued before succumbing to a diabetic coma.
Last to be recognized, and a surprise to the Club’s President, was the President, herself: Janet Johnson. Janet has been the Service Club President for the last four years, and has been a member almost since its inception.
Janet has been a fixture in the Port O’Connor community since moving here from Lake Charles, Louisiana in 1957. Anyone who has ever visited Port O’Connor has most likely met her, because she has worked at many business places though the years. For many years she was employed at The Fishing Center, and was heard on Houston and San Antonio radio stations daily giving the Port O’Connor fishing report.
She was employed at Coastal Real Estate, and in the 1980’s, at “Outsiders” owned by Ronnie and Mary Ann Claiborne, in the old theater building, selling wade fishing belts, art and pottery. She also worked at the old Alvin’s Liquor Store and is now employed at POC Liquor Store.
In earlier years, Janet helped with her husband Lewis’ guide service. She and Lewis, who passed away two years ago, were married in 1960. Together they raised five children and she is now raising a great-granddaughter, Hailey. With all her children having attended Port O’Connor School, Janet was very involved with the PTA and has often served as a “room mother” in the school.
Many might remember Janet from her ceramics business, J&J Ceramics, which specialized in various types of Santa Clauses, that were sold all over the country. Her shop was a place for friends to gather and socialize while helping to paint the ceramic pieces. Those attending the Christmas Luncheon saw many of her ceramic pieces, including the Nativity Scene, displayed.
Although being responsible for the care of ailing family members and growing children, Janet seems to be one of those “super moms” you hear about, mixing family and work, and still being involved in community service. One of her most outstanding community achievements was her involvement in the building of Port O’Connor’s Community Center. She currently serves as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Community Center Association.
The Dolphin congratulates Agnes, Andy, and Janet for their achievements and their personal involvement in our community. It’s folks like you who make Port O’Connor such a great place to live!
