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Volunteerism.

The couple, who are dedicated to the success of their community and its signature event, the Chesaning Showboat Festival, embody the spirit of volunteerism that has guaranteed Showboat's success for the past 65 years.

In honor of their commitment and dedication to the festival and to the community, John and Mary Beth are being recognized for their contributions by being selected as Grand Marshals of the 2007 Showboat Parade.

"They were a natural choice to serve as this year's Showboat Parade Grand Marshals. John and Mary Beth both epitomize the traditions and spirit of Showboat and have been dedicated supporters their entire lives," said 2007 General Chairperson Mary Kay Hoerner. "I've had the pleasure of working with both of them over the years and know what a credit they have been to Showboat and to the community."

"We are humbled to be chosen for this honor. We both feel that giving back to the community we live in is important," stated Mary Beth on behalf of her and her husband.

Mary Beth was a member of the Showboat Committee for four years, serving as the festival's General Chairperson in 2002. She has also served on the Make-Up Committee since 1973, and the Decorating Committee since 1983.

Showboat was in her life from a very young age. Several members of her family have served as Committee Chairmen including her grandfather Fred Gewirtz (1941), her father Michael Schlachter (1961), and her brother Thomas Schlachter (1996).

"As a kid I worked in the fireman's booth with my dad, and sold programs. My parents have always been involved so I grew up with Showboat," she stated.

Mary Beth owned and operated a retail business in downtown Chesaning for 12 years, served on the Chesaning Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, as Chamber Secretary, and as Village Clerk.

She is currently employed at the Chamber office as an Information Specialist.

John also served on the Showboat Committee for four year's, serving as the festival's General Chairman in 2006. And he has served on the boat crew since 1973.

John also began his involvement with the festival at a very young age back in 1965 working on the boat blowing up balloons and making smoke for the smoke stack, along with working on the stage crew.

While serving on the boat crew, John realized a lifelong dream of being the person who pilots the boat down the river for the show.

John has also been involved with the Chesaning Chamber of Commerce serving as Chamber Treasurer and then as Chamber President for three years.

In 1997, while serving as Chamber President, John was honored as the Pinnacle Award Winner for Outstanding Service and Leadership by the Saginaw County Hospitality Committee.

He has also served on the Finance Committee at the Our Lady School and on the Airport Committee for the Howard Nixon Memorial Airport.

He currently serves as Chairman of the Saginaw County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Lifelong residents of Chesaning, the Reibers will celebrate their 37th wedding anniversary this year. They have two daughters, Kristi (Mike) Bueche and Kari (Jeremy) Harber, and four grandchildren, Brahm and Avrie Bueche and Dylan and Levi Harber.