At a time when most people find it hard to find something to like about insurance companies, it’s good to hear that Premera is making a big difference in our community.

At their May 3 meeting, the City Council presented Premera Blue Cross’ Director of Facilities Services Tom Hebner with a Distinguished Service Award for the company’s years of dedicated service and generous donations to the health and wellness of Mountlake Terrace citizens, youth and families.

Community Relations Director/City Clerk Virginia Olsen spoke about the positive contributions Premera Blue Cross has made to the Mountlake Terrace community including training opportunities, public safety exercises and events including sponsorship of National Night Out, and assistance with federal funding requests in Washington, D.C.

Olsen also recognized a number of financial commitments that have benefitted the community including Youth Recreation Scholarships, concert in the park sponsorship, and supporting the city’s 50th birthday celebration. Most recently, Olsen said Premera donated $5,000 to the Mountlake Terrace Business Association who has coordinated the opening of a new farmers market on May 6.

Following the presentation, Mayor Jerry Smith presented Hebner with an engraved award. Hebner expressed, “Gubby Barlow, our CEO, believes in giving back to the community. Three quarters of our associates give back of their own time and wallets and it is a part of our culture.” Hebner said he would take the award back and proudly display it in their headquarters.

Premera Blue Cross located its corporate headquarters in Mountlake Terrace in the mid-1980’s. With about 2,500 employees, they are the largest employer in the city.