On Thursday, October 3, during the City of Canyon Lake’s State of the City Address, the city presented its esteemed Jordan Ehrenkranz Spirit Award to longtime resident Jeanne O’Dell. This award recognizes individuals who embody community spirit and give selflessly of their time and resources for the betterment of the community.
O’Dell has been an integral part of Canyon Lake since she became a part-time resident in 1998. She transitioned to full-time residency in 2006.
O’Dell was a member of the POA Facilities Planning Committee from 2010 to 2020 and was elected to the POA Board of Directors, where she served a two-year term.
In addition to her work with the POA, O’Dell was a member of the Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce for 22 years. She served on the chamber’s board for 10 years, including four years as president.
During her presidency, O’Dell successfully rebranded the chamber. During her tenure, O’Dell has coordinated numerous chamber events, including Oktoberfest and Parade of Frights.
O’Dell is the former owner of Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant and Cantina. In 2016, her contributions to the community earned Pepe’s recognition as Canyon Lake’s Business of the Year.
O’Dell’s work also includes serving as a poll worker.
In November 2022, the city recognized O’Dell as its Citizen of the Month, an initiative created in 2021 to honor Canyon Lake residents for their service to the community.
“There are so many worthy people in this community that it is humbling to be counted among them,” O’Dell said in her acceptance speech.
The city created the Spirit Award in honor of Councilman Jordan Ehrenkranz, who passed away in his sleep on the morning of May 4 while visiting his daughter in Florida. He was 87 years old.
Ehrenkranz was a dedicated public servant, having served on Canyon Lake City Council for more than 12 years, including four terms as mayor—the only council member in the city’s history to achieve this distinction. He also served on the Canyon Lake Property Owners Association Board for five years, including three years as president.
This award holds special significance for O’Dell, as it was Ehrenkranz who welcomed her to the community and encouraged her to get involved.
O’Dell is the fourth recipient of this award, joining the ranks of Brad Morton, the late Karen Bevans, and Ria Riley.
“Jordan was a very special person, so this [award] only goes to very special people,” Councilwoman Kasey Castillo said.
