Tonight! The 2014 Citizenship Award Winners Including Some Of Our Own!!! WOOT WOOT! CONGRATS!!!!

CHURCH TO HONOR TEN RESIDENTS FOR VOLUNTEER SERVICE

On Sunday, May 4, the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church will present Citizenship Awards to ten dedicated citizens (and one dog) for their selfless volunteer efforts on behalf of our city.

This year’s awardees will be Donna Ardizzoni, for her One Hour at a Time weekly cleanup efforts; Jim Flint, for spearheading the renovation and renewal of the Lanesville Community Center; Martin Krugman, for leading the restoration of the schooner Adventure; John McElhenny, for improvements to Burnham’s Field; Barry McKay, for his volunteer work at the Rose Baker Senior Center; Joe Novello, for helming the annual St. Peter’s Fiesta and keeping other traditions alive; Linn Parisi, for attracting tourism through Discover Gloucester; Maggie Rosa, for her work with the Gloucester Education Foundation and the preservation of City Hall; Terry Sands, for 23 years of musical theater productions at the Annisquam Village Players; and Ann Straccia and her rescue beagle, Ellie, for providing support and companionship to homeless people at the Grace Center.

The winners were nominated not just by members of the church but by individuals and organizations throughout the city. The final decision was made by the church’s Social Justice Committee. Many winners have no idea who nominated them and will not find out until they arrive at the ceremony.

The ceremony, which is informal, begins at 4 p.m. in the church sanctuary at the corner of Church and Middle Streets, with a reception downstairs in the church vestry to follow. Both floors are handicapped accessible. The event is open to all free of charge; freewill donations will be gratefully accepted. Sponsors of the program include Rockport National Bank, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Santander Bank, Jim’s Bagel & Bake Shop, The Dress Code, MAC Fitness, BankGloucester, and Dunkin’ Donuts.

Donna Ardizzoni

John McElhenny

Joe Novello

Ann Straccia

Martin Krugman

Jim Flint

Terry Sands

Maggie Rosa

Linn Parisi