Merced County supervisors recognize outstanding volunteers
The Merced County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday recognized outstanding community volunteers, keeping with a tradition of celebrating National Volunteer Month.
Two volunteers from each supervisor’s district were honored during the board’s meeting.
District 1 Supervisor John Pedrozo recognized Alicia Rodriguez and Dennis Moniz.
Rodriguez was nominated by the Planada school superintendent and works with at-risk youths and Building Healthy Communities, and worked with both Measure O campaigns, Pedrozo said. Moniz was recognized for his time with the Merced County Sheriff’s Activities League for youths. During the ceremony, he said the children make his time and effort worthwhile.
Hub Walsh, District 2 supervisor and the board’s chairman, recognized Lanie Gladwin and Mike Malone.
Walsh said Gladwin does a lot of work in the community that isn’t necessarily “sexy,” such as picking up trash on the trails with Love Merced. Malone was recognized for his effort to support local businesses and “shop local.”
District 3 Supervisor Daron McDaniel recognized Richard Hawthorne and the Rev. Don Ramsey.
Hawthorne is a retired police chief for the city of Atwater. He also is involved with Rotary, the Police Activities League and Merced-area Crime Stoppers. “You’re everywhere,” McDaniel said.
Ramsey, who was unable to attend the ceremony, often leads walks through high-crime areas, hoping to send a religious message to criminals.
Deidre Kelsey, District 4 supervisor, recognized the Pitchford family of Winton and New Beginnings for Merced County Animals.
The Pitchford family has volunteered in youth activities for many years, Kelsey said, which is important in unincorporated communities such as Winton. New Beginnings helps tackle the overpopulation of young animalsy, an issue with which the county has struggled, Kelsey said.
District 5 Supervisor Jerry O’Banion recognized Lara Olson and Tim Shaw.
Olson volunteers in multiple organizations, such as the Soroptimist International of Los Banos, Valley Crisis Center and the Every 15 Minutes program at Los Banos High. Shaw volunteers for a tax-aid program through AARP, helping many people with tax returns. He leads a team of 25 other volunteers to help those at the Merced Senior Center prepare their taxes.
The program, established by the Board of Supervisors in 1999, provides an opportunity to recognize groups or individuals for their contributions and dedication to their communities. Awards are based on service that goes above and beyond what the job requires and enhances the quality of a community program, as well as longevity of service.
This story was originally published April 26, 2016 at 6:39 PM with the headline "Merced County supervisors recognize outstanding volunteers."