SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Rotary Club awarded three recipients at Tuckers Restaurant on Wednesday night with the 2016 Community Service Recognition.
Kathryn Chandler, Rick Anderson, and Dave Sutton were all honored for the work that they have done throughout the community.
Ellen Miles was the Coordinator for the event and is also the Chairman of Vocational and Community Service for the Rotary Club. Miles also noted that this year is the 20th year the Rotary Club has been holding this event.
District Governor of the Rotary Club, Frank Wargo, was present at the event to support the Southwick Rotary Club. Wargo noted what the theme was for this year’s Rotary Club.
“It is service above self,” said Wargo.
Chandler, who was a teacher in the Southwick School District for 28 years, spent the past 10 years as the Career Facilitator for the Division of Learning Experience Internship program at the Southwick Regional School.
Rotary Club recipients Dave Sutton, Rich Anderson, and Kathryn Chandler, pose for a picture at Tucker’s Restaurant for the ceremony. (Photo by Greg FItzpatrick)
As she just retired at the beginning of this school year, Chandler was focused on helping students with internship opportunities, job shadows, and promoting career awareness.
With Chandler being at these Rotary Club recognition events in the past, she was glad to be a part of such a special asset to the community.
“It’s really a special honor,” said Chandler. “There’s a real connection with the rotary, their participation is really essential for the success of the program”
Anderson was recognized for his 39 years of total service towards the Southwick Fire Department. Being a Chief, Deputy Chief, Lieutenant, Firefighter, and Emergency Medical Technician, Anderson was honored for his dedication and leadership towards the department.
As a recipient, Anderson complimented Chandler and Sutton and what they do respectively.
“Both of them are great causes,” said Anderson.
Sutton and his organization, One Call Away were recognized for the efforts they have made towards military veterans and first responders who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as helping prevent suicide.
Although Sutton individually received the award, he was quick to point out the rest of his group.
“I wouldn’t be up here without them,” said Sutton. “These guys are just as committed as I am.”
While being a recipient is an honor for him, Sutton sees a benefit towards what he and his organization are trying to accomplish.
“It gets the One Call Away name out,” said Sutton. “That’s what’s important.”
