Lori Orestano-James, Monticello Rotary President for 2024-25 presented honors to those who exemplified Service Above Self! At the dinner, Orestano-James shared that instead of a plaque to hang on the wall, honorees would instead have a donation made in their honor to support the new Sullivan Central Rotary Club Scholarships. Monticello Rotary is sponsoring the new club.
Monticello Rotary Citizen of the Year was awarded to Mike Hajdarj, owner of Albella Restaurant. Orestano-James stated, "Mike is a gentle giant who quietly helps others behind the scenes. From monetary donations, and support through business services like donation of foods, and gift certificates, Mike ensures all in need are assisted without seeking fanfare. The true sign of an outstanding citizen is one who serves without notice. That is the true meaning of Service Above Self."
Monticello Rotarian of the Year was presented to Bradlyn Matican. "When you ask for help, Brad is the first one to say, how can I help," said Orestano-James. From a trunk full of turkeys for those in need for Thanksgiving, to his community volunteer work with youth through the My Brothers Keeper (MBK) Program and National Finance Academy, Brad exemplifies Service Above Self in all he does."
Orestano-James further announced the Monticello Rotary Officer of the Year is awarded to Dr. Peter Alan Chester. She states, "Peter truly understands what good leadership is all about. Ready to learn - ready to listen - ready to serve is how Peter operates. His commitment to Rotary and leadership skills makes him the perfect choice to serve as Co-President with Brad Rutledge for the new Sullivan Central Rotary Club."
In addition, Friends of Rotary recognitions were announced for The Towne Crier, The Sullivan County Democrat and Bold Gold Media's Eddie Wilson for their amazing work in helping spread the great work of the Monticello Rotary Club. Orestano-James said without their support, we could never get our voice out about the good work we do.
Lastly, all Committee Chairs were recognized for a successful year. Thank you to Brad Rutledge and Bradlyn Matican with Assistants
Les Kristt & Orshii Boldiis (Monster Run); Bob Ernst & Randy Katz (Scholarship Golf Outing); Marty Miller (Scholarships); Crystal Tweed & Lori Orestano-James (Health Fair); Barbara Carr & Lori Orestano-James (Alzheimer’s Walk); Helen Diehl (Taste of Sullivan); Peter Chester & Lori Orestano-James (Comfort Closet Seniors/Hospital Visits); Cris Spinner (Food Drive)
Cris Spinner, Jackie Rutledge and Brad Rutledge (Coat Drive); Peter Chester & Lori Orestano-James (Blood Drives), Rick Stein (Radio Rotary); Alex Rey (BBQ); Jodi Goodman & Lori Orestano-James (Coldest Night of the Year).
Congratulations to all for demonstrating why Service Above Self makes our world a better place.
Monticello Rotary Citizen of the Year was awarded to Mike Hajdarj, owner of Albella Restaurant. Orestano-James stated, "Mike is a gentle giant who quietly helps others behind the scenes. From monetary donations, and support through business services like donation of foods, and gift certificates, Mike ensures all in need are assisted without seeking fanfare. The true sign of an outstanding citizen is one who serves without notice. That is the true meaning of Service Above Self."
Monticello Rotarian of the Year was presented to Bradlyn Matican. "When you ask for help, Brad is the first one to say, how can I help," said Orestano-James. From a trunk full of turkeys for those in need for Thanksgiving, to his community volunteer work with youth through the My Brothers Keeper (MBK) Program and National Finance Academy, Brad exemplifies Service Above Self in all he does."
Orestano-James further announced the Monticello Rotary Officer of the Year is awarded to Dr. Peter Alan Chester. She states, "Peter truly understands what good leadership is all about. Ready to learn - ready to listen - ready to serve is how Peter operates. His commitment to Rotary and leadership skills makes him the perfect choice to serve as Co-President with Brad Rutledge for the new Sullivan Central Rotary Club."
In addition, Friends of Rotary recognitions were announced for The Towne Crier, The Sullivan County Democrat and Bold Gold Media's Eddie Wilson for their amazing work in helping spread the great work of the Monticello Rotary Club. Orestano-James said without their support, we could never get our voice out about the good work we do.
Lastly, all Committee Chairs were recognized for a successful year. Thank you to Brad Rutledge and Bradlyn Matican with Assistants
Les Kristt & Orshii Boldiis (Monster Run); Bob Ernst & Randy Katz (Scholarship Golf Outing); Marty Miller (Scholarships); Crystal Tweed & Lori Orestano-James (Health Fair); Barbara Carr & Lori Orestano-James (Alzheimer’s Walk); Helen Diehl (Taste of Sullivan); Peter Chester & Lori Orestano-James (Comfort Closet Seniors/Hospital Visits); Cris Spinner (Food Drive)
Cris Spinner, Jackie Rutledge and Brad Rutledge (Coat Drive); Peter Chester & Lori Orestano-James (Blood Drives), Rick Stein (Radio Rotary); Alex Rey (BBQ); Jodi Goodman & Lori Orestano-James (Coldest Night of the Year).
Congratulations to all for demonstrating why Service Above Self makes our world a better place.
