The Newark Morning Rotary Club recently presented its annual awards
Spirit in Business Award
Presented to a local business that exhibits the Rotary motto of Service Above Self, in high ethical standards and values.
Some entrepreneurs start their business with one objective – to make money. The there are others who start their business with one objective – to make money while having a community-minded attitude. This award recognizes the business that gives back to their community, engaging their employees to do the same. Ashby Hospitality Management Co., Inc. has a lifelong pattern of helping different organizations in the Newark community.
From the early 1980s, Bob Ashby has been community-minded, whether hosting fundraisers in the Deer Park, partnering with other organizations in the area, or donating profits to worthwhile organizations and events. As his business’s expanded to include McGlynns and Cantwell Tavern, Bob and his organization continued to support the Newark community.
Rotarian Mark Sisk nominated Ashby for this award, which includes $250 to support their favorite charity. Mary Konwinski presented the award.
Ray Civatte Community Service Award
Presented annually to a non-Rotarian from the community who has given their time and talents to live the Rotary motto of Service Above Self.
Ray Civatte, a Rotarian since 1994 and the club’s first president, served the club well, helping to establish a vision and mission with many traditions to guide our members in serving the local, national and international communities. Ray was one of the strongest proponents of the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.” Ray, at the age of 62, was strong willed and fought acute myelogenous leukemia for three years before passing on March 9, 2010.
The 2017 award was presented to Newark native Margie Masino. Margie has been a long-time volunteer with anything connected to Newark’s history. Over the years she has volunteered many hours with the Newark Historical Society and most recently was instrumental in opening the Newark Historical Museum.
The award plaque and $500 check were presented by club president Robin Broomall and committee chair John Hornor.
Dr. James W. Kent Scholarships in Adult Education
Presented to graduates of James H. Groves Adult High School.
Since June 2000, Newark Morning Rotarians have presented three scholarships, valued at $2,000 each, to recent Groves grads wo have made a special effort to complete the requirements for a high school diploma and desire to further their education. Named for former member Jim Kent, honoring his many years of commitment to education, more than $60,000 has been granted thus far. This year THREE scholarships are presented to: Moriah Griffin, Syesha Walker-Woodson, and Shina Smalls. All three will attend Delaware Technical and Community College.
Clinton Tymes is chair of the scholarship committee.
Public Service Award
Presented to non-Rotarian in the public service sector (fire, police, paramedics) who showed extraordinary dedication to serving our community.
But there are also men and women in ordinary jobs who go to extraordinary efforts to make life better for all of our citizens in Newark. This year’s recipient is John M. Bello Jr, a City of Newark employee, for his efforts to save a young woman’s life. Last winter, on a particularly cold morning, Bello was starting his routine day, but noticed a body lying in the cold, wet grass. He immediately called for medical help and ultimately saved the life of a University of Delaware student.
The award was presented by Rotarian Evelyn Hayes, chair of the committee. Besides receiving a plaque, a check for $250 was sent to the ASPCA in John Bello’s name.
Vocational Award / Grant
Award is presented annually to a Newark Morning Rotarian who has demonstrated a continued commitment to the Greater Newark Community through the Rotarian’s vocational skills and resources.
This year’s Award recipient is Rotarian Robin Broomall for her continued efforts to educate the youngsters in our schools. Robin started her career teaching first graders at Jennie Smith Elementary, then later transitioned to teaching adults in Communications and Public Speaking with Dale Carnegie Training. She has been involved with Junior Achievement for more than 25 years, mentored and tutored youngsters at Downes Elementary for more than ten years, leads our Homework Club there, and mentors students at Newark Charter High School in our Interact Club.
The accompanying Vocational Grant will later be presented to a non-Rotarian in the Newark community who is working to advance their career or change to a new career in the vocational area of the Rotarian who is recognized that year with the Vocational Award. The $500 grant is to be used for whatever school-related expenses that the recipient deems necessary.
The award was presented by Rotarian Robert Cronin.
Robin L. Broomall Rotarian of the Year Award
Presented to a Rotarian who has shown commitment and dedication to the growth and future of our club.
Named for club co-founder Robin Broomall, this coveted award is presented to a member who is selected by the current club president, recognizing someone who really shined during the year as dedicated to Service Above Self in the development of best practices of Newark Morning Rotary Club.
This year’s recipient was Cindi Viviano, media sales manager for Delaware Today. When it was apparent we needed a chairman for our biggest fundraiser of the year, the 2017 Report to the Community, Cindi immediately stepped up and assumed that responsibility. Utilizing her skills in sales and marketing, the club raised nearly $50,000 through the sales of advertising in the annual report. Profits from this venture go directly into the next Rotary year’s budget, allowing the club to support many other organizations and events in the Greater Newark area.
