Southampton Spirit Top Stories

Newly installed officers and directors of the Feasterville Rotary include (l-r) Silvio DiPietro, Publicity, Emily Guglielmi, Scholarship Co-chair, Roy Knauth, Moyer Scholarship Chair, Linda Pupkiewicz, Treasurer, Nathan Cooper, President Elect and James Barrett, Secretary.

Feasterville Rotary Annual Awards Dinner

by Joy Elizabeth Ward

"Service Above Self" is the motto for Rotary Club International, and the honorees at the June 3rd Feasterville Rotary Dinner are fitting examples of the generosity of time and energy that the Rotary Club supports. Rotarian of the Year was presented to Nick Milillo, owner of MEI Catering and an active member in Feasterville Rotary, Knights of Columbus, and Feasterville Businessmen's Association. Nick began his association in 2004 when he was approached to cater the Annual Pancake Breakfast at Twining Hall. "I get so much out of the organization; the people are fun and friendly and I recommend it for anyone and everyone," he said of the club. Teacher of the Year was awarded to Denise Ianni, a fifth grade teacher at Ferderbar Elementary who was nominated by her peers and commended for her service and dedication in providing enthusiasm, opportunities and instructional insights to children with a wide range of educational needs. With 11 years on the force, Lower Southampton Police Officer Michael Wojnar received the Police Officer of the Year designation. "The fact that the guys chose me, and the great things they said, make this award mean a lot to me," Michael said, after being lauded for his bravery, integrity, common sense and responsibility. Adam Noel, of the Lower Southampton Fire Company, was honored as the Firefighter of the Year and his exemplary service record, dedication to his firefighting role and continuing training in related fields helped to distinguish Adam as one dedicated to service. The Citizen of the Year Award was presented to James Barrett, who jumped into community service with both feet upon his retirement from Rohm & Haas. While only a year on the Rotarian scene, Jim also offers his energy and skills to the Friends of Southampton Library and the Lower Southampton Zoning Board and is active in other community groups. "I'm doing it for the future," Jim said, proudly pointing to his grandson in the audience, "and by being involved, I have met so many great people in our schools, library, and throughout this great community." Also recognized during the evening were Neshaminy seniors Ashley Karmels and Susan Lee, two of the Elizabeth Moyer Scholarship winners, who will be attending college at Drexel University and George Washington University, respectively. After the honorees were acknowledged, Feasterville Rotary inducted the new Rotary Officers and Directors for the 2008-2009 year, including Suzanne Pacitti, President, Nate Cooper, President Elect, James Barrett, Secretary and Linda Pupkiewicz, Treasurer.

Valerie Mora

New Fire Truck

Business Profile: Fireside Beef & Ale