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The fifth annual Service Above Self Awards took place March 16, 2009. As the 15th largest Rotary Club boasting over 400 members, almost 100 guests were in attendance. Four honorees from around the community were awarded and 11 previous honorees were in attendance.
The four individuals being awarded were Yvonne Mattison-Pardon, Gloria Vasquez, Randy Shoedinger, and Dr. Mark King. Each had their own story and a different way they had impacted the community. All truly have followed the Columbus Rotary vision to create positive and enduring change in the lives of others. The dedication and efforts of the Awards committee, the Selection committee, and the Promotions committee allowed for the celebration to take place. Each honoree was awarded a $1,000 check to be donated to the charity of their choice and they also each received a Paul Harris Fellowship in their name, meaning $1,000 will be contributed to the Rotary International Foundation in their honor.
Columbus Rotary President Rob Erney along with honorary Rotarian, Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer, presented each award. Also in attendance was former first lady of the State of Ohio, Hope Taft. WOSU productions helped promote the event through radio, television and magazines and produced a tribute DVD for the ceremony.
Yvonne chose for her award to be presented to the Ohio California Diocese School of Biblical Theology. “I feel truly blessed to have received this award which I do not take lightly,” states Yvonne. “I’d like to thank Columbus Rotary for their continual community support.” “I never expected recognition,” Gloria exclaimed. “I have simply done what needed to be done.”
Gloria has decided her award should be given to the Tandana Foundation.
Randy decided to donate his award to the Capital Area Humane Society, so as to continue his wide array of community service. “What I have done pales in comparison to what others continue to do in our community,” he declared. “I am proud to receive this award but there are others who deserve it too.” “I would not be standing here [receiving this award] today if not for my relationship with Christine Wilson and her family,” explains Mark. “This whole experience is truly the result of feeding thousands with only five loaves.” Mark has given his award to The Christine Wilson Foundation.
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