Hometown heroes recognized in Holyoke

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - Thirteen ocal people were recognized Thursday night for their service to their neighbors in western Massachusetts.

It was the seventh annual "Reminder Publications Hometown Hero Awards." They celebrated the event at the Log Cabin in Holyoke, recognizing 13 people who volunteer their time and service.

Eleanor Stolar of Longmeadow helps lonely seniors find services available to them.

"That's the reason I wanted a van, and really worked on it. It is to get them out of their house to the senior center. They shouldn't be staying home alone. I know a lot of them never get out," she said.

Lorraine Gorham of Holyoke served as President of the National Guard's Wife Auxiliary, and also served as President of the Massachusetts chapter of the General Federation of Women's Clubs.

"Always go to your Veterans' Hospitals to visit the veterans. That's what they want the most. Go to the hospital. Hold their hand, and say 'Thank you'," she said.

Each year Reminder Publications singles out recipients for their efforts to make our communities a better place.

The 2009 Hometown Hero recipients are: Robert Kuehl of East Longmeadow, Timothy Herlihy of Agawam, Mary Benoit Houser of Longmeadow, Lorraine Gorham of Holyoke, Rosemary Stella of East Longmeadow, Eleanor Stolar of Longmeadow, Edward Dzielenski of Longmeadow, Jim Cooper of Springfield, Dana Pixley of Hampden, Melvin Edwards of Springfield, Sr. Constance Gemme, M.S.O.L.A. of Holyoke, Joan Kagan of Holyoke, and Sandy Federico of Springfield.

To honor these Hometown Heroes you can attend the American Red Cross 2008 Hometown Heroes breakfast at the MassMutual Center on March 18th.

For tickets or sponsorship information call 233-1003 or click here to go the Red Cross Pioneer Valley website.