PORT TOWNSEND – Five community heroes will be honored May 10 with the Jefferson County Heart of Service Award for 2007.
The recipients are:
Linda Ferris, hailed as the “inspiration and guiding light” for the Gathering Place, a not-for-profit organization that gives developmentally disabled adults in Port Townsend and eastern Jefferson County the opportunity for social activity, hands-on cooking instruction, gardening, mild exercise and dancing, life-skills training and personal growth.
Kim Hammers, who has worked countless hours as a volunteer for St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in Port Townsend and as a member of COAST, the organizing team behind a much-needed emergency winter shelter.
Dyrk Lansdon, stalwart community leader for United Good Neighbors of Jefferson County, Rotary Club of Port Townsend, Jefferson County YMCA board of directors. He is also an adviser to start-up businesses.
Martina Richard, veteran counselor who works with children, women in transition, the sexually abused and victims of domestic violence.
Dr. John Barrett, a Jefferson County dentist and activist since 1982 who has overseen distribution of thousands of dollars in scholarships and was one of the key supporters of the Tri-Area Teen Center.
He has also eliminated the use of mercury and other toxic metals in his dental practice.
The Heart of Service Award honors the “dedication, sacrifice and accomplishments” of community leaders and volunteers “who have made a difference in Jefferson County, who have made our communities a better place by doing extraordinary things for their neighbors, their community or the environment.”
This is the second year for this annual award, sponsored by the Peninsula Daily News, Rotary Club of Port Townsend (noon club), Port Townsend Sunrise Rotary Club and the East Jefferson Rotary Club.
A judging committee selected the five recipients from nominations made by individuals, clubs, churches, businesses and other organizations.
