The annual meeting when Santa Monica Rotarians present awards to our public service workers is one of our most eagerly anticipated. We all know how hard these people work on their jobs. It is our chance to pay tribute to them.
And, we also get to learn a little more about them personally when their supervisors introduce them.
For example, Big Blue Bus driver Norman Colomer has driven over 1,620,000 miles with no accidents for 27 years. He has served roughly 3,317,000 passengers during his tenure. Many customers submit compliments to thank him for his service.
Often the honorees bring their families to the luncheon. Donna Byrd has been coordinating this event for the past several years. It takes a lot of patience and skill. She has to call each department and be sure her contacts turn in the names of the honorees in time so she can get their plaques engraved.
Then, she has the fun job of decorating the room to reflect the themes of the honorees who are coming. Models of the Big Blue Buses, red fire hats, apples and pencils have been centerpieces in the past.
This year Dee Menzies assisted Donna with the event. Event photos were taken by member Richard Lombari.
By Diane Margolin
Publisher, The Santa Monica Star