Citizens honored

The city of University Heights announced the 2008 recipients of its annual civic awards at a ceremony on Nov. 6. Halle Barnett, president of the Heights-Hillcrest Regional Chamber of Commerce (HHRCC), and Michael Struck, vice president of the HHRCC, were both named 2008 Citizen of the Year.

The city has been presenting the awards since 1959, when Father Henry Birkenhauer was recognized as the first Citizen of the Year. The recipients are selected by the City Beautiful Commission, a group of residents appointed by the mayor.

John Pucella, a 17-year member and foreman in the city's service department is the University Heights 2008 Employee of the Year.

Donald O'Connor, who served on the City Planning Commission for 15 years, received a posthumous award for Public Servant of the Year.

Ray Lancaster is the city's Unsung Hero. Lancaster has served as the assistant aquatic director for the Purvis Park pool for the last 20 years.

Rober Walton received the Dedicated Volunteer of the Year award for his work with the city's police department in its Juvenile Diversion Program. The program has successfully prevented teenage referrals back to court.

Kay Hawn received the Special Appreciation Award for her coordination of the city's swim team, the Purvis Park Piranhas.

Shannon Davis, creator of beyondmotherhood.com, a website for moms seeking part-time jobs and employers seeking their talents, received the city's Special Home Business Recognition Award.

Brandon Jackson, a sophomore at University School who raised funds to improve living conditions for boys in a Honduran orphanage, will receive the Outstanding Youth Award.

Ellen Olsen, proprietor of Bialy's Bagel Bakery, received the Landmark Recognition Award because of her shop's longstanding popularity with residents.

Judge K.J. Montgomery of the Shaker Heights Municipal Court received a Tribute to an Extraordinary Judge.

The City Beautiful Commission also recognized 41 homeowners who have well-maintained homes and have contributed to the beauty of the community.

The awards program will air on Channel 22 each Saturday and Sunday afternoon in November at 12:30 p.m. and each weekday evening at 6:30 p.m.