(Chelsea Update would like to thank Joe Yekulis for the information in this story and Kelly Flaherty for the photo gallery.)
St. Louis Center has been in operation now for 55 years, and for the past 32 years, it has celebrated its residents, staff, and influential members of the community who go “above and beyond” the call of duty for its children and adults with developmental disabilities.
This year’s celebration was titled, “Recognizing Our Shining Stars,” and members of the local communities in Chelsea and Dexter received special recognition for “a job well done” from Administrator Fr. Enzo Addari, SdC.
Citizenship Award – Dexter Ladies Auxiliary, Beth Chamberlain: Recognized for their outstanding support of St. Louis Center through their “Quartermania” fundraiser at the Dexter K of C Hall.
Friendship Award – Frank and Sharon Pignanelli, Chelsea: Regular volunteers at the Annual Golf and Glory Outing, with Frank chairing the Chelsea K of C Tootsie Roll Drives, and Sharon assisting behind the scenes by editing books for Fr. Rinaldo.
Volunteer Award – Al Letizio, Chelsea: Volunteers his time regularly at the Golf and Glory Outing and other events as needed. Financial Secretary of St. Louis Guanella Council #3092 of Chelsea.
Employee of the Year – Mason Borders: Chosen by his peers, Mason has only been at St. Louis Center for one year, but has made an enormous impression on the residents that he works with. Comes to work daily with a positive attitude, and acts as a mentor to the teens that he cares for every day.
Co – Residents of the Year – Linda Alber and Joey Baker: Each enjoy employment opportunities in the community, with Linda at U-M and Joey at Meijer, Inc. Their independence and work ethic make them role models for the rest of the residents at SLC.
Longevity Awards:
- 5 Years – Peggy Cole, Kelly Flaherty, Rick Visel and Tammy Walz
- 10 Years – Stephanie Lyerla
- 15 Years – Pam Fredette
The Annual SLC Recognition Dinner is sponsored by the SLC Parents Association. Special guests included members of the Italian American Club of Livonia, who presented a check for $35,000 from their Annual Culinary Extravaganza in January. Members of the Cardinal O’Hara 4th Degree Assembly of the Knights of Columbus provided the Color Corps for Mass, with Fr. Brendan Walsh of St. Joseph Parish, Dexter as the guest celebrant with the Servants of Charity priests.
Public Relations Director Joe Yekulis served as the Emcee, and DJ Jerry Martell provided his services for the residents to dance after the awards ceremonies were complete. There were 150 people in attendance.
