WARREN - For the past 12 years, residents of Trumbull County have taken time out of their busy schedules to honor those who go above and beyond in serving the community.
A large crowd turned out on Tuesday night at Packard Music Hall to once again pay tribute to those in the area who devote their lives to making the world a better place as the 2013 Community Stars banquet recognized nine Trumbull County residents.
The celebration is hosted by the Tribune Chronicle and Trumbull 100.
Article Photos
Tribune Chronicle / Chuck Rogers
The 2013 Community Stars were celebrated Tuesday at Packard Music Hall in Warren. Honored were, front row, from left, Florence Hutton, Carolyn Andrews, Catherine Carney, Robert Sauer, back row, Steve Zerefos, Caryn Covelli, Roberta Cykon and Rhonda Bennett.
"The city has endured so much tragedy recently, this gives us a chance to take time out and realize that there are a lot of wonderful people in Trumbull County," Tribune Chronicle community events coordinator Sue Shafer said. "They do so many good acts to make our community a better place."
The group of nine recipients was selected from about 60 nominations sent in by Tribune Chronicle readers, according to publisher Charles Jarvis. The new class of stars joins more than 120 people singled out for awards over the years.
"These are people who were nominated for doing something for the community that they're not compensated for," Jarvis said. "They do it out of the goodness of their hearts."
Among those receiving Community Stars awards this year were Carolyn Andrews of Warren; Rhonda Bennett of Warren; Cathy Carney of Niles; Caryn Covelli of Warren; Roberta Cykon of Fowler; Doug Herlinger of Newton Falls; Florence Hutton of Cortland; Robert Sauer of Warren; and Steve Zerefos of Warren.
In addition to the Community Stars plaque presented by Tribune Chronicle General Manager F. Len Blose, each recipient received a commendation from the Trumbull County commissioners, a certificate of recognition from Gov. John Kasich and U.S. Rep. Timothy J. Ryan, and a writ of commendation from 11th District Court of Appeals Judge Diane Grendell.
Michael Keriotis, vice president of Trumbull 100, said the organization is honored to be involved in the event.
"Service is tough," Keriotis said. "It is something you have to take time away from yourself and your family to do."
Here's a closer look at the 2013 Community Stars class:
Guy Vogrin, copy editor for the Tribune Chronicle, served as master of ceremonies for the event for the 10th consecutive year.
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