Tina Hein, Chair of the Holliston Select Board, welcomed honorees, family, and friends to the 2021 Humanitarian Awards ceremony in the Upper Town Hall on Monday evening at 6:15 PM.  Hein explained the awards were the brainchild of former Select Board member Mark Ahronian.  In 2019, Ahronian wanted to “identify volunteers who make a true and profound difference in the community.” Ahronian was present at tonight’s celebration.

Above: Tina Hein presents award to Kristine Westland

Hein named Kristine Westland her honoree for her time and efforts with the Holliston Community Farm.  Not only does Westland serve as Chair of the Farm Advisory Committee, but she also brings creativity and family events to the Community Farm.  Hein spoke of the work Westland has done to develop a master plan for the Farm and secure funding from the Community Preservation Committee.

Above: Ben Sparrell presents award to Barbara Fritts-Worby

Select Board Vice Chair Ben Sparrell honored Barbara Fritts-Worby with a Humanitarian Award for “making Holliston better.”  Sparrell said, “Barbara brings a voice for the voiceless, and we have an obligation to listen.  Barbara is showing us how to listen.”  Following Ben’s remarks, Fritts-Worby spoke briefly, naming several individuals representing “those who lead beside me.”  She concluded, “The town is moving to a place that sees and recognizes all.”

Above: John Cronin presents a Humanitarian Award to Lina Arena-Derosa

John Cronin, Select Board Clerk, honored Lina Arena-Derosa with the Humanitarian Award.  Arena-Derosa is a past Director of the Council on Aging. Cronin said, “She is a passionate advocate especially of the senior population, and she has touched hundreds of lives.”  Cronin also spoke of Arena-Derosa’s use of her culinary skills to feed meals to so many. Additionally, Arena-Derosa has volunteered with Celebrate Holliston for several years. 

Above:  Relocated photo-mural from downstairs to its new home in the Upper Town Hall. 

Each of the honorees received a citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives signed by Rep. Carolyn Dykema.  And the night would not be complete without a table of goodies for all. 

Prior to the presentations, I was able to take a self-guided tour of the new Conference Room.  Formerly a storage area, the new Conference Room is adjacent to the large open area of Upper Town Hall.  New windows, flooring, paint sure make a difference in a spot that’s sure to be put to good and frequent use!