Holliston’s Citizen of the Year award may be akin to England’s Most Noble Order of the Garter which honors chivalry and was founded in 1348. Or England’s Order of the British Empire which was established in 1917 by King George V and awarded for contributions to the arts and sciences or work with charitable or welfare organizations. Holliston’s Citizen of the Year award is now three decades plus old, dating back to 1992 and its first recipients Marilyn Salerno and Herbert Brockert. Awardees are nominated by townspeople and the Board of Directors at Celebrate Holliston make the final decision. On Tuesday evening, Celebrate Holliston along with former recipients inducted Richard Ball and Doreen Martel into Holliston’s most exclusive club in a private setting. The event featured a more American fare of salad, meatballs, and pizza at Bertucci’s Restaurant in East Holliston.
Richard Ball of Regal Street told the audience that while his Christmas decorations have been a mainstay for many years, last year he helped twenty six neighbors set up their displays. The neighborhood lighting displays are a go-to place to take the kids during the holiday season.
Doreen Martel has been involved in the local Lions Club for many years rising to district governor. In addition Martel recently took over as the publisher of the Holliston Reporter. In her spare time, Martel finds time to crochet hats for Project Just Because. A public awards ceremony for both of this years newest Citizens of the Year will take place during Celebrate Holliston’s Field Day on Saturday, September 30th at 10:15 am.
Congratulations to our Citizens of the Year 2023!!