Mount Prospect honors its ‘Shining Stars’ at annual gala
The Mount Prospect Special Events Commission honored those who’ve had a positive impact on the community during the annual Shining Stars Gala, held Saturday at Olive Palace Banquets.
“Over the past 31 years, we have honored well over 300 (Mount Prospect) citizens or organizations with a Shining Star,” Mount Prospect Mayor Paul Hoefert said. “In my experience, if it were not for the Shining Stars Award acknowledging them, most would just prefer to remain anonymous. And this is why we recognize those who would never recognize themselves.”
John Ward won the Best Neighbor Award for his involvement with his Pine Street neighborhood. He emcees Pine Street's annual tree lighting and has helped put up Christmas trees for residents on the block.
Bob and Donna Alexander earned the Inclusivity Award for volunteer efforts that include helping immigrants improve their reading skills.
The Open Arms Award went to Prospect Moose Lodge 660, which hosts private and public events and provides access to the Mount Prospect Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1337. It also gives a portion of the money raised at the lodge to the parent Moose organization’s philanthropic programs: Mooseheart, a residential child care facility; and Moosehaven, a retirement community.
Mount Prospect police officer Greg Sill won the Public Service Award. Sill is the village’s “Officer Friendly” as well as crime prevention officer. He regularly visits with students and seniors, often accompanied by therapy dog Charlie.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1337 member Jim Parker received the Star Spangled Banner Award. Parker served with the Air Force in Vietnam and eventually earned the rank of Technical Sergeant E-6. His duties with the post include editing the newsletter. Parker, who holds a law degree, also gives legal advice when needed.
Claudia Boyle of Van Driels Medical Support Wear took home the Community Partner Award. Owner of a longtime family-run business, she will deliver customers’ forgotten purchases to homes in neighboring communities, buy birthday presents for young customers, and provide comfort to those undergoing an emotional medical situation.
The Unsung Hero Award went to Mount Prospect Junior Women’s Club President Jill Johnson. The nonprofit organization is focused on philanthropic and community service projects to assist the needy in Mount Prospect and surrounding suburbs.