Village to honor volunteers at banquet

One of the first Carol Stream columns I wrote nearly 27 years ago included news of Carol Stream's Citizen of the Year banquet.

I am happy to say this celebration, honoring our village's volunteers, is still going strong.

The COTY committee will host the 42nd annual volunteer banquet at 6 p.m. Feb. 2 at the Carol Stream Holiday Inn, 150 S. Gary Ave.

"Just come, because it is a celebration of our community," said Nancy Zak, COTY chairwoman.

Zak's invitation goes out to all past recipients as well.

The festivities begin with cocktails and cash bar at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The awards ceremony is at 8 p.m., concluding with dancing from 9 p.m. to midnight.

Seventeen residents have been nominated for their tremendous volunteer efforts within our schools, churches, athletic organizations, park district and other groups.

Additionally, five nonresidents will be recognized with the Judge's Award for their volunteerism within our community.

Congratulations to all.

The Female and Male Citizen of the Year nominees are Linda Court, Laura DeBruin, Joan Durante, Carissa Kissane, Maureen Montgomery, Andrea Rider, Michelle Schmidt, Ken Cerabona, Gary Court, William Makofski and Ron Mason.

The Female and Male Special Citizen of the Year nominees, chosen for their exceptional efforts during the past five years, are Elizabeth Bryers, Helen Callard, Maria Depa, Carolyn "Charlie" Milschewski, Robert Kneisel and Darrel Malcolm.

The Judges Award will honor Ryan Bonelli, Michael Holmgren, Dr. John Mensik, Diane Wells and Christie Ruffino.

Zak cannot say enough about the many great people who help make Carol Stream the wonderful community it is.

"Whether or not they (nominees) win, just the fact that they were nominated is reason to celebrate," Zak said.

Tickets are now on sale for $30 per person. Guests will have a choice of prime rib or breast of chicken entrée.

For details or to reserve your tickets, call Zak at (630) 668-5910.