Paying it forward

Following the disbursement of tens of thousands of dollars to 24 charities, representatives of which were on hand to accept the funds, South Russell Police Chief Michael Rizzo fittingly served as the presenter of the Distinguished Service Award. It was given to Bob and Jo Royer, the South Russell residents who are ardent first responder supporters, creating the statewide First Responder Appreciation Day.

The Royers are not only loyal, dedicated and patriotic, Chief Rizzo said, but kind and thoughtful individuals always lending their support to the area’s first responders. With emotion, the Royers accepted the award, expressing humility in their recognition. “We are very humbled to be here,” Mr. Royer said. “Everyone here is the reason we love to live in the Chagrin Valley.” “It’s a giving community, and we are honored to be able to support our First Responders,” he said. Mrs. Royer echoed the sentiments, reminding those in attendance that beginning last year, Cleveland’s Terminal Tower will be illuminated in red and blue each May in honor of First Responders. “This is the best state,” Mrs. Royer said.

Taking home the Outstanding Jaycee Award was longtime Jaycee and former president John Liber, who also expressed deep emotion in being recognized. Presenter Joe Constant noted his long-time dedication to the organization, including his role as legal counsel and as president in 2022-2023. Mr. Liber also helped streamline processes and create an endowment fund. A “legendary lawyer,” who provided steady leadership, guidance and a calm, common-sense approach, Mr. Liber is responsible for the strong state of the Jaycees today, Mr. Constant said, and is known as a “proud family man.” In accepting his award, Mr. Liber told every Jaycee in the audience to stand up. “This is what this organization is all about,” he said. “All of you. Thank you for your support tonight,” Mr. Liber added. “What we do matters.”

Other awards bestowed during the event, which included area mayors in attendance, was the Martini Award given to Megan Armington for her exceptional contributions to the organization and for going above and beyond in her volunteering.

The Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Willy Czerr Jr., who happened to be the bartender for the evening. He embodies humility and is someone who always “shows up,” Mr. Tomaro said in presenting the award.

Attendees enjoyed mingling at the start of the evening, followed by dinner and dessert.

Chagrin Falls Mayor William Tomko said the evening represented a long-standing tradition in recognizing those providing distinguished service over the past 67 years, many recipients he knows well. “Everybody represents a sense of community which makes Chagrin Falls unique,” Mayor Tomko said. “We’ve maintained a sense of community here,” made clear in such annual events as Blossom Time, among many others.

Four-time Blossom Time Chair Jeff Poprik added that the evening is a culmination of all the work the Jaycees accomplish throughout the year. It is also an opportunity to be able to honor the charities the Jaycees want to support as well as the award winners.

Among the disbursement recipients were the Chagrin Falls Park Community Center, the Two Foundation, Tiger Prep, Women Safe Inc. and Santa’s Hideaway Hollow, plus many others.

Mr. Poprik also shared some comments on Blossom Time and the excitement to present it in Riverside Park, despite the North Main Street bridge project. “We are adding a lot of things to make it exciting,” Mr. Poprik said.

Mr. Tomaro told those in attendance that in an often dark world, it is the acts of good that make a difference.

“Tonight is the celebration of the volunteer character,” Mr. Tomaro said. “It’s the small things, the everyday deeds and general acts of kindness that these folks do to keep darkness at bay.”

The Jaycees are also the “guys that make things fun,” Mr. Tomaro added. “This is a celebration.”

“Our membership is our identity.”