2023 Citizens Of The Year
Thank you for your nominations!
Celebrate Holliston’s Board is pleased to announce this year’s recipients,
Richard Ball and Doreen Martel.
Richard Ball and Doreen Martel.
Doreen Martel
|
Richard Ball
|
Doreen Martel has lived in Holliston since 2007. She moved here after her three adult
children were married and moved away. She works currently as writer and editor for legal and financial websites and blogs, in addition to handling publishing of the Holliston Reporter. She began her volunteer career as a child “candy striper” volunteering at local hospitals and “the volunteer bug” never left her. She is an active member of the Holliston Lions, serving as their President, then became Zone Chairperson and finally as District Governor for all of MetroWest. In this capacity, volunteered with food drives (especially during COVID where she delivered literary tons of produce to families in need), clothing drivers, and crochets hundreds of hats and “squares” (used to make blankets) to shelters in MetroWest. She has been honored many times with Leadership and Lions Presidential Awards. Moreover, helping those who are visually impaired, Doreen coordinated the Braille Literacy initiative by assembling and delivering Braille books to those who otherwise could not afford them. Doreen has been a member of the Holliston Newcomers and was secretary to the Massachusetts District 33 Boy Scouts. Working to help those struggling with food insecurity, she is responsible for delivering countless senior and veteran lunches in Holliston, and organizes Christmas Eve dinners to those who are less fortunate. As this year’s Citizen of the year, Doreen illustrates what it is like to be the ultimate Holliston volunteer. |
Richard Ball (better known as Dick) has lived in Holliston for over 45 years with his wife,
where he raised his two adult children and one grandchild. He has worked at Holliston Hardware and Holliston Oil for over 20 years. What makes Dick so special is the joy he brings to so many young people in town. When his daughter was young, he coached little league and was very involved in Holliston’s sports. But what he will always be remembered for is that for years he has brought Christmas magic to Regal Street (and the town) with his light shows and street long box Christmas renditions that are updated and created yearly. In addition, as an avid “train man”, he has helped to create, maintain and coordinate the Waushakum Live Steamer Trains in Holliston. During the summer months, these events allow hundreds of kids (and adult) free rides on their miniature trains. Dick is a “one-of-kind gentle man” who truly exemplifies Citizen of the Year. |