PORT HADLOCK – Five community activists whose unselfish efforts have made Jefferson County a better place were honored Thursday the Heart of Service Award.
More than 100 people attended the awards ceremony at the Inn at Port Hadlock as the recipients received framed award certificates, heart-shaped medals – and the repeated applause of the audience.
The honorees were:
Linda Ferris, hailed as the “inspiration and guiding light” for the Gathering Place, a not-for-profit organization that gives developmentally disabled adults in Port Townsend and eastern Jefferson County opportunities for social activity, hands-on cooking instruction, gardening, mild exercise and dancing, life-skills training and personal growth.
Martina Richard, a veteran counselor who works with children, women in transition, the sexually abused and victims of domestic violence.
Dr. John Barrett, a Port Hadlock dentist and activist since 1982 who has overseen distribution of thousands of dollars in scholarships and was one of the key supporters of the Tri-Area Teen Center.
He has also eliminated the use of mercury and other toxic metals in his dental practice.
Dyrk Lansdon, community leader for United Good Neighbors of Jefferson County, Rotary Club of Port Townsend and Jefferson County YMCA board of directors.
He is also an advisor to start-up businesses.
Kim Hammers, who has worked countless hours as a volunteer for St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in Port Townsend and as a member of COAST, the organizing team behind an emergency winter shelter last winter.
The Jefferson County Heart of Service Award is sponsored by the Peninsula Daily News, the noon Rotary Club of Port Townsend, the Port Townsend Sunrise Rotary Club and the East Jefferson Rotary Club.
John Brewer, PDN editor and publisher, moderated the event.
