Kudos and cheers given to Boy & Girls Club volunteers

Honors were passed out to various individuals and groups who support the Boys & Girls Club of Western Nevada.

In the sixth annual awards luncheon on Thursday, both young and old were given kudos for their service before a crowd of more than 200.

Incoming president Brian Hutchins said big changes are ahead for the club and foundation.

"This year, we will start a charitable foundation or endowment to ensure a strong future for the club and its members," he said.

In addition, a program will be established for charitable donations from trust, real or personal property donations and bequests in wills.

"We will start an advisory board and enlarge our committees so more good people can help us meet our goals," he said.

Overall, he voiced support for providing quality programs for the boys and girls who use the club.

Special awards given out:

-- Special award was handed out to Dick Campagni for his support during the past years. He acted as a corporate sponsor, and has helped raised funds through raffles, and more. Most recently he provided a new Toyota to be raffled.

-- The Bulldog Award was given to Nevada Appeal publisher Jeff Ackerman for his contributions to the club. He has served the past two years as a board member.

-- The Rookie of the Year Award was given to Jennifer Russell for her first year on the board. She is director of personnel for the Pinon Plaza.

-- The Staff Award was presented to Mark Jacoby. He joined the Boys & Girls Club two years ago, helping with fund-raising events, administrative conferences and coaching little league teams.

-- Volunteer Service Awards were given to Carol Allen and Bob Phelps. Allen was recognized for her help with the annual Kids Auction and World's Greatest BBQ, which have grown over the years. She also solicited donations for the auction and worked behind the scene. Phelps single-handedly found $4,500 grant to refurbish the tennis courts, and help with the tennis program. More than 200 children have learned the game under his direction.

-- The Marketing Achievement Award was given to Jeff Ackerman and the Nevada Appeal for their efforts to bring more attention to the club. Several campaigns brought attention to the club, including one with nationally known characters such as Mills Lane.

-- The Distinguished Service Award was given to Mayor Ray Masayko, who was active in getting a portable classroom from the school district, helping with Smart Moves classes, Fine Arts, Power Hour and other classes.

-- The Golden Girl Award was presented to Brenda Robertson. She has helped with the Annual Kids Auction. She is a retired school teacher.

-- The Golden Boy Award was given to outgoing board president Jim Cavilia. During the past year he has been involved in many activities with the club.

-- The Man and Youth Award was given to Clark Russell and Clete Wandler. The two businessmen volunteered on a number of activities and have provided significant financial support to the club's events.

-- Youth of the Year Award was given to Carie Ostrander. She is a senior at Carson High School and has been active in the club's affairs throughout the year. She will represent the club in the Nevada State Youth of the Year competition in April.