Hats off to the Marquette Rotary Club for making what we consider very wise choices in recognizing local residents for service to the community.

The club does this annually at its Christmas party. Here is a list of this year’s recipients:

≤ Judge Jennifer Mazzuchi received the Community Leader Award from Russell Magnaghi. She had a 15-year-long career on the bench of the 25th Circuit Court where she handled criminal and family cases. She retired on Nov.1. She was initially elected in November 2008 after working for nearly a decade in the county prosecutor’s office.

≤ Receiving the Business Leader Award from Chuck Blaksmith was Jennifer Ray. She is co-owner of Donckers, Delft, and the Evergreen Market. Members of the selection committee noted that those businesses are always ready to support worthwhile community organizations and activities. She also serves on the Marquette Area Public School Board.

≤ The Non-Profit Leader Award was given to Pastor Kevin Taylor, lead pastor of Silver Creek Church in Harvey by Travis Smith. He follows the philosophy of bringing the church to the community.

≤ Marquette Alternative High School senior Aria Stanley received the Youth Citizen Award from teacher Erin LaValle. She is dual enrolled in Northern Michigan University’s welding program. At MAHS, she is involved in many activities and committees where she always “gives her all.”

≤ The Rotary Service Award was presented to immediate past president Erica Huss by Kim Frost. Erica is retired from the Michigan Department of Corrections where last position was as warden of the Marquette Branch Prison.

All of these recipients are most worthy. We congratulate them and the Rotary Club.