Arrests in Operation Diamond Drop

The United Way of the Bradford Area will honor the contributions and support of Mr. and Mrs. Bob and Mary Galey, as well as that of the associates of Tops Friendly Market, with the 2009 Red Feather Volunteer Recognition Award.

For their part, Bob and Mary Galey mirror the purpose of the annual recognition award, says United Way Executive Director Kris Luther.

“Their roles and responsibilities (with regard to the annual fundraising efforts) have varied,” says Luther, “but their personal mission has remained consistent; making the Bradford community a better place.”

Bob Galey’s participation with the organization began in 1945 as an employee of Zippo Manufacturing Company. He was an eventual chairperson of the appeal in 1973, and also served as Board President. He played an integral role in developing the “fair share” and payroll deduction programs locally, and returned as co-chair of the appeal with his wife in 2007.

Mary Galey as remained a supporter of the United Way for many years, serving as a volunteer at special events and acting as co-chair in 2007. She played the important role of United Way advocate, involving her children in many roles. Her son, Bob Marasco, and daughter-in-law, Julie, have served in numerous capacities, including campaign co-chairs in 2005, and again with the Galeys in 2007.

The associates of the local Tops Friendly Market have been consistent 100% participants in the annual campaign for many years, and have also extended their generosity when planning additional special events to benefit the local United Way.

“We often times use the associates at Tops as an example when soliciting other businesses and organizations during the campaign,” says Assistant Director Mandi Wilton Davis. “They remain committed to going above and beyond to benefit the Bradford community through their support of our organization, and we’re appreciative of their efforts.”

Aside from volunteering at United Way special events, many associates take additional time throughout the campaign to hold events within the store itself, including a fall festival.

“Michele Gangloff (store manager) is a wonderful advocate for the United Way,” says Davis, “as are many employees. They never hesitate to offer their assistance with anything United Way-related.”

The Red Feather Award was implemented to honor outstanding individuals and groups who have made an impact on the local United Way, and the community as a whole, through their day-to-day selfless attitudes, as well as their commitment to exemplify the organization’s mission of community building and enhancing the quality of life in the Bradford area.

The event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5 at 8:00 a.m. in the University Room at Pitt-Bradford. The cost is $10 per person, and all reservations will be invoice-only. Interested attendees have until April 20 to make their reservations, which can be done online at www.uwbanews.org, or by calling the United Way office.

Past recipients of the Red Feather award include Jim Sekel, Doug Bell, Craig Hartburg, Kelly Case, Northwest Savings Bank, Betsy Costello, Diana Ferguson, American Refining Group, Stephen and Marmy Hodges and Mary Ann Quinn.