Harford County Community Members Recognized by Bel Air Knights of Columbus

(Pictured presenting and receiving the awards are (l to r): Ron White, Supreme Director of the Knights of Columbus, Ashleigh Stall, Sean Ballweber, EMS Chief Bev Britton, Deputy First Class Keith Jackson and Richard Belmonte, Grand Knight of the Bel Air Council)

From the Bel Air Knights of Columbus:

At an annual Community Service Awards Dinner on March 19, 2013, the Bel Air Knights of Columbus #4717 presented dedicated community members with awards for outstanding work. Each candidate was nominated by their supervisor or peers, and was selected based on criteria set forth from the Knights of Columbus.

This year, DFC Keith Jackson, of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, was awarded the prestigious honor of Police Officer of the Year. DFC Jackson was nominated for his quick action and critical thinking that led to the apprehension and arrest of two suspects in connection with the armed robbery of the Walgreen’s Pharmacy in Abingdon. Sheriff Bane offered, “DFC Jackson’s actions are a credit to himself and his hard work ethic to always be looking for wrong doing.”

Also presented that night, were the High School and Elementary School Teacher of the Year awards. Ashleigh Stall from John Carroll High School won this distinction for her dedication to students and the school community. Her principal, Madelyn Ball, said in her nomination, “her colleagues recognize her huge commitment of time and effort to make John Carroll a better school”. At the Elementary School level, Sean Ballweber from St. Margaret’s won for his amazing rapport with his students and as Principal Madeleine Hobik, said “great enthusiasm that he brings to the classroom…[he] makes children feel special and helps them learn about their talents”.

Lastly, from the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company (BAVFC), EMS Chief Bev Britton received the distinction of EMS Person of the Year. As the EMS Chief from 2007-2013, Ms. Britton manages 80 career and volunteer EMS staff as they respond to more than 6,500 calls for EMS service each year. She provides training and education for responders, serves on many committees and continues to be a top responder herself. Additionally, Ms. Britton has earned great respect as a mentor, teacher, role model, and friend to the members of the BAVFC.

Congratulations to all the nominees and award recipients for their accomplishments.

The Knights of Columbus is the largest fraternal service organization with over 27,000 members in Maryland. Guided by the four core principals of Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism they seek to promote and support family, fraternal, community, and church activities. http://www.kofc.org