Archive: Business & Technology

On October 29, the Rotary Club of Ithaca presented its 17th annual Pride of Workmanship awards to five deserving individuals in Tompkins County. The award recognizes area employees whose outstanding work performance in their organization is "above and beyond the call of duty" and is instrumental in the achievement of the organization's performance goals.

Rotary's Pride of Workmanship committee chair Joan Schnaper announced the 2014 winners:

Curtis Barrett, facilities manager at Catholic Charities of Tompkins/Tioga. Curtis was nominated by Catholic Charities volunteer Mary Heckler. When she came on board, Mary felt an instant connection to Curtis. She finds him to be "approachable and helpful" as he helps the organization meet its mission. Mary says: "Curtis is in the trenches and goes where others can't imagine. He steps up, steps out, and dances when the day is done, happy to have helped in some small way to make life just a little easier for others. He makes Mother Teresa's words sing: 'Do small things with great love.' "

Sherrie Flowers, residence counselor at Unity House. Sherrie has worked for Unity House for 11 years, serving seven residents in a group home for individuals with developmental disabilities. This job traditionally has a high turnover rate, especially for overnight shifts. Nominator Elspeth Peterson said that "Sherrie exemplifies our mission by empowering and enriching the lives of those she works with. She is willing to cover shifts for other overnight staff, not only at her own site but also at other Unity House sites – there are not many people willing to work extra overnight shifts. Sherrie Flowers treats all of our residents with honesty, integrity and respect."


Gay Mathews, vice president of client services, Fingerlakes Wealth Management. According to nominator Susan McCormick, Gay consistently exceeds clients' expectations in being thorough and thoughtful, and exhibits leadership and initiative in her work. Gay has been in the financial industry for 30 years, and with Fingerlakes Wealth Management since its founding. "Gay embodies the spirit [of this award] by creating personal relationships with every client," says Susan. "She's devoted to caring for her colleagues and extends her warmth and love to anyone that walks in the door. Gay exemplifies 'Pride of Workmanship' by her devotion to our clients, to others in the community, and to us."

Dennis Rinker, landscaper, GMcG Landscaping.  Dennis was nominated by his boss, George McGonigal, owner of GMcG Landscaping. Dennis takes great pride in his work, helping to build an excellent reputation for the company in the community. George says of Dennis: "He never misses work.  He comes in early and stays late whenever it helps us keep up with a very demanding schedule. He keeps the equipment in top shape, freeing my time for other things. All our customers rave about how careful and particular Dennis is when it comes to mowing their lawns. He goes the extra mile without being asked, and he is always respectful and helpful to customers."

Michelle Saraceni, library page (shelving), Tompkins County Public Library. Michelle has worked at the library since 1995, and has taken on a leadership role in areas of additional responsibility while being respectful of her peers. She was nominated by Library Director Susan Currie, who explains: "The Library Page is an important position that is often not recognized for the outstanding work [they do]. Michelle has taken this position to another level with her commitment and work ethic. Patrons often ask for her assistance in the stacks and note her approachability, friendliness and help in locating what they need. For all the years she has been at TCPL, Michelle has demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and has provided useful and reliable financial information to strengthen the Library's spirit of service."

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