Ed Guiterrez was posthumously awarded a very special plaque of appreciation for his many dedicated years of service to the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign. Guiterrez, for decades, rang bells and played his saxophone for all to enjoy during the Christmas season. His daughter, Diane Mora gratefully accepted the plaque from Salvation Army Director, Stephanie Wooley in his memory. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Without the dedication and hard work of Cristina Anguinao, Jessica Powell, Dianne Jones, Yolanda Jackson, Jolene Schwartz and hubby Bill, Salvation Army Director, Stephanie Wooley, would not be able to offer the community with the many opportunities and services they provide in Mesquite.

It’s not just the staff that Wooley is thankful for; it’s the entire community of volunteers who provide their services to help their fellow men and women that makes the program really work.

Peter Pelliccio, A.K.A. ‘Mr. Reliable’ was honored for his services and inability to say, “No.” Salvation Army Director, Stephanie Wooley, said,” We are so grateful to Peter, he was always there when we needed him; even at the last minute, he never turned us down when we asked him for help.” Photo by Teri Nehrenz

On Wednesday, April 18, Stephanie Wooley and staff thanked the “army” of volunteers who provide their services to their community with a dinner which was held at the Oasis Golf Club’s Grille Room. Plaques/Awards were given to those outstanding individuals who volunteer their time and talents to help fellow community members.

Senior food service programs, Media members, Mesquite Works and many businesses help support the efforts of the Kettle Campaigns, spreading news about events and distribution of healthy, sustainable meals to those who cannot get out themselves.

Volunteers ring bells and collect donations or wrap thousands of toys to help with the SA efforts at Christmas time; without those volunteers, the Kettle Campaign and Angel Tree programs would never be as successful as they are.

Wooley gave special thanks to two gentlemen who gave their all. David Graham was honored for the most “kettle” hours, logging in more than 50 for the season and “Mr. Reliable” was Peter Pelliccio, who never said no when asked to fill in for anything. The Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Paul Havens.

Paul Haven (Center) accepts the honor of Volunteer of the year from Stephanie Wooley (R) and Christina Anguinao (L). Photo by Diane Jones

Ed Gutierrez was posthumously awarded a very special plaque of appreciation for his many dedicated years of service. Gutierrez, for decades, rang bells and played his saxophone for all to enjoy during the Kettle Campaigns. His daughter, Diane Mora gratefully accepted in his memory.

Wooley also thanked the one special person who helped and supported her since her promotion to director in November. Her husband, Bill Wooley, has been instrumental in organizing the kettle campaigns and telling her to breathe once in a while so she can continue to provide the many outstanding services the SA gives to all of the residents of Mesquite.

Wooley is grateful to the community at large for their support, both financial and in spirit. “We couldn’t continue to provide these services if we didn’t already live in such a generous and caring community. Thank you Mesquite!”