Golden Shovels Awarded Today

It is always a pleasure to recognize our Montgomery County residents who have gone above and beyond to help their neighbors shovel out after a snowstorm. And this year, our heroes had a lot of work to do with snow totals ranging from 32.4 inches in the southern part of the County to 53.5 inches in northern areas of the County. Here are this year's Golden Shovel winners.

Rich Castillo and Family of Olney unselfishly shoveled out the homes and driveways of elderly neighbors.

Tom Cheplo of Bethesda enthusiastically used his snow blower to clear the sidewalks on both sides of the street, driveways and even part of the road. His neighbor said, “He is always helpful and a fine example of a good neighbor and citizen.”

Jeffrey Cohen of Rockville worked tirelessly with only a shovel and manual ice breaker to clear several snow piles allowing safe passage for school children and other neighbors.

Marcus Colyer and his 9-year-old son of Kensington cleared nine driveways, making his neighbors extremely grateful.

Roger Deshaies of Silver Spring used his snowblower to clear the sidewalks and driveways of seven houses on his block. He also cleared the crosswalk entrances at the end of the sidewalk multiple times, enabling children to walk safely to the local middle school.

Moe Gazafroudi of Gaithersburg cleared the driveways in his cul-de-sac. He also cleared a trail path of snow because many in the community use the path to walk their dogs.

Richard Hoye of Bethesda is a previous Golden Shovel Award winner. He continues to clear sidewalks in Bethesda and has invested his own money to purchase snow removal equipment so that he can better help his community.

Christine Kim of Olney, referred to as the “energizer bunny,” shoveled her senior-citizen neighbors’ driveways, walkways, steps and mailbox areas.

John Lee of Wheaton received four neighbor nominations. He cleared almost his entire block of snow, including driveways, walkways and sidewalks.

Andrea McCarren of WUSA Channel 9, while searching for those in need of shoveling in the Storm Tracker 9 vehicle, spotted a Bethesda woman and her young daughter with their snow-buried car. Beyond just worrying about the video she set out to get, Andrea mobilized an “all women shoveling flash mob” to clear and free the car after 20 minutes of rugged digging.

John Malone of Silver Spring organized neighbors to purchase a snow blower and then, when the major storm came in January, he cleared several pathways on his street—including one leading to the local elementary school so the students did not have to walk in the street.

Amy and Brian Palmer of Rockville gave Herculean efforts to clear snow from their neighborhood using shovels, salt and snowblowers. And after street plows left massive ice packs, they broke them up to further make sure the road was passable.

Earl Pfeiffer of Montgomery Village is 82 and shows no sign of slowing down. He tirelessly shoveled walkways and paths to the neighborhood school and with safety in mind, he cleared snow from buried fire hydrants.

Phelps Rogovoy and Casey Scufca of Germantown are neighbors who combined efforts during the major two-day storm to help another neighbor several times clear her driveway and walkway while her husband was away, serving in Afghanistan.

Larry Solomon of Olney assisted approximately 15 homeowners remove snow from their properties, sidewalks and streets. He also cleared sidewalks along both sides of the streets.

Mark Ujczo of Olney worked long hours and used his snow blower to clear his entire block and then went on to clear the public paths in and around the neighborhood common area. He also assisted shoveling out the sidewalks and driveways of several elderly neighbors.

Sofia and Nevan West of Rockville are 12-year-old twin siblings. They not only helped their mother shovel mountains of snow from their property, they also went to help a disabled neighbor shovel their driveway and sidewalk. And when a snow plow became stuck, they helped the driver shovel out the truck and even brought him a soda.

Thom Wolf of Takoma Park regularly cleared the sidewalks after every snowfall. All of his neighbors value his help, especially the elderly, the single mothers and those with physical injuries who could not clear the snow themselves.

Golden Shovel Winners to be Honored April 19

I look forward to presenting the 2016 Golden Shovel awards at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 19, to honor residents who helped out neighbors at various times during the harsh winter of 2015-16.

According to our Department of Transportation, the County had an average total snow and ice accumulation of 40.35 inches and snow and ice totals ranging from 32.4 inches (in the southern part of the County) to 53.5 inches (in northern areas of the County) this past winter. 

Residents submitted more than 75 nominations for this year’s awards, and I will recognize 17 Golden Shovel award winners at the April 19 ceremonies. As I read through the nominations, I recognized how grateful people are for the kindness of their neighbors. These nominees are truly unsung heroes, so it was difficult to select the winners. All those nominated are certainly deserving of our appreciation, and we thank them for their selflessness. 

The 2016 awardees (in alphabetical order) are as follows:

Rich Castillo and Family of Olney unselfishly shoveled out the homes and driveways of elderly neighbors.

Tom Cheplo of Bethesda enthusiastically used his snow blower to clear the sidewalks on both sides of the street, driveways and even part of the road. His neighbor said, “He is always helpful and a fine example of a good neighbor and citizen.”

Jeffrey Cohen of Rockville worked tirelessly with only a shovel and manual ice breaker to clear several snow piles allowing safe passage for school children and other neighbors.

Marcus Colyer and his 9-year-old son of Kensington cleared nine driveways, making his neighbors extremely grateful.

Roger Deshaies of Silver Spring used his snowblower to clear the sidewalks and driveways of seven houses on his block. He also cleared the crosswalk entrances at the end of the sidewalk multiple times, enabling children to walk safely to the local middle school.

Moe Gazafroudi of Gaithersburg cleared the driveways in his cul-de-sac. He also cleared a trail path of snow because many in the community use the path to walk their dogs. 

Richard Hoye of Bethesda is a previous Golden Shovel Award winner. He continues to clear sidewalks in Bethesda and has invested his own money to purchase snow removal equipment so that he can better help his community. 

John Lee of Wheaton received four neighbor nominations. He cleared almost his entire block of snow, including driveways, walkways and sidewalks. 

Andrea McCarren of WUSA Channel 9, while searching for those in need of shoveling in the Storm Tracker 9 vehicle, spotted a Bethesda woman and her young daughter with their snow-buried car. Beyond just worrying about the video she set out to get, Andrea quickly mobilized an “all women shoveling flash mob” to clear and free the car after 20 minutes of rugged digging.

John Malone of Silver Spring organized neighbors to purchase a snow blower and then, when the major storm came in January, he cleared several pathways on his street—including one leading to the local elementary school so the students did not have to walk in the street.

Amy and Brian Palmer of Rockville gave Herculean efforts to clear snow from their neighborhood using shovels, salt and snowblowers. And after street plows left massive ice packs, they broke them up to further make sure the road was passable. 

Earl Pfeiffer of Montgomery Village is 82 and shows no sign of slowing down. He tirelessly shoveled walkways and paths to the neighborhood school and with neighborhood safety in mind, he cleared snow from buried fire hydrants.

Phelps Rogovoy and Casey Scufca of Germantown are neighbors who combined efforts during the major two-day storm to help another neighbor several times clear her driveway and walkway while her husband was away, serving in Afghanistan.

Larry Solomon of Olney assisted approximately 15 homeowners remove snow from their properties, sidewalks and streets. He also cleared sidewalks along both sides of the streets.

Mark Ujczo of Olney worked long hours and used his snow blower to clear his entire block and then went on to clear the public paths in and around the neighborhood common area. He also assisted shoveling out the sidewalks and driveways of several elderly neighbors.

Sophia and Nevan West of Rockville are 12-year-old twin siblings. They not only helped their mother shovel mountains of snow from their property, they also went to help a disabled neighbor shovel their driveway and sidewalk. And when a snow plow became stuck, they helped the driver shovel out the truck and even brought him a soda.

Thom Wolf of Takoma Park regularly cleared the sidewalks after every snowfall. All of his neighbors value his help, especially the elderly, the single mothers and those with physical injuries who could not clear the snow themselves.

The Council’s regular weekly session will be held in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The ceremonies will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery.

Now Accepting Golden Shovel Nominations

Did someone you know make your neighborhood safer? Nominate them for a Golden Shovel.

I started the Golden Shovel awards in 2003 to honor residents who lace up their boots to help neighbors shovel out after a snowfall. The awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in helping clear ice and snow from County sidewalks.

Our seniors, school children, people with disabilities and those who walk to work or use mass transit depend on snow-free sidewalks. This goes beyond convenience--it is a matter of public safety. I certainly hope that residents will nominate for a Golden Shovel those individuals who put the Golden Rule to work. The deadline for nominations is March 25, and awards will be presented at a County Council session in Rockville on Tuesday, April 19. Get the nomination form.

Golden Shovels Awarded Today

See the video of the presentation. What a pleasure it was to recognize 20 winners of the Golden Shovel awards today. The 2014-15 winter season in Montgomery County, according to the County Department of Transportation, had seasonal snow totals ranging from 34.4 inches (in the southern part of the County) to 46.6 inches (in northern areas of the County). In addition, there were 20 days when the high temperature for the day was 30 degrees or below.

Residents submitted 97 nominations for the awards this winter, and I will present 20 Golden Shovel awards at the April 21 ceremonies.
As I read through the nominations, I recognized how grateful people are for the kindness of their neighbors. Truly these nominees are unsung heroes, so it was difficult to select the winners. All those nominated are certainly deserving of our appreciation, and we thank them for their selflessness.

The 2015 awardees (in alphabetical order) are as follows:

Bruce Bishop of Bethesda expanded his snow clearing this year to include sidewalks of six houses on Cheshire Drive and was out as late as 10 p.m. to finish the job.

David and Jim Carter of Rockville (brothers aged 72 and 74) unselfishly shoveled out the homes of two elderly, widowed neighbors including the driveways and a completed clearing the sidewalk down the street.

Carey (Gene) Cheek Sr. of Rockville used his snow blower to clear the sidewalks in front of many houses, the neighborhood common areas and more than a dozen driveways of neighbors.

Jeff Clare of Rockville, whom his neighbors refer to as “The Good Samaritan of Rockville,” shoveled his newly met neighbor’s driveway and unexpectedly provided first aid and called 911 when the neighbor collapsed during one storm.

“The Difference Makers” of Takoma Park, a group of Takoma Park Middle School students and advisors, helped many elderly neighbors clear their sidewalks and steps of snow and ice on school snow days and on weekends.

Mike Glasby of Silver Spring heroically shoveled a long, heavily traveled church sidewalk on University Boulevard, enabling safe passage for students of Eastern Middle School and Blair High School students and for many Ride On commuters.

James Gutmann of Montgomery Village, who is sometimes referred to as “The Snow Angel” of Montgomery Village, received seven neighbor nominations for his tireless shoveling of many walkways, driveways, storm drains and fire hydrants.

Chris Hersman of Chevy Chase, who was called “the epitome of a good neighbor” by one nominator, received 10 Golden Shovel nominations. He diligently worked for hours in the dark snow blowing multiple sidewalks and driveways for neighbors.

Cheryl Leanza of Chevy Chase shoveled several blocks on Grubb Road so children could walk safely to and from school. She also encouraged members of the neighborhood listserv to “be a good neighbor” and clear their sidewalks of ice and snow.

Bill McDowell of Silver Spring, who is retired, continued his annual assistance to his neighbors by regularly clearing snow from many of their driveways and went even further by clearing the snow off of their vehicles.

Michael Marshall of Gaithersburg cleared the car, sidewalk, steps and parking space of his neighbor, who has mobility issues, and also shoveled out additional parking spaces in the community so visitors would have a place to park.

John Mayhew, Philip Stack, Ron Kessler and Michael O’Neil of Olney continued their winter storm day ritual of rising early to clear snow for their entire cul-de-sac, including the roadway, and inspiring a spirit of camaraderie throughout the community.

Shannon Shaffer of Kensington, in spite of a bad back, cleared snow from sidewalks, bus stops and mailboxes and then broke up the tough snow packs that were left by snow plows in front of the driveways of his neighbors.

Mark Springuel of Glen Echo, who is an adult with a developmental disability, routinely shoveled the driveway and sidewalks of his elderly neighbor, providing one of the needed services that allows that neighbor to remain living in his long-time home.

Jeanette Steele of Germantown, who is 72 years old and a native of Milwaukee, said that helping her neighbors clear their sidewalks and driveways keeps her in touch with her Midwestern roots.

Tim Tehan of Bethesda regularly cleared the driveways and walkways for his neighbors, including some very grateful ones (on the aptly-named Snow Point Drive), who were recovering from medical problems.

Kurt Zimmerman of Bethesda cleared the sidewalks in his entire neighborhood so that children could get to their bus stops.

Golden Shovel Award Winners

Tune in at 9:00 on April 21 for the presentation of the 2015 Golden Shovel awards to recognize residents who helped neighbors shovel out after snowfalls during the harsh winter of 2014-15.

I initiated the Golden Shovel awards to honor residents who helped neighbors by shoveling walkways and driveways after a snowfall. The 2014-15 winter season in Montgomery County, according to the County Department of Transportation, had seasonal snow totals ranging from 34.4 inches (in the southern part of the County) to 46.6 inches (in northern areas of the County). In addition, there were 20 days when the high temperature for the day was 30 degrees or below.

Residents submitted 97 nominations for the awards this winter, and I will present 20 Golden Shovel awards at the April 21 ceremonies.

As I read through the nominations, I recognized how grateful people are for the kindness of their neighbors. Truly these nominees are unsung heroes, so it was difficult to select the winners. All those nominated are certainly deserving of our appreciation, and we thank them for their selflessness.

The 2015 awardees (in alphabetical order) are as follows:

Bruce Bishop of Bethesda expanded his snow clearing this year to include sidewalks of six houses on Cheshire Drive and was out as late as 10 p.m. to finish the job.

David and Jim Carter of Rockville (brothers aged 72 and 74) unselfishly shoveled out the homes of two elderly, widowed neighbors including the driveways and a completed clearing the sidewalk down the street.

Carey (Gene) Cheek Sr. of Rockville used his snow blower to clear the sidewalks in front of many houses, the neighborhood common areas and more than a dozen driveways of neighbors.

Jeff Clare of Rockville, whom his neighbors refer to as “The Good Samaritan of Rockville,” shoveled his newly met neighbor’s driveway and unexpectedly provided first aid and called 911 when the neighbor collapsed during one storm.

“The Difference Makers” of Takoma Park, a group of Takoma Park Middle School students and advisors, helped many elderly neighbors clear their sidewalks and steps of snow and ice on school snow days and on weekends.

Mike Glasby of Silver Spring heroically shoveled a long, heavily traveled church sidewalk on University Boulevard, enabling safe passage for students of Eastern Middle School and Blair High School students and for many Ride On commuters.

James Gutmann of Montgomery Village, who is sometimes referred to as “The Snow Angel” of Montgomery Village, received seven neighbor nominations for his tireless shoveling of many walkways, driveways, storm drains and fire hydrants.

Chris Hersman of Chevy Chase, who was called “the epitome of a good neighbor” by one nominator, received 10 Golden Shovel nominations. He diligently worked for hours in the dark snow blowing multiple sidewalks and driveways for neighbors.

Cheryl Leanza of Chevy Chase shoveled several blocks on Grubb Road so children could walk safely to and from school. She also encouraged members of the neighborhood listserv to “be a good neighbor” and clear their sidewalks of ice and snow.

Bill McDowell of Silver Spring, who is retired, continued his annual assistance to his neighbors by regularly clearing snow from many of their driveways and went even further by clearing the snow off of their vehicles.

Michael Marshall of Gaithersburg cleared the car, sidewalk, steps and parking space of his neighbor, who has mobility issues, and also shoveled out additional parking spaces in the community so visitors would have a place to park.

John Mayhew, Philip Stack, Ron Kessler and Michael O’Neil of Olney continued their winter storm day ritual of rising early to clear snow for their entire cul-de-sac, including the roadway, and inspiring a spirit of camaraderie throughout the community.

Shannon Shaffer of Kensington, in spite of a bad back, cleared snow from sidewalks, bus stops and mailboxes and then broke up the tough snow packs that were left by snow plows in front of the driveways of his neighbors.

Mark Springuel of Glen Echo, who is an adult with a developmental disability, routinely shoveled the driveway and sidewalks of his elderly neighbor, providing one of the needed services that allows that neighbor to remain living in his long-time home.

Jeanette Steele of Germantown, who is 72 years old and a native of Milwaukee, said that helping her neighbors clear their sidewalks and driveways keeps her in touch with her Midwestern roots.

Tim Tehan of Bethesda regularly cleared the driveways and walkways for his neighbors, including some very grateful ones (on the aptly-named Snow Point Drive), who were recovering from medical problems.

Kurt Zimmerman of Bethesda cleared the sidewalks in his entire neighborhood so that children could get to their bus stops.

Snow Angels in Takoma Park

Check out WTOP's heartwarming story about Snow Angels in Takoma Park. Remember, if you have great neighbors like Anna and Prayag, nominate them for a Golden Shovel.

Nominate Your Neighbor for a Golden Shovel Award

Did someone you know make your neighborhood safer? Nominate them for a Golden Shovel.

I started the Golden Shovel awards in 2003 to honor residents who lace up their boots to help neighbors shovel out after a snowfall. The awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in helping clear ice and snow from County sidewalks.

Our seniors, school children, people with disabilities and those who walk to work or use mass transit depend on snow-free sidewalks. This goes beyond convenience--it is a matter of public safety. I certainly hope that residents will nominate for a Golden Shovel those individuals who put the Golden Rule to work. The deadline for nominations is March 31, and awards will be presented in a Council session in April. Get the nomination form.

Attention Golden Shovel Awardees

Did you receive a Golden Shovel award from me, or did you nominate someone who did? If so, join me, along with County Executive Ike Leggett and Councilmembers Hans Riemer and Sidney Katz for a press event promoting the Safe Sidewalks campaign on Monday, January 5, at 10 a.m. on the front steps of the Council Office Building, 100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville. The Safe Sidewalks campaign is designed to remind residents they are required by law to clear sidewalks in front of, and alongside, their properties within 24 hours of the end of a snowstorm. The campaign also asks residents to check up on older adults and vulnerable people who may live nearby and especially those who live alone. E-mail me at councilmember.floreen@montgomerycountymd.gov if you plan to attend.

Golden Shovel Awards Presented at Today's Council Meeting

Congratulations to all 111 Golden Shovel award winners. Today we honored Montgomery County residents who went above and beyond to help their neighbors dig out during this year's snowy winter. Among the roughly 60 people who came to the County Council today for the ceremony were Joseph and Christiane Rosamont of Silver Spring. Here's what the Rosamonts' neighbor, Veronica Thomas, said about the couple:

"It is with great pleasure that I am nominating my neighbors, Joseph and Christiane Rosamont for the Golden Shovel Award. Christiane and Joe are my neighbors who have always helped me to clear my walkway during and after a snow storm knowing that my special needs son, Eric, is a wheelchair bound.

Though I have always apprciated their good will and generosity, this winter was a testament to their unselfish and willingness to help. On three occasions after they both helped me to clean the walkway after the snow storms, the snow plow came and plowed us back in making it impossible for wheelchair access to the curb where my son boards Metro Access to his day program. My two 'angels' were right back to help dig a path wide enough to get the wheelchair out.

I know there must be others like Joe and Christiane in Montgomery County, but they will only come in a close second. Thanks for this opportunity to submit my neighbors for such an award."

This is just one of many heartfelt nominations I received from extremely grateful neighbors. See the full list of winners. While there are indeed a lot of great stories to tell, I want to specially recognize Richard Hoye, Steve Leon and Tim and Debbie Marsh, who each received multiple nominations from their neighbors. If you want to see the awards presentation on demand (Council sessions are available 24 hours later), visit County Cable Montgomery.

Golden Shovel Awardees Announced

I look forward to presenting the 2014 Sidewalks Are Safe For Everyone (SAFE)/Golden Shovel awards at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, to honor residents who helped out neighbors at various times during the long and snowy winter of 2013-14.
 
I initiated the Golden Shovel awards to honor residents who helped neighbors shovel out after a snowfall. The awards were not presented in the past three years due to mild winters, but I brought back the awards following this season’s long winter of arctic temperatures and multiple snow storms. This winter, with the seemingly never-ending snow storms, I decided to award all nominees, issuing 82 Golden Shovel awards to 111 individuals.

As I read through the nominations, I recognized how grateful people are for the kindness of their neighbors. To duly recognize these unsung heroes for all the gratitude people expressed, I decided I have to honor everyone who was nominated. They all deserve a Golden Shovel.

The Council’s regular weekly session will be held in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The ceremonies will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM—Cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon). The broadcast also will be streamed at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/council/ondemand/index.html. The Council meeting will be rebroadcast on Friday, April 25, at 9 p.m. and will be available before that time on demand.

The 2014 Golden Shovel awardees are:

Wabi Aboudou (Takoma Park) repeatedly shoveled the long driveway and cleared the car of a neighborhood senior citizen couple.

Fadjil Asikin (Bethesda) almost single-handedly cleared the busy sidewalks near his house that connect his neighborhood with the Grosvenor Metro and Wildwood Shopping Center.

James “Dusty” Baber (Rockville), at age 73, shoveled his neighbor’s property several times along with the sidewalks on his own corner house lot.

Lisa Bente (Rockville) shoveled the sidewalks of three neighbors after this season’s snow storm of more than 15 inches.

Scott Berman (Rockville) helped his elderly neighbors shovel their sidewalks and driveways.

Lise and Bill Bernhard (Bethesda) assisted neighbor Sara Robinson in providing detailed work of snow removal by clearing snow off cars and removing snow and ice from steps.

Michael Bernstein (Takoma Park) after each snow storm this winter, routinely cleared the entire side of his street and sidewalks of snow and assisted others with snow removal.

Renrique “Ricky” Bertley (Kensington), with the help of his family, continuously plowed the streets of his community during the snow storms at all hours of the night and day.

Jeff Brink (Gaithersburg) after every storm, cleared the sidewalks and walkways of his neighbors and assisted to dig out cars—despite a recent leg injury.

Joe, Anna, Sophia and Peter Capizzi (Chevy Chase) gathered with others to help shovel snow from sidewalks to provide pedestrian safety on a stretch of Wisconsin Avenue.

J. Matt Clouse (Takoma Park) cleared his senior citizen neighbors’ sidewalk, long walkway and steps to their front door.

Michael Codori (Rockville) made sure each of his elderly neighbors’ sidewalks, driveways and walkways were safe and clear of snow.

Kees deKievit (Broookeville), after every snow storm, came equipped with shovel, snow blower and broom to clear his neighbor’s 90-foot-long driveway and car.

Chris Ecker (Gaithersburg) shoveled the walks and driveways of several neighbors, including a family that had just moved into the neighborhood.

Rolf Eppinger (Silver Spring) consistently removed snow and ice from his blind neighbors’ sidewalk, driveway and walkways.

Melanie Folstad (Chevy Chase) organized and worked with a group of volunteer shovelers to clear a portion of Wisconsin Avenue, making it safe for bus riders and pedestrians.

Jim Ford and Beth Rockwell (Glen Echo) shoveled sidewalks and cleared cars of snow as far as two blocks from their house.

John Hallen (Brookeville), during the 18-inch snow storm, cleared his neighbors’ driveways with his tractor.

Russell Hartung (Darnestown), after long work days, regularly shoveled the driveways of his neighbors.

Natalia Henriquez and Christopher Panek (Rockville) shoveled their neighbor’s sidewalk and provided a clear path for elementary school children on their way to school.

Annie and Bob Hinkley with their children (Chevy Chase) joined their forces with others and shoveled a portion of Wisconsin Avenue’s sidewalk of snow.

David Hobsen (Silver Spring) shoveled a neighbor’s driveway while the family was out of town.

Richard Hoye (Bethesda) was nominated by several neighbors praising his work of shoveling and plowing the sidewalks in an area of Old Georgetown Road.

Andrew Huck (Silver Spring), along with his neighbor Chuck Niglio, used their snow blowers to clear sidewalks and driveways throughout their neighborhood as well as the path to the local middle school.

George and Margo Hunt (Rockville) shoveled and de-iced their elderly neighbor’s walkway and steps.

Greg Iser (Silver Spring) shoveled a neighbor’s driveway while the family was out of town.

John and Evelyn Jemionek (Silver Spring) shoveled the sidewalks of three neighbors during every storm.

Rick Jones (Silver Spring) used his snow blower after every storm to clear sidewalks in two blocks of his neighborhood and also cleared pathways leading to the nearby elementary school.

Mylene and Eric Jouane (Bethesda), who are new to their neighborhood, checked on their elderly neighbors after each snow storm and also shoveled their sidewalks and paths.

Mr. and Mrs. Kamachaitis (Boyds) cleared snow for several houses in their neighborhood and helped in other ways during the snow storms.

Joe and Kay Kanney (Rockville) repeatedly shoveled their neighbor’s sidewalk and driveway and cleared their car of snow—just as they have done in past winters.

Pat and Todd King (Gaithersburg) cleared three driveways and sidewalks of senior neighbors.

Stephen Klopfer (Germantown) cleared the sidewalks and driveways for 19 senior neighbors.

Joe Klosky (Rockville), together with neighbor Bob Jenkins, cleared as many as 10 driveways during each snow storm using snow blowers and shovels.

Alex Koudry (Silver Spring), during each snow storm, cleared the driveways of his next door neighbor and other elderly neighbors nearby.

Julio Kuchilla (Germantown) for more than 13 years has cleared snow from the walkway and sidewalk of his neighbor.

Loretta Lawrence and her son, Jason (Kensington), cleared the sidewalks and driveways of their neighbor, who is a physician, while the doctor worked at the hospital during the storm.

Ben LeBlanc (Bethesda), age 13, shoveled his neighbor’s walkway and cleared her car of snow.

John Meekin and Andrew Leite (Rockville) shoveled their neighbor’s sidewalks and patio.

Steve Leon (Brookeville), who was nominated by several neighbors, cleared the driveways and walkways of neighbors with his snow blower after every storm.

Michael Linder (Silver Spring) shoveled the sidewalks and driveways of several neighbors after each snowfall.

Deven and Kyle Lizzi (Burtonsville) shoveled the sidewalks of at least six neighbors after storms—before shoveling their own house.

Rick McUmber (Chevy Chase) shoveled sidewalks on Wisconsin Avenue between Hunt Avenue and Bradley Boulevard. He was always the first one out during storms helping to shovel.

Patrick Malloy and his children (Potomac) assisted their senior citizen neighbors by shoveling their driveways and walkways.

Joe Mamana (Burtonsville) tirelessly cleared snow from several neighbors’ driveways during snow storms.

Pedro Marroquin (Silver Spring) shoveled a neighbor’s sidewalk during her husband’s illness and subsequent death.

Tim and Debbie Marsh (Montgomery Village), who were nominated by several neighbors, shoveled sidewalks and steps of nine townhomes occupied by widows and others with medical issues.

Rob Mixell (Gaithersburg) and his son cleared their neighbors’ driveways during storms.

Mitchell Morris and his son, Brian (Rockville), consistently cleared their neighbor’s long and wide driveway.

Jake Nichols (Rockville) shoveled the driveway and dug out the car of his senior neighbor during the winter. In summer, he often helps with gardening and other tasks in the yard.

Chuck Niglio and Andrew Huck (Silver Spring) used their snow blowers to clear sidewalks and driveways throughout their neighborhood, as well as the path to the local middle school.

John Nigro (Silver Spring) cleared his neighbor’s sidewalk, driveway and walkways.

Nick Novak (Rockville) purchased a snow blower to lighten the community burden when he learned the winter was going to be snowy, and he cleared much of neighborhood each snowfall.

The Nusraty and Price children (Potomac), after each snowfall, shoveled the driveway of a neighbor recovering from open heart surgery.

Sue Ousterhout and her daughter, Gina Balodemas,(Chevy Chase) shoveled the sidewalks of snow, creating a safe pathway for pedestrians to Bradley Boulevard.

Michael Peyton (Silver Spring) shoveled the sidewalks and driveways of four of his neighbors all winter, including those of a senior with arthritis and COPD.

Andrew Pollock (Takoma Park) shoveled the sidewalk and long walkway to the home of a senior couple who are unable to do their own shoveling.

Joseph Porcelli (Bethesda) created snowcrew.org, a web site that matches volunteers who are willing to help by shoveling for residents who are unable to shovel themselves.

Conrad Potemra (Poolesville) shoveled many of his neighbors’ driveways and sidewalks, and also went beyond the homes to provide access to the nearby intersection.

Jeffrey Powell (Gaithersburg) has a long record of helping his neighbors during snow storms. He was one of the first shovelers out to help after storms this year—just like he was after blizzards of 1996 and 2009, Snowmageddon and the 2011 storms. He also used his truck to pull out the vehicles of drivers who got stuck in the snow.

Vincent Queen, Jr. (Silver Spring) tirelessly helped his neighbors during the 2014 storms.

Phil Reding (Montgomery Village) shoveled the driveways and sidewalks of several elderly neighbors whom he did not know, but heard were in need of help.

The Reichard Family (Rockville) shoveled the sidewalk for the entire block after the snow storms this year—just as they do every year.

Sara Robinson (Bethesda) used a snow blower to clear the driveway of her medically vulnerable neighbor while Lise and Bill Bernhard worked to clear off cars and remove snow and ice from the steps.

Joseph and Christine Rosamont (Silver Spring) this year, like every year, cleared a pathway from the house to the curb to enable their wheelchair-bound neighbor to board Metro Access and attend his day program.

Pete Salinger (Bethesda) shoveled the snow on the sidewalks he worked hard to have installed, thereby helping all of his neighbors—and especially one who suffered a concussion after slipping and falling on an icy sidewalk.

The Shein Family (Potomac), as they do every year, shoveled the driveway and sidewalks of neighbors whose physical limitations prevent them from doing their own shoveling.

Robert Sherf (Silver Spring) cleared the sidewalks on his block and the entire neighborhood road with his small plow.

Kenneth Singleton (Olney), who is known to his entire community for his generosity over the years, shoveled driveways of many of his neighbors.

Gariel Spiro (Gaithersburg) cleared snow at the home of a senior with physical limitations.

Bob Stern (Potomac), age 73, used his snow blower to clear sidewalks and driveways throughout his neighborhood.

Jim and Sue Suit (Olney) shoveled the driveway and front door area of their neighbors with medical limitations—as they have done after every snow storm for the past 13 years.

Emmanuel Suppey (Gaithersburg) cleared snow from the sidewalk and front steps—as well as from the car and parking spaces—of a senior neighbor who is recovering from hip replacement surgery. They also help the neighbor by providing rides to doctor appointments and assist with errands.

Frank Taylor (Silver Spring) cleared walkways and driveways of several neighbors who face challenges due to health or age—in spite of his own back issues.

Timothy Thew (Poolesville) attached his plow to his ATV at the first sign of winter and cleared snow for the entire neighborhood all season long.

Dan Thomas (Silver Spring) cleared the nearby church parking lot and also plowed the long driveway of a senior couple, allowing the man to get to the hospital for his scheduled surgery.

Casey Thompson (Rockville) shoveled sidewalks and driveways throughout his neighborhood—helping his neighbors as he does in other ways year-round.

Leroy Wells (Gaithersburg) helped anyone he saw in need and looked after his neighbors in other ways—in some cases ensuring that they had heat, food and water.

Christopher Williams (Gaithersburg) regularly helped neighbors with disabilities by removing snow from their sidewalks, driveways and from the front of their homes.

Hannah Williams (Gaithersburg), who is only four years old, is already learning the Golden Rule by shoveling—or at least trying to shovel—her neighbor’s driveway.

Jim Williams (Takoma Park) used his snow blower to clear the sidewalks of several of neighbors, including one who uses crutches to get around.

Michael Wilson (Gaithersburg) plowed sidewalks throughout the neighborhood and created a clear access to all the bus stops.

Mark Wood (Silver Spring), the longest residing member of his community, cleared streets and sidewalks to ensure all of his neighbors were able to carry on their daily routines.

Dave Worcester and Therese Worcester-Aubin (Gaithersburg), were out in full force after the snow storms shoveling sidewalks and clearing many cars of snow through their entire condominium community.

William Wyncoop (Poolesville) cleared his neighbor’s sidewalks for years—although he remained anonymous until recently.

Golden Shovel Awards

Did someone you know make your neighborhood safer? Nominate them for a Golden Shovel.
I started the Golden Shovel awards in 2003 to honor residents who lace up their boots to help neighbors shovel out after a snowfall. I'm bringing the awards back this year after a four-year hiatus due to a lack of snow. The awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in helping clear ice and snow from County sidewalks.

Our seniors, school children, people with disabilities and those who walk to work or use mass transit depend on snow-free sidewalks. This goes beyond convenience--it is a matter of public safety. I certainly hope that residents will nominate for a Golden Shovel those individuals who put the Golden Rule to work. Get the nomination form online or in The Gazette.

Golden Shovel Photos

The photos from Tuesday's Golden Shovel Awards are now on the Web.

Golden Shovel Awards Presented

The Golden Shovel Awards recognize County residents who made extraordinary efforts to help others during a winter that saw the Washington area receive its largest overall snowfall in history.

I initiated these awards in 2003 to honor residents who lace up their boots to help neighbors shovel out after a snowfall. This year’s winners committed selfless acts that not only helped their neighbors, but united entire communities. It’s important to recognize these efforts because our residents are the pride and joy of the county.

And the Golden Shovels went to:
Gary Biggs—Silver Spring (nominated by Jane O-Dell)
The Buell Family—Rockville (nominated by Ana Volper)
The Busciano Family—Silver Spring (nominated by Julie Statland)
Bill Flannery—Silver Spring (nominated by several neighbors)
Jeff Hopkins—Takoma Park (nominated by Randy Cohen)
Duke Ikeda—Gaithersburg (nominated by Marvin Elster)
Jay Jones—Gaithersburg (nominated by several neighbors)
Students from MC*LEAD—Rockville (nominated by Nik Shushka)
Tim Myers and Yoko Nagasaka—Silver Spring (nominated by Paul Sladen)
The Neal Family—Bethesda 9nominated by Joseph and Sheila Silberstein)
David Perdue—Silver Spring (nominated by Tina Sandri)
Jeff Raines—Montgomery Village (nominated by John Padan and Ragnhild Van Alstyne)
The Rivera Family—Silver Spring (nominated by Elaine and Hal Stein)
Bobby Stockman—Gaithersburg (nominated by Chris Moore)
Paul Tamul—Germantown (nominated by Gaylen Garnand DiSanto and Peter DiSanto)
Thomas Thoma—Silver Spring (nominated by Helen Maurer)
Jeff Truesdale—Gaithersburg (nominated by his daughter, Suzanne)
Bill Wallish—Silver Spring (nominated by neighbor Florence Rand)
Daniel Whiting—Kensington (nominated by several neighbors)

Golden Shovel Awards Open for Nominations

Did someone you know make your neighborhood safer? Nominate them for a Golden Shovel.
I started the Golden Shovel awards in 2003 to honor residents who lace up their boots to help neighbors shovel out after a snowfall. After this season's record-breaking blizzards, I'm bringing back the awards after a two-year hiatus due to a lack of snow. The awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in helping clear ice and snow from County sidewalks.

Our seniors, school children, people with disabilities and those who walk to work or use mass transit depend on snow-free sidewalks. This goes beyond convenience--it is a matter of public safety. I certainly hope that residents will nominate for a Golden Shovel those individuals who put the Golden Rule to work. Get your nomination form in your Gazette newspaper, or download it from my Web page.