United Way hosts annual meeting

By JILLIAN E. KESNER / Journal Staff Writer

MARTINSBURG — The United Way of the Eastern Panhandle hosted its annual meeting Wednesday, the first since last year’s merger of the agency’s Berkeley and Morgan countyboards with its Jefferson County organization, and recognized the year’s top contributors and volunteers.

Recipient of Volunteer of the Year for Berkeley County was David Welsh for a promotional film he produced for United Way of the Eastern Panhandle. Alice Barkus was named Volunteer of the Year for Jefferson County for her service in various positions at United Way including campaign committee and working with funds distribution. Volunteer of the Year for Morgan County is Tom Rokisky, whose volunteer work has helped increase that county’s campaign funds by 30 percent.

Outgoing board members were recognized during wednesday’s reception, and incoming board members were elected for their three-year terms. The newly elected members are Robert Baronner, Ken Barton, David Gross, Pamela Holstein-Wallace and Nancy White.

Officers for the 2007-08 term are Tracey Eberling, president; Ken Tyler, president-elect; John Beatty, vice president; Rob Abruzzino, treasurer; and Alice Barksus, secretary.

According to Tyler, United Way of the Eastern Panhandle is distributing over $1 million throughout the Panhandle.

Three local businesses were recognized for their contributions, and combined, they raised nearly $115,000. First place for most dollars raised was awarded to Charles Town Races & Slots for a total of $50,000 raised. Bank of Charles Town received the silver award, raising $32,334. The bronze award went to United Automotive Workers, General Motors Parts Distribution Center, raising $32,171.

United Way gave out two other awards at Wednesday’s ceremony.

The Marvin J. Yurish Spirit Award, awarded to a volunteer in recognition of consistent and outstanding support of United Way and the General William Van Ryzin Award, in honor of his establishment of United Way in Jefferson County.

Margie Bartles, recipient of the Marvin J. Yurish Spirit Award, has a long history with United Way and has served as a volunteer, committee chair, campaign volunteer, board member, funds distribution volunteer, campaign chair and board president.

“Every person in the room has this spirit,” said Bartles after receiving the award. “It is exciting to work with United Way because of all of you.”

Chip Bennett was the recipient of the Van Ryzin Award, and as a volunteer, he obtained a $100,000 donation for United Way last year.

United Way Executive Director Jan Callen said Wednesday’s reception was among the agency’s best turnouts.

“It was a great capstone event for an extremely successful year,” Callen said.

Annual Recognition Breakfast Photos