City of Bellflower to Honor Marines, Miss Teen California, Sheriff's Deputy, Space Camp Kids and a Dozen Others for Service, Achievement.

BELLFLOWER, Calif. -- The City of Bellflower will honor more than a dozen local achievers for exceptional community service at the citizen recognition ceremony Bellflower Honors, which will be held Tuesday, November 9th from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Simms Park Auditorium.

The event will recognize students, educators and local volunteers for contributions to the community and individual achievement, including Miss Teen California Stephanie Brink, L.A. County Librarian Linda Larsen, Deputy of the Quarter Rudy Ramos, longtime residents Edwin and Osie Perry, and animal rescue volunteers Norma Rodriguez and Nancy Cathey, among others.

The ceremony is free and open to all, and a complimentary buffet dinner will be served courtesy of a partial sponsorship by Mooncents Coffee House. Meet all the honorees on Tuesday, November 9th at 6:00 p.m. at Simms Park Auditorium. Visit the City's website or call the Public Affairs Office at 562-804-1424 ext. 2278 for details.

The Honorees...

Norma Rodriguez -- "Outstanding Community Service"

Norma Rodriguez is a member of Emergency Animal Rescue Service, also known as EARS, which provides shelter for animals during disasters. Norma was integral in the rescue efforts of hundreds of animals during the Big Bear fires.

Nancy Cathey -- "Outstanding Community Service"

For the past 15 years, Nancy Cathey has devoted her life to saving animals. She gave up her career as a veterinary assistant to open her own dog rescue five years ago. In 2003, Nancy rescued and found homes for more than 1,300 dogs.

Space Camp Kids -- "Outstanding Achievement"

Pam Leestma, a teacher at Valley Christian School, led a small group of students to Izmir, Turkey, where they joined other youngsters from all over the world for Space Camp Turkey 2004. Students Brian Den Ouden and Eric and Colleen Brown experienced hands-on math and science research and cross-cultural understanding.

Bonita Coleman -- "Outstanding Community Service"

With a grant from National Geographic and Earthwatch International, Bonita Coleman, a Valley Christian Middle School teacher, recently conducted research in the Pantanal, one of the largest regional wetlands in the world. Bonita incorporates her research into classroom lessons.

Marine Reservists -- "Outstanding Community Service"

This group of Marine Reservists recently returned home after serving an extended tour in Iraq. Led by Bellflower resident Staff Sergeant Anthony Johnson, the Marines were assigned to Falluja and Ramadi, where some of the fiercest fighting has taken place.

Osie and Edwin Perry -- "Special Recognition - 60th Anniversary"

The Perry's recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. The pair met in 1943 and married a year later in Paso Robles. Shortly thereafter, the newlyweds moved to Bellflower where they raised their four children.

Stephanie Brink -- "Outstanding Achievement"

Stephanie recently captured the Miss California Teen USA Crown, beating out contestants from 46 other cities. A senior at Valley Christian High School, Stephanie will compete for the Miss Teen USA title at the nationally televised pageant.

Lisa and Andria Vargas -- "Outstanding Community Service"

Norwalk residents, Lisa and Andria Vargas spotted two juveniles tagging a sign with graffiti on Alondra Blvd. The two called the police and followed the suspects as they continued to vandalize areas through Cerritos and into Bellflower. The pair flagged down a Sheriff's deputy and the suspects were taken into custody.

Kenny McMackin -- "Outstanding Achievement"

A sophomore at Valley Christian High School, Kenny McMackin recently earned Eagle Scout status for ongoing service to the Boy Scouts and the community. Kenny is a recognized scholar athlete, playing football and baseball. He is an active member of Boy Scout Troop 65, where he is the Troop's Senior Patrol Leader.

Deputy Rudy Ramos -- "Outstanding Community Service"

Working in Bellflower since 1999, Deputy Rudy Ramos is credited with spearheading numerous felony and misdemeanor arrests in his assigned area. Deputy Ramos recently was promoted to Field Training Officer where he will train other Bellflower patrol deputies.

Geneva Goodban -- "Special Recognition - 95th Birthday"

Longtime Bellflower resident Geneva Goodban is celebrating her 95th birthday. Geneva moved to Bellflower with her husband and children in 1942. The UCLA graduate and former teacher is one of the first women to serve on the Bellflower Unified School District's PTA Board.

Linda Larsen -- "Outstanding Community Service"

As Community Librarian at the County's Brakensiek Public Library in Bellflower, Linda Larsen helped boost operations, increase patronage, and establish a wide array of enhanced programs for children and adults. She recently was promoted to another County branch.

Note: Photos of honorees available by request, or via download from www.bellflower.org.