It was a ruse that worked! Northfield’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Committee’s “Volunteer of the Year” award went to Virginia Kaczmarek, who thought she was assisting Dana Graham, the first recipient, in the delivery of the award. Instead, Graham turned to Kaczmarek and presented it to her! From the start, the former Marine, and Executive Director of the YMCA, has been instrumental in Veterans issues. Helping those who come into our community and need assistance, of any kind. During their meeting, they voted to join with the Veteran’s Service at Bridgewater Elementary School next year. Northfield’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon has grown to a network of over 300 volunteers offering a multitude of services. They also reach out to surrounding communities. If you’re a veteran, or if you’re the family of an active duty military person, contact northfieldyellowribbon.org. The trophy was created by TJ Heinricy and will travel to another recipient next year. Their name will be added to 
the award.
