by John "Choo-Choo" Shannahan
8/12/2017

Volunteerism took center stage Saturday morning, as Linda Ahronian and Mike Tyman were honored as Holliston’s Citizens of the Year for 2013 at Goodwill Park. When the sun broke through the clouds during the 10AM ceremony, it shined a bright light on two citizens who have dedicated themselves to public service, and who are far more comfortable helping others, than receiving the accolades of a grateful community.

Before family, friends, and neighbors, Linda and Mike were recognized by the Holliston Board of Selectmen, Representative Carolyn Dykema and State Senator Karen Spilka. They were cited for their many contributions, including for Linda her involvement in the Holliston Lions Club, America in Bloom, and the Relay for Life, and for Mike, the Holliston Lions Club, Boy Scouts Troop 73 and the summer track program.

In accepting her award, Linda brought a smile to the crowd when she announced, “I’m blown away. I am in such good company with the people on this stage, especially Mike Tyman.” A former Lions Club President, she said “Joining the Lions club transformed my life. The only way to get to know how great a town is is to volunteer through something like the Lions Club. It has allowed me to grow into the person I am today who volunteers, which allows me to help other people.” In closing she added “I am standing here being honored for being a volunteer. How awesome is that!”

Mike Tyman would agree. Also a former Lions Club President, he raised a chuckle when he congratulated the Celebrate Holliston committee for “making such wonderful Citizen of the Year choices this year.” On a serious note, he thanked his family, particularly his wife Wendy for her support, and also thanked the scouts of Troop 73 for giving up a trip to Mt. Greylock this weekend to attend the ceremony.  

“As a boy, I never had a chance to be a cub scout, so as a parent, I wanted to get involved,” he said. That statement drastically understates the obvious. Mike’s level of involvement is second to none, as scores of Lions and Boy Scouts can easily testify.

Mike’s son Cullen closed the ceremony with a joyful discourse on the day’s events and participants. It provided a fitting end to a wonderful ceremony, as well as an appropriate kick off to a day intended to celebrate dearly treasured home town values. Well done, Cullen.