UTICA — More than 130 Rotary members, community leaders, public servants and guests attended the Rotary Club of Utica’s fifth annual Service Above Self Gala on June 5 at The Stanley Theatre.
The evening, held on the Stanley stage, benefited Kelberman Kamp Connections, a summer program serving children and teens of varying abilities. Kelly Carinci, interim CEO/executive director of Kelberman, accepted on behalf of the organization. Gala co-chairmen Stephen Turnbull and Travis Rabbers welcomed guests, while Joseph Caruso introduced the Service Above Self Award presentations. Patrons enjoyed a meal on the Stanley stage, and live music was performed by Last Left. This year’s Service Above Self honorees were Lucretia DeSantis Hunt and Mary Zimbler. Hunt, 97, was recognized for a lifetime of advocacy, civic engagement and hands-on service. Her work has included service with the Utica Parks Commission, Utica Municipal Housing, the Oneida County Office for the Aging Advisory Board, 50 Forward Mohawk Valley and the West Side Senior Center. She also founded the East Utica Neighborhood Watch and continues to volunteer at Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen. “I hate to be recognized with awards, but it is about the work, and the proceeds are for a
good cause,” Hunt said. Zimbler, who was honored in absentia, was recognized for her leadership with The Country Pantry, which serves families in Clinton, Clark Mills and Westmoreland. She is also active with the Lions Club of Clinton. More information is available at thecountrypantry.org. Past Service Above Self honorees have included the late Patrick Johnson, Michelle McCarrick Truett, and 2025 recipients Peter Loftus and Earle C. Reed.
The Rotary Club of Utica’s mission is to provide business, professional and community- minded individuals an opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of others by serving the local community and promoting high ethical standards, fellowship and goodwill worldwide.
For more information, visit www.uticarotary.org.
