Coomes honored with Diakonia Award

DOWNEY - Downey resident Bill Coomes was honored with the Diakonia Award at the Nov. 24 City Council meeting."Mr. Coomes has demonstrated a great commitment to serving others and is very active in his community," said Councilman Mario Guerra, who presented the award, his last as mayor. Coomes has volunteered "countless hours" at St. Raymond's Catholic Church and collects donations and food for the Tijuana Orphanage Ministries. He has been involved with the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, has implemented the Disaster Preparedness for the Disabled program through the American Red Cross for his transverse mellitus support group and also participates in the "Downey Library for Literacy" program. Coomes and his wife, Roselea, completed training for the city's Community Emergency Response Team and are active in monthly meetings and disaster drills. "Bill has been an inspiration, a guiding light," Guerra said. "He does great things with great love and I am proud to honor him with this award." To nominate a person for the Diakonia (Servant) Award, call the City Council office at (562) 904-7274.

********** Published: December 11, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 33