Acton TV honors volunteers, sponsors and members at annual awards

Acton TV presented four community awards during its Dec. 3 annual meeting, citing long‑term volunteer work, sponsorship and youth involvement.

Volunteer of the Year: Deborah "Deb" Jeffries received the Volunteer of the Year award for organizing fundraising and helping secure business donations; she was recognized with a citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives read at the event. Jeffries said she was surprised and grateful for the recognition and emphasized relationships with local businesses in fundraising.

MVP: Ray Gallant of Gallant Insurance Agency — the station noted — has sponsored Acton TV every year since the studio moved into its current space in 2012; he accepted the Acton TV MVP award and received a House citation.

Youth Member of the Year: Srikanth (Sri) Thakaneni was honored for his contributions, including podcasting, football commentary and other youth programming. Srikanth thanked fellow contributors, the station staff and guests for supporting his projects.

Member of the Year: Dr. Irina Coles was named Member of the Year and celebrated for producing Taste of Change (in both English and Russian) and for reaching her 200th episode; a House citation was read in her honor.

Representatives of the Massachusetts House of Representatives presented citations to several award winners; Mark said the station appreciates the legislative recognition. The awards segment concluded with a group photo and closing remarks.