Daily News

Pynchon Awards Enter 100th Year with Nov. 19 Event

SPRINGFIELD — On Thursday, Nov. 19, the Ad Club of Western Massachusetts and trustees of the Order of William Pynchon will honor the recipients of the 2015 William Pynchon Award: Gary Bernice, Harold Grinspoon, Ronn and Donna Johnson, and Sue Ellen Panitch.

Presented every year since 1915 by the Ad Club, the Pynchon award recognizes community service and volunteerism in Western Mass. The award is named for Springfield founder William Pynchon.

The 200 Pynchon medalists represent a cross-section of humanity. Past recipients have included activists, poets, a volcanologist, an aviatrix, inventors, and others who reflect the heritage and history of the region. The common trait shared by all is their passion for giving back to the community, in immeasurable ways, with no expectation of anything in return.

Those chosen for the award represent the highest examples of selflessness and community spirit. This year’s honorees are no different. They include a high-school band director, a longtime philanthropist, a husband and wife who help provide accessibility to those with childhood disabilities, and a tireless supporter of causes such as protecting the Connecticut River and raising money for local nonprofits.

The event will begin at the Museum of Fine Arts with induction and presentation of the Pynchon Medal at 5:30 p.m., followed at 6:30 p.m. by the Centennial Celebration at the Museum of Springfield History at the Quadrangle, 21 Edward St., Springfield. Tickets can be purchased at adclubwm.org.