Rotary honors 'quiet' contributor

Tom Johnston, the owner of J&D Basement Systems on U.S. 40 for 22 years, was presented the Pataskala Rotary Club's prestigious Vocational Service Award.

"He is a local businessman who epitomizes the requirements of the Vocational Service Award," said Judy Baird, who nominated Johnston for the honor. "He's generous. He is ethical and caring. He does whatever he can do to help people in need."

In presenting a plaque signifying the honor, Rotarian Julie Maurer echoed the words in Baird's nomination form, calling Johnston a "guardian angel.

"He discretely and anonymously does many acts of kindness for those in need," Maurer said, including support of special service events, Little League baseball, and a special tornado awareness event last spring.

"He's helped families in need with groceries and payment of utility bills and helped people move," Maurer said. "In the past two years he has provided thousands of dollars to people in need in Pataskala. He sees the need and steps up quietly...."

Maurer added that Johnston often hires individuals who are need desperate need of employment.

Criteria for the Vocational Service Award include demonstration of pride and extraordinary leadership skills, making visible contributions to the quality of life in the Licking County community, enhancing the performance of one's business or institution, and setting high standards for ethical relationships with employees, peers and customers.

Johnston, in accepting the honor, said he was honored to be listed among several civic-minded individuals who are past award winners. Previous honorees present were Martha Tykodi, Daniel Bauer, and Tom and Margaret Caw.

"These are people who contribute a lot to the community," Johnston said.

Charles A. Peterson can be reached at (740) 927-0161 or cpeterson@nncogannett.com