In 1992, the Salute to Framingham was created to honor individuals for their outstanding commitment and service to Framingham’s youth.  Since then, the Salute to Framingham has become one of Framingham’s most celebrated annual events.  This year’s honorees join a select group of people who have made a real difference in the lives of the children of Framingham.

Michael Grilli has served Framingham for more than 30 years.  In that time, he has used his professional expertise as a civil engineer to help improve the town of Framingham by building and improving our schools and public buildings, all on a totally volunteer basis.  He spearheaded the funding appropriations, architectural design and construction of McCarthy School, Woodrow Wilson School and Framingham High School renovations.  Most recently, he served as an unpaid advisor to the Framingham Parks & Recreation Department during the planning, funding and construction of the Bowditch Field Athletic and Cultural Center.

Joey Sementelli has had an enormous impact on hundreds of Framingham kids and their families over the past 10 years as their swimming coach and mentor.  A graduate of Framingham High School, Joey started coaching when he was still at Framingham High.  He took over the role of coach of the Framingham recreation summer swim team after being a member of the team for many years.  As a result of his focus, dedication and enthusiasm, the summer swim team has grown from 80 swimmers in his first year, to well over 200 swimmers for the 2010 summer season.  In addition to teaching the fundamentals of swimming, Joey has also taught the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork and community service.  Through the years, he has volunteered his time as part of the YMCA’s swim program and with the Framingham High Boy’s Swim Team.  He is passionate about swimming and has shared this passion with the kids that he has coached, developing meaningful, positive and productive relationships with swimmers, parents, volunteers and members of the Framingham community.

In addition to these honorees, the Salute program also recognizes Framingham teachers and staff who make each day “special” in our public schools.  We also acknowledge graduating Framingham High School students who positively impact the school community.

This year, the Salute to Framingham will present the Jim O’Connor Community Service Award to F-SEPAC (Framingham Special Education Parent Advisory Council).  Named for former FHS Athletic Director and founder of the Salute to Framingham, this award honors an organization whose work benefits the youth of Framingham. Framingham Special Education Parent Advisory Council is co-chaired by Cheryl Caira and Susan Arndt.

The Salute to Framingham Dinner will take place on Thursday, March 24th at the Sheraton Framingham Ballroom.  

Complete details and ticket information are available at www.salute-to-framingham.com

Proceeds from the Salute to Framingham benefit the Framingham High School Foundation.  All proceeds from the event are used to benefit FHS students by supporting activities, the arts, and athletics at the school.

Salute to Framingham is presented by NMTW Community Credit Union in partnership with other community sponsors.