Torrance to Honor 3 for Their Service to the Community

Three people who work in Torrance will be honored next week as recipients of the first Torrance Awards.

Ernestine Olson, selected as educator of the year, teaches language arts, Spanish and math at Calle Mayor Middle School in Torrance. The city services employee of the year is Torrance Police Lt. David G. Marsden, who helped create a program to reduce alcohol sales to minors as well as a canine program.

Named humanitarian of the year is Michele May, volunteer executive director of the Job Center in Torrance, which helps homeless people find jobs.

The awards will be presented annually to recognize “individuals who have accomplished something in the area that would improve the quality of life for people in Torrance, and to motivate others to do the same,” said Steve Whitehead, community relations coordinator for the Los Angeles operations of Dow Chemical U.S.A.

Whitehead, who spearheaded plans for the awards, said Dow will help underwrite the program in the first year, but future support will come from businesses and other groups.

“It’s a very prestigious recognition,” said Mayor Katy Geissert, one of 15 people who helped select the winners. “For a city this size, it’s nice to have something that’s specifically Torrance.”

The awards ceremony Friday at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center will include a catered dinner and a performance by singer Julie Budd. Tickets are $50 per person, or $500 for tables of 10. For information: (310) 533-5407.