2023 Community Impact Awards

Delta Township Presents
the 2023 Community Impact Award Honorees

Photo Cutline: Pictured (L to R) Delta Township Supervisor Kenneth R. Fletcher, Young Person of the Year Honoree Aadhitya Sudhakar, Legacy Award Honoree Howard A. Pizzo, Citizen of the Year Honoree Michelle Miles, Community Organization of the Year Honorees Shirlee Bobryk, Terry Drawert, & Kathy Rademacher of the Delta Area Pickleball Association, Community Enhancement Award Honoree Don Simon of Farm Bureau Insurance, Business of the Year Honoree Scott Berman of One North Kitchen and Bar, and Delta Township Clerk Mary R. Clark. Photo credit: Marvin Hall of Studio M Portraits

Delta Township hosted the 17th Annual Delta Township Community Impact Awards Event on November 2 at the Crowne Plaza Lansing West. Nearly 250 people gathered to celebrate the outstanding individuals, businesses, and organizations that were honored during the event.

The Township presented six awards this year including Legacy Award, Citizen of the Year, Young Person of the Year, Business of the Year, Community Organization of the Year, and Community Enhancement Award. The Young Person of the Year recipient was also presented with a $2,000 Scholarship sponsored by the Delta Side Business Association.

The Legacy Award was presented to Howard A. Pizzo. Howard A. Pizzo is a person who epitomizes the very definition of public service. From a career as a public servant in for the Michigan Department of Treasury, to his service as the elected Treasurer of Delta Township, and his work with various community organizations, he has devoted his life to the service of others.

During his 12 years of service as the Delta Township Treasurer, Howard made a significant impact on his community. He was integral in projects that helped to expand the wide variety of recreation and athletic opportunities throughout the Township including the purchase of Grand Woods Park, the Development of Mount Hope Park, the expansion of the non-motorized system, and the addition of two fully accessible, ADA complaint canoe launches. Additionally, Howard helped to facilitate major infrastructure projects, including laying the groundwork for the Water Resource Recovery Facility reconstruction project, the extension of Michigan Avenue, and numerous other projects that have and will continue to benefit the citizens and businesses of Delta Township for years to come.

Outside of his work as an elected official, Howard has shown a passion for business networking and public engagement through his work with organizations including the Delta Side Business Association, Delta Waverly Rotary Club, the League of Women Voters, and the Eaton County Democratic Party. He is also a fierce advocate for seniors, working to make all communities senior-friendly communities through his work with the AARP and numerous other senior programs.

Howard can often be found with his lifelong sidekick and wife of 52 years, Nell. The two have been residents of Delta Township for nearly 50 years and are both active with the community, especially in their neighborhood, often hosting neighborhood-wide events.

Howard's love of family and community is unmeasured, which has left a legacy that will endure the test of time.

The Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Michelle Miles. Michelle Miles has been a resident of Delta Township for over 30 years and is an extraordinary individual whose unwavering dedication and selfless service has left an indelible mark on our community. As an Infection Preventionist, Michelle plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the health and well-being of our community. Michelle's fervent passion for community service is evident in her active involvement in various organizations. From her contributions to Les Meres et Debutantes of Greater Lansing to her membership in the NAACP Lansing Branch and the Michigan State University Black Alumni, Michelle is a beacon of empowerment and advocacy.

Yet, it is through Michelle's courageous work with Safe Miles for Jasmine that her impact is most profoundly felt. In the wake of the tragic loss of her daughter Jasmine in May 2003, Michelle turned her pain into purpose. This courageous act led to the creation of the Jasmine Miles School Children Safely Act, a landmark piece of legislation born out of her collaboration with former State Representative Michael C. Murphy. With the support of Governor Jenifer Granholm, this law now stands as a powerful testament to Michelle's enduring advocacy for pedestrian safety.

For the past two decades, Michelle has been a ray of hope and support for countless graduating seniors which offers scholarships through the Jasmine Miles Memorial Foundation. Beginning at Waverly High School, this scholarship initiative has grown beyond Delta Township, reaching students in the Greater Lansing School Districts. Michelle's enduring commitment to providing educational opportunities serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication to the youth in our community.

This past spring, The Jasmine Miles Memorial Foundation celebrated the remarkable milestone of 20 years since Jasmine's passing. Through the Jasmine Miles Memorial Scholarship program and the tireless advocacy of Safe Miles for Jasmine, Michelle, alongside her family, has woven a legacy and ensures Jasmine's memory lives on in the lives of the countless young scholars who have been empowered to pursue their dreams, a living tribute to the transformative power of love and resilience.

The Young Person of the Year Award was presented to Aadhitya Sudhakar. Aadhitya Sudhakar is a senior at Grand Ledge High School and was nominated for his dedication and excellence in academics, athleticism, and volunteerism. Academically, Aadhitya is near the top of his class. He is a Captain of the varsity soccer team, a member of the student council, and founded the GLHS Asian American Student Union. He loves to share his love of soccer by volunteering to coach and run soccer camps for area youth. He is a tutor for fellow students and has also been a volunteer at Sparrow Hospital in the radiology department helping patients feel more comfortable during treatments. Aadhitya's accolades extend beyond his own personal achievements: as a leader, he makes sure others are heard, that their contributions are acknowledged, and they are part of a strong community.

The Business of the Year Award was presented to One North Kitchen & Bar. One North Kitchen & Bar opened in Delta Township in 2020 creating a place for community-minded events at their restaurant. They support the community with fundraisers, donate food to those in need, and support local schools and veterans. Additionally, they are involved in local civic organizations including the Delta Waverly Rotary Club, and Waverly Education Foundation, as well as serving on the Saginaw Hwy Corridor Improvement Authority.

The Community Organization of the Year was presented to The Delta Area Pickleball Association. The Delta Area Pickleball Association (DAPA) was formed in March of 2022 to help manage and support the sport of Pickleball in Delta Township. The group not only offers lessons for a variety of player levels, but aids in the maintenance of the Pickleball courts, and oversees scheduling for the courts. Additionally, the DAPA spearheaded a fundraising effort for the addition of two shade structures and a storage shed for the facility that was installed at Delta Mills Park in 2023. The organization raised over $15,000 from local donors and businesses to provide sun protection and create a gathering space that has made the park more inviting and comfortable for players and families of all ages.

The Community Enhancement Award was presented to Farm Bureau Insurance. Founded on February 4, 1919, the Michigan Farm Bureau has served as the voice of Michigan agriculture for more than a century. Determined to have their own insurance company, the bureau hired Nile Vermillion, in January 1949 to organize the new Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Michigan, and on March 7 of that same year, the company opened for business providing auto insurance for Farm Bureau members. In 1970, the company built its headquarters in Delta Township to accommodate its growing number of clients.

Most recently, Farm Bureau Insurance invested over $50 million into a whole facility renovation of their headquarters building, turning their facility into a state-of-the-art structure; transforming their facade, and improving aesthetics along the Saginaw Hwy Corridor.