The Highland Rotary Club will present three awards to distinguished members of the community at the 21st Annual Service Above Self Dinner, which will be held on Friday, April 11, at 6 p.m. at Casa Milanese. This year’s honorees include Amelia Delforno, a senior at Highland High School who is receiving the student award; Darlene Plavchak, a longtime educator and community volunteer who is receiving the individual award; and Michael Skinner and Dan Paradies from Bushiken Karate Skinner Dojo, who are receiving the business award for their dedication to the community and the youth they serve.

An online ticket purchase option or a downloadable registration form for mail-in ticket purchases to the event is available at www.highlandrotaryclub.com. Adult dinner tickets are $45 each, and children’s tickets are $25. RSVPs are required by April 7.

“Rotary International’s Service Above Self motto conveys the humanitarian spirit embodied by Rotarians across the world,” says Highland Rotary President Steve Laubach. “We are honored to recognize people in our community who live by this motto and are dedicated to making the world around them a better place through service.”

A standout student, athlete, and aspiring dentist, Amelia Delforno, president of the Highland High School Interact Club, was nominated by Rotarians Pat Roza and Christine Giangrasso for her exceptional leadership, dedication to service, and commitment to excellence. Described by teacher Christina Saylor as a “no-fuss, get-things-done” kind of leader, Amelia is known for her ability to inspire and collaborate, whether in the classroom, on the field, or in volunteer efforts. She leads by example, engaging others with her enthusiasm and work ethic while working alongside her peers.

“Amelia sets a high bar for herself and is meticulous in her pursuit of exceeding that bar,” said Josh Tatum, one of her teachers at Highland High School. “She has a heart of gold, is always willing to volunteer her time, and collaborates well with her peers.”

Individual honoree Darlene Plavchak exemplifies the Rotary motto through her lifelong dedication to serving the Highland community in numerous capacities. She has supported literacy and education through her professional career and as a volunteer school board member, educational advocate, Highland Educational Foundation board member, Highland Library Board member, and officer of the Friends of the Library group. She has enhanced the beauty of the community as chairperson of the Town of Lloyd Beautification Committee. Additionally, she has provided hope and inspiration to individuals battling pancreatic cancer through fundraising events, one-on-one support, and awareness campaigns—doing so even as she faces her own Stage IV diagnosis.

“Darlene’s remarkable contributions to our library, schools, and broader community embody the essence of Service Above Self,” says Rotarian Holly Brooker, who nominated Plavchak for this distinguished honor. “Her unwavering commitment, resilience, and leadership have profoundly impacted the Highland community, making it a better place for all.”

Bushiken Karate Skinner Dojo is being honored with the business award for its unwavering commitment to the Highland community. Led by Shihan Michael Skinner and Sensei Dan Paradies, the dojo has become much more than a martial arts school—it is a place of mentorship, support, and community engagement that truly reflects Rotary’s Service Above Self values.

Through their after-school programs, summer camps, and outreach initiatives, Shihan Mike and Sensei Dan have positively impacted countless children and families. They have created a safe space where students of all ages not only learn karate but also build confidence, discipline, and resilience—skills that extend far beyond the dojo walls. They have even brought their passion for karate, health, and fitness directly into Highland Schools by volunteering for activities and programs.

“Just take a few minutes to sit down with any current or past student, or a community group that has worked with the dojo, and they will tell you about the impact these two men have on our kids and community. It is amazing to see,” said parent Christine Cruz, who shared firsthand experiences in support of their nomination.

Bushiken Karate Dojo’s impact extends beyond children—they also empower adults through women’s self-defense classes and community wellness events. Their dedication to the community is evident in their annual participation in events such as Halloween in the Hamlet, local parades, 9/11 tributes, and more.