Todd Taylor
The first annual Most Optimistic Community Member Award was given to Todd Taylor by the Sunrise Optimist Club of Ventura at their fall awards event. Todd has lived most of his life in Ventura and is known and loved by all who have met him. He was thrilled speechless when the surprise award was presented.
Todd has a lot of reasons that he could be negative. He was born with Cerebral Palsy making his every movement a challenge. People are not always kind to him. Sometimes he physically hurts.
But Todd always has a smile on his face. He exudes an abounding joy and gratitude for all that he has in his life. When asked why he is so optimistic he said “I’m just a happy person.” Todd says that his deep faith and his family are two reasons that he remains optimistic no matter what difficulties come his way. If you are fortunate enough to meet Todd, you will be given a precious gift: that of being in his optimistic glow—and don’t forget to say “hi” and give him a happy smile.” Todd was nominated by club member Roanna Prell.
The Sunrise Optimist Club has been active in Ventura since 1960 and is affiliated with Optimist International. The Club also recognized Frances Flores, E.P. Foster teacher as Educator of the Year and Sgt. Eric Vazquez, Ventura Police Department as Safety Officer of the Year for their outstanding service to our community.
Sgt. Eric Vazquez was presented with the Ventura Sunrise Optimist Club’s Safety Officer of the Year Award for 2022. Club members Roanna Prell and Jennifer Robles visited the Ventura Police Department to honor Sgt Vazquez with the presentation of a plaque and a check that Eric donated to the Ventura Police Community Foundation. VPD Chief Darin Schindler added his congratulations along with those from the Optimist Club members. With this award the Optimist Club annually expresses their appreciation for the work done to keep our community safe, alternating the award between Ventura Fire and Ventura Police Departments.
Frances Flores, long time teacher at E. P. Foster school, was honored as the Educator of the Year by the Ventura Sunrise Optimist Club. Upon receiving her award, Frances said “I was truly humbled to receive the award you honored me with. You all touched my heart with all of your words. They took me to my Migrant Education years as a child to my dream of becoming a teacher… It was truly an honor to be recognized for doing what I love and I know that many others are worthy of this award.” The award was presented at E. P. Foster school with the school staff, district personnel, Frances’ family and Sunrise Optimist club members in attendance.
For Information about the nomination process for the 2023 Most Optimistic Community Member or about the Sunrise Optimist Club of Ventura contact [email protected] or visit www.venturasunriseoptimist.org. Nomination forms will be available on our website at the beginning of January.
