EAST LONGMEADOW – At a recognition dinner on June 12 at Mario’s Café Ambiance, Marlene Goldstein was named the East Longmeadow Lions Club’s 2019 Distinguished Citizen of the Year.

“Ms. Goldstein – has had a long passion for public service to her community, serving on many town committees, including the Appropriations and School Committees,” the East Longmeadow Lions said in a press release.

Goldstein, who owned Happy Acres Farm, has donated fresh vegetables to local food banks, helped with the design and construction of 4th of July Parade floats, and began the Taste of East Longmeadow.

“I was quite surprised,” Goldstein said of being chosen. “I’m grateful.”

Goldstein, a 50-year resident of East Longmeadow, said she never set out to join committees as “stepping stone” to other opportunities. Goldstein said she figured that she had the time to devote to various organizations, so she pitched in.

When her children were young, she gave her time as a scout leader for the Cub Scouts, Brownies, and Girl Scouts. When she saw issues at Mountain View Elementary School, she served on the Parent/Teacher Organization committee.

Now, Goldstein is active in her church, St. Michael’s Parish. She has sat on the Parish Council, the Family Life Committee, and Spiritual Life Committee, in addition to leading all the decorating committees at the church.

In addition to receiving a plaque and a clock as part of the recognition, Goldstein will ride in East Longmeadow’s July 4th Parade.

“Should I use the Queen’s wave?” Goldstein joked.

Speaking of the Lions, Goldstein said, “The money that they raise, they pour back into the town. It’s kind of what makes the fabric of the town, is different organizations giving.”