The Pleasanton Weekly and its sister news organization in the San Ramon Valley, a division of Embarcadero Media, has presented eight awards to community members and organizations whose dedication to bettering our communities and the lives of local residents has helped make the Tri-Valley a wonderful place to live and work.

According to Gina Channell-Allen, president and publisher of Embarcadero Media's East Bay Division, "The Heroes selection committee was once again impressed with the quantity and quality of the nominations. It was difficult choosing only one recipient per category."

The third annual awards program was presented Monday by Embarcadero Media's East Bay Division, which includes The Pleasanton Weekly and DanvilleSanRamon.com.

This year's recipients are:

Arts and Culture

For achievements or contributions within the area of arts and culture: Dr. Arthur Barnes. Dr. Barnes recently retired as the conductor of the Livermore-Amador Symphony after 50 years.

Community Spirit

For selfless, tireless and largely unacknowledged actions that have enriched or improved the quality of life for the local community: Jennifer Hosterman, Pleasanton. The former mayor of Pleasanton, Hosterman has a long history of public service and environmental awareness advocacy.

Courage

For an act of bravery or for determination and strength of character to triumph over adversity: Philip Scholz, Pleasanton. Scholz died in January while pushing a man from the path of an oncoming train in Santa Clara.

Environmental Stewardship

For a group or individual committed to minimizing risks, conserving and recycling, thereby reducing the impact of our businesses on the community and natural resources: Heidi and Amelia Abramson, Alamo. The mother-daughter team launched the Bounty Garden, which donates fresh food to local food banks.

Innovation

For a person, group or business who apply innovative ideas or programs to enhance the community: Darian Shimy, Pleasanton. Shimy is a Pleasanton parent who created the Future Fund donation application for local schools used during the online registration process.

Rising Star

For a young person whose services directly benefit Tri-Valley citizens through outstanding volunteer work, serving as a community role model and mentor or demonstrating random acts of kindness: Riley Glasson, Alamo. A 17-year-old San Ramon Valley High School senior, Riley is the Director of Mission of 1-Closet, which holds clothing drives to collect clothing for children and teens in need.

Role Model

For displaying common sense, compassion and wisdom while teaching, coaching and mentoring others with a vision for people to strive to be the best they can be: Susan Houghton, Livermore. With other parents, Houghton founded Sunflower Hill, a Pleasanton-based nonprofit organization created for families of older children with developmental delays.

Lifetime Achievement

For an individual or group for contributions, leadership, enthusiasm and tireless efforts on behalf of his or her community and neighbors: Beverly Lane, Danville. Currently an East Bay Regional Park District director, she is a local historian, published author and has a history of public and community service, including being mayor of Danville and the founding president of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley.

Sponsors of this year's program are San Ramon Regional Medical Center, Gene's Fine Foods, Monterey Private Wealth, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pleasanton at the Club, Harrington Art Partnership and Crown Trophy.

The Tri-Valley Heroes will each be profiled in the Pleasanton Weekly and on PleasantonWeekly.com, beginning Nov. 7.