Arnold Mann Named Collegeville Rotary Club’s "Citizen of the Year"

The following information was submitted to Perkiomen Valley Patch:

Arnold Mann, president of the Collegeville Borough Council, will be honored by the Collegeville Rotary Club on Wednesday, Oct. 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Rivercrest Golf Club as their 2011 celebrated "Citizen of the Year."  

The Rotary’s award, begun in 2010, is given annually to honor an individual who has made a special contribution to the community and exemplifies the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.” The event raises funds for programs to help local communities. 

For the last 20 years, Arnold has devoted himself to public service in Collegeville. He is well known for his skill in seeking common-sense resolutions to difficult issues and working toward the best outcome for all residents.

Arnold’s service in Collegeville has been non-stop. He has been a member of the Borough Council since January 1992, and in addition to acting as Council President from 1994 to 1996, 1998 to 2002, and 2010 to the present day, he is a member of the Borough's Planning Commission, the Collegeville-Trappe Sewer Authority and also serves as Joint Chair of the Collegeville-Trappe Public Works Committee. He currently is a member of the Borough’s Finance Committee and is Chairman of Streets and Roads. Arnold has received numerous honors for his dedicated service to Montgomery County and support of the Collegeville Fire Company, as well as being recognized by the late Mayor Dennis Parker as a distinguished member of the elite “Perkiomen Fleet of the Collegeville Navy.”

Previously Arnold served on the Borough’s Personnel, Business Liaison, and special committees to negotiate Police and Public Works contracts.  He has also been involved for many years with PA DOT to resolve the Route 29 and Main Street/Perkiomen Bridge traffic problems.  Arnold is a U. S. Navy veteran.  He is a graduate of Drexel University, and retired after a 33-year career in manufacturing management.

Arnold is also an active member of Trinity Reformed United Church of Christ, and has served as both President and Building Committee Chairman. Also, Arnold and his wife Marty organized a youth group at Trinity and served as youth ministers for seven years. 

Arnold was surprised to learn he had received the award.  “I am truly honored to be selected this year by the Rotary,” he said.  “I devoted my time and energy to the Collegeville community because I truly want to make the town better.  It never occurred to me that I would be honored in any way.”

Arnold and Marty have been Collegeville residents since November 1968. They raised four children and currently have eleven grandchildren. In addition to visits with the grandchildren, they enjoy traveling, gardening, hosting an annual family picnic each summer, and bowling.  Regarding bowling, Arnold had been bowling for more than 40 years and bowled his first perfect game with a score of 300 in March 2010. 

Last year’s “Citizen of the Year” winner was Trappe Mayor Connie Peck, who in addition to performing the duties of mayor for the last five years, has been an active volunteer for 30 years.

The Collegeville Rotary Club meets weekly on Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. at Moorehead Catering, 40 1^st Avenue, Trappe, PA.  Click here more information.

The Rivercrest Golf Club community entrance is on Route 29 South just past Black Rock Road.  The address is 100 Golf Club Drive, Phoenixville, PA 18460. For directions see the web site www.rivercrestgolfclub.com.