‘Wheels to Prosper’ awarded

“Putting good people in good cars so they can do more good in the community,” Dino DiGuilio, owner of Body Best auto repair, hands over the keys to three recipients honored for local community service.

Each the proud new owner of a gleaming reconditioned car are, from left, Tony Tovaraz, Kathleen St. John and Harry Blum and Mahri Best, with DiGuilio, who runs the “Wheels to Prosper” locally.

Tovarez has volunteered with the Special Olympics, been the captain of the basketball team and done hundreds of hours of community service.

St. John was recognized for volunteer service that started age of 12 with the Red Cross and includes helping feed the homeless, rescuing animals, establishing a teen center and volunteering at Hospice by the Bay.

Since moving to Sonoma last year, Harry and Mahri Blum have volunteered at almost every event, and all without a car. A veteran and a member of the local Native Sons of the Golden West, Blum reports on local nonprofit groups for SUN TV and SUN FM.

DiGuilio said the “three wonderful people always willing to lend a hand” were chosen from nominations of local people contributing to the community. The program, which includes partnerships with Pacific Rim Auto Repair and North Bay Insurance, will continue with another vehicle giveaway next July.