ARLINGTON What a guy. Bill Klein received $1,000 from his employer and immediately handed it over to the Arlington Boys and Girls Club.
Klein is indeed an amazing guy even though the award is specifically intended to be passed on to his benefit of choice.
A cashier at the Arlington Safeway store, Klein was nominated by his boss, Rick Blewitt, for the Safeway Community Hero Award earlier this year and the company selected him as this years winner.
They noticed Kleins unending service to the community, both at Arlington Boys and Girls Club and his church, Arlington Gospel Hall.
Oh, Ive been coaching at the boys and girls club for 30 years, Klein said modestly. And I teach youth classes at church on Sundays and Mondays.
The director of the boys and girls club, Bill Kinney, said Klein helped at the club while his own kids were growing up and now is preparing for another generation.
I have two grandbabies, Klein said, adding that at 18 months and
6 months, theyre not quite ready to use the club.
Klein and his wife Ruth raised four children. They are all living here around town and the last one is getting married this winter.
They all married Canadians, Klein said, adding he is very happy with his in-laws.
We did a lot of Bible camps in B.C. and thats where they met, Klein said.
A cordial fellow, Klein always has a smile on his face. Indeed, he is repeatedly selected as Best Grocery Checker in The Arlington Times Circle of Excellence contest each year.
His many contributions over the years have made a big difference, said the manager of the store, Jack Swaney. He is recognized as a leader in the community.
Klein said it was his boss, Rick Blewitt, who sent in the nomination.
When I heard, I immediately decided to give the money to the club, Klein said.
Kinney said they have already decided to use the money fixing up the scoreboard sign at the club, covering it with protection from all the balls, as well as helping pay for new carpet and painting, which was already in the works.
Were hoping to have enough to buy a few new games, like pool tables and stuff, Kinney said.
I just help out whenever Im needed, Klein said.
Bill is always a positive influence around here, Kinney said. We appreciate his contribution to the club.