The Grace Award

The Grace Award is named both for the first recipient, Grace Hiddleson, and for the virtues of grace exemplified by The Three Graces in western mythology that inspired qualities such as Excellence, Service to another, Charity, Mercy, Love, Gentleness, or Friendship.

Past awards went to:

• 2004 - Grace Hiddleson
• 2005 - Kay Krieger
• 2006 - Mary Velinsky
• 2007 - Petra Dauer
• 2008 - Beverly Payne
• 2009 - Brenda Dupong and Noreen Ott
• 2010 - Anonymous

The 2011 Grace Award goes to Martha Dickman

The award this year is being presented to Martha Dickman who for 19 years has provided her creative force and lent her boundless talent and energy to Citizens Who Care's Annual Winter Concert, a major fundraiser for the organization. Over the years, the Winter Concert has generated more than a quarter of a million dollars in revenue that supports CWC services to the elderly and their caregivers.

Martha described her reaction upon receiving news of the honor as surprised and humbled, "I have attended the meetings where the Grace Award has been given, usually to those who help with caring for the elderly sick and their helpers. I know, of course, that our concerts have greatly aided your financial needs, and that has given us great joy. I have so enjoyed working on the concerts, especially with Steve Peithman, who is the real driver in what we do. All of us who do the concerts get great satisfaction in doing them. I will gratefully accept this award and will consider that it honors us all."

Martha Dickman's degree in voice from the University of Montana led her to singing on a radio show, giving recitals, and singing with a dance band. Married to Marine officer, James Gasser, she lived for 25 years in six U.S. states, Guam, and Thailand. Wherever they were she continued performing, and directing choral groups. In 1970 when Colonel Gasser died suddenly in Thailand, she came to Davis. For 23 years with the Davis Comic Opera company she was a founder, producer, vocal director, and performer. She also performed with the Davis Players and other groups, especially all the Citizens Who Care concerts. She has taught voice lessons for many years, and in 2007 was honored with the Brinley Award from the city of Davis. She spends her time now visiting with her children and grandchildren, going to concerts, volunteering, and traveling when she can.