Local Philanthropist Michael Milnes of Rochester, MN Honored at Charitable Awards Ceremony

ROCHESTER, Minn., March 27, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael Milnes of Rochester, MN is no stranger to award-winning performance, having secured two Rochester Bulletin Reader's Choice Best Physical Therapist Awards over the last 10 years. He was, however, unfamiliar with the idea of receiving recognition for charitable involvement. This all changed, as many know, at last month's local Philanthropic Awards ceremony, where he was surprised with an honor for his ongoing contributions and support of The Right to Read.

Michael Milnes of Rochester, MN was invited to the last month's award ceremony completely unaware of what was about to happen; unaware that he was about to be thrust into the spotlight, and to receive quite a shock when his name was called up to the stage, called up by none other than longtime The Right to Read Board Chairman Lou Sidourman.

"As we make our way through the list of people who have been so generous in support of our community, let us not forget to honor those who so passionately support the cause of childhood literacy," said a grinning Sidourman, whose gaze gradually turned towards Milnes, seated in the front row. "It is my pleasure, and my honor, to recognize those who have been so valuable to my organization, particularly a man of such devotion tour cause…Ladies and Gentleman, Mr. Michael Milnes!"

Flabbergasted by the mention, an awed Michael Milnes of Rochester, MN made his way to the stage, shaking hands with the wryly grinning Sidourman as an award was placed in his other hand. Taken aback by the statue, and the roaring applause, which had been immediately directed his way, Milnes shakily approached the podium, a solitary tear rolling down his cheek.

"Well… I'm sure at a loss here!" said an overwhelmed Milnes to a wave of laughter and applause. "I never did this to get an award, though. It was always the children, the kids who never get the opportunity to enjoy a book, or to get the attention they deserve. I dedicate this award to every child in need of a book to read, someone who cares…"

Michael Milnes of Rochester, a passionate advocate for childhood literacy from a very early age, raised the bronze statue above his head, muttering one final, tear-filled remark before finding his seat.

"Buy the ticket, take the ride!"

About Michael Milnes

Michael Milnes of Rochester, MN continues to give generously to The Right to Read organization, and to demonstrate his support of childhood literacy in any way that he can. 

SOURCE Michael Milnes