The Martha's Vineyard Times

Daybreak honors Donaroma's and 29 year employee

May 4, 2011

State representative Tim Madden traveled to Martha's Vineyard Monday to help Daybreak honor Donaroma's Nursery, for its participation in the Daybreak transitional employment program.

Daybreak is a Martha's Vineyard Community Services program that helps people living with mental illnesses.

Owner Michael Donaroma and Daybreak employee Sumner Grover were scheduled to travel to the statehouse in Boston on April 5, but a westerly gale forced cancellation of most Steamship Authority ferries that day.

Instead, Mr. Madden presented the honor at the Edgartown town hall Monday, during the regular selectmen's meeting.

"I am happy to be employed for you at Donaroma's Nursery for 29 years," Mr. Grover told Mr. Donaroma and the other selectmen, to the applause of the meeting room.

Mr. Donoroma said he holds Mr. Grover up as an example to all his employees as a conscientious and productive worker.

"Sumner, to get this award is the easiest thing I've ever done," Mr. Donaroma said.