People in the know know George Butts.
But if you're not connected to city staff, City Council or out and about with community organizations, you might not.
For my first 15 years in Manhattan Beach, I didn't.
At the end of 2011, Manhattan Beach Patch asked readers to nominate a volunteer of the year. Two names were given: George Butts and Jeanne Jackson.
At the Tuesday night City Council, the Manhattan Beach Community Emergency Response Association will be recognized by council, city staff and the community for its nonstop efforts to be be a deployable resource to assist the city in the event of an emergency or disaster.
Let's learn a little about MBCERTA and Butts.
Manhattan Beach Patch: How long have you been a member of MBCERTA?
George Butts: Prior to our organization, I took the CERT class in 2006.
MB Patch: When was MBCERTA formed?
Butts: In February of 2008, eight of us met in my backyard with [MB fire department] Battalion Chief Frank Chiella.
MB Patch: How long have you been its president?
Butts: Since the beginning.
MB Patch: When and why did you move to MB?
Butts: In 1992, my wife got transferred here to the South Bay.
MB Patch: What do you do for work when you're not volunteering for MBCERTA?
Butts: I have worked for Taxi Equipment Co. since moving here -- one of the top three equipment distributors and manufacturers in the U.S.
MB Patch: It seems as though you're always busy, but, when you're not, what do you do to relax and what do you like to do in your spare time?
Butts: Spend time with the family: we’ve two grandchildren, one going into her second year at UCLA, and one that’s 16 going to Mira Costa.
MB Patch: What do you like best about being involved with MBCERTA?
Butts: Knowing that I’m doing something to help the community and those that live here.
