For their dedication to help take a stand against drunk driving -- and educate against its dangers -- members of Branford and North Branford’s communities were among 41 local leaders recognized at MADD’s Community Champions cermony on Nov. 12.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) presented the Judge Philip Mancini Award to Judge Philip Scarpellino of Branford.

“Judge Mancini was one of the first to take a stand against drunk driving and to educate others to its dangers,” said MADD Executive Director Janice Heggie Margolis. “The Judge Philip Mancini Award was presented to Judge Philip Scarpellino for his dedication to MADD’s mission to stop drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support victims of these violent crimes and prevent underage drinking.”

Other area Community Champions recognized on Nov. 12 included Robert Krebs of North Branford, together with Victoria Clark (Madison) and Lauren Martinez (Clinton). Krebs, Clark and Martinez each received the Hilda Davis Award for their “...commitment and dedication to eliminating drunk and drugged drivers from our roads,” said Margolis.

MADD gave its Corporate Award to Country Paint and Hardware of North Branford, HOME Restaurant of Branford and Connecticut Orthopaedic Specialists (Branford/Guilford/Hamden) for outstanding efforts and support of MADD.

Other awardees from surrounding towns include Community Service Award winners Kristina DelPrete (New Haven), ChrisAnn Miranda (Guilford), Bianca and Jeff Lazzara (Guilford). In addition, Attorney Peter McShane of Madison was presented with the Judge Richard A. Damiani Award.

“Judge Damiani was one of the first judges to take a stand against drunk driving with his support and endorsement of the MADD Victim Impact Panel. His continued dedication to mandating DUI offenders to this educational program was inspiring throughout the judicial system,” said Margolis.