A dozen men and women honored for public service
On a recent afternoon, a former student visited James H. Montague Jr. in his office at Boston Latin School.
When the student attended Latin, she was at risk of dropping out and was so depressed, Montague and her teachers would check on her daily, he said. Now, she tells him she is in college and wants to one day become a counselor to troubled youths. ''When you see a kid go through a difficult period like that and pull through it not only intact, but on top, it's extremely powerful," he said.
As Latin's director of guidance and support services, Montague often works 12-hour days helping students confront issues such as getting into college and dealing with family problems.
In recognition of his dedication, Montague is one of 10 city employees receiving the Henry L. Shattuck Public Service Award. Recipients will be given plaques Thursday by the Boston Municipal Research Bureau, a privately funded government watchdog group.
Shattuck, who died in 1971, was a lawyer, businessman, and politician who believed government should behave responsibly with public funds and resources.
The other winners are:
Joseph F. Casazza, Public Works commissioner, for his work involving the Democratic National Convention, among other accomplishments.
Jeffrey C. Connolly, community field coordinator for Boston Arts Academy and Fenway High School, who monitors safety for both schools.
Robert Y. Haley, captain of special operations for Boston Emergency Medical Services, who oversaw preparations for the Tall Ships parades and the Red Sox and Patriots victory parades in recent years.
Isabel W. Kriegel, manager of Onein3Boston, a Boston Redevelopment Authority program that seeks to attract and retain young professionals. Kriegel helps young adults find resources for home buying, business development, and professional networking.
Steve G. O'Donnell, assistant director of housing for the Inspectional Services Department, who created an animal control program and worked 24-hour days to restore order in January when 1,000 residents reported having no heat.
Elsie Petit-Frere, senior program manager of the HomeWorks Program at the Department of Neighborhood Development, who has become a liaison between the Haitian community and City Hall and this year persuaded the department to offer classes in Creole in addition to Spanish and English.
Patricia A. Papa, deputy director of public celebrations, special events, and film in the Mayor's Office of Arts, Tourism & Special Events, who is responsible for producing 75 community events and supporting 200 other events each year in Boston.
Thomas Plant, director of the childhood lead poisoning prevention program for the Public Health Commission, who has helped cut the percentage of children with lead poisoning from 20 percent in 1990 to less than 3 percent in 2004.
John P. Ridge, a police officer who works to strengthen relationships between officers and youths in several programs and teach teenagers about drug abuse resistance.
Two other recipients are being recognized for civic contributions: Carol Fulp, vice president of community affairs for 
