TMLOA President Boyd Ferrin initiated and awarded a “Make a Difference” award this year at the June 14, 2025 Annual Meeting. The award is based on “The Starfish Story”.

It is a short and inspirational story about a person who makes a difference in the lives of others, even when faced with overwhelming odds. The story emphasizes the idea that even small actions can have a significant positive impact.

The award comes with a Starfish pin and $100 certificate from the TMLOA President.

The Starfish

There was a young man walking down a deserted beach just before dawn.

As he approached the old man, he saw him picking up stranded starfish and throwing them back into the sea.

The young man gazed in wonder as the old man again and again threw the small starfish from the sand to the water.

He asked, “Old man, why do you spend so much energy doing what seems to be a waste of time,”

The old man explained that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun.

“But there must be thousands of beaches and millions of starfish!” exclaimed the young man. “How can you make any difference?”

The old man looked at the small starfish in his hand and as he threw it to the safety of the sea, he said, “It makes a difference to this one!”

Author Unknown

Make a Difference!

2025 “Make a Difference” Award / To see video presentation, click here.

Jason Wood –

Thanks for all you do! First recipient of “Make a Difference” Award.

Last Updated: 07/15/2025