gmhTODAY 30 gmhTODAY April June 2020s | Page 18

woman of the year GILROY spice of life awards The Bonino Legacy in Gilroy began over 100 years ago in 1917 with the arrival of Tony and Helen (Sgheiza) Bonino. Elaine Bonino, their daughter, was born in Gilroy and raised in San Martin. She has lived, worked, and served in this community her entire life. She attended grammar school in San Martin, went to Live Oak High School, Gavilan College, and San Jose State University, where she earned Elaine BONINO a B.A. in Home Economics. Growing up in a farm family, she learned the value of hard work and generosity from her parents, who, as a part of their nature, helped neighbors in need. Elaine’s ser- vice includes thirty-eight years as a middle and high school teacher in the Gilroy school system and forty-one years with the Garlic Festival, starting with its first year. She’s an active member of Gilroy Sunrise Rotary, has volunteered with St. Joseph’s, Gilroy Exchange Club, the Gilroy Sister Cities Association, and has chaired and/or served on numerous committees. Written & Photographed By Craig Lore 18 GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN SPRING 2020 gmhtoday.com