By By Chandler Myers
Awards, inductions, donations and food were the highlights of the Atmore Lions Club’s annual Christmas dinner at the First Presbyterian Church.
At the dinner, recognition was given to current and new members as well as an honor bestowed on only the most dedicated members.
Lions Club Secretary Joe Brown was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award for his service to the club and the community, according to Atmore Lions Club membership director Patty Helton-Davis.
Davis said in her speech at the dinner that Brown shows nothing but dedication to the club and spends countless time to help with any Lions business.
The Melvin Jones Fellowship Award is named for the founder of the Lions Club. Jones founded Lions Club International on June 7, 1917, and devoted his time to helping the club grow, while making sure it helped others.
Brown said he was surprised that he was selected for the award.
Also at the Lions Christmas dinner, two donations were given from the club to charities.
A $1,000 check was presented to Ann Glavan, president of the United Fund of Atmore, for use towards the community.
Another $500 check was presented to Lions Club International District Governor Mary Turner. The check was donated as a payment for the Lions Club’s 30/30 program, which goes towards paying for a laser used for eye surgery.
Atmore Lions Club president Jodi Peacock said the money was given as a way to help give back to the community. She added that the money was raised through several fundraisers put on by the Atmore Lions Club.
Davis added that the Atmore Lions Club wants the citizens of Atmore and participants of their fundraisers to know that the money raised has a purpose.
New members inducted to the Atmore Lions Club include Anne Hetzel, Suzanne Mims, Aubrey Moon, Matt Moon, Chandler Myers, Bob Peck and LeighAnne Russell.