Murray Johnson recognized at banquet; others awarded honors

Standing with his family nearby, Murray Johnson couldn’t find the words to express how he felt after being presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce’s banquet last week.

“I just want to thank my wife (Jean) and my children for putting up with me,” Johnson said through tears.

Since 1973, Johnson has taken the reigns of the youth baseball program in Atmore.

He has been recognized by state youth officers and organizations throughout the state, and has served as a coordinator for state and regional tournaments.

Johnson still serves in that capacity today, and will lead the program again this season.

As Atmore Advance Columnist Lowell McGill said in a previous column, Johnson is blessed with the ability to resolve conflicts at the ballpark.

“He recognizes and uses good managers and coaches for all our teams,” McGill wrote. “And, one very important requisite is his knowledge of the game. He is extremely gifted in interpreting rules, which are outlined in the youth baseball ‘book.’”

First National Bank and Trust of Atmore was named the 2016 Business of the Year; and Ellis Beachy was named the 2016 Citizen of the Year.

Earlier at the banquet, outgoing Chamber President Ricky Martin encouraged the members to keep building relationships.

“Our chamber and businesses are all about relationships,” Martin said.

Before new Chamber President Bub Gideons made remarks, a 6-minute video was shown.

“Keep watching the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce to see what’s going on,” Gideons said. “This year, it’s going to be a team effort. We will be very energetic.

“We’re going to make Atmore better than it’s ever been,” he said.