The McComb Lions Club installed officers for 2009-’10 and presented awards to members for their work during the past year at the club’s annual Charter Night on Tuesday.
After dining on a steak meal at Fernwood Country Club, outgoing president Robert Hensarling made the presentations.
Receiving service awards were William Mote for 45 years of Lions membership; Shelton Little, 35 years; Jeannine Abdalla and Tony Nettles, 15 years; and Doug Touchstone, 10 years.
Outgoing president Robert Hensarling announced that the Herbert Wilmesherr Award, named for the late longtime Lions Club member and McComb banker, went to Kevin Gaines, whom Hensarling said worked behind the scenes to do a great deal for the club.
The Melvin Jones Award went to incoming president Tom Williams.
Receiving the Lion of the Year Award was club secretary Carol Frazier. Hensarling said Frazier helped guide him through his year as president.
Longtime Lion and past district governor Jim O’Rourke encouraged club members to be diligent in recruiting new members and to “think outside the box” to bring in fresh ideas, projects and programs.
O’Rourke said 10 two-letter words sum up that pledge: “If it is to be, it is up to me.”
O’Rourke called Hensarling “Mr. Communicator,” and thanked him for his year of service to the Lions Club.
Hensarling also presented numerous certificates and gifts to Lions who made a difference over the year.
Richard McKenzie, incoming second vice president, was recognized for his aid to the annual Heart O’ Dixie horse show; Murray Dillon for his eloquent and heartfelt prayers at club meetings; Gail King, Claire Johnston and Shelton Little for their work on a Christmas party at Timber Ridge Apartments; Jim and Betty O’Rourke for attending regional, national and international meetings; Joni Wilkinson for securing Lions programs throughout the year; Enterprise-Journal reporter John Surratt, who received the President’s Appreciation Award; and Mytchi and Deanna McKenzie, both Lions in Training.
O’Rourke installed new officers for the year.
They are Tom Williams, president; Ron Craddock, first vice president; Richard McKenzie, second vice president; Duane Bankston, third vice president; Jan Quinn, treasurer; Diane Turnage, secretary; Murray Dillon and Warren Fesmire, Lion tamers; Jeannine Abdalla, tail twister; and Lula DeClouet, membership director.
Board members are Melanie Carruth, Kevin Gaines, Troy Alford, Jim O’Rourke and Hensarling.
