The Lions Club of George West held its’ annual banquet on June 15 at the First United Methodist Church fellowship hall. Scholarships, honors and awards were presented during the evening. Outgoing President Richard Galloway was master of ceremonies for the event, and Judge Jim Huff administered the oath of office to the new board. Joe Feist will serve as President, Ty Sparks was selected as Vice President, Larry Busby will serve another term as Secretary and Trish Arink will continue as Treasurer. Chuck Sehlke was appointed as Lion Tamer and Doug Hinchcliff was selected as Tail Twister.

Three $1500.00 scholarships were awarded to Vivianna Lopez, daughter of Linda Lopez; Megan Moore, daughter of Dave and Cherie Moore; and to Douglas Caron, son of Tracy and Sheila Caron. The Lions Club scholarships are given annually to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, extracurricular activities and community service.

Secretary Larry Busby presented scholarship checks to the winners and also presented a $4500 donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Live Oak County.

The Citizen of the Year award was also announced at the banquet. This year’s winner is Charles “Chuck” Sehlke. Mr. Sehlke has been the driving force behind the Lions Club annual golf tournament for many years, and has raised thousands of dollars in scholarship money through his untiring efforts.

Doug Hinchcliff was the winner of Lion of the Year. Mr. Hinchcliff worked diligently at Lions Club fundraisers and on several committees. As pastor of First United Methodist Church, he is also very involved in community events to help improve the quality of life for Live Oak County citizens, and assisted relief efforts for the Lagarto fire victims.