Lions names 2021 Herb Power Award

Special to The Canton News

On December 6, 2021, the Canton Lions gathered at the Old Jail Museum for a night of remembrance and celebration.  After a program by the Pentecost sisters Dianne Cauthen, Karen Galloway and Brenda Zeigler sharing memories of living upstairs at the Old Jail, the night continued with recognition of 183 years of service from members who died in 2021.   

Lion Timmy Pickett recognized each family and outlined the dedication of these members to the club, beginning with Melvin Ray, who served as a Canton Lion for 57 years, Morris Taylor a member for 54 years, James Chandler a member for 52 years, and Gil Kyker a member for 20 years.  The Canton Lions Club purchased a light on the White Cane Christmas Tree in the state office building in honor of each of these four very faithful members.  

President Moses Thompson said, “With this donation, our deceased members are appropriately remembered in a way that carries on the Lion tradition of preserving sight for all Mississippians.” 

The highlight of the evening was the naming of the 2021 Herb Power Award.  Herb was a long-time Lions Club member who died at age 99 and left a long history of numerous civic service achievements.  This award, established in his honor, recognizes a person who, like Herb, exemplifies outstanding leadership skills, dedication to the community, and has a Lion’s heart for service in keeping with the Lions’ mission.  Barbara Power, Herb’s wife and his children: son, Bill Power; daughter, Judy Morrow; and daughter, Becky Lankford, were all present for the afternoon ceremony to honor Herb.  

Danny Murphy, previous Herb Power Honoree, made the presentation, as Frank Carter was given the 2021 Lions Club Herb Power Award.  

In presenting the award to Mr. Carter, Danny said, “Our honoree has truly earned his stripes in community service.  He has helped with the Lions BBQ for the past ten years, is active in church activities, has helped to train and mold the youth of this community, and has set a good example as a husband, father, leader, team member, and service to all who know him.”
Mr. Carter was recognized with a plaque and a donation in his honor to the Addie McBride Foundation, a local Lions charity.