On June 17, the Vass Lions Club hosted its annual awards and installation dinner at the Woodlake Country Club.

President Betty Fondrie introduced the guests, followed by presentation of special awards.

The Michael De Vito Extraordinary Service Award was introduced by Carl Giambelluca and presented by Gen. James Lindsay to Yvonne Heib. Heib is a Lion, a past recipient of the C.J. Reddy Award (Army nurse of the year) and served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Two days before she was due to return from her fourth deployment she was severely injured in a mortar attack. She has undergone five surgeries and is determined to get back to work as an Army nurse.

The Phil DeLosier Humanitarian Award was presented to Jeanne Hunkele by Terry Kerr, and the Lion of the Year Award was presented to President Betty Fondrie by incoming President Carl Giambelluca.

Fondrie presented various service awards to several members. Jim Paul was recognized for 15 years of service to the club, James Lindsay for 10 years and Paul Trudeau for 30 years.

The Vass Lions Club offers two scholarships each year to graduating seniors of Union Pines High School. This year's recipients were Traci Michelle Keith and Caroline Suzanne Carter.

Past President Leon Keith inducted the new officers: Carl Giambelluca, president; Bill McClellan, first vice president; John German, secretary; Terry Kerr, treasurer; Al Bickoff, lion tamer; Phyllis Fredericksen, tail twister; Cecil DeVito, membership; Pam Giambelluca, programs; and Betty Fondrie, immediate past president.