GAMBIER — Former Mount Vernon mayor Dick Mavis created a legacy of more than 40 years in public service during his tenure in Knox County.
His time and dedication to the region was acknowledged Friday night at the Kenyon Snowflake Gala when Mavis accepted the William A. Stroud award.
After Mavis and wife Peggy retired, a question arose in their minds frequently, he said.
“Did we do enough in assisting others in the community to make this community a better place? A better place to live, work and raise our children?” Mavis stated.
“And frankly, we think we did.”
The Kenyon Snowflake Gala also had a food auction to benefit Food For The Hungry, raising approximately $54,590 in donations as of 9 p.m.
The grand total raised for the food drive was approximately $273,000, Food For The Hungry president Austin Swallow said.
Auctioneer Jerry Scott led guests through the event to donate money for food and general services such as gasoline for vehicles and medication.
While explaining the process of the auction, Scott told the story of how one family could benefit from donors.
“There was a young lady a week ago,” Scott said. “She was evicted from her home. All of her worldly possessions were put out in the yard. She has taken the responsibility of two young siblings. They were thrown out of their mobile home in which they were living in,” the auctioneer continued.
“We needed to come up with lodging and food for them. And not only she has part-time job they came through in a clinch. But it’s that kind of services you and I can reach out and help others.”
Knox County is special, Swallow said.
“It’s because people care about other people and they’re willing to share.”
