John and Paula Kelton (Brenda Barger photo)

John and Paula Kelton of Davidson have been named recipients of the town’s 2008 G. Jackson Burney Community Service Award, to be given at a ceremony on Nov. 26 at 9 a.m. at Town Hall.  In a press release this morning, the town said the Keltons are being honored for their volunteer work with children and children’s efforts, including the Ada Jenkins Center and Davidson-Cornelius Day Care Center.

The award has been chosen annually since 2004 by a committee of residents. It is named in memory of the late Jack Burney, who exemplified community service through his work in a variety of areas, including planning and communications. Previous winners were: Bernice Houston, William Mayhew, John and Baxter Fisher, Annie Mildred Lowry, Evelyn Carr and Scotty Nicholls.

A RECORD OF SERVICE

“The Burney Committee is proud and happy that Paula and John Kelton will be this year’s recipients of the Jack Burney Community Service Award,” Margo Williams, mayor pro-tem and Burney committee chair, said in the press release. “They have served the town, the College, and many community organizations through the years. Dr. Kelton helped found the Davidson Cornelius Day Care Center and the Ada Jenkins Center, while Mrs. Kelton was teacher, friend and mentor to hundreds of Davidson children who were fortunate enough to have her as their kindergarten teacher. Her quiet, loving and experienced guidance eased the way into school for these children, many of whom claim her as their all-time best teacher.”

Former Mayor Randy Kincaid said the award honors those who share the commitment of Mr. Burney. “Jack Burney was a long-time Davidson resident and gave tirelessly of his energy and talent to the town. His contributions, particularly in communications and growth management, shaped the character of Davidson. The G. Jackson Burney Community Service Award honors both Jack and those who through unselfish service also benefit the Davidson community.”

Award winners are asked to designate a recipient for a contribution from the town. The Keltons chose Davidson Cornelius Day Care and Ada Jenkins Center.

WANT TO GO?

The awards ceremony will be open to the public on Wednesday, Nov. 26, at 9 a.m. at Town Hall, 216 S. Main Street. A light breakfast will be served afterward. For more information, call Charlotte Redmond at Town Hall, 704-892-7591.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE

Nov. 21, 2007, “Town honors Nicholls for service.”