By Lisa Voyles

Chickasaw Journal

HOUSTON - Two local men received recognition for their contributions to the community last week. Bill Smith and J.C. Wright were both honored for their lifelong dedication to improving the area and Houston and were presented plaques of appreciation by PACE board members.

Smith and Wright are charter members of the PACE board, a local endowment that seeks to continually improve the community through grants and financial support. They are both esteemed community members who have contributed to the betterment of Houston through their involvement in city government, civic organizations and volunteerism.

Bobby Mooneyham presented the awards saying, "I know both of these men and it's more than just about PACE. They have service their community as a whole through their civic involvement and by being good citizens."

Smith accepted his award saying, "What little bit I've done has been for love of community," and Wright also was humble in his acceptance.

"I wish I deserved this recognition," he said. "I appreciate my friends, neighbors and citizens in the community I live in."