The Andalusia Kiwanis Club recognized one of its own, Larry Avery, as Citizen of the Year at its annual banquet last night, citing his long history of service.

The award recognizes contributions and endeavors made outside of the normal workday. Kiwanis president Joe Armstrong made the presentation.

Armstrong said Avery’s obvious passion for community projects has, for the last 35 years, led him to become involved in just about every conceivable area of civic life in the local community. He is well known for his work with youth sports and with Community Christmas.

Avery has held just about every position available in the local Little League and Babe Ruth organizations. He also was a driving force behind the creation of the Andalusia Community Christmas charitable organization and currently serves as president of its board.

In addition, he:

• has been a member and chairman of the Andalusia Regional Hospital Board of Trustees.

• has been president of and received the outstanding service award from the LBW Foundation board of directors.

• has been a member of and received the Distinguished Service Award from the Chamber of Commerce.

• is a member of and current chairman of the City of Andalusia Board of Adjustments

• is a member of the City of Andalusia Recreation Board

• is a member of the City of Andalusia Electricians Examining Board

• is a member of Gideons International.

• is a member of First Baptist Church, where he serves as a deacon and Sunday School teacher.

• is a past Kiwanis president and past Kiwanis lt. governor

Avery regularly participates in mission trips to the Ukraine.

Avery is a native of Brent, Ala. After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, he earned an electrical engineering degree at Texas A&M, and went on to complete a masters in electrical engineering at UAB.

He joined Alabama Electric Cooperative – now PowerSouth – in 1977, and currently serves as vice president of power delivery.

He and his wife, Mary, are the parents of two children, Mathew and Jeannie, and five grandchildren, Avery, Drew, Deacon, Miller and J.B.

The club also recognized Wayne Bennett as Kiwanian of the year.