Lions Club hails David McConnell as true humanitarian
THE Lions Club of North St Catherine recently honoured retired businessman David McConnell for his years of contribution to the Linstead community.
McConnell was honoured during the club’s 42nd anniversary dinner held at the Lions Civic Centre in Bog Walk, St Catherine.
June McCatty, Lions Club district governor, in praising McConell, said the dinner was a celebration for the life of a true humanitarian.
“It is a celebration of success, a celebration of service, a celebration of kindness, and a celebration of abundance,” said McCatty. “It is a celebration of an individual who, through one act of kindness, provided the lions some 42 years ago with the necessary resources so that they could serve their fellow man in Linstead. We certainly wish him (McConnell) continued health and strength,” she said.
McConnell, the managing director of Trade Winds Citrus — manufacturers of Tru-Juice — is a former director of the All-island Jamaica Cane Farmers’ Association, Jamaica Citrus Growers’ Association and the Jamaica Producers Group, and is currently a director of the Wallenford Coffee Company.
He was integral in various health, educational and social seminars put on through the Lions Club of North St Catherine, and also assisted in the development of the Bog Walk Basic School, which he adopted; and the Bog Walk Clinic, which was subsequently destroyed by fire.
He also provided the Lions Club of North St Catherine with the land and the building which houses the civic centre.
“The love for humanity and their total well-being is woven in your heart. Scores and scores of lives have been touched by your generosity,” said Michael Blair, chairman of the Lions Club Region One.
“There is no doubt that your resourcefulness, dependability, insight, and foresight captivated the trust and confidence of your colleagues… You certainly proved that you are unique, strong and brave,” Blair said.
McConnell was provided with a plaque outlining the club member’s appreciation, as well as other gifts.
In his response, McConnell said: “I am honoured to receive this award and I thank you very much. May the Lions Club continue to grow from strength to strength.”
