The Wellsburg Kiwanis Club recently recognized two longtime members and remembered three members whom the group lost last year.
Legion of Honor awards were presented to Nat "Sonny" Marino of Weirton and Phil Consalvo of Follansbee. The awards are given to Kiwanians who have 25 to 75 years of service.
In his 50th year with the group, Consalvo has served as district lieutenant governor and as the club's president and a member of its Board of Directors. He also has been an unofficial publicity person for the group.
Consalvo said his favorite Kiwanis activities include the chicken barbecue and pancake supper. He became involved with the group after being invited by Jim Dureski, a co-worker at the former Pillsbury Co.
The Salvation Army and the Holy Family Catholic Mission are among local causes that have been supported by the club, which also awards two scholarships to Brooke High School seniors each year.
Also a Board member and past president, Marino said he was a Brooke County magistrate when John Cipoletti approached him about joining the group.
Marino said he has enjoyed all Kiwanis activities during his 30 years in the club but particularly likes the chicken barbecue, pancake supper and the Christmas luminaria project.
In addition to selling luminaria to various groups, the club has placed hundreds of the candles along state Route 2 in Wellsburg, the Wellsburg Town Square and outside schools and churches in the city on Christmas Eve, often aided by members of the Brooke High School Key Club.
Consalvo and Marino were presented certificates from Kiwanis International and lapel pins by District Governor Aggie Monezis of Weirton.
Audrae Bryant, the club's president; and Sean Jackson, its treasurer; also led the group in paying tribute to three members who died last year: Paul H. Ross, Lawrence "Larry" Reeves and Carol Cox.
The pair said the club is a small but dedicated one, and their absence will be deeply felt. Several family members of the three were present to accept a certificate and memorial clock on their behalf.
In lieu of a memorial clock, a donation was made, at Cox's request, to Wellsburg United Methodist Church, where she was a member and organist for many years.
Representing the three were: Madelon Reeves, Reeves' wife; Judy Fowler and Mark and Cheryl Ross, Ross' daughter, son and daughter-in-law; Leon Cox, Cox's husband and a Wellsburg Kiwanis member also; Steve Cox, their son; Kristen Cox, wife of their other son, Tim; and Brian and Kevin, their grandchildren.
Janice Smith, secretary, noted many of the guests assisted with Kiwanis projects over the years, and encouraged them to remain involved.
