The annual Governor's Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service were presented yesterday to 17 groups and individuals in a ceremony at the Governor's Mansion.
Fran Adams of Paducah received the Senior Volunteer Service Award after being nominated by Ann Smith. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Jeanette Elder of Pikeville and George Merrifield Jr. of Louisville. The governor's office launched the volunteer awards program in 1975. The Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service has administered the program since 1995. Independent judges chose recipients in 13 categories.