The Republican Party of Texas (RPT) named William “Bill” Lawrence of Highland Village, as the winner of the Volunteer of the Year (VOY) Award for Senate District 12 at the awards ceremony held recently at the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel in Austin. Mr. Lawrence is a former Mayor of Highland Village and a retired colonel in the United States Air Force Reserves. In addition, Lawrence currently serves as Governor Rick Perry's appointee to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct and the Texas Small Business Industrial Development Corporation Board.  The RPT honors one volunteer from each senatorial district and auxiliary organization at the biennial event.  Award recipients are individuals who have helped accomplish Republican victories over the last two years.  

    During the ceremony, Governor Rick Perry, the dinner host, gave the keynote address.  Sponsors Attorney General Greg Abbott, former Secretary of State Roger Williams, and Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson participated in the program.  Comptroller of Public Accounts Susan Combs, Railroad Commissioner Elizabeth Ames Jones, Harris County School Trustee Mike Wolfe, and Lone Star College Trustee Chris Daniel also helped sponsor the event. Entertainment was provided by the Texas A&M University Singing Cadets under the direction of Mr. David Kipp and accompanied by Ms. Condy Carter. RPT Chairman Cathie Adams conducted the awards presentation and Vice Chairman Robin Armstrong served as master of ceremonies.

- Special to The News Connection