As part of its 48th annual Freedom Dinner, Jefferson City's NAACP Branch on Friday night honored five Mid-Missourians for their service to the community, and also presented three scholarships.
Freshman state Rep. Jay Barnes, R-Jefferson City, received the "Myrtle Smith Oden Young Adult Service Award," which is given each year to individuals who have worked faithfully in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or other civic organizations, for the overall betterment of the community.
Three people received the group's "Presidential Choice Award," given to an organization or individuals in the public/private sector, in recognition of a commitment and dedication to equal opportunity, access, employment, diversity, community support and leadership.
This year's honorees were Dorothy Jones, Maj. Gregory L. Sampson and Master Sgt. Mary L. Williams.