By Andrew Edwards, Staff Writer
Oct. 26-27, the Spinners organization in Prattville held their annual Arts and Crafts Festival, Pumpkin Patch and named this year’s Spirit of Spinners Award winner.
Thousands came out over the two-day period, enjoying themselves with great food, art and other forms of entertainment. Even with the weekend rain, friends and families had the opportunity to intermingle, buy different home accessories and decorations, or let their children play games in the designated kids’ area.
However, on Sunday afternoon, a few dozen gathered around the center stage as Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie announced the Spirit of Spinners award. The award, given to a community servant and outstanding woman in the community each year, was presented in front of the recipient’s close friends and family.
This year the award was given to Louise Jennings for her outstanding service to the Prattville community. She accepted the award from Mayor Gillespie and Spinners member Laura Thornton.
Jennings has ties in real estate and commerce in the Prattville community and is supportive of a myriad of boards, such as Rotary, the Family Support Center, Community Foundation and the Autauga County Heritage Association. She also sits on the committee of the Prattville Methodist Church and was recently the Grand Marshal for the Prattville Christmas parade.
“This is a person that I consider a good friend,” said Mayor Gillespie. “It’s been an honor to give this award away to Louise and share the accomplishments she has had within our community,” Gillespie said.
Jennings, who was extremely appreciative of the award, wanted the crowd to know that there are so many who give back to the community.
“There are many, many people who give so much to our community. We have a lot of work to do and there’s lots of great leaders in our community. I’m just so grateful that I was on the list. This is such a wonderful town and community and just love being a part of it,” Jennings said.
As Jennings walked off the stage, she was presented with her award which garnered large applause from the audience. She was greeted by her family and friends with hugs and congratulations.
The Prattville Spinners have been uniting local women while contributing to the community through volunteer work since 1951.
