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GREENSBORO - Recipients of the inaugural African American Distinguished Service and Achievement Awards "remind us what the standard is for serving our community," said Keith Barsuhn, president of Greensboro's United Way.

United Way of Greater Greensboro presented the awards Saturday at the organization's African American Leadership Gala at the N.C. A&T student union, where Barsuhn gave closing remarks.

Mayor Yvonne Johnson was presented with a lifetime achievement award.

Johnson said she has gained more than she has given through her lifetime of service.

"I try to connect with people on a heart and spiritual level," Johnson said. "It's up to each of us to express the love of God, one to another."

Departing A&T Chancellor Stanley Battle was scheduled to present the Community Based Agency Award to the Black Child Development Institute.

However, United Way official Calvin Foster Jr. said the chancellor had a scheduling conflict, and Chuck Flynt , chairman of the United Way board, did the honors.

Individual achievement awards went to David Jarmon , principal of W.M. Hampton Elementary School and Byron Daniels , director of A Hero's Journey, an organization that helps disadvantaged youth.

Mount Zion Baptist Church received the committee's award for a religious program.

Corporate achievement awards went to Lincoln Financial Group and Lorillard Tobacco Co.

Contact Sonja Elmquist at 373-7090 or sonja.elmquist@news-record.com