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Audra Raybon portrayed as strong community supporter
Alarge crowd filled the auditorium of the First Methodist Church to honor Raybon. Several people spoke about her dedication to the community and Jackson High School. "Teachers create the future," said her coworker and friend Harla Barnes. "I stand in awe of Audra Raybon daily. Some teachers come to work every day just for the paychecks, but not Audra. She is someone who truly loves her job. The students at Jackson High School know she really loves them. She teaches them courage, to never give up and the thirst for excellence." Raybon's friend Helen Guy took time to recognize the other nominees for this year's honor, First Baptist Church Music Minister Brian Jemison, Clarke County Commissioner Patricia DuBose and Jackson Mayor Richard Long. "What a great group of people," she said. "The nurturing and love that goes on in Jackson is amazing and all of these people are a part of that." Guy then turned her attention to the honoree. "One thing I can say about Audra Raybon is I know a winner when I see one," she said. "She is active in countless things throughout our community. When I think about what she brings to all areas of life, it simply amazes me. She may work as a history teacher, but she teaches much more than that." Raybon's husband, Brian, began by expressing his appreciation to the Jackson Civitan Club and its impact on the community. About his wife he said, "She is not willing to let a job in our community go undone. Although that makes for a lot of long days, her dedication to Jackson and Jackson High School is undaunting. She never lets a student go unnoticed and is willing to complete the smallest tasks." After being introduced, Raybon told those in attendance that she was humbled to be chosen from among the other nominees. "This experience has been absolutely wonderful," she said. "Many of the past citizens of the year are role models for me. Many have shown me what compassion is." She thanked her parents, Betty and Jim Howell, for instilling a sense of service to others in her. "I have a need to make people realize Jackson High School is the greatest school to educate children and Jackson is the best place to live," said Raybon. During her speech, she coined a new phrase, "OCD" or "Obsessive Community Disorder," which she said is exactly what she has that motivates her to be so involved in the community. "I have the greatest resources around me in this community," she said. "You have made me who I am."
Afterwards, Raybon was presented with a plaque by the president of the Jackson Civitan Club, Bubba Deas.
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