By Susan Rose, editor@candlerpark.org.
After decades of contributing volunteer hours to Candler Park, Mark Clement was recognized with APAB’s Neighborhoods Matter and Partner Award on December 15 in an awards ceremony “Uplifting Community Champions” at City Hall. This ceremony provides a forum to acknowledge noteworthy contributions by individuals, institutions, organizations, and groups to the City of Atlanta and its neighborhoods.
In reaction to receiving the award, Mark said, “Thanks to all who helped me over the years to always reach beyond our grasp to create a better community.”
Many neighbors know Mark for his leadership and execution of the Candler Park Movie Night (Flick-nic) series. He has also played a huge role in the fantastic music line-up for Fall Fest and serving as master of ceremonies throughout the two-day festivals. But, those are only his recent contributions, he has been involved for many years striving to make our neighborhood better.
In nominating Mark for this award recognition, Dana Fowle, CPNO president submitted the following:
“Atlanta attracts families from all around the country. Our neighbors and our weather invite people to settle here. But every now and again you run into someone who can say they were “born and raised in Atlanta.” Our Candler Park neighbor Mark Clement can say that.
But his community roots go even deeper. He was born in the home on Benning Place where he lives today with his family. His neighborhood resume’ is long, but there are a few notable contributions that set into motion the current Candler Park Neighborhood Organization.
Over the years Mark Clement has held board positions. He was an original organizer of Candler Park’s Fall Fest, our annual fundraising event that makes donations to our community possible. He founded Friends of Candler Park to advocate on behalf of the park and the neighbors who use it.
So for these reasons and more, the Candler Park Neighborhood Organization would like to recommend Mark Clement for the 2018 Neighborhoods Matter Award. Recognition of his contributions are long overdue.”
Congratulations Mark and thank you!