(Article in the Worcester Democrat)
More than 200 friends, relatives and supporters gathered Friday night to honor Avery Smith for his untold hours of work with the youth of the Pocomoke City area in golf, basketball and little league.
The people attending paid $10 each for the dinner, a portion of which will be used to begin a golf scholarship in Mr. Smith's honor. Robert L. Hawkins, chairman of the Salvation Army Youth Advisory Council in Pocomoke City, reported Friday night that $2600 had been raised.
Mayor Curt Lippoldt issued a proclamation from the Mayor and Council naming Friday, June 9, as Avery Smith Day in Pocomoke City.
A number of former golf proteges came to the podium to read heartfelt tributes to their former teacher and coach. Jerry Smith (no relation) who presently teaches in Laurel, Del. told about his experiences in the basketball program when they would travel from Northampton County to Salisbury. He said that Avery Smith would solicit funds so they would have the materials and supplies for their program. "He was tough but always fair," Jerry said in reference to his former mentor, adding that he always had a high priority for education.
Charlie Houts, a former PGA pro who is now the pro at the Nassawango Country Club told about how his interest in golf was started by Avery Smith. He said the three interests he learned from Avery Smith and wanted to pass on to his daughter were: a good education, an interest in music and of course, golf.
Polk Miles said that he "endued all of us with a sense of family." Jan Eliassen, who had been in this country only a short time when he first came to Pocomoke City, said "You helped our family earn dignity in America and you helped me become a man."
These were just a few of the many praises and tributes that were given to the man who has spent so much of his time giving to Pocomoke City.
The Delmarva Golf Association presented him with a plaque and finally some of Avery's present "kids" presented him with an award.
In reply to the comments of the evening, Avery said that his late wife should deserve much of the credit for the thousands of hours of doing the chores while "I was enjoying myself." He also recognized Dave Wagner for his time in helping the youth, 'and called the late Harrison Walters "my guardian angel." He said that Mr. Walters bought balls, uniforms and other materials for the program and was always ready to help.
He felt that the program had been successful since it developed four PGA pros as well as many other award winners.