By Globe Staff

Easter Hill Church member and retired San Francisco police officer Al Lambert was named ‘Father of the Year’ and Globe publisher Vernon Whitmore ‘Man of the Year’ by the Sumpter Cluster of Easter Hill United Methodist Church during their annual Father’s Day Banquet.

   Jo Ann Lawson, Easter Hill member and wife of former pastor Phil Lawson was Mistress of Ceremonies. Dr. Anthony Gordon, psychologist, professor emeritus and Governing Board Member of the Contra Costa College District, delivered the keynote address on this year’s theme, “Father: AMan for All Seasons.”

    Whitmore commented, “It’s a great honor to be recognized for the work you do for the community. As I look back on this award I must also thank the people who helped me get where I am today. My family; Globe Editor, Eleanor Boswell- Raine; former Mayor Irma Anderson; Joan Carpenter; the late Tom Berkley ; Dr. William Lee, publisher of the Sacramento Observer; Former Richmond Mayor George Livingston; Contra Costa Supervisor John Gioia; Former Councilmember Jim McMillan; Eddie Orton and Joe Lee Fisher.