Sheriff David Whitis Lampasas County Sheriff David Whitis was acknowledged as the first Hill Country 100 Club member from the county.

“Sheriff Whitis’ membership is significant as both the sheriff and the Hill Country 100 Club are working together to identify potential board of directors members from Lampasas County,” said Dewey Hollingsworth, club chairman.

New directors will represent law enforcement officials, firefighters and emergency medical service personnel from Lampasas County.

“The Hill Country 100 Club is considering adding Lampasas County Emergency First Responders to its support area, but we need to identify these directors before this will occur,” said Hollingsworth.

Whitis’ membership was recognized at the club’s annual membership and awards banquet at the Lakeside Pavilion in Marble Falls. The event is held to honor area law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency medical service personnel in a local support area.

Just under 400 members, honorees, colleagues, family and friends were present to recognize 36 area emergency first responders for their service and contributions to their respective agencies and communities.

The event was dedicated to Burnet County Deputy Sheriff David Blake, who died in the line of duty in October.

Within 48 hours of Blake’s death, the Hill Country 100 Club presented a $10,000 check to his wife to help with immediate financial needs.

And Burnet County Sheriff W.T. Smith presented the Hill Country 100 Club’s Rookie of the Year Award posthumously to Blake’s widow, Tanya.

Hollingsworth said the club’s primary purpose is to provide financial aid to spouses and dependents of fallen law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMS personnel killed in the line of duty.

It also provides financial aid to first responders who are seriously injured on the job. And on a caseby case basis, the club considers providing specialized equipment to agencies with unique needs.

“The Hill Country 100 Club also provides scholarships to graduating seniors who are pursuing careers in law enforcement, firefighting or emergency medical services,” said Hollingsworth.

The club was organized in 2002 when several citizens gathered to provide financial support for fallen first responders in Burnet County. Today, the club has several hundred members who support first responders in Burnet, Llano and Blanco counties, and hopes to add Lampasas County to its ranks.

Community members are invited to participate by donating or joining. Visit www.hillcountry100club. org or phone Hollingsworth at (830) 693-5595. Contributions may be sent to Hill Country 100 Club, P.O. Box 381, Burnet, TX 78611.