The spirit of Christmas was lifted up last week at the local senior center thanks to the efforts of a local businessman with a special musical gift.

Lennie Lawson, who is the owner-dealer of Gateway Ford, brought his guitar and singing ability to Roby Fitzgerald Adult Center on Thursday to present this month's Passport 55 program.

"It is said that music is good for the soul and for well-being, health wise," said Betty Weemes, executive director of the Laughlin Health Care Foundation, which facilitates the monthly health-education lecture series at Roby Center.

It was in this spirit that Weemes said that the lecture series broke from its usual health lecture format and featured a Christmas music program to bring joy during this special season.

A singer, songwriter and guitarist, Lawson entertained the Roby Center audience with traditional seasonal standards as well as fun sing-a-longs.

All genres were well-received, as he wove humor and personal stories into his musical program.

Lawson's warm personality, personal stories and bright humor brought the program to life and added much to the uplifting morning of music, Weemes said.

"Lennie Lawson has spent his career in the automobile business, but few people know of his musical talents," Weemes said.

Passport 55 is presented at the senior center on the third Thursday of each month.

The lecture series is sponsored by Laughlin Memorial Hospital and coordinated through the Laughlin Health Care Foundation.