The 69th Annual Benson Chamber Banquet was one for the record books. An amazing venue, great people, and delicious food made for a night to remember.
The Barn at Broadslab Distillery was colorful — just like outgoing Chamber Board Chairman Paul Boucher’s personality. There was no doubt the self-proclaimed “Parrothead” had a say in the decor. There was even a parrot on the program.
Some highlights of the night event included a “State of Benson” address by Mayor Jerry Medlin, first-time banquet MC Kevin Cutler cracking a few jokes, a hilarious speech by Mr. Boucher, an inspirational call to work together by 2018 Chamber Board Chairman Ben Cook, and, of course, the long list of Civic Organization and Chamber award winners — Benson’s best of the best.
Town of Benson officials thanked Chamber President Loretta Byrd, her staff, and the team of volunteers that worked hard to make Thursday night’s event special.
Former Mayor William Massengill was named Citizen of the Year. Neil Strickland was named Volunteer of the Year. The Earl Cobb Family received the Business Family of the Year Award. South Johnston High Principal Dr. David Pearce was named Educator of the Year.
2017 Civic Organization Award Winners:
- Outstanding Woman – Debra Cardone
- Outstanding Senior Citizen – Cleo McKinnon
- Outstanding Youth – Gabby Godwin
- Firefighter of the Year – Charlie Norris
- Law Enforcement Officer of the Year – Master Sergeant Gary Whitman
- Arts Award – Beth Rogers
- Volunteer of the Year – Neil Strickland
- Educator of the Year – Dr. David Pearce
- Public Service Award – Master Sergeant Gary Whitman
- Humanitarian Award – Betty Jo Young
2017 Chamber Award Winners:
- Ambassador of the Year – Diane Godwin
- Board of Directors Award – Norman Delano
- Business Family of the Year – The Earl Cobb Family
- Large Business of the Year – The Town of Benson
- Small Business Person of the Year – Barry Barbour
- Citizen of the Year – William Massengill
