The 2024 community award recipients were announced at a press conference hosted by the Pierce County Chamber of Commerce in Blackshear’s historic train depot, April 3.
Citizen of the Year was posthumously award to Blackshear Assistant Fire Chief Leon Davis, who lost his life in the line of duty during Hurricane Helene. Shirley and Kevin Davis accepted it in the fallen hero’s honor.
Business of the Year was awarded to Mossy Pond Lodge. Brad and Ellen Arington were unavailable to accept the award, so young Hadley Arington, accompanied by Hannah Grant, accepted in her parents’ place.
S. Dow Nimmer Junior Award was presented to County Chairman Neal Bennett for his many years of dedicated public service.
Rhonda Melton Bennett was presented the Huel P. Walker Educator of the Year award.
Staci Lucas accepted the Dr. Katherine Hendry Community Health Award on behalf of the Southeastern Georgia Womens Center.
The Leona Dixon Bright Spot Award was given Pastor Justin Gambrell of Blackshear First Baptist Church for having what presenter Zach Lee said his grandmother called “personality plus”.
Farmer of the Year was awarded to Ed Barber and Sons for their diverse farming ventures.
The Love Like Lanna Award was presented to Julie Griner for best embodying the generosity and kindness of the woman in whose honor the award was created.
In a surprise turnaround, presenter Zach Lee also won an award himself, being presented with the Better Hometown’s Bravo to Business award for his business Zach and Isabella.
Finally, the Years of Service Award was presented to Billy Cochran and Ace Farmers and Builders in a humorous presentation by Stetson Bennett, which elicited a few chuckles from the crowd.
Paper certificates were presented to the winner at the press conference. The actual physical awards will be given out at the Blue and Platinum Gala event, celebrating 70 years of the Pierce County Chamber of Commerce to be held April 24.
