Benson Area Chamber of Commerce holds annual banquet

Submitted by Benson Chamber of Commerce

The 73rd annual Benson Chamber Awards Banquet was held recently at The Barn at Broadslab. Sheryl’s Catering provided the meal, and Matt Smith, Benson parks and recreation director, was the master of ceremonies for the evening's festivities. Loretta Byrd, CEO of the chamber, was recognized for her 19 years of service. A silent auction was

held and was a huge success. Multiple award winners were honored with tributes written by their loved ones, and plaques were handed out. Civic organization winners were, front from left, Tim Messer (Public Service Employee of the Year), Betsy Whittington (Volunteer of the Year and representative for the Town of Benson Art Advisory Board, which received the

Arts Award), Emily "PopTart" Parker (Woman of the Year), Maggie Wood (Youth of the Year), Beverly Allen (Senior Citizen of the Year) and Beth Hockaday (Humanitarian Award). Second row, Sef Stanley (Firefighter of the Year) and Zayne Trent (Law Enforcement Officer of the Year). Back row, Brandon Murphy (Educator of the Year).

Other award winners were, front from left, Matt Moore (Ambassador of the Year), Max Miller of Miller Parts and Paint (Large Business of the Year), Leon Tart (Citizen of the Year), Dennis Moore of Eloise Moore Insurance Agency (Membership Milestone Award 55 years) and Alicia Howell of Alicia's School of Performing Arts (Small Business Person of the Year). Back row, Daniel Parker, Dale Parker and Bryan Parker of Parker General Contractors (Business Family of the Year). Not pictured, Randy Lee (Board of Directors Award).