2023 Greene Chamber Awards Luncheon
Greene County Chamber of Commerce Honors Outstanding Businesses and Community Leaders at Awards Luncheon
Greensboro, GA. – On October 6, 2023, the Greene County Chamber of Commerce held its yearly Awards Luncheon at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton, Lake Oconee. The event celebrated local businesses and individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the community, embodying the spirit of service, innovation, and dedication.
Keynote speaker Burt Jones, Georgia's Lieutenant Governor, set the tone for the event with an inspiring address, sharing about the future growth of businesses in Georgia.
Awards
Greensboro Tire, owned by Wayne and Gary Usry, was awarded the "Heartbeat Award." This award recognizes businesses that go above and beyond to contribute to the community, not out of obligation but out of the goodness of their hearts. Greensboro Tire has consistently supported a multitude of community organizations, including the Circle of Love Center, Pete Nance Boys and Girls Club, First Call Pregnancy Center, Atlas Ministry, Christian Outreach, local school sporting events, Union Point Theater, and many others.
Wayne and Gary Usry (Photo courtesy of Brock Company Creative)
RIDE Oconee, under the leadership of owner Laurel Seheult, claimed the "Innovation Award." This honor is given to businesses that think outside the box and provide extraordinary contributions to the community. RIDE Oconee has taken its business beyond its storefront by organizing fundraising events like the Circle of Love Center and Tees for Titans golf tournaments, Oconee Humane Society Charity Event, and Doggy Dash for Circle of Friends Animal Society, and Denim and Diamonds.
Laurel Seheult and friends at RIDE Oconee Ribbon Cutting. (Photo courtesy of Brock Company Creative)
Laura Dent, of Bulldog Marine, was the recipient of the "Unsung Hero" Award. This award recognizes individuals who tirelessly work behind the scenes at events and charities, making others shine. Laura Dent's dedication includes the Shoes for Kids program, serving as a Second Harvest Board Member, hosting study-abroad students, contributing to the Rotary Environmental Project, receiving the Paul Harris Fellowship, and being named Rotarian of the Year three times.
Laura Dent receiving the Unsung Hero Award. (Photo courtesy of Brock Company Creative)
Dough Daddy Dough Food Truck, owned by John and Sandy Padjen, was named "Rookie of the Year." This category acknowledges businesses that have made a significant impact in Greene County. Dough Daddy Dough Food Truck not only introduced a new dining option but also dedicated countless hours to volunteering for and donating to the Pete Nance Boys and Girls Club at their Oconee BBQ Fest, Block Party for RIDE & The Boat Shop, and the OPAS Memorial Day Concert.
John Padjen receiving Rookie of the Year Award (Photo courtesy of Brock Company Creative)
Chip Lyness, from Oconee Radio Group's Dock 103.9 FM, was honored with the "Mickey Channell Citizen of the Year Award." This award acknowledges leaders who go above and beyond in contributing to the community through their involvement in various charities and educational initiatives. Chip Lyness, with 32 years of broadcasting experience, was celebrated for his contributions to the Greene County Football Broadcast Team, unique programming such as 'That's some of what's happening at the Greene Co Board of Education' and 'Community Spotlight' with Doug Hesse, as well as his induction into the Georgia Radio Hall of Fame. He also served on the Board of the Circle of Love Center, a local domestic abuse shelter, for nine years.
Chip Lyness & Mika Mills (Photo courtesy of Brock Company Creative)
The Greene County Chamber of Commerce congratulates all the winners and nominees for their exceptional contributions to our community. These businesses and individuals serve as inspiring examples of the positive impact that can be achieved through dedication and innovation.
