The Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce (EPCC) held its 44th annual Awards Banquet Nov. 6 at Rock Eagle Pavilion, where the Chamber recognized the contributions and efforts of several outstanding local businesses and individuals. Following a buffet-style dinner, awards were given out in six categories.
“We’re very happy to see everyone here tonight to celebrate some great people and businesses from the past year,” Chamber President and CEO Maggie Milner said in her welcome address to more than 230 Chamber members and guests.
Following a keynote presentation by John Hevesy, a former college football player and coach, the first official recognition went to outgoing EPCC board members Cynthia Wallace and McKenzie Davenport, whom Milner thanked before presenting each with a commemorative desktop award.
Next, Bob Landau received the 2nd annual Roddie Anne Blackwell Service and Leadership Award, named for the Chamber’s previous and longtime president. Young businessman A.J. Nugent, who owns and operates three Lake Country businesses, received the Emerging Entrepreneur Award, and Bruzze Brewing was given the Chamber’s Business Innovation Award.
The Breakout Business of the Year Award went to Sylvia’s Coffee Shop, situated within downtown Eatonton’s Georgia Writers Museum, which was named Community Organization of the Year by the EPCC. Finally, the Business of the Year Award went to Tri-County EMC in recognition of maintaining high standards and work this year to bring high-speed internet service to most of Putnam County.