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[/if ImageKingstree] Since the late 1940s the Williamsburg HomeTown Chamber Banquet has set aside one night a year to honor and celebrate the service of its citizens in 13 categories. Each year chamber members are offered the opportunity to select a person or team who they feel exemplifies unselfish service for the betterment of the community and its people.

The banquet was spearheaded through Jenny Lynn Preacher whose efforts were instrumental in promoting the event. In the past the banquet was held at a school cafeteria but as it grew in scope and attendance, the event was moved to the Kingstree recreation facility.

Each year at the end of the program the chamber announces the next theme for the banquet. This year the theme was taken from the 1950s sitcom Happy Days.

Providing a year’s notice is important as it gives sponsors ample time to get creative for one of the most interesting components of the banquet, the spectacular tablescapes.
Much pride is taken in decorating the tables, which is evident in the crowds that come early for a sneak peek. Admirers oh and ah over the imaginative creations using props and colorful fabrics.

In 2006, past president Mona Dukes added the “skit” to the event that coincides with the theme. Chamber members recreated the characters of the sitcom but cleverly introduced elements to reflect Williamsburg County. The skit is broken into scenes that intertwine with the awards.

Two new additions to the banquet were a performance by The Showstoppers. The youngsters danced and sang to a variety of 50s favorites. The second surprise was the unveiling of a video created by the chamber.

The video entices prospective businesses and anyone interested in making Williamsburg County home as it captures the scenic beauty of the land while presenting personal interviews of its leaders and citizens.

Next year the banquet promises to bring even more entertaining, as the theme will focus on the movie “Back to the Future.” So strap on your seatbelt because 2009 is certain to take us on a futuristic flight of fantasy.

This year’s winners are as follows:
•Agriculturalist of the Year, Mr. Shane Stuckey
•Community Image Award, Posthumous Mr. Fred Burgess accepted by Mrs. Burgess
•Club/Organization of the Year, Williamsburg Presbyterian Church
•Lady Bird Johnson Award, Frances McClary
•Iron Eyes Cody Award, David Mahan, Plant Manager with Firestone Building Products
•Industry of the Year, Mr. Tommy Britton of T.C. Incorporated of Hemingway, SC
•Merchant of the Year, Holt’s Gifts and China, Mary Jean and Carroll Holt
•Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Kenneth Gardner accepted by Dr. Jennifer Gardner and daughter Lindsay
•Humanitarian of the Year award, Mrs. Beth Cottingham
•Citizen of the Year Award, Miss Eleanor Foxworth
The HomeTown Township Award winners were presented as follows:
•Town of Stuckey, Sylvia Ard
•Town of Lane, Mayor Charlie Fulton
•Town of Kingstree, Laura Hysong
To view the pictures of the event visit www.williamsburgsc.org