VALDOSTA — Business owners, elected officials, Chamber members, and a who’s who list of distinguished guests filled the James H. Rainwater Conference Center to celebrate the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce’s 97th Annual Dinner Meeting.
The event’s keynote speaker, Justice Robert Benham of the Supreme Court of Georgia, entertained guests by providing parables and wisdom to illustrate the concept of “Building up your community.” The A.L. Girardin Award winner was announced, and an installation of the 2009 Chamber Board of Directors took place.
As the crowd waited for dinner to begin, Judge Jim Tunison had this to say in regard to the evening's keynote speaker, “I’m anxious to hear Judge Benham speak. He provides insight into the courts and how it applies to everyday people.”
Benham has an impressive list of accolades that he has worked his entire life to earn in order to fulfill the high standards and goals that he has set for himself.
Benham, a graduate of Tuskegee University with a B.S. in Political Science, is the first African-American to serve on the Supreme Court of Georgia. He is the son of Jesse Knox Benham and Clarence Benham in Cartersville, Georgia. He attended Harvard University, and graduated from the University of Georgia School of Law with a J.D. in 1970.
Benham has also received his L.L.M from the University of Virginia. As the first African American to win statewide election in Georgia since Reconstruction, Benham was appointed by Governor Joe Frank Harris to the Court of Appeals in 1984 where he served five years. Benham serves on eleven different boards and organizations, and has distinguished himself as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, INC.
Benham began his speech with a poem and concluded with a poem as well, but in between, his message was specific about the attitude community members should have towards one another.
“We should never expect the worst when those around us are doing their best,” said Benham. “And that's what a community is all about, expecting the best out of everyone.”
Benham was described as being a man of vision, leadership, and as an outstanding example for others to follow.
The presentation of the A.L. Girardin Award to Jodi Doss, owner of Jodi’s Accessories, was among the many highlights of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber’s 2009 Annual Dinner. This is an annual award presented by the Chamber staff to a member who showcases loyalty, accessibility, and keeps the best interest of the chamber.
Myrna Ballard notes that, “Doss is truly the epitome of serial entrepreneurship.”
Doss was the recipient of the Small Business of the year award in 2003, and designs jewelry pieces which were worn by guests.
Jokingly Doss said, “I had no idea that I was receiving this award tonight. If I would have, I would have worn more bling (to showcase her jewelry pieces) but I’m in my conservative mode tonight.”
Doss gave thanks to the audience and all who have supported her along the years. She closed with a bit of advice. “There will be bombs and successes. You’ll need a support team to be there through the good and the bad times,” said Doss. “But those are the people that’ll get you through it all.”
Towards the end of the evening, Judge H. Arthur McLane inducted Chamber officers for 2009. Those officers were introduced by Jeff Hanson and installed as the following: Terri Lupo (Chairman Elect and Vice-Chairman for Business Expansion Division), Tom Gooding (Chairman Elect-Elect and Vice Chairman for Economic Development Division), David Newbern (Vice Chairman for Member Services Division), Tim Jones (Vice-Chairman for Public Affairs Division), Greg Justice (Vice-Chairman for Workforce Development and Education Division), Paul Nichols (Treasurer), Jay Prince (Chairman’s Choice), Walter Hobgood (Immediate Past Chairman), and Myrna Ballard (President).
The evening concluded with outgoing chairman Walter Hobgood presenting the gavel to incoming chairman, Jeff Hanson.
Photos
For more photos from the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce's 97th Annual Dinner Meeting, please see Sunday’s Business section.
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Justice Robert Benham, of the Supreme Court of Georgia, speaks to local government and local business leaders during the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce's 97th Annual Dinner Meeting.
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Chamber Chairman for 2008 Walter Hobgood welcomes the crowd at the start of the program Tuesday during the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce’s 97th Annual Dinner Meeting.
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Chamber Dinner Meeting
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