Chamber Spotlighting Oconee

Awards will be presented next month during the annual meeting and dinner of the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce. Each year, the Chamber recognizes outstanding individuals and businesses for their contributions towards the improvement and growth of Oconee County, explains director Jillian Lusk. “We welcome you to enjoy this annual celebration of Oconee County business on May 20 at 5:30pm at the Lighthouse Restaurant. Spotlight Oconee will consist of the Chamber’s Annual Meeting as well as an award ceremony for area businesses. All award recipients will receive a beautiful award to display in addition to being featured in our Chamber newsletter, Facebook, local media and listed on the Chamber website.” The chamber is asking its membership to nominate business leaders worthy of awards, adds Lusk. “We need your help in identifying candidates for these awards.  Business Innovator, which recognizes a local company or business professional whose practices exemplify creative thinking and smart customer service. Education First, which highlights a local company or individual whose has made a substantial contribution to furthering the youth in a specific organization or have helped create progress in furthering our workforce development programs in Oconee County. The Green Business Award identifies a local company or business whose practices reflect the growing need for sustainable business practices. The Community Service Award highlights an individual possessing a strong dedication to volunteering, and whose contributions have benefited communities and individuals in Oconee County.  The Small Business of the Year Award honors a small business in Oconee County that models the values that the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce values: Integrity, Commitment, Leadership, Collaboration, Innovation, Financial strength, and Diversity.  The Best Place to Work Award identifies a business that puts their employees first. The best place to work in Oconee County motivates, rewards, and recognizes the hard work of their team. In order to win this award, the business needs to have a minimum of 25 employees.  The Rising Star Award highlights a young professional under the age of 40 who has positively impacted their community. This leader exemplifies the attributes that we recognize in all good leaders; dedication to their community, active participating on non-profit boards and leadership roles, and an ability to positively impact those individuals around them.” Nominations must be filled out and submitted to the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce by April 18 at 5pm.  Lusk tells about get tickets for Spotlight Oconee.  “Tickets are $35 and that includes dinner, one drink ticket, dessert and refreshments.  We are also excepting sponsorships for businesses that want a little bit more recognition.” For tickets or more information about sponsorships, call the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce at 864-882-2097 or visit them at 135C Eagles Nest Drive in Seneca or online at www.oconeechambersc.com.