Christie Gribble introduced “Mountain Magic” as the theme for this years’ 41st annual Fannin County Chamber of Commerce & CVB banquet by saying magic is not just found along the trails or riverbanks, but in the businesses, leaders and friends who make the area extraordinary every day.
Gribble, president of the organization, said, “It’s the way our community shows up for each other.”
As is tradition, several individuals and organizations were recognized for their contributions to the Chamber and the community.
Susan Ross was recognized as the Chamber’s Ambassador of the Year. In presenting the award, Justin Farrington, last year’s recipient of the award, described Ross as connecting with, supporting and championing others. She was praised for her passion and unwavering dedication.
“She is the first to welcome new members, the first to step up when help is needed, and a constant source of positivity and encouragement,” Farrington said.
Eddie O’Neal was then recognized as the Chamber Member of the Year by Gribble. The Fannin County Recreation Department director has coordinated more than $2 million in Tourism Product Development (TPD) funds with investments in public recreation spaces across Fannin County. Projects have included improved river access, new pavilions, playgrounds and dog parks at Ron Henry Horseshoe Bend Park; pool, splash pad and walking rail at the county recreation complex on Gray Street in Blue Ridge, and six new pickleball courts. The TPD dollars for the work were generated through the Hotel/Motel tax.
O’Neal also oversees youth athletics. “His work strengthens quality of life, supports our visitor economy and creates spaces where memories are made,” Gribble said.
Blue Ridge Mayor Andy Rhodes presented the Community Service Award to the Blue Ridge Business Association. He recognized “an organization comprised of thoughtful and enthusiastic volunteers and members who support the overall economic success of the community.”
Rhodes cited the organization’s work through education, networking, promotional material and their many signature events – Fire & Ice, Light Up Blue Ridge, and the numerous parades – that, along with working to preserve the charm of downtown Blue Ridge, create a “welcoming, vibrant environment for residents and visitors alike.”
All the work, the dedication and teamwork, is accomplished by volunteers. “They make it look effortless,” Rhodes said.
The Heart of the Community Award, presented by Manda Hughes, went to the North Georgia Mountain Crisis Network.
She described the organization as “a vital lifeline for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault across the North Georgia region.” The crisis network provides emergency shelter, crisis intervention, advocacy, legal support and community education, in turn providing safety, healing and hope to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
“The organization’s commitment to survivor-centered, trauma informed care ensures that each person served is treated with dignity, compassion and respect,” Hughes said.
The Honorary Lifetime Member Award was presented to Sandy Ott, who is now in Hawaii where she continues to advance higher education at Hawaii Community College.
Ott was remembered by Steven Miracle who called her “an individual who has dedicated her life to strengthening her community and the broader North Georgia region.”
She devoted 32 years to higher education in Georgia, lastly as executive director of the University of North Georgia Blue Ridge campus. There, she secured more than $6 million in federal grant funding and helped launch programs including Upward Bound, creating life changing opportunities for first generation and under served students. She also launched PEAKS, bringing programming to adults 55 and older.