Members of Fannin County’s emergency services gathered Thursday, December 12, for their annual banquet at Willow Creek Falls and Vineyard in Blue Ridge.
Awards were given following a catered meal. As an additional treat, prizes were given to folks who wore the “Most Creative” and “Ugliest” Christmas sweaters.
Children and their families received a special visit from Santa Claus as well.
The David Curtis Memorial Medic Award was presented to Paramedic William Brown. The award can be given to either a paramedic or EMT, but Fire Chief Larry Thomas said Brown “means a lot” and has “done a lot for us (EMA).”
Mark Griffith received the Stanley Henson Memorial Volunteer Award, and Virginia Jones was given the Lawrence Waters Memorial Rescue Award.
Guests who wore Christmas sweaters were invited to come in front of the crowd and model in a mock fashion show for a panel of judges.
Trista Chancey was chosen for having the “Most Creative” sweater with her “make Christmas great again” ensemble, and although EMA Director Robert Graham was chosen by judges for having the “Ugliest” sweater, he declined the title.
As a result, Graham had the guests choose the winner by yelling when he gestured at each contestant. Ultimately, Aaron Allen’s reindeer with lights sweater was chosen as the “Ugliest.”