The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce hosted its 16th Annual Banquet and Business Showcase on Thursday, May 6 at the Columbia County Exhibition Center.

With an estimated attendance of 400 local, state and federal business leaders, the event celebrated and saluted the Chamber’s accomplishments of 2020, with a look ahead to a prosperous 2021.

The evening kicked off with the business showcase and reception. Normally one of the Chamber’s largest networking opportunities, this year downsized due to social distancing. Nonetheless, the showcase provided attendees the opportunity to mix and mingle amongst themselves and network with nearly 20 local vendors.

Chamber President/CEO Russell Lahodny opened the dinner program with a welcome and highlighted the successes of the Chamber in 2020 and the prospects for a brighter future.  Lahodny and Vice President, Tiffany Heitzman, presented the awards for Ambassador of the Year and Volunteer of the Year, respectively, to Heather Johnson, Southpaw Roofing; and Shelly Wilson, Warren Baptist Church.

A highlight of the evening was the ceremonial passing of the gavel of leadership from outgoing Chairman Reagan Williams of Meybohm Real Estate to 2021 Chairman Adam Williams of The Cleveland Group CPAs. In his remarks, Williams expressed his appreciation to the Board for the confidence shown in him and relayed his goals and aspirations for the upcoming year.

During the program, the Chamber presented several prestigious awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award. Given annually since 2005, the Lifetime Achievement Award seeks to honor one leader of our community for his or her professional and philanthropic achievements. This year’s award winner, Mr. Ron Cross, was recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit, his leadership in commercial development and his legacy of innovation and forward momentum for Columbia County.

Additionally, the Chamber named Augusta Staffing the Small Business of the Year and tabbed Queensborough National Bank & Trust as Large Business of the Year. The Leadership Columbia County Alumni Award went to Robert Kelly of Augusta Staffing.

 The 16th Annual Banquet and Business Showcase was presented by South State Bank. Premier Sponsors included: Doctors Hospital, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions and Savannah River Remediation. Executive Sponsors included: ADP, Allegra Image 360, AT&T, Blanchard and Calhoun Real Estate, C & C Automotive, The Cleveland Group CPAs, Georgia Power Company and Gold Cross EMS. Additional Sponsors included Lifetime Achievement Award Sponsor, Southeast Restoration; Non-Profit Member of the Year Sponsor, Allen + Batchelor Construction; and Volunteer of the Year Award Sponsor, First Community Bank.