Mike Blanton Recieves Edmonson County Tourism 2016 Friend Of Edmonson County Award

11/18/2016

L-R: Mike Blanton accepts "Friend of Edmonson County" Award from Edmonson Voice Editor Darren Doyle.

Darren Doyle story, Debbie Doyle, photos
Long time member and Fair Board Chairman of the Edmonson County Lions Club Mike Blanton was honored at last night's annual Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner with the 2016 "Friend of Edmonson County" Award.

The event was co-sponsored by the Edmonson County Tourism Commission. Several residents and businesses were presented certificates for volunteer work with the tourism board's booth at this year's Kentucky State Fair.

Blanton, who has served the Lions Club for over 20 years recently retired as Fair Board Chairman and Coordinator both the Fair Day and Christmas parades. He has played an integral part of the Lions Club charitable events and causes over the years including the Christmas Angel Adoption program, Coats for Kids-benefiting local Head Start Students, and countless examples of helping those in need.

Blanton was completely surprised by the award as he walked to the podium to accept the engraved plaque in front of a standing ovation.

"Ya'll didn't have to do this," he said, humbly. "I wasn't expecting this, but thank all of ya'll very much."

Rhonda Clemmons was recognized for her outstanding work for the Chamber and Tourism Commission in 2016.

Also recognized at the event was Chamber and Tourism Director Rhonda Clemmons for her outstanding work throughout another year of Chamber and Tourism events. Clemmons was honored for her regular work but also countless hours of behind the scenes attention she provides to necessary details in order to help both programs run smoothly. Clemmons was also humbled by the recognition.

ServPro was honored by the Chamber of Commerce with the Business of the Year Award for their numerous charitable donations in Edmonson County this year while Maurita Miller took home Citizen of the Year Award for her contributions to the Wiley Willis Veterans Memorial Wall project.