Martin receives Spittal Award
The Dr. David Spittal Community Award was presented to Central Businessman Joey Martin for his service to the town of Central and involvement in the Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce.
“Our recipient this year has supported several local causes and events, usually very quietly,” Ballentine said. “He was one of the first Central Area Business Council members to support the Central Elementary After School Enrichment Program with his personal contribution. He has also served as spokesperson for the business council before Central town council. With two businesses in town, our recipient is a strong supporter of Main Street business development. Our recipient has served the Central Area Business Council as chairperson for the last two years.”
The award is named for former Southern Wesleyan University president Dr. David Spittal and is presented to an individual or group who makes significant contributions to the greater good of the Central community and the Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce, with an emphasis on citizenship and service; demonstrates enthusiasm, leadership, initiative, idealism, commitment, innovation and vision; consistently illustrates the ability to develop positive relationships and the skill to build consensus among community leaders; and effectively utilizes resources outside the scope of employment and responsibility. Recipients or their employers must be a member in good standing of the Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce.
The award was presented March 22 during the State of Central dinner, hosted annually at Southern Wesleyan University and organized by Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce and the Central Area Business Council.
Two new awards were presented at this year’s dinner: the 2016 Central Business of the Year Award, presented to Palmetto Pizza Co.; and the 2016 Central Volunteer of the Year award, presented to Keith Abercrombie.
State of Central attendees also heard updates from Mac Martin, mayor of Central, Dr. Todd Voss, president of Southern Wesleyan University, and Gerald Sweitzer, board member of the Education Foundation of Pickens County.
Event sponsors were Southern Wesleyan University, Clemson Area Transit, the town of Central, Brookdale Senior Living Solutions, First Citizens Bank, Duckett Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory, Trehel Corporation, J.W. Martin Real Estate and Central Heritage Society.
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused learning community devoted to transforming lives by challenging students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to swu.edu.