72nd Annual Greater Picayune Area Chamber of Commerce awards banquet held

The Greater Picayune Area Chamber of Commerce (GPACOC) held its 72nd Annual Awards banquet last night at The Henry Smith House in Picayune.

The Exchange Club of Picayune was recognized as the Civic Club of the Year. The local club is one of over 630 Exchange Clubs in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and is known as the nation’s oldest service organization. The club along, with their many contributions to community projects, recently received a national award for retaining membership and gaining new members.

Exchange Club President Courtney Knight and Board Member Misty Toruno

Stewart Huey, who is a Senior Vice President at First National Bank of Picayune, was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year. Huey has spearheaded many projects including the annual Rotary and GPACOC golf tournaments, Rotary’s Special Needs Fishing Rodeo, and annual Christmas Food Drive for many years as well volunteering his time in local youth sports as a coach.

Incoming Chamber President Mark Stockstill and Stewart Huey

The Citizen of the Year was Steve McDonald, Sr. McDonald, who is the CEO of McDonald Funeral Home and Insurance in Picayune, has served in many capacities as either a member or past member of the Kiwanis Club of Picayune, Order of the Golden Rule, Rotary Club of Picayune, Senior Center of Picayune, and many other organizations. McDonald was unable to attend the banquet,

Steve McDonald and his wife Ann.

Charlie’s Custom Colors was presented the Excellence in Business Award. Charles Blanchet, owner and operator of the business, has served the community for over 38 years with a solid reputation for honest and professional business practices in providing paint and flooring products and services.

Chamber Executive Director Terry Farr and Charles Blanchet