From left, Jay Poole, Jared Collum and Fraley Carlton accept the Committed to Colquitt County award for Pentas Wealth Management.

MOULTRIE — Colquitt County residents gathered at the the Southwest Georgia Community Action Council on First Avenue to celebrate and honor those individuals selected as winners for the 114th annual Chamber of Commerce Banquet on March 12.

“If we had 1,000 awards to give it still wouldn’t be enough to express how special each and every one of you are,” said Ora Coots, chair of the executive board of the Chamber of Commerce. “We are grateful for each and every one of your valuable contributions and presence in this growing community.”

Winning Agriculture Business Person of the Year was Tim Demott.

Sponsoring Demott was Patrick Gallagher with the Ag Georgia Farm Credit.

“His unwavering dedication and support stands as a true representation of the American farmer,” said Gallager. “Starting from humble beginnings with no land or machines, he is now known in the entire East Coast as the Slaw King. He is someone who stands ever ready to extend a helping hand.”

Brian Richey represented Hat Creek Restoration, who was sponsoring the Rock Star Small Business Award.

“This business will have been here 60 years this November,” said Richey. “They have not only endured, but they have thrived.”

The Dairy Queen in Moultrie was given the honor of this award.

“Consistently giving back to the community, this small business’ philanthropic approach has earned them the total of true community rock stars,” said Richey. “They are always contributing food, coupons, monetary gifts and more to athletic teams and the youth in their community.”

Taking home the Heart of Colquitt County award was United Way of Colquitt County.

NAMI Moultrie sponsored this award, and Julian Griner gave the introduction.

“Established in 1843, this non-profit has a remarkable impact on this community’s history,” said Griner. “They’ve invested over $17.4 million into this community, with $3.4 million raised in the last five years.

Having over 40 programs through 20 local non-profits organizations, United Way touches many aspects of the community.

“Aimed to enhance overall quality of life, they really provide a pivotal role in this community,” said Griner. “They provide the community with food, education and grants where they are needed. Additionally, they help the homeless during those cold months.”

The Partners and Progress award was sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club of Moultrie and was bestowed to PCOM South Georgia by Joel Jenkins.

“Committed to service and engagement, the people and this program provide a deep involvement in volunteering and healthcare,” said Jenkins. “They have a genuine dedication to serving others in their community, and it shows in volumes through the time, talents and resources they give back.”

Lauren Lawson with Clements Printing and Red Cardinal Design, who were sponsoring the Committed to Colquitt County award, gave the introduction for Pentas Wealth Management.

“Saying they give an impact to this community is an understatement,” said Lawson. “Established in 2016, they were created to assist local residents in achieving financial goals, and they have rooted in excellence through leading by example and going above and beyond to prioritize their customers and leaving an impact on this community.”

Previous Man of the Year winner Mark Fleetwood presented this year’s award to Donnie Edwards.

“Often declaring this community has been good to him and he wants to give back to the place he calls home, Edwards has raised over $250,000 for the Edwards Cancer Center at Colquitt Regional and, even in retirement, continues to serves on numerous boards,” said Fleetwood. “He is a kindhearted, caring individual who imposes the qualities of a true leader.”

Anne Swartzentruber was presented with the Women of the year award by past winner Jean Gay.

“Her commitment to civic and community service goes past typical response,” said Gay. “Always ready to extend a helping hand, her selfless dedication is an invaluable asset to Colquitt County and she has a profound impact on this community.” Sponsoring the beverages and dessert was ACE South Georgia.

“Congrats to all the award winners tonight,” said Coots. “It’s a pleasure to gather in honor and celebration of you on all the contribution given back to the community. Let’s keep this good work going.”