The Effingham County Chamber of Commerce hosted its highly anticipated Annual Meeting on June 13th at Rincon's picturesque Chateau 1800 event center, presented by Guyton’s RepowerIT. The event drew over two hundred members from across all business sectors to celebrate community leadership, recognize outstanding contributions, and look toward the future. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the coveted John Adam Treutlen Award to Speaker of the House, Jon Burns.

John Adam Treutlen Award

The John Adam Treutlen Award, supported by Thomas & Hutton, is an annual recognition bestowed upon a county resident who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and activism within the community and holds immense local significance. Named after Georgia's first post-British governor, Hans Adam Treutlen, who rose from an indentured servant to a wealthy merchant and landowner, the award symbolizes the spirit of the greater Effingham community. The inaugural Treutlen Award was presented in 1986, and past recipients include notable figures such as Ann Purcell, Secretary of the Georgia Transportation Board and a former state representative, Representative Bill Hitchens, and retired educator and military veteran Franklin Goldwire.

The John Adam Treutlen Award recipient is kept confidential until the presentation at the Annual Awards Reception, maintaining an element of surprise and excitement.

Speaker Jon Burns, a long-serving representative of Georgia's 159th district and Effingham County resident, was honored for his unwavering dedication to public service and tireless efforts to advance the interests of Effingham County. His leadership has been instrumental in numerous legislative achievements that have positively affected the local community and the state of Georgia as a whole.

Special recognition was issued through heartwarming sentiments expressed by Jon’s beloved wife, Dayle, and Chancellor Sonny Perdue, as well as video messages recorded by former governor Nathan Deal and Governor Brian Kemp.

Celebrating Community and Volunteer Leadership

The Annual Meeting also celebrated the remarkable achievements of other community members and business leaders. Tamela Mydell of Southern Kafé on 17 in Guyton was recognized for ten years of service, during which time she and her husband and business partner, Tracy, have not only weathered their share of business challenges but have warmed the hearts and bellies of countless businesses, residents, and visitors. Their commitment to and role in fostering a welcoming atmosphere have made them beloved figures in Effingham County.

Additionally, the Chamber honored Troy Allen of Southern Oak Advisory for his outstanding service as the outgoing Chairman of the Board of Directors. His leadership and dedication have guided the Chamber through a year of change, growth, and success. As his term concludes, the Chamber is excited to welcome Kim Iler of Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic as the incoming Chair. Kim's extensive experience and passion for community service promise to lead the Chamber to new heights in the coming year.