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Smithfield-Selma Chamber honors distinguished citizens at annual meeting Submitted by the Smithfield-Selma Chamber of Commerce SMITHFIELD — The Greater Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce wrapped up 2016 at its 47th Annual Meeting recently. It included a farewell bid to its president of 30 years, Rick Childrey, recognition of members who earned special honors and a passing of the gavel from past board chair, Dr. Dwight Morris, executive director of the Johnston County Partnership for Children, to the new chair, Corina Knott, Senior Account Executive with Interstate Outdoor, Inc. Knott expressed excitement about leading the charge to “Connect, Grow and Prosper,” the chamber’s new mission-driven slogan. Childrey was presented with gifts and “roasted” after the meeting kicked off with a reception in his honor. Other award winners were: Johna Faulconer — Howard Best award for outstanding contributions to the work of the Board of Directors. Chris Collins — Ambassador of the Year, for his time and commitment to help other chamber members recognize and take full advantage of their member benefits. Tara Dunn and Bob Hinnant — Jimmy Creech Small Business Persons of the Year award, for success, longevity and commitment to the community. Crystal Kimpson Roberts — Athena Award for achieving excellence in her field of work and for reaching out and opening a way for others. Jessica Davis — Citizen of the Year, for bringing her vision of creating the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield to fruition. Eric Brownlee and Cheryl Oliver — Distinguished Citizen honorees, for their unwavering dedication and service to the communities they serve. Leo Daughtry, Linwood Parker, and Durwood Stephenson — Bonsai Award for Vision and Courage in their continuous commitment to positive economic growth in Johnston County. Life Memberships were awarded to Rick Childrey, Bruce Edwards, Becky Guin, Carl Lamm, Jullian Marshall, Dicky Parrish, Pat Proctor and Donald Wallace. Front row: Left to right, Bob Hinnant, Crystal Roberts, Cheryl Oliver, Jessica Davis, Carl Lamm and Julian Marshall. Back row, Tara Dunn, Eric Brownlee, Chris Collins, Durwood Stephenson, Dwight Morris, Linwood Parker and Johna Faulconer. » VET SERVICES » GROOMING » BOARDING 919.963.3044 Animal Hospital 5941 US Hwy. 301 South, Four Oaks 14 | JOHNSTON NOW