Seven individuals and businesses that gave their time and resources to make Blount County a special place to live, work, and thrive were honored at the Blount Partnership Best of Blount Awards held at the Airport Hilton Friday evening. GEAR Staffing, Regions Bank, Allevia Technology, Brooke Nix Medical Aesthetics, CBBC Bank, Roane State Community College, Workspace Interiors, Avero Advisors, and the Titanic Museum sponsored the event.
The awards program, which saw more than 500 attend, was hosted by WVLT-TV personality Whitney Kent.
“This was a special night to honor those that give back so much to the Blount County community,” said Blount Partnership President/CEO Bryan Daniels. “These individuals and businesses work tirelessly to make sure that this community remains strong and vibrant.”
The program included a year in review video for the Blount Partnership and paid homage to Lamar Alexander, Virginia Hardwick, Bob Sullivan, Ruth and Steve West, Pam Young, and Joe Zappa, who were named Blount County of Chamber Commerce lifetime members due to their outstanding dedication and work with the chamber and the community during their careers.
Steve Garner, Blount Excavating president, was named the Philanthropist of the Year for his dedication to assisting Blount County children.
GEAR Staffing took home the Business of the Year honor for its contribution to community service.
Its work with many community issues, including being the source for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Blount County, earned the Kiwanis Club of Maryville the Community Impact Award.
The Tourism Award was split between Little Arrow Outdoor Resort and the Smoky Mountain Air Show.
The Bright Future Award went to Tula Blu Events and its proprietors Amy and Dan Tankersley, which pivoted during the pandemic to offer on-site stress-relieving massage services to area companies and businesses.
Maryville Police officers Eric Maynard and Reid Walker earned the First Responder Award for their efforts in subduing an armed suspect and protecting the community. They were each presented a $5,000 check from Cirrus Aircraft as part of the company’s initiative to recognize those who assist with emergencies.
2023 Best of Blount Award Winners
Philanthropist of the Year – Steve Garner, Blount Excavating
Business of the Year – GEAR Staffing
Bright Future Award – Tula Blu Events
First Responder Award – Eric Maynard and Reid Walker, Maryville Police Department
Community Impact Award – Kiwanis Club of Maryville
Tourism Impact Award (shared) – Little Arrow Outdoor Resort and the Smoky Mountain Air Show