PICKENS — The Greater Pickens Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet Thursday, April 24, at the Pickens Golf Club. The event offered chamber members an opportunity to enjoy a night out, network with other business owners and celebrate the presentation of the chamber’s annual awards.

The banquet is highlighted each year by the presentation of the Duke Energy Citizenship Award. This year, the prestigious award was presented to Pickens City Police Chief Randall Beach by Duke Energy’s Trent Acker. Beach was honored for his tireless service to the community.

The 2024 Chamber Business of the Year award was presented to Kent Wool, a company that has been a fixture in the community for 70 years and a steadfast member of the Greater Pickens Chamber of Commerce.

Butterfly Wellness Yoga, owned and operated by Catherine Heelan, received honors for Best

Restoration of the Year. The business, which relocated from downtown Pickens to 815 W. Main St. at the west end of town, has revitalized its new location.

One of the evening’s major honors, Best New Business, was awarded to The Open Door. Owner Stetson Owen was recognized for bringing a unique venue to Pickens — a family-friendly and inspiring place where people can eat, drink and enjoy time together.

The chamber’s final award of the evening, Chamber Ambassador of the Year, was presented to Meechi Green of TD Bank for his dedicated efforts in promoting the chamber and its mission.

Special guests on hand to help present the awards included Miss Clemson Teen 2025, Madison McKinney, and Miss Clemson 2025, Lillian Linder.