Friends of the Lexington County Museum celebrated the museum’s 50th birthday in grand style Saturday evening. This milestone occasion was held at Lexington’s Municipal Complex with a record attendance.

Mike Spear and Cameron Holbrook of the museum greeted guests as they arrived. Suspended gold and white balloons marked with “50” decorated individual tables embellished with gold glittery markers and southern pink camellias. During the reception hour, Wes Rhoten of Rhoten’s Store served sampled of his famous country sausage, a delight to all. He is also celebrating his 75th this year!

The Friends President Dan Koon extended a warm welcome followed by an invocation by the Rev. John Derrick. Museum Executive Director J.R. Fennell spoke of current happenings at the museum and also added humor with entertaining stories.

Former Executive Director, Horace Harmon gave information on the museum history and added some entertaining stories. Edie Harmon and Kelly Mintz of the Friends acknowledged guests and commission and Friends board members. Dan Koon wrapped up the program with closing remarks and invited everyone to get up and dance to the toe tapping music of Frank Macauley’s Great Society Band. Everyone concluded it was a fun and memorable tribute to the museum’s 50 years. Proceeds from the event will be used to make improvements to the historic Fox House.

Another outstanding event in Lexington last week was the 2020 Lexington Chamber Awards Luncheon. Held in the spacious auditorium at Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church, 250 members/guests attended. An invocation was given by chair elect Angela Klosterman, followed by a delightful buffet. Otis Rawl, President/CEO extended a welcome and recongition of elite sponsors. Recognitions and special thanks were given by chair Chris Petty. Following a recap of the year’s events by Otis Rawl, awards were presented:

Winner of the young professional of the year award was Ben Fuller, presented by Alex Huggins. Large Business of the Year award went to Nucor Buildings Group and was presented by Royce Shannon. Named Ambassador of the Year was Cindy Powell and was presented by Shelley Metropol. Small Business of the Year award went to Lazy Creek Pet Foods Center, presented by Mike White. Winner of the Mike Till award went to Barbara Willm of Lexington Medical Center. The award was presented by the Till daughters, Angela Klosterman and Lauren Scurry. Keynote speaker was Tracie Broom of Flock and Rally. Chris Petty delivered final thoughts and adjournment.

Congratulations to the Chamber on its 4-star accreditation for its sound policies, effective organization procedures and positive impact awarded by the US Chamber of Commerce!

Annie Mack of the Lexington Senior Center reported their Valentine Queen and King crowned at the Center Valentine’s Day were: Grace Fralix and Vernon Beacham.

Remember on March 2, from 3-5 pm, the national president will visit American Legion Post 7 at the hut on Corley Street, Lexington. For any details, you may call Linda Griffith at 803-920-3975. They too are celebrating a birthday this year, their 100th!

Happy Birthday: Tara Wrigley, John Bozard, Billy Oswald, Chase Carter, Lila Miles, Trey Stoudemire, Will Berry, Jared Juhl, Lynwood Lybrand, Claudia Wheeler, Denise Carr, Harriet Easier, Richard Felton, Margaret Taylor, Al Hornsby, Norman Boyd, Will Hendricks, Clint Spence, Tabetha Quina, Jesse Brydic, Buddy Roberts, Tabitha Billenbach, Teri Walker, David Wiman, Kim Vaughn, Joel Quina, Kaylin Quina, Suzanne Wilkins, Miranda Dimarco, Bob Riddick, Murray Price, Don Horton, Beverly Jeffcoat, John Wayne Parrish, Emily Wright and Jennifer Stewart.