The Harlan County Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet Thursday at the Harlan Center, distributing numerous awards to Harlan Countians.

Gayle Lawson, who has been a resident of the county for over half a century, was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award for her many accomplishments in teaching as well as other outstanding accomplishments in helping the community, especially in the fight for improved roads.

During her acceptance speech, Lawson spoke of the many issues facing today’s generations concerning the economy, both locally and nationally.

Sunshine Preschool Director Pat Bryson was honored with the Harlan Countian of the Year award.

While she said that she may not have been born in Harlan, she has “borrowed” the county as her own hometown.

Other awards given during the banquet included: Educator of the Year to the Harlan County Board of Education; Healthcare Provider of the Year to Dr. Fred Howard; Public Service Provider of the Year to the Harlan Senior Citizens Center; and Business of the Year to Pizza Hut following its move to a new building.

Chamber member Roger Fannin was presented the President’s Award.

The Harlan Tourism and Convention Commission also gave a first-time beautification award to the Dr. Fred Howard family for their efforts in reconstructing the welcome sign on the U.S. 421 bypass as part of their son Kyle’s Boy Scouts Eagle project.

Numerous other awards were also presented during the banquet.