Winners of Lake Oconee Living magazine’s third-annual Readers’ Choice Awards were honored Thursday during the inaugural “Best of Lake Oconee” Red Carpet Awards Gala, held at The Plaza Arts Center in downtown Eatonton, winner of “Best Performing Arts Venue.”

Staff Reports

The awards presentation was hosted by Bryce McCuin and Justin Vollmer of The Lake Crew, who were joined by community presenters and accompanied by a video production recognizing the winners of 39 categories. Highlights of the program included musical performances by Tim Cadiere and a step show by the Boys & Girls Club of Morgan County.
Babs and Hiram Johnston of Madison attended the event with Jule Seibt who was visiting from Rostock, Germany. “This was the best event of the year, perhaps the best of the decade!” said Babs. “Thanks to all who were responsible for putting it together. We had a marvelous time!”
A reception followed the ceremony, showcasing the winners of the “Best of Food & Dining” with complimentary beer and wine provided by  Gregg Hawkins and Ginger Riser of Silver Moon, signature chicken salad and desserts provided by Joy and James Kruper of Sweet Kneads, barbecue provided by Alex Davidson of Georgia Butts, and hors d’oeuvres by Hallie Jane’s.
The event’s silent auction raised more than $2,000 for the winners of the “Best Volunteer Organization” category – the Boys & Girls Club of Morgan County, Greene County Habitat for Humanity and Oconee Regional Humane Society. The auction, styled by “Best Interior Designer” Tippi McMichael, featured items donated by winners of the competition and included several pieces from artists at Art of Oconee, voted “Best Art Gallery.”
“We were overwhelmed with the outpouring of community support for this event,” said editor Andrea Gable. “Our winners really came together to create an unforgettable evening that will be tough to top next year.”

Printed in the February 16, 2012 edition.