SOUTH POINT - Dozens of Lawrence County business and industry leaders paused Thursday night to honor three of their own.

Members of the Greater Lawrence County Area Chamber of Commerce gathered for the group's annual awards banquet at the Grandview Inn and Suites.

Thomas Allyn, owner of Allyn's Jewelers in Ironton, was awarded the Lawrence Legacy Award for his 74 years of service and success.

"I never expected it," Allyn said. "It's really nice that you get recognized, but I don't think I've done anything special."

John Galloway, president of Pickett Concrete, earned the chamber's Community Service Award for his years of involvement in helping to improve the area.

"I'm not the type of person that expects this. It's a real honor," Galloway said. "It's one of those things that you can't achieve without the support of my family, friends and the community."

Dianne Clement, advanced human resources representative with Marathon Ashland Petroleum, was awarded the Business Leadership Award for her many efforts to help a number of economic and community improvement efforts.

"In talking with leaders of the Tri-State every year, quality of life is second only to education in importance in the area," Clement said, explaining why she worked hard to constantly improve the area.

Clement said she encourages everyone she meets to find a way to get involved to make the area better.

"If not us, who?" she said.

Clement, a former chamber president, said the area is poised for greatness.

"Lawrence County is on the brink of getting some good things going," she said.