Citizen of the Year 2019
Freddie Paul
Shelli Parker/Athens Daily Review
The top honor of the Chamber Banquet, the Citizen
of the Year award, went to Athens businessman and
community leader, Freddie Paul Jr. for 2019.
Steve Barksdale, 2018 Citizen of the Year took the
stage and announced Paul as the 2019 recipient of
the prestigious award.
The award recognizes an individual who has made a
significant contribution to the betterment of Athens
or the community.
An Athens High School alum, Paul has a heart for
youth. He is a deacon at the Church of the Living
God and shares his faith through action to many. He
worked many years at Futurematrix and currently
owns Biomerics, which has invested in Athens
recently.
“This individual has the heart of our youth with
the service performed,” Barksdale said. “Long days
helping with the Youth Football league; time spent
on raking the baseball infield for kids to play, hours
before getting up to go to the gym — not to work
out — but to sweep the floor and ready the gym for
Little Dribbler teams to arrive. This man knows how
to invest his time in our youth.”
He is an arborist and a family man, husband to Cylecia
and father figure to Kelcee, Kaden and Jase.
Oval Pirtle, founder of Henderson County Jr. College
was announced as the first award recepient
in 1966. In 1971 the COC picked up the tradition.
A news release through the Athens Daily Review
was issued requesting nominations. After being
reviewed by the committee, the selection was made
judged on their dedication and contributions of both
time and talents to the Athens community.
At this time, the last five recipients of the award
make up the committee.
“So each year, when you see requests for nominations
please take the time to recommend your Citizen
of the Year,” Barksdale requested.
6 A T H E N S C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E