PICKENS - On May 15th, the Pickens Revitalization Association awarded its inaugural “I Fan The Flame” award to Pickens mayor David Owens.

The monthly award will recognize individuals that have supported and contributed to the community in extraordinary ways.

They will have demonstrated a passion for helping make Pickens a great place to live, work and play.

Mayor Owens grew up in town, starring as a football player at Pickens High during a 5 year period when it was undefeated.

One of his greatest achievements, according to him, was when he was inducted into the Blue Flame Hall Of Fame.

After college and a career as a SC State Trooper, Owens “retired’ and was elected to City Council in 2000. In 2003, he became mayor and is now serving in his third term.

Since 2003, the city has realized major improvements in it infrastructure, positive growth, a construction new recreation facility and many new rec programs, the creation of the Haygood Senior Center, a new affordable housing program and much more.

The mayor commented, “One of the best recent developments has been the creation of the Pickens Revitalization Association with the Main Street Program. We need a vehicle for our concerned, talented residents to enjoy and help prosper the city in the right ways. The PRA affords everyone an opportunity to do that. My ultimate vision is to make Pickens an even better place to raise a family, a place where our next generations want to stay.”

“I Fan The Flame” Platinum sponsors in 2012 include the Historic City of Pickens and Great Oaks Dental. East Main Treasures and Pace & Reeves BP, Inc. are this year’s bronze sponsors.

The award program will be expanded, in the future, to recognize the many contributions of various academic, civic, religious and charitable organizations towards “fanning the flame” in Pickens.