Ryburn Recognized as Arkansas’ 2012 Volunteer Economic Developer of the Year
August 29th, 2012 by News Release
The Arkansas Economic Developers, a statewide organization of economic development professionals and community leaders, presented it’s yearly awards, Tuesday, including thhe 2012 Volunteer of the Year, at the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers, Arkansas.
Benny Ryburn III , 2011 president of the Monticello Economic Development Corporation, was named the 2012 Volunteer of the Year. Benny continually dedicates his time, talent and energy into growing and improving Monticello and Drew County. Bennie is a successful business man who could sit on the side lines, but that would be against his nature. His love for Monticello and Drew County has compelled him to roll-up his sleeves and work for their future. From the beginning, Bennie has encouraged the pursuit of projects and initiatives which will lift up the community. His support is typically underscored by a reassurance such as “I’ve got your back.” To a local economic developer, that support is worth more than gold! Bennie’s work has included researching the timber holdings around Lake Monticello for the city. He worked with the University of Arkansas at Monticello’s School of Forrest Resources to develop a timber management plan for this property. This plan insures the health of the forest is maintained and it produces revenue for the city from tree harvesting.
Bennie also pushed for the city of Monticello to use nuisance property ordinances as a tool to leverage a renewed investment in residential and commercial real estate. As a result, our neighborhoods are cleaner, safer and our real estate values have been stable even through the housing crisis. These works have produced a community which is the shining star of southeast Arkansas. While rural communities across our great state have struggled with declining population and the blight of poverty, Monticello has gained population and our citizens from lowest income to highest income have a community they can be proud of. This is a direct result of the initiatives and work of Bennie. Bennie is solely responsible for the Ridgeway Monticello. The Ridgeway Monticello has served the purpose of reinvigorating Monticello’s downtown.
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I just wish everyone new all that this man does for us!!!!
Words cannot express the deep joy that comes to my heart in Bennie Ryburn III finally being recognized for his outstanding service and contribution to Economic and Community Development.Here is a man who stepped into one of the greatest and most demanding responsibilities in that of replacing his Grandfather the Honorable and Noble Bennie Ryburn SR(Big Bennie). Benji not only takes command of the awesome CEO and Chairmanships of several corporations but he commands them with par excellence and like another champion of community and economic development Charlie Fred and Chuck Dearman, he do it for the betterment of Monticello, Arkansas and the Region it service. Hats off Gentlemen and a Lady’s Bow, Lady’s to Benji. Monticello and the Cornerstone Coalition Service Region cannot but be honored of this most deserving award and achievement, again congratulations Bennie(Benji)Ryburn III May Blessings/Favor Continue with and upon You.