COLUMBUS — Local restaurateur John Bean Thursday was recognized for his contributions to the community when he was awarded the Columbus Exchange Club’s highest honor, the Golden Book of Deeds.
“This was a real honor,” Bean said. “It means a lot to be included in a list of people that have done great things for this community. I truly appreciate the Exchange Club for recognizing me.”
Exchange Club member Ralph Null said Bean was honored for his behind-the-scenes contributions.
“This award is a way for us to recognize someone that has done great things for the community, without receiving a lot of attention,” Null said. “John Bean is one of those people. Everyone knows him for his restaurants — Harvey’s, The Grill and Sweet Peppers Deli — but he does a lot of things for the community of which people aren’t aware.”
Null said the club has been giving the award since 1972. Past winners include Bobby Harper of Cadence Bank, Edwina “Mother Goose” Williams and Columbus Arts Council founder Trudy Gildea.
“This is another way for us to give back to those who do so much for Columbus and Lowndes County,” Null said.
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