31-01-2025
Sequoyah Council hosts Distinguished Citizen Dinner
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Thursday, the Sequoyah Council of Scouting America recognized community members at the annual Distinguished Citizen Dinner. News Channel 11's Kenny Hawkins emceed the event.
The dinner recognizes the community's efforts in supporting and raising money for Scouting America. Organizers said recognizing the community ensures generations of Scouts.
Members of Scouting America were honored at Thursday's events for their contribution to the organization and the community. Those members are listed below:
Brayden Beecham won the 2025 Glenn A. & Melinda W. Adams Service Project of the Year Award for building the new entrance to the Jonesborough Library Community Garden.
Jack Stinson, Arrow of Light Scout Pack 239, was named the 2025 Cub Scout of the Year.
Jaden Ray, Eagle Scout Troop 99, was named the 2025 Scout of the Year.
Jacen Post, Corbin High School JROTC, was named the 2025 Cadet of the Year.
Mark Caruso, LTC USA IN (RET) Junior Cadet Leadership Challenge Commandant, was named the 2025 Volunteer of the Year.
Jason Berry, Eagle Scout and Washington County, VA, county administrator, was named the 2025 Distinguished Citizen.
This year's guest was Tony Vitello, the University of Tennessee's head baseball coach, who talked about the importance of being a team player.
'I think the thing that we've tried to preach to our guys the most is being a good teammate and that applies not just to being on a team but being a part of any group and then ultimately, no matter what group you're part of your ultimately a part of a bigger group in the community,' Vitello said. 'So being out in the community and understanding the fact that if you give to somebody else, they'll want to give back to you and it kind of becomes a circular thing and everybody's better off for it.'
The Sequoyah Council of Scouting America reported that the group met its fundraising goal of $400,000.
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