According to the program agenda:
Today, we celebrate the enduring legacy of George R. Eusner, an advocate and visionary leader in our community, by dedicating this bridge overpass as the George R. Eusner Memorial Bridge. The bridge will now symbolize his profound impact on the lives of all who drive this road. George R. Eusner's dedication to public service and his passion for the Mullite company/Mulcoa and Imerys have left an indelible mark on his family, this company, and countless lives across Georgia and the world.
As we dedicate this overpass in his name, let us remember all his remarkable contributions, endurance, and dedication.
God bless George R. Eusner; he made a difference.
The bridge overpass dedication ceremony featured remarks from former employees, family, and friends of Mr. Eusner. They shared stories about his character and qualities, and all called him “friend.” Paul Hall, chairman of the Sumter Development Authority, opened the ceremony by recognizing guests. He also respectfully told how Mr. Eusner was “a tough boss– like a father, but was always a friend.”
Reverend Gene Simmons facilitated the opening prayer and pledge to the flag.
State Representative Patty Stinson and State Representative Mike Cheokas were in attendance. They spoke of Mr. Eusner’s contribution to economic development due to an ever-evolving Mulcola. This was followed by a reading of the Resolution honoring his life. Both representatives were instrumental in the bridge dedication. Representative Stinson followed schedules and procedures and worked with the Development Authority office for over a year to move the bill through the House. Representative Cheokas helped by overseeing and pushing the bill through the transportation committee. True teamwork.
Imerys employee Scot Graddick, Technical Support and Business Development Manager, and retired CE Minerals CEO and President Tim McCarthy discussed the growth of Mulcoa/Mullite/Imerys over the years. They also introduced both current and former employees of Imerys. Scot Graddick mentioned, “George Eusner had the foresight to know what was needed (in the company) and consistently found ways to address them. Everything I have (in life) is due to George Eusner.” Tim McCarthy added, ”Mr. Eusner was smart enough to hire the very best people!”
George Eusner’s sons, Paul and Marty, were present during the dedication. Each spoke about growing up with Dad at the helm of Mulcoa. Both considered him a “tough guy with a big heart!” Then, Mark Royal unveiled the sign, the moment everyone had waited for and wanted to see.
Imerys provided an extraordinary luncheon at a close location. Representative Patty Stinson and Representative Mike Cheokas presented look-a-like signs of the bridge sign to the two sons, Paul Eusner and Marty Eusner.
Highway 49 at the Imerys facility now has signage at the bridge proving what one person can do or how one life can matter when they are ‘focused and all in.’ George R. Eusner’s legacy is deeply rooted in the growth and development of Imerys and Sumter County.
A special thank you to David Peppers and Graham Reid for their dedication to the event. With them, the bridge dedication was a huge success.
About Imerys Refractory Minerals, Andersonville
Imerys has a long history in the USA, with certain operations dating back to the early 20th century. Today our US operations comprise world-class mine sites and processing plants across the USA. We serve customers from a full spectrum of end markets ranging from pharmaceuticals to refractories with high-performance engineered solutions derived from a vast portfolio of minerals.
Imerys Refractory Minerals USA Website
About the Americus-Sumter Payroll Development Authority
The Americus-Sumter Payroll Development Authority has a highly engaged board responsible for cultivating new business while balancing workforce, buildings, and building options. The Authority consistently promotes our county and always looks for outside-the-box, innovative ways to attract businesses to our community.
Sumter County Development Authority Website
Sumter County Development Authority Facebook
slw
###
For a printable version of this Press Release, please CLICK HERE.
