The Order of the Silver Crescent, the state's highest award for volunteer and community service, was presented Tuesday to Bernice Tribble, executive director of the Downtown Orangeburg Revitalization Association and a "lifelong volunteer and civic leader."

Noting Tribble's "standard of excellence that's second to none," as well as her "deep desire to make a positive contribution in the community," Mayor Paul Miller made the presentation during the City Council session.

"And, I've had the pleasure of being your next-door neighbor for almost 20 years," Miller said. "I can't think of anyone more deserving. Thank you for all you do."

After the session, Tribble said she has been "sort of blown away by it."

"How do you express thank you for such a prestigious honor?" she asked. "I think we owe so much back. I've certainly received a lot more than I've given."

DORA was organized in 1993 by a group of volunteers concerned about the condition and image of downtown Orangeburg. The organization has grown to sponsor events, such as the South Carolina Festival of Roses street dance and the Taste of Orangeburg that bring the community together for fun and fellowship, while creating pride in the city.

Before taking over the executive leadership of DORA, Tribble served as executive director of the Fine Arts Center of Orangeburg County. The president of the Morning Rotary Club of Orangeburg, she serves on numerous boards, including Crime Stoppers, Community of Character and the South Carolina State University Board of Advisory Council for Small Businesses. Tribble was honored by the Kiwanis Club of Orangeburg as its 2002 Citizen of the Year.

Born and raised in Easley and a graduate of Mars Hill College, Tribble brought her enthusiasm to Orangeburg in 1987, when she soon became involved in cancer research efforts under the auspices of the Relay for Life program.

A member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, Tribble and her husband, Don, have three grown children and several grandchildren.

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