Banks County High School celebrated a memorable evening for the Athletic Department at the $10,000 Giveaway Dinner. The event was held on May 10, 2025, at the Leopards Den 2.0. The event was a great success, raising over $22,000 through ticket sales and auctions. All 200 available tickets were sold.
Tim Harper, Banks County Clerk of Courts, and Don Shubert, CPA/President of Shubert and Company CPA in Commerce, served as hosts and auctioneers for the evening.
Tony and Amanda Bedford's locally owned restaurant, Jax Shack, prepared food for 400 guests and catered the event.
Banks County High School Athletic Director Natasha Savage expressed her gratitude for the community's support, stating, "I am overwhelmed by the participation and support of our community in making this event successful. The funds raised will benefit all of our athletic programs."
The Director of Operations for Banks County Schools, Mike Cleveland, and the Chairman of the Banks County Board of Education, Dr. Mark Stroud, shared a special announcement to kick off the evening.
A major highlight of the evening was the announcement of a $1 million donation from Mr. Mike White to fund the installation of a turf field at the Banks County High School football stadium. The contribution came through a connection with Head Football Coach Todd Winter, a personal friend of Mr. White, who wanted to give back to the Banks County community.
"Mike White is passionate about supporting communities, and Banks County was one he was proud to invest in," shared Coach Winter.
Another highlight of the evening was the drawing for the winning ticket, which announced Neal and Charlene Brown, both residents of Banks County, as the lucky winners of the $10,000 prize.
"It was a fantastic night. Jax Shack did an incredible job with the food, and we are deeply grateful for Mr. Mike White's donation to our football field turf. We also want to thank the numerous businesses that donated door prizes, as well as silent and live auction items. The continued community support of the Banks County Schools is appreciated, and we are grateful for all they do for us," said Cleveland.
Banks County High School supports over 19 sports programs with over 240 student-athletes participating yearly.