Judge Strand Honored At 31st Joint Conference On Juvenile Justice
Judge Benjamin Strand was honored with a proclamation issued by the state legislature and the President’s Award at the 31st annual Joint Conference on Juvenile Justice at Park Vista in Gatlinburg. Strand was one of several in the legal and criminal justice profession to receive honors.
Since 1998, Strand has served on the general sessions, juvenile and probate courts. Strand is retiring at the end of August.
During the luncheon State Rep. Andrew Farmer praised Strand for his fairness and referred to Strand as a mentor. The state legislature passed a resolution honoring Strand with a proclamation. Farmer presented Strand with the proclamation which moved the judge to tears. After a standing ovation Strand amused the audience with a witty observation.
“Being a Democrat, I am surprised the Governor and the Lt. Governor signed this,” said Strand. “This is one of the greatest honors of my life.”
Strand was also honored with the President’s Award in recognition of his public service. Several other local officials were presented with awards for their work in juvenile justice.
Jennifer Shelton of Cocke County was honored as Supervisor of the Year. Shelton has been working with the Cocke County Children’s Service since 1991.
Sara Reynolds of the Sevier County Juvenile Court was named as Youth Services Officer of the Year. The Meritorious Service Award was presented to Tommy Clapp who operates a counseling service in Jefferson County.
The Bonner Center won the Humanitarian Award. The organization has been instrumental in building the foundations of many non-profit organizations. The center currently has ten community partners including Habitat for Humanity, Appalachian Outreach and several others.
A Special Recognition Award was presented to attorney Patrice Lee Minteer who has been practicing law in Jefferson County since 1994.
Judge Jeff Rader was awarded the McCain-Abernathy Memorial Award. The honor is the highest award that can be conferred by the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges. Rader was a graduate of Sevier County High School and Graduated from the University of Tennessee. Rader has served as a General Sessions Judge since 1998.
