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Article published Dec 22, 2004
Sanford salutes Drake with Order of Palmetto
Mesha Y. Williams
Staff
Writer
One of Spartanburg's most popular radio personalities has
been given the state's highest civilian honor.Many Spartanburg residents are
accustomed to hearing Bill Drake's voice over WSPA-AM.Gov. Mark Sanford honored
Drake during his 25th annual Christmas Musical Festival when he was given the
Order of the Palmetto for his contributions to South Carolina and his commitment
to helping people.It's the highest award that can be bestowed upon any
individual and is given at the governor's discretion.In addition, he has been
named South Carolina's Radio Personality of the Year three times.Drake has
worked as an adjunct professor of speech at the University of South Carolina
Upstate since 1989.He makes more than 200 speeches each year to churches, clubs
and schools.He also serves as public address announcer for sporting events at
Wofford College.A native of Chicago, Drake graduated from Ripon College and
studied speech and drama.His other honors include the Toastmasters South
Carolina Communication and Leadership Award, the Advertising Club of Spartanburg
Advertising Excellence Award, Spartanburg Sertoma Club Service to Mankind Award
and the United Way of the Piedmont Media Award.Mesha Williams can be reached at
562-7424 or mesha.williams@shj.com.