January 23rd, 2012
2011 Annual Chamber Banquet Winners Announced
The Carthage Chamber of Commerce celebrated the past year Derby style with their 2012 Annual Banquet on Friday, January 20th. Over 250 Chamber members and community leaders gathered to recognize outstanding teachers, business leaders, volunteers, and community members.
The evening began with a social hour featuring music by Louis Morgan and Trio at 6:00 p.m. followed by dinner catered by L.L. Sayers and an awards ceremony at 7:00 p.m.
The awards and their winners were:
Chairman’s Award – Andrew Jordan of Schmidt Associates
Presented by the outgoing Chairman in recognition of 2011 contributions to the Chamber and Carthage community.
Outgoing Board of Directors and Chairman’s Awards -
Steve Swearengen (2011 Chairman), Heritage State Bank
Pam Barlet, Mercy-McCune Brooks Hospital
Patrick Scott, Arvest Bank
Kip Smith, Smith Midwest Real Estate
Given to the outgoing Chamber Chairman and retiring Board Members in appreciation of their continued insight, support and/or encouragement.
ATHENA Award – Tamra Soriano O.D., Carthage Eye Care
A nationally recognized award presented to a local businesswoman each year whose
work and/or career have helped to inspire and improve the local business community and fellow businesswomen.
Artist Award – Cherry Babcock, Cherry’s Custom Framing and Art Gallery
Awarded to a local artist whose work has continually inspired and drawn recognition from the artisan community.
Golden Key Awards -
Amy Grimes, 2nd grade teacher at Mark Twain Elementary School
Michelle Hensley, 5th grade teacher at Carthage Middle School
Doug Garrison, Language Arts teacher at Carthage Junior High School
Cathy Lipscomb, Language Arts teacher at Carthage High School
Matt Huntley, Assistant Principal at Carthage High School
Spotlight Award – Carthage Water & Electric Plant, Bob WIlliams
Awarded to one business each year that has contributed to the overall enhancement of the business community of Carthage through revitalization or improvements made to their business location.
Small Business of the Year Award – Dr. Fly’s Salon, Robyn Paul
Presented to one business each year that has provided a positive image and been a vibrant entity within the Carthage business community.
Richard M. Webster Citizen of the Year Award – Marjorie Housh
Given in memory of the late Senator Richard M. Webster, the Citizen of the Year Award is presented to an individual who has devoted much of their time to the improvement and enhancement of the Carthage community as a whole.