Business leaders, community advocates and local officials gathered for the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce’s 58th annual awards banquet this week to celebrate the people and organizations helping shape the local business community.

The evening recognized a range of contributions, from business leadership and economic development to volunteer service and community impact, while also offering a look at the Chamber’s work over the past year and its plans for the year ahead.

Chamber President Chris Comer highlighted the more than 200 volunteers who collectively contributed more than 4,000 hours of service in the community. The Chamber also hosted more than 200 events during the year, including its signature Spring Folly celebration.

“We’re thankful that our businesses are so engaged and supportive of each other,” Comer said.

Looking ahead, Comer pointed to new events and training opportunities planned for the coming year, including continued investment in the Chamber’s Junior Leadership Program, which will give students opportunities to visit local businesses and gain practical experience to help prepare them for the future.

She also highlighted recent commercial and economic growth, including the ongoing revitalization of the historic Pinnix building downtown, which is expected to add a pub and real estate agency.

“It is my absolute honor to lead your chamber,” Comer said, crediting colleagues Lisa Hedgecock and Amanda Ruark for “doing all the work.”

Comer also recognized Kathy Hoffner of Crisis Control Ministry, who is retiring as director of the organization’s Kernersville office after three decades of service.

Chamber board chair Dr. Mishi Jackson recognized past board chairs, committee and program leaders, current board members and outgoing directors before presenting the Chairman’s Award to Natalie Babson, her successor.

Jackson described Babson as a “consummate leader” and noted that she had previously received the award.

Babson then turned the tables, presenting Jackson with a plaque in recognition of her own service.

District Court Judge Eric Morgan was among the local officials in attendance and introduced the Chamber’s board of directors.

The awards portion of the evening began with the presentation of several honors recognizing individuals and organizations whose work has made a difference in Kernersville.

Tim Dixon, owner of Solve IT, received the Businessperson of the Year Award from Rita Bottoms of The Resource. Bottoms, who received the honor last year, said Dixon “models integrity.”

Dixon said he was “deeply honored” by the recognition.

“Kernersville is a truly special place and generous community,” he said.

Long Insurance’s Monte Long received the Business Advocate Award from State Farm agent Susanna Nunn, the previous year’s recipient. Nunn described Long as a “gentle force” and a “dynamic leader.”

The Business of the Year Award went to Outwest Steakhouse. State Sen. Dana Caudill Jones, who accepted last year’s award alongside her husband on behalf of Caudill’s Electric, returned to present this year’s honor.

Molly Barber of Fidelity Bank received the Key Volunteer Award from Bruce Frankel, owner of The Mindful Traveler and the 2024 recipient. Frankel recognized Barber’s “support and dedication” to Chamber programs and its mission.

The Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award went to Lihmil Wholesale Flowers, recognized for its longstanding participation in and advocacy for the community.

Several of the evening’s honors highlighted service that extends beyond the business community.

Michael Miller of Missions Unlimited, known to locals as Santa during the holiday season, received the Citizen of the Year Award.

Rishado Robinson, a past Chamber board chair and the 2019 recipient, introduced Miller as someone who “embodies the true spirit of Kernersville.”

Miller admitted the recognition had caught him off guard.

“It is rare for me to be speechless,” he said, joking that the surprise might result in him putting “a few of you on the naughty list.”

The John and Lee Hope Impact Award went to The Rest Stop, a Shepherd’s Center of Kernersville program serving more than two dozen local residents living with cognitive decline while providing caregivers with much-needed respite.

Kernersville Lions Club President Rick Pierce, the 2021 recipient, presented the award to Shepherd’s Center Executive Director Asheley Cooper.

The Korner’s Folly Foundation received the Lawrence E. Pope Economic Development Award, which Mayor Dawn Morgan described as a lifetime achievement honor.

The foundation has operated the historic downtown home since 1970. Morgan welcomed Executive Director Suzanna Malliett to accept the award, recognizing the organization’s role in the town’s development.

The foundation has been “instrumental in the economic development of our town,” Morgan said.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the Arnold G. King Distinguished Service Award to Frankel.

Pierce, who received the award at last year’s banquet, returned to present this year’s honor, citing Frankel’s “deep dedication and impact over many years.”

The award carries particular significance for those familiar with King’s legacy. A driving force behind the Spring Folly, the Kernersville Foundation and other local institutions, King left a lasting mark on the community through his civic involvement and commitment to Kernersville.

Frankel told the audience that those who knew King would understand the significance of receiving an award bearing his name.

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