Latest news with #CitizenoftheYearAward
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Yahoo
Artist, historian named Miss Athelyne C. Banks Citizen of the Year
Mar. 27—A Decatur artist and historian received the 2025 Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce's Miss Athelyne C. Banks Citizen of the Year Award on Wednesday. Frances D. Tate won the award for her dedication to preserving and sharing the history of Decatur's Old Town and for her commitment to community advocacy. The award, presented each year at the chamber's annual meeting, is named after Banks, a longtime Decatur educator. Tate accepted the award before a packed house at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Decatur Riverfront. "Decatur," Tate told the crowd, "we have a powerful story with all the correct ingredients where we all will be enriched in many ways, so we cannot and we must not pass up this opportunity to make our city, Decatur, continue to grow and prosper." Tate grew up in Old Town and graduated from Lakeside High School before earning degrees from the Tuskegee Institute and Athens State University. She worked in the telecommunications industry for more than 35 years and, after retiring, worked for independent telephone companies across the country. She said it was during these travels that she was inspired by how communities preserved their heritage. It inspired her to return to Decatur and try to honor the history of Old Town. She founded Celebrating Early Old Town with Art, or CEOTA, a project dedicated to commemorating the neighborhood's legacy through research, storytelling and art. Her work includes locating and re-creating images of buildings lost during the 1970s urban renewal efforts. She incorporates water from the Tennessee River into her paintings to capture the churches, businesses and homes that once defined this historic neighborhood. Beyond her art, her influence extends to the development of the Decatur Scottsboro Boys Civil Rights Museum, a multimillion-dollar CEOTA project dedicated to education and remembrance. A key part of this vision is the preservation of two historic homes tied to the Scottsboro Boys trials. One is a house where a witness who falsely accused the teens of rape is thought to have stayed during the 1931 Decatur trial. The other is the former home of Judge James E. Horton, who presided over the Decatur retrials and ultimately overturned a death penalty verdict by an all-white Morgan County jury. In 2023, the Horton home was moved from Limestone County to Old Town, where it is slated to become a legal learning center. Tate asked people to participate in the Civil Rights Museum through their expertise and finances. "We want all of you to come along with us and enjoy the experience and excitement of the museum," she said. She added that it is important to always remember that "today is tomorrow's history." Tate said in a past Decatur Daily interview that the Old Town project is not about her. "I'm just the vessel God chose to use," she said five years ago. "I feel like God puts you in the place you need to be at the time you need to be there to fulfill your purpose. This — rebuilding Old Town — is my purpose." Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Crystal Brown said, "Frances Tate's passion for preserving and sharing the history of Old Town has made a lasting impact on our community. Through her leadership, vision and dedication, she continues to honor the past while shaping the future for generations to come." In addition to her work with CEOTA, Tate serves on the Decatur Planning Commission and was instrumental in the adoption of the One Decatur Plan. Banks — for whom the award is named — devoted 42 years to education, serving 29 of them with Decatur City Schools. She served as a teacher and the first female principal of Carver Elementary School. Chamber members submitted nominations for the award, and applications were judged by a committee of past recipients. Also on Wednesday, Jason Palmer, a State Farm insurance agent and member of the Decatur City Schools Board of Education, was named this year's commodore of the year. He and wife Misti have three children. Kelli Powers, chief executive officer of Decatur-Morgan Hospital, was named the new chairwoman of the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2025-2026. — or 256-340-2361
CBS News
26-02-2025
- Entertainment
- CBS News
Eagles QB Jalen Hurts named Philadelphia Citizen of the Year
All-star Philadelphians were honored at the annual Citizen of the Year Awards on Tuesday night, including Eagles Super Bowl MVP quarterback Jalen Hurts. Ten Philadelphians were honored at the event hosted by The Philadelphia Citizen at the Filter Club for their work that makes a positive impact in the city. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro presented Hurts, who was joined by his fiancée Bry Burrows, the Citizen of the Year Award "Jalen and Bry understand the importance of taking young athletes, young individuals in our communities and giving them strong mentors so they continue to walk a path that is true and just," Shapiro said. Through the Jalen Hurts Foundation, Hurts continues to give back to youth, school and sports programs, including donating air conditioner units to schools in the city. "What I strive to do is just serve, mentor, progress, give people opportunities that they don't even know that they have," Hurts said. Hurts also challenged everyone to do their part and bring the next person along in the push for long-term change. "Push that person next to you, continue to have that drive, continue to have that effort and bring someone with you," Hurts said. Declan Cassidy, the Youth Citizen of the Year, created the nonprofit Socks for the Streets, which has distributed nearly 80,000 socks to those in need. "If you want create change in the community, you have to work hard, follow your dreams and know that every little bit counts," Cassidy said. Former Pennsylvania Gov. and Philadelphia Mayor Ed Rendell helped present the Lifetime Achievement Award for civic engagement in his name. The award was given to Larry Magid and Judith M. von Seldneck.
Yahoo
15-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Cleburne chamber hosts 106th annual awards banquet
Hundreds gathered Thursday night to celebrate the leaders helping 'build the bridges to success' in Cleburne as the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce hosted the 106th annual awards celebration. Pinnacle Bank Regional President Tim Whitlock received the Citizen of the Year award, and Farmers Insurance Agent Blake Jones received the Wall of Fame award. Several new awards were also added this year, including the All Aboard Partnership Award, which was presented to Bennett's Printing & Office Supply owners Gary and Melissa Bennett. Cleburne Mayor Scott Cain reflected on the year 2024 and the city's successes. 'Seven hundred forty-nine new homes, 465 new residents, 154 new certificates of occupancy … I think you could say Cleburne is growing,' Cain said. 'Why are people wanting to move to Cleburne? And the answer is really simple, it's our people. It's you — people come to your shops and to your businesses, and they see that Cleburne spirit, and they want to be a part of it. And they come here.' Citizen of the Year The Citizen of the Year Award recognizes a local resident that has served the community with outstanding selfless service. 'Tim's gracious spirit, unwavering selflessness and loyalty to our community is beyond measure,' Trammell said. 'He truly set the example of what Cleburne represents. His selflessness is reflected in his compassion and dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of anyone he meets.' Whitlock has worked in Cleburne his entire life. He serves on the Texas Health hospital board, Jump Start, The Fathers House Board and Pinnacle Bank board of directors. Over the years he has been involved in multiple boards and committees in Cleburne, including the chamber, Leadership Cleburne, Boy Scout Breakfast, Jaycee's, Tuesday Forum, Honorary Chairperson for East Cleburne Community Center banquet, United Way of Johnson County president and Cleburne Economic Development Foundation. He was integral in getting LifeVac systems into all CISD schools. He also introduced Cleburne ISD to the HOPE Squad through the Elizabeth Jordan Foundation. He was one of the founding board members of Fathers House, Spark Worldwide ministries and the Jump Start program. Wall of Fame The Wall of Fame Award is presented to a chamber member who exemplifies true voluntary chamber effort and support. 'This award is for a second mile effort that results in a significant contribution to the successful completion of a project or to the continuing chamber program,' Trammell said. 'Blake has been instrumental in the growth of the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce and community for years.' A lifelong Cleburne resident, Jones graduated from Cleburne High School in 2008 and Texas Christian University in 2012. After starting his career in the hospitality industry, where he met his wife, Jennifer, he transitioned into the insurance industry in 2013, becoming the youngest Farmers Insurance agent in Texas at that time. He has held various leadership roles, including three terms on the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce executive board. In 2019, he served as president of the Cleburne Rotary Club, and in 2015, he was honored with the Young Business Professional Award. In addition to his business and civic achievements, Jones has served as vice chair of the Building and Standards Commission for three years and chair for five. He is also the councilman for Single Member District 2 for the city of Cleburne and serves as Mayor Pro-Tem, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to leadership and public service in his hometown. Young Business Professional Award The Young Business Professional Award recognizes a young business professional displaying leadership characteristics, innovation and dedication to the continued growth of the community. Vice President of Sharp Image Homes Cory Murray received the award. 'Cory exemplifies the spirit of innovation, leadership and dedication that this award seeks to recognize,' Trammell said. 'His relentless drive to improve not only himself but also the community he serves, along with his work ethic, integrity and visionary leadership have inspired those around him and left a lasting impact on our region. Whether through mentoring young professionals, advocating for veterans, or supporting local development initiatives, Cory embodies the qualities of a young leader who is shaping a brighter future for Cleburne.' Murray serves on the Johnson County Builders Association, Johnson County Government Affairs Committee and Jump Start. Community Service Award The Community Service Award award recognizes a local Johnson County organization, club or individual that has served the community in outstanding selfless service. The Cleburne Lions Club received the award for their involvement in the community for over 100 years. 'The Cleburne Lions Club's most significant focus is on eyesight conservation, particularly for students in our community,' Trammell said. 'In addition to its work in eyesight conservation, the Lions Club is one of the longest-serving volunteer groups for the Meals on Wheels program, delivering meals four days a week to those in need.' The club also engages with Adams Elementary School as their adoptive school, listening to students twice a week, to help foster literacy and learning. The club actively collects winter coats and gear for local families, recycles eyeglasses for the Lions 2-E2 Eyeglass Recycling Center in Watauga, and hosts community events like the Drug Awareness Poster Contest for CISD and the Diabetes Essay Contest. Rookie of the Year One of the new awards, Rookie of the Year recognizes a chamber member that demonstrates outstanding use of chamber benefits and resources within the first two years of their membership. Mentors Care received the award. 'Mentors Care specifically stands out for its commitment to uplifting students facing obstacles such as homelessness, hunger, unstable support systems and other significant barriers,' Trammell said. 'By pairing these students with caring adults, Mentors Care creates a lifeline for young people who might otherwise feel invisible or unsupported.' The organization joined the chamber in 2024 and aligned its mission with the chamber's goals. They used all the marketing avenues the chamber has to offer, which assisted in finding mentors to fulfill their mission. All Aboard Partnership Award Another new award, the All Aboard Partnership Award recognizes and honors businesses or individuals that have excelled in building relationships, fostering partnerships and promoting collaboration within the local business community. Gary and Melissa Bennett accepted the award for their business, Bennett's Printing. 'Bennett's Printing has been in business for over 60 years and has excelled in fostering relationships, projecting warm and cheerful attitudes while handling all situations in an admirable professional manner.,' Trammell said. 'They are the first to step up and assist in promoting local business and events in every facet they have access to. Bennett's continuously supports the community by giving their time and through actual donations. They share on social media; their windows are full of community flyers and they always step up to support and give back to help others succeed.' Large Business Chamber Award Interamerican Foods Corporation/ La Moderna accepted the Large Business Chamber Award, honors a business of 21 or more employees showing exceptional leadership, innovation, sustainable practices, ethical standards, local community service commitment and chamber support. 'As a prominent member of the chamber and a vital contributor to the local economy, La Moderna exemplifies exceptional leadership, innovation and an unwavering commitment to the community,' Trammell said. 'La Moderna has consistently demonstrated growth and innovation, significantly impacting Johnson County and the city of Cleburne. By continually investing in state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies and expanding their workforce, they have bolstered the local economy. Their efforts not only create jobs but also foster long-term economic stability and development in the area.' La Moderna is deeply involved in projects that enhance the quality of life in Cleburne. Their contributions to local organizations, sponsorship of community events and support for civic initiatives reflect their dedication to improving the lives of residents. Small Business Award Peacock's Transmission received the Small Business Award, which honors a business of 20 or less employees that shows exceptional leadership, innovation, local community service and chamber support. 'Peacock's Transmission embodies the qualities of a model business: integrity, dedication, community spirit and support,' Trammell said. 'Peacock's Transmission has been a staple in our community for over 45 years. They have earned a reputation for innovation, continually investing in new technology and training to stay at the forefront of their industry. Their transparent approach and honesty in business have fostered a loyal customer base and a strong relationship in the community and within the industry.' Through the years Peacock's Transmission has supported numerous charitable events, local organizations, youth and senior programs, partnered with local Shop with a Cop day, Christmas Wish, Bikes for Angels, Johnson County Sheriff's Posse, SHINE Together, Home Plate Project, Project 66, veterans programs and more. Ambassador Awards Denet Macias with Blake Jones Farmers Insurance received the Ambassador of the Year Award, which is voted on by fellow ambassadors. Macias and The Strand's Teresa Graff both received the Gold Cup Award for bringing in at least five new members during the year. The 2024 Ambassador Team of the Year Award went to Angelia McDaniel's team, which included Alicia Johnson, Allison Guzman, Dustin Engle, Frances Hafford, Melinda Fowler, Shane McNeal and Carmon Brown. McDaniel's team attended 79 ribbon cuttings, as well as groundbreakings and grand openings. Graff, Teri Castanuela and Johnson all received the Brigadier General Ambassador rank for a total of four years of service as an ambassador.
Yahoo
11-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Chamber accepting nominations for Miss Athelyne C. Banks Citizen of the Year Award
Feb. 10—The nomination period has begun for 2025 Miss Athelyne C. Banks Citizen of the Year Award. This honor, awarded by the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, recognizes individuals "who demonstrate exceptional dedication and service" to the Decatur community. The award will be presented during the chamber's annual meeting on March 26. Born in 1907, Banks devoted 42 years to education, including 29 with Decatur City Schools. She served as a teacher and the first woman principal of Carver Elementary School. She also served on numerous boards and was named the Chamber's 1994 Humanitarian of the Year. Nomination forms are available on the chamber's website. Submission deadline is 5 p.m., Feb. 24. — or 256-340-2432
